Former NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver has accepted a strategic advisory role at Germany’s ATMOS Space Cargo, a company aiming to commence commercial space cargo return services in 2025.
Founded in 2021, ATMOS Space Cargo is developing a range of space capsules designed to transport payloads to and from space. It is currently working on its Phoenix return capsule, which will be capable of offering “microgravity-on-demand” services for up to three months at a time. The capsule is designed to carry up to 100 kilograms.
On 9 December, ATMOS announced that former NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver had accepted a position on the company’s advisory board. According to the company, her expertise will help advance the company’s mission to deliver commercial space cargo return services. The company’s first mission is currently expected to launch in the fourth quarter of 2025.
“NASA’s plan to reduce space transportation costs by leveraging private investment was never about supporting a single company or sector. Lowering the barrier to entry for commercial space projects was designed to stimulate a range of activities in the space domain, and life sciences research has always been of particular interest to me,” said Garver. “I’m thrilled to be joining ATMOS Space Cargo in their quest to support reliable and affordable orbital research.”
Garver served as Deputy Administrator of NASA between 2009 and late 2013. She played a significant role in shaping the agency’s commercial spaceflight strategy, advocating for public-private partnerships that have transformed space exploration and enabled companies like SpaceX to thrive. Garver’s efforts helped to reduce costs and foster innovation in the spaceflight industry, making her a key architect of the modern space economy.
According to her LinkedIn profile, Garver currently serves as an advisor for K2 Corporation, Bessemer Venture Partners, and Sierra Space. She is also on the board of Hydrosat and World View and is a co-founder of the Brooke Owens Fellowship. While her advisory efforts will be split across her many commitments, her decision to join ATMOS adds significant credibility to the efforts of ATMOS, particularly as the company continues to raise funds.
