Our Mission

Stage Zero Aerospace is dedicated to revolutionizing space access through the development of reusable Single Stage To Orbit (SSTO) propulsion systems. Our mission is to eliminate the economic barriers that have historically limited humanity's expansion into space by creating efficient, reliable, and cost-effective propulsion technology.

We believe that true space accessibility requires a fundamental reimagining of propulsion systems. By unifying multiple propulsion technologies into a single, integrated engine, we are making space as accessible as air travel, opening new possibilities for scientific research, commercial ventures, and human exploration.

Vision for the Future

Military Applications

Enabling rapid global strike capabilities, satellite deployment, and space-based defense systems with unprecedented operational flexibility and reduced logistics requirements.

Commercial Space

Transforming satellite deployment, space tourism, and orbital manufacturing by reducing launch costs by an order of magnitude while increasing launch frequency and reliability.

Scientific Research

Providing affordable access to space for research institutions, enabling routine space-based experiments and expanding our understanding of the universe.

Meet Our Founders

Alex Gardner - CEO

Alex Gardner

CEO & Co-Founder

Alex is an aerospace engineer and defense innovator with deep experience in advanced vehicle design, systems engineering, and emerging UAV technologies. As the CEO of Limitless Aeronautics, he leads the development of next-generation unmanned aerial systems, munitions platforms, and payload technologies—pushing the frontier of modern defense capabilities. His background includes over three years at Lockheed Martin, including time at the renowned Skunk Works division, where he contributed to IRAD (Independent Research and Development) projects focused on vehicle analysis and conceptual design. His technical skill set spans Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), MATLAB, and systems verification, with hands-on experience in both defense-grade software tools and rapid prototyping environments. Alex holds a Bachelor degree in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he developed a strong foundation in aerodynamics, fluid systems, and multidisciplinary design optimization. With a mission-driven mindset and a commitment to innovation, Alex brings strategic leadership and deep technical knowledge to the Stage Zero Aerospace team.

José Escobosa - Co-Founder

José Escobosa

Co-Founder & Systems Engineer

José Escobosa is a multidisciplinary engineer with hands-on experience in semiconductor failure analysis, aerospace manufacturing, and advanced materials research. He currently serves as a PYE Engineer at Micron Technology, where he focuses on DRAM failure analysis to improve memory reliability and performance. His engineering journey includes a manufacturing internship at Pratt & Whitney, where he supported process optimization and public speaking initiatives, as well as a NASA internship focused on design-for-manufacturing and data analysis in support of aerospace innovation. While at Boise State University, Jose contributed extensively as an undergraduate research assistant on projects ranging from the development of ceramic devices with embedded electrodes to civil engineering research involving data analysis and design workflows. Jose brings a data-driven mindset, a passion for advanced manufacturing, and a collaborative approach to every project he joins.

Shane Boardman - Co-Founder

Shane Boardman

Co-Founder & Design Engineer

Shane Boardman is a hands-on 3D printing specialist and CAD designer who focuses on building tough, functional parts for real-world use. Whether it is a simple bracket or a complex prototype, he uses design software to model parts that are ready for additive manufacturing, always aiming for a strong balance between durability, looks, and performance. He has spent years learning what works and what does not when it comes to printing parts that actually get used—not just looked at. From quick-turn prototypes to custom builds, Shane knows how to get from idea to physical part fast. Lately, he has been diving deep into rotating detonation engine (RDE) tech, teaching himself the ins and outs of how these engines work and how they might change the future of propulsion. He brings curiosity, practical know-how, and a no-nonsense attitude to the Stage Zero Aerospace team.

Dylan Small - Co-Founder

Dylan Small

Co-Founder & Aerospace Technician

Dylan Small is an experienced aerospace technician with a strong background in propulsion, integration, and aircraft maintenance. At SpaceX, he contributed to the Super Heavy Booster program, specializing in Raptor engine installs, system testing, and final flight checkouts. His earlier work at SpaceX included composite fabrication for Falcon 9 and Dragon, supporting some of the company earliest launch milestones. Before rejoining the space industry, Dylan served as a technical writer at AEC Inc., translating complex transportation systems into clear, accessible documentation. He also spent several years maintaining and repairing business jets and turboprops, working on aircraft like the Learjet 35, Phenom 300, and Pilatus PC-12, and engines such as the PT6, CF34, and TFE731. Dylan began his career in the U.S. Army as a diesel mechanic, where he developed the hands-on skills and discipline that still drive him today. At Stage Zero Aerospace, he combines deep mechanical expertise with a passion for innovation, playing a key role in building next-gen propulsion systems.

Thomas Morris - Co-Founder

Thomas Morris

Co-Founder & Research Engineer

Thomas Morris is an aerospace engineering student and propulsion researcher with a strong foundation in thermal analysis, structural mechanics, and high-speed flight systems. He currently supports advanced flight payload integration as the Organizing Chair for the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) Integrating Flight Team, where he coordinates efforts between researchers and stakeholders to prepare and align mission-ready payloads for hypersonic test flights. At the University of Central Florida Propulsion and Energy Research Lab, he plays a key role on the Mach 10 Oblique Detonation Project. His work focuses on high-fidelity thermal modeling using FIATv3 and MATLAB to evaluate ablation and heat recession in thermal protection systems. He also performs Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in SolidWorks to validate structural elements under extreme conditions. His prior work includes leading payload recovery for Knights Experimental Rocketry NASA Student Launch vehicle, designing and testing systems for reliable mid-air deployment and return. He also contributed to UCF Fluid Mechanics Lab by designing structural mounts for new wind tunnel components, applying simulation tools to ensure mechanical safety and integrity. With hands-on experience across a wide range of simulation platforms—MATLAB, SolidWorks, Ansys Fluent, Simulink—and a deep interest in propulsion and hypersonics, he brings technical precision, a passion for problem-solving, and a collaborative mindset to every challenge.

Development Timeline

Months 0-6: Company Formation & Core Planning

Goals:

  • Form legal entity, leadership, and initial team
  • Finalize initial vehicle concept and target use cases
  • Create initial CAD design
  • Build strategic partnerships
  • Create list of suppliers and manufacturing capabilities needed
  • Create and define prototype phases objectives for proof of concept

Deliverables:

  • High-level concept deck (vision, tech stack, mission profile)
  • Begin CFD modeling, materials research, propulsion simulations
  • Initial calculations and final CAD drawings for full scale and phase 1 prototype

1 Year: Design Freeze + Subscale Tech Demo Ready

Goals:

  • Finalize first phase prototype
  • Complete preliminary engine component tests for phase one prototype
  • Lock down key vendors and in-house manufacturing plan

Deliverables:

  • Completed ground test procedures for airframe and engine tests
  • Static fire / propulsion test (partial thrust demo)
  • Initial government contract/submission (SBIR/STTR/AFWERX)

1.5 Years: Ground Test Success & Integration

Goals:

  • Full static test of propulsion system (engine-on-airframe)
  • Integration of avionics, thermal systems, tanks, sensors
  • Structural load tests and TPS validation

Deliverables:

  • Ready-to-fly configuration
  • Achieve first tethered or low-speed taxi test
  • Begin range planning and flight safety certification process

2 Years: First Subscale Flight Test (Mach 3+)

Goals:

  • Launch and recover the first test flight at low supersonic speeds
  • Collect performance, thermal, control, and telemetry data
  • Begin design of a second phase vehicle based on flight results

Deliverables:

  • Milestone demo for government partners & investors
  • Secure site or partnership for full-scale flight test facility

3 Years: Full-Scale Vehicle Fabrication & Reusability Tests

Goals:

  • Build phase two prototype (with recoverable/reusable components)
  • Launch first Mach 4–9 full-scale test flight
  • Conduct recovery and refurbishment cycle

Deliverables:

  • First end-to-end flight mission with realistic payload or sensors
  • Prototype ground support systems (hangar, skids, recovery equipment)
  • Initiate production ramp planning

4 Years: Multi-Flight Ops & First Customer Missions

Goals:

  • Begin repeatable flight testing (2–3 missions/year)
  • Test full avionics/autonomy suite and in-flight decision-making
  • Lock first customer contract (DoD, commercial spaceport, defense prime)

Deliverables:

  • Expand team (test flight ops, logistics, support engineers)
  • Demonstrate turnaround in <1 week for reusability
  • Prepare scaled manufacturing & servicing pipeline

5 Years: Operational Deployment & Commercial Entry

Goals:

  • Evaluate expansion opportunities
  • Establish operational flight program

Deliverables:

  • International contracts and partnerships
  • Establish alternate launch/recovery sites
  • Full operational capability