MEET OUR TEAM
THE HUMANS BEHIND THE MACHINES
At BlackStar Orbital, we are leading the charge in developing advanced space defense systems. Our team of aerospace professionals are focused on redefining what a satellite can do by creating revolutionary, hybrid “spacedrones”. Our staff has worked with organizations such as NASA, SpaceX, and other leading space organizations to create the most advanced commercial space systems available.
Meet Our Advisors
Terry Virts
Technical Advisor - Advanced Spaceflight
Terry Virts is a highly accomplished astronaut, known for his significant contributions to space exploration and science. A graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Virts also holds a degree in Mathematics and a Master’s in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. His career began in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a fighter pilot and test pilot, accumulating over 4,000 flight hours in more than 40 different aircraft. Selected by NASA in 2000, Virts became a key member of the astronaut corps. He first flew to space as a pilot of the Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-130, playing a pivotal role in delivering and installing the Tranquility module and Cupola to the International Space Station (ISS). Later, he served as the Commander of the ISS for Expedition 43, where he was involved in numerous scientific experiments and technology demonstrations. During his time in space, Virts took part in three spacewalks and contributed to vital research that advances our understanding of life in space. Not just an astronaut, Virts is also a celebrated author and public speaker, sharing his experiences and insights on space exploration and leadership. His photography from space has been widely acclaimed, showcasing the beauty and complexity of Earth and space. Terry Virts’ journey as an astronaut and his contributions to space science have made him an inspirational figure in the field of aerospace and beyond.
Don Platt, PhD.
Technical Advisor - Vehicle Systems Engineering
Professor Donald Platt is a notable figure in the field of space studies, with a diverse background as a scientist, entrepreneur, and educator. He holds a Master’s degree from Florida Tech, where he also pursued doctoral studies at the Human-Centered Design Institute. Platt has served as the director of the Florida Tech Space Systems Master’s Degree program since 1998, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to space education. His doctoral thesis work focused on human-robot interactions in space exploration, developing a virtual camera concept to aid astronauts in remote planetary exploration. Recognized for his expertise and dedication, Platt is praised for his extensive knowledge in physics, aerospace engineering, and space systems. In the realm of entrepreneurship, Platt founded Micro Aerospace Solutions (MAS) Inc. in 2000, a company dedicated to providing consulting and engineering solutions for space and commercial products. Before founding MAS, he worked at Boeing, where he specialized in making propulsion systems smaller. As an educator, Platt is committed to expanding the reach and scope of the Florida Tech Space Systems Master’s Degree program, with aspirations to grow its international presence and offer it online, reflecting his dedication to advancing commercial and orbital space operations
Michael D. Leinbach
Aerospace Engineer - former Shuttle Launch Director at NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center, Florida
Michael D. Leinbach (born c. 1953) is an aerospace engineer who was the former Shuttle Launch Director at NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Florida. He was responsible for activities in the overall shuttle launch countdown, including planning, policy, and execution.