A Burlington man is chasing big dreams of achieving advances in technology in solar power and rocketry.
Carlos Hernandez, 24, graduated from Cummings High School but otherwise is largely self-taught. He never attended college and says he has learned all he knows through reading, research and mentorship.
“I’m a dreamer, and no one can take that away. I’m just an everyday guy that wants to get to space,” he said.
He has two business start-ups that he’s working on, one geared toward making solar energy more affordable and one toward production of a reusable rocket that could be used for rapid cargo transportation.
The solar company, Helios Nexus — the name combines the Greek word for “sun” and the Latin word for “connection” — aims to simplify the process for homeowners to buy a solar system.
“Our vision extends beyond solar to becoming an energy provider by accelerating solar adoption, manufacturing proprietary solar panels and advancing technology,” he said.
The other company, Hyperspace Technologies, if successful will create a rocket that could be invaluable in disasters to deliver aid to remote areas, he said.
“I feel that we can do this in the next 10-15 years,” Hernandez said. “Beyond humanitarian aid, our technology holds immense potential for commercial applications, particularly for companies with time-sensitive cargo.”
Hernandez said he became fascinated by space because of the 2021 SpaceX launch of Inspiration4, which carried the first all-civilian space crew. he entered a contest to win a seat on the flight.
Although he didn’t win the contest, he was invited to a VIP launch event.
From then on, Hernandez was hooked, attending numerous rocket launches. He also has been to the University of Arizona’s Center for Human Space Exploration, where he experienced working in a pressurized space suit.
“I tried to do push-ups in the suit. That was really tough,” he said.
Hernandez noted that he is also halfway to finishing the work needed to get his pilot’s license.
“Dreaming is my superpower. I believe that ... my dream of making a difference in the world is key to my journey,” he said. “As the son of immigrants, I know my goals may seem audacious, but anyone can succeed if they dream big enough and work hard to fulfill those dreams and aspirations.”
