Aidan Shaffer was born and raised in New Mexico, where he inherited a creative heritage from the vibrant arts community of Taos. Spending formative years in Los Alamos fostered in him a lifelong passion for astrophysics and the quest to understand the fundamental truths of how the universe functions. From an early age, he was fascinated with science, space, and the technologies that might one day expand humanity’s reach beyond Earth.

Education and Academic Focus

Aidan completed a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) at the University of New Mexico in 2014, concentrating on spaceports, sustainability, and UFO/UAP physics. His academic background blended business strategy with space-focused research, providing him with both the technical and entrepreneurial skills to navigate emerging aerospace fields. His studies included coursework in economics, chemistry, and physics at UNM Taos, as well as earlier studies in astronomy and astrophysics at the University of Colorado Boulder.

His education also extended into Buddhist studies at Diamond Mountain University, where he explored higher logic and philosophy, further shaping his worldview and commitment to sustainable, ethical innovation.

Career in Space Research and Development

Aidan’s professional journey reflects both hands-on technical expertise and visionary research. He has worked in fabrication shops since high school and continues to be active in the maker community wherever he travels, constantly researching new manufacturing technologies and innovations.

• Falcon Space (2021–2023): Participated in an open-source startup aimed at developing field effect propulsion systems for future spaceflight.

• Taos Launchpad (2017–Present): Serving as an inventor, he has focused on propulsion concepts, sustainable development, and the maker movement in his home state.

• LiftPort Group (2011–2016): Researcher and business developer coordinating global networks and R&D efforts toward the ambitious goal of building a space elevator.

• COSMIAC (2013–2014): Developed relationships with government and aerospace contractors, chaired STEM outreach initiatives, and researched wireless power transmission for space applications.

• Transparent Sky (2015): Assisted in constructing a CubeSat for a joint R&D mission with Pumpkin Inc. and the Office of Operational Responsive Space (ORS).

In addition, Aidan has experience in rapid prototyping at Central New Mexico Community College (2016) and has worked across diverse industries from computer consulting to nonprofit organizing.

UFO and UAP Research

In line with his lifelong fascination with unexplained aerial phenomena, Aidan worked with the executive production team on Robert Hastings’ documentary “UFOs and Nukes.” His contribution was inspired by his own observations of glowing aerial vehicles in the skies, fueling his commitment to studying UAP physics within the broader context of space technology and sustainability.

Skills, Languages, and Outreach

Aidan’s skills include project planning, metallurgy, and advanced communication. He is fluent in English and also has professional working proficiency in Russian. His professional and personal pursuits consistently bridge the gap between technical research and public engagement, whether through maker communities, STEM outreach, or collaborative startups.

Vision and Legacy

Aidan Shaffer describes himself as a “knowledge bearer of field effect propulsion, additive and subtractive manufacturing, conservative and sustainable development, and water protector.” His career path reflects a commitment to both technological advancement and responsible stewardship of natural resources.

From space elevators to UAP physics, and from rapid prototyping to sustainability, Aidan’s journey reflects the spirit of a maker, researcher, and futurist dedicated to reshaping humanity’s future among the stars.