Maker Faire is a great place to see materialized dreams. Human creativity knows no bounds, and when makers set their sights, big, amazing things happen. A newcomer to Maker Faire Bay Area, taking place on May 22nd and 23rd at the San Mateo Fairgrounds, is Morris Jarvis, maker of the Hermes Spacecraft (pictured above). When we chatted with Morris, this is what he shared with us.
1. Tell us about the project you’re bringing to Maker Faire.
I am bringing the Hermes prototype spacecraft. Hermes is a full-sized prototype of a private spacecraft meant to offer private civilians the chance to travel into space.
2. How did you hear about Maker Faire and why did you decide to participate?
I first heard of Maker Faire while showing the Hermes Spacecraft at the Intel Developers Forum where they had a “mini Maker Faire” after the IDF event. I found it very interesting and was also asked to show my craft at the next Maker Faire. Unfortunately my day job transferred me to Ireland shortly thereafter, and I was unable to attend and/or show the craft. I have just returned from Ireland and this is the first Maker Faire I have been able to attend.
3. Tell us about yourself. How did you get started making things and who are your inspirations?
Tough one… As a small child I know that I was very curious and had a penchant for taking things apart and figuring out how they worked. Although this could be extremely troublesome for my parents, I was blessed with parents who allowed my curiosity to run its course. As I grew up watching the Apollo missions, I became fascinated with space flight. I studied every book on the subject I could find all the way through college. I eventually got tired of waiting for space travel to be as commonplace as it was supposed to be by now and decided to do it myself. And here I am.
4. Is your project strictly a hobby or a budding business? Does it relate to your day job?
I hope to turn it into a business and have been trying to do so for a number of years, but sadly, it is still an expensive hobby. It doesn’t relate to my day job in any way, but if I had my way, this would be my day job.
5. What new idea (in or outside of your field) has excited you most recently?
The privatization of spaceflight. I’ve been working for this for 30-odd years and have been scoffed at continually for nearly the entire time. However, in recent years, it seems to be becoming more a reality and less science fiction. I believe this will be the next major innovation in our world.
6. What is your motto?
So many to choose from, but I guess the most applicable to this would be: “Because space should be for everybody.” Or maybe: “We were all supposed to be Jetsons by now.” Although I am also rather fond of: “I don’t do can’t very well.”
7. What advice would you give to the young makers out there just getting started?
Don’t let anyone talk you out of your passions. Follow your dreams wherever they may take you.
Thanks, Morris! Can’t wait to see this bad boy in person next weekend. For all the information you need about the Faire, visit the Maker Faire website. Be sure to get your tickets online to avoid waiting in line. See you there!
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