Ramon BLANCO

• US Head of Space Added Value Solutions (AVS) • US Head of Space

Ramon Blanco Maceiras is the US Head of Space at AVS Added Value Solutions, leading the strategic expansion of its space division from Europe into the US market. AVS, a pioneer in space technology, particle physics and nuclear fusion, is fervently committed to "Boosting Scientific Knowledge". The company engineers advanced robotic solutions for lunar and planetary exploration, small satellite buses for interplanetary missions, and forward-thinking water propulsion solutions that may one day be refueled with extraterrestrial water! Having already made successful contributions to NASA´s Mars Perseverance Rover instruments, AVS currently spearheads the development of the robotic hand and other crucial systems for the Mars Sample Return Mission.

Before joining AVS, Ramon was a key player at Thales Alenia Space, where he served in multiple leadership roles encompassing business development, product management, and engineering. His contributions significantly bolstered the company's future order book, delivering innovative propulsion system solutions for a myriad of satellite programs, ranging from LEO & MEO constellations to GEO satellites and daring interplanetary missions.

Ramon's academic credentials include an MSc in Propulsion and Engine Systems Engineering from the University of Southampton, and a BSc in Aerospace Engineering from Delft University of Technology. Notably, during his tenure at Delft, Ramon co-led the design of a Crewed Mars fly-by mission, receiving Honorable Mention at the 2013 Inspiration Mars Foundation competition.

Ramon's enthusiasm for space exploration was ignited by the ambitious challenge of designing the first manned mission to Mars. To this day, he remains a fervent advocate for the Human to Moon and Mars vision, leaving his innovative imprint on the industry and demonstrating unwavering commitment to the future of space exploration.

Events

International Astronautical Congress 2023

2-6 October 2023

Baku, Azerbaijan

Participation: