Our Philosophy & People

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Stefan Schlechtriem is a globally recognized authority in aerospace engineering and space propulsion. Since 2009, he has served as the Director of the DLR Institute of Space Propulsion at the German Aerospace Center, where he leads Europe’s premier research and testing facility for liquid-chemical rocket engines. Additionally, he holds the Chair for Chemical Space Propulsion at the University of Stuttgart. With a distinguished career spanning decades—including research at NASA Ames Research Center and a PhD from RWTH Aachen—Prof. Schlechtriem specializes in the development of next-generation launch vehicles, green propellants, and groundbreaking technologies like aerospike engines. His expertise is instrumental in bridging the gap between established aerospace giants, such as the Ariane family, and the burgeoning "New Space" ecosystem of high-growth startups. As an advisor to AdAstra Capital, he provides unparalleled technical insight and strategic connections within the international aerospace community.

Academician Volodymyr Semynozhenko is a distinguished scientist and a preeminent figure in the international scientific community. As a member of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NASU), his career has been dedicated to the advancement of functional materials and high-tech innovation. As a part of his official engagement, he oversaw the nation's scientific, educational, and cultural development, playing a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of research and technology at a national level. Prof. Semynozhenko serves as the long-standing Director of the Institute for Single Crystals of the NASU, which is recognized globally as a premier research center for materials science critical to the Aerospace and Deep Tech sectors. His expertise in solid-state physics and functional materials provides Ad Astra Capital with a world-class foundation for technical due diligence and strategic oversight. As a member of the advisory committee, Academician Semynozhenko ensures the highest standards of corporate governance and facilitates connections with global academic and industrial elites

Ragna Lóa Stefánsdóttir is a highly accomplished leader and strategic intermediary with deep roots in both the Icelandic and British business landscapes. Having spent over two decades in the United Kingdom, she has cultivated an expansive and exclusive network among high-net-worth individuals and influential investment circles across Northern Europe. Her background as an award-winning manager—honored as Iceland's Manager of the Year—demonstrates an exceptional capability for leading high-performance organizations and navigating the complex dynamics of high-stakes environments. Ragna Lóa specializes in strategic relationship management, serving as a vital bridge for institutional investors and private stakeholders seeking cross-border opportunities between Iceland and the UK. At Ad Astra Capital, she leverages her unique connectivity to global elite networks to facilitate high-impact introductions and foster strategic partnerships. Her profound understanding of international relationship dynamics and her managerial acumen make her an invaluable asset to the firm’s advisory committee, ensuring Ad Astra remains at the forefront of global connectivity.

Mary Jardine-Clarke is a high-level Business Development and Government Relations specialist with over 30 years of experience in the international defense, maritime, and aerospace sectors. As the Principal of Greenwich House—a strategic partner of Ad Astra Capital—she brings an exceptional global perspective, having managed complex projects and trade delegations across Australia, Europe, Canada, and Southeast Asia. Mary is a professionally registered government and industry lobbyist in both Australia and the European Union, specializing in the alignment of private sector innovation with governmental strategic interests. Her expertise spans critical modern infrastructure, including airport development, net-zero energy, and cyber security. Notably, she has spent over 15 years representing European and Ukrainian space industry interests in Australia and Indonesia, with a specialized focus on launch and spaceport services. Mary’s longstanding professional networks across Japan, the UK, Ukraine, and the Middle East provide Ad Astra Capital with unparalleled business intelligence and strategic reach. Her role on the Advisory Board ensures world-class corporate governance and serves as a vital conduit for high-impact international projects.