SpaceX Veteran Chris Thompson Appointed to President of Phantom Space to Lead Innovation in Space Transportation and Orbital Infrastructure

TUCSON, Ariz., Oct. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Phantom Space Corporation, a pioneer in space transportation and orbital infrastructure, today announced the appointment of Phantom Co-Founder Chris Thompson to President. Thompson will also maintain his role and title as Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Thompson, an experienced aerospace executive and engineering leader, will now oversee the company's strategic operations while he continues to lead technological innovations across Phantom's portfolio, including the Daytona launch vehicle and Phantom Cloud orbital data network.

In his dual role, Thompson will oversee Phantom Space's mission to make space more accessible by leading the development and deployment of advanced launch systems and orbital platforms. His duties include expanding the company's operations for both commercial and government clients, leading the Daytona rocket program for its expected 2027 test flights, and developing the Phantom Cloud network to support industries from Earth observation to deep space exploration. Thompson's leadership will also emphasize integrating new technologies, such as AI-driven systems and modular rocket designs, to boost mission reliability and reduce costs.

"Chris Thompson's proven track record in aerospace innovation and operational leadership makes him the ideal choice to propel Phantom Space into its next phase of growth," said co-founder and CEO James Cantrell. "Chris is one of the most accomplished rocket and space systems engineers in history. His expertise in developing scalable space technologies and leading high-performance teams will ensure Phantom remains at the forefront of the space industry, delivering reliable and transformative solutions for our clients and partners."

With over 40 years of experience in aerospace engineering and executive management, Mr. Thompson has held engineering and leadership roles at prominent space and defense organizations, including McDonnell Douglas where he worked on the Delta II, III, and IV launch vehicle programs, SpaceX where he led the development of the Falcon 1, Falcon 9 rockets, and Dragon capsule structures, and Virgin Orbit where he led structures development for the LauncherOne air-launched rocket. Mr. Thompson's deep expertise in rocket structures, propulsion, systems integration, and space infrastructure development positions him to accelerate Phantom's progress towards its ambitious goals in space transportation and in-orbit services.

"I am excited to serve as President & CTO of Phantom Space at this key moment in the company's journey," said Thompson. "The chance to lead Phantom's operations and technology development, while pushing the limits of what's possible in space transportation and orbital infrastructure, is beyond motivating. I look forward to working with and growing the Phantom team to deliver innovative solutions which expand humanity's reach and capabilities in space."

Thompson's appointment comes at a critical time as Phantom Space prepares for the Daytona launch vehicle's test campaign in late 2025 and the expansion of the Phantom Cloud, a revolutionary orbital data network designed to power next-generation space commerce. His leadership will strengthen Phantom's position as a pioneer in scalable, cost-effective space solutions, supporting applications from satellite data backhaul to orbital defense and from off-world settlements to in-space manufacturing and resource mining.

About Phantom Space Corporation

Founded in 2019, Phantom Space Corporation is an American space transportation and rocket manufacturing company headquartered in Tucson, Arizona. Committed to democratizing access to space, Phantom is developing the Daytona launch vehicle and the Phantom Cloud orbital data network to enable the future of in-space commerce. The company delivers reliable, cost-effective solutions for commercial and government clients worldwide, while advancing innovation in space-based technologies and life sciences.

Contact:
Phantom Space Corporation
Public Relations
Email: pr@phantomspace.com
Phone: (520) 207-2799
Website: www.phantomspace.com

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SOURCE Phantom Space Corporation