#USA #Albuquerque #space technology #Mantis Space #Dale Parkes

Mantis Space Appoints Dale Parkes as Chief Technology Officer

Mantis Space, a pioneering startup in the fields of space and advanced energy, has officially announced the appointment of Dale Parkes as its Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Parkes comes to this role with a rich background, including an impressive 26-year tenure at Boeing and Hughes Space. Throughout his career, he played pivotal roles in leading extensive defense programs that have significantly shaped the aerospace sector.

One of Parkes’ notable achievements has been his involvement in complex laser and beam control development projects. This expertise is particularly critical as Mantis Space works on building a constellation of spacecraft that will orbit Earth, making use of consistent sunlight to transmit power. The innovative approach focuses on using laser technology to provide power to other satellites' solar arrays, especially those that find themselves in Earth’s shadow.

Eric Truitt, the CEO of Mantis Space, expressed his enthusiasm about Parkes joining the team. He stated, "We are delighted to welcome Dale to the team. His choice to join Mantis after a distinguished career in some of the most challenging laser development programs in our nation’s history is humbling, validating, and impactful for the company’s mission. We are at the 'Edison Moment' of space infrastructure, and adding Dale’s experience continues to position Mantis Space as a leader in delivering a power grid for space." This perspective reflects the urgency and excitement within the team as they embark on a mission that's poised to revolutionize space energy solutions.

Parkes brings along a history of success from his time at Boeing, where he operated as a Technical Fellow. His contributions included serving as the Chief Engineer for crucial laser programs such as the Low Power Laser Demonstrator Payload and advancements in the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Laser Pod Research Development. Furthermore, he was instrumental as the Fire Control Lead for the historic Airborne Laser (ABL) Program, crafting leading-edge developments in laser technology that have far-reaching implications.

Upon his recruitment, Parkes remarked, "When Eric first approached me, he laid out a compelling vision. The team demonstrated their strategy to build a new layer of space infrastructure that would not only alter the orbital economy but also pave the way for the next generation of space development. I am eager to join the energetic and capable team to scale this infrastructure from the ground up."

In his new role, Parkes will spearhead a highly skilled engineering team with decades of experience. Their expertise spans various domains, including Optical, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering, Metrology, and Space Systems, with members hailing from prestigious organizations such as Apple, Meta, Google, Lockheed Martin, Sandia National Laboratory, and the United States Space Force. This diverse talent pool is set to enhance Mantis Space's capabilities significantly as they forge ahead in the development of an unprecedented orbital power grid.

About Mantis Space

Mantis Space is dedicated to pioneering the realm of space infrastructure and advanced energy solutions. The company aims to establish the first-ever power grid in orbit, utilizing advanced orbital energy transmission technology, including laser-based power systems. These innovations are geared towards providing reliable energy to satellites, habitats, and future activities on the lunar surface.

Founded in 2025 by industry innovators Eric Truitt, Jeremy Scheerer, and Hugh Wyman Howard III, Mantis Space is headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with additional offices in Marietta, Georgia, and Santa Clara, California. The company is venture-backed, comprising major investors such as Rule 1 Ventures and Montauk Capital, uniting to support an ambitious vision for the future of space energy. For further details about Mantis Space and its groundbreaking projects, visit their official website.