Pioneer Astronautics - Company Information Pioneer Astronautics (formerly Pioneer Invention) was formed in January 1996, for the purpose of exploring new technologies that have the potential to advance the nation's space program. Prior to founding Pioneer Astronautics, its owner and President, Dr. Robert Zubrin, had 7 years experience working as a Senior Engineer at Lockheed Martin Astronautics, one of the world's leading producers of launch vehicles and spacecraft. At Lockheed Martin, Dr. Zubrin had extensive experience in conducting both analytical and experimental studies of novel types of spacecraft and propulsion systems. Besides Dr. Zubrin, Pioneer Astronautics has several other full-time employees and a few part time employees. Pioneer Astronautics' current organizational structure allows for streamlined decision making, as no intervening layers of middle management are present to impede or interfere with any communication within the company. Additionally, the low number of employees ensures that no non-essential personnel are on the payroll, thus minimizing overhead costs.