Richard Larson brings 25 years of aerospace and engineering experience, with demonstrated expertise in designing, analyzing, and testing high-reliability systems for spaceflight and other mission-critical applications. He has solved complex technical challenges at both early and late stage startups, including Virgin Orbit and SpaceX, as well as at heritage aerospace companies such as Hughes Space & Communications. Across these varied environments, Mr. Larson has cultivated a broad understanding of fluid, mechanical, and electronic systems. 

During his tenure at Virgin Orbit, Mr. Larson served as Lead of the Structural Dynamics team and later as Senior Director of Flight Sciences. In these roles, he led integrated test campaigns encompassing wind tunnel assessments, modal tests, full engine vibration testing, and other critical program milestones for LauncherOne. While at SpaceX, he was a member of the core dynamics engineering team, leading efforts on Falcon 9 Stage 1 and the flight termination system, and contributing to early reusability initiatives for Grasshopper and F9R-Dev. Earlier in his career, Mr. Larson worked at Hughes Space & Communications, where he directed full spacecraft sine and acoustic testing, as well as qualification and acceptance testing for thrusters, propellant tanks, electronics, and antennas.