MICHAEL KNIGHT

Michael Knight is an accomplished aerospace executive with nearly two decades of

specialized experience in structural analysis, mechanical design, and system optimization across the aerospace and defense sectors. His distinguished career includes leadership roles at Impulse Space, Gravitics, Northrop Grumman, and Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense, where he consistently advanced structural technologies, led high-performance analysis teams, and delivered innovative technical solutions.

 

Academic Credentials:

• Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, University of California – San Diego

 

Patents & Publications:

• Inventor, Additive Manufactured Combustion Engine (WO2018045351A1)

• Inventor, Turbine Engine and Exhaust System Connection (EP3173589B1)

• Co-Author, Thermo-Structural Enhancement of Liquid-Propellant Rocket Engine Thrust Chambers Using Functionally Graded Alloys (AIAA 2015-4069)

 

Professional Experience:

• Impulse Space – Senior Structural Analysis Engineer
  Led structural analysis for Mira V2 Spacecraft, developing critical system and mission-specific FEMs, optimizing primary structures, and pioneering the integration of AI technologies in engineering workflows.

• Gravitics Inc. – Senior Structural Engineer
  Established welded joint analysis standards and validated structural simulations, addressing complex payload separation challenges for large spacecraft modules.

• Northrop Grumman Defense Systems – Senior Principal Structural Engineer
  Executed structural analyses for missile systems across US military branches, developed advanced software solutions, and authored compliance-critical analysis documentation.

• Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense – Mechanical Engineer
  Pioneered structural and reliability analyses for satellite launch restraint systems and played a pivotal role in the structural assessment and successful deployment of the James Webb Space Telescope. Innovated deployment mechanisms such as the NEA cup cone release device, adopted by prominent aerospace platforms including New Glenn, H2Sat, and Kuiper.

 

A Mission Born from Sacrifice:

Michael’s inspiration for founding Sentinel Space Systems is deeply rooted in personal history and a legacy of military service. His grandfather, Gunnery Sergeant Hugh R. Knight, served honorably in the United States Marine Corps with F Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines (6th Division) during World War II. GySgt Knight saw intense combat across the Pacific theater, notably at Guadalcanal, New Georgia, Guam, and Okinawa. At the Battle of Okinawa, he sustained a severe gunshot wound to the back, narrowly escaping death in what could only be described as a battlefield miracle.

 

Recognizing that his own existence hinges on his grandfather’s extraordinary survival, Michael carries a profound sense of duty toward those who continue to serve. This deeply personal connection has fueled Michael’s relentless commitment to Sentinel’s core mission: advancing technologies that protect military personnel by securing the vital space-based infrastructure essential to their operations. Michael’s leadership at Sentinel is driven by this powerful blend of personal legacy and professional dedication, propelling the company’s mission to honor the sacrifices of past generations through innovative solutions for future security.