Insider Brief
- IonQ’s acquisition of Capella Space signals its strategic entry into the space sector, with plans to operate quantum computers and a quantum key distribution (QKD) network from orbit.
- Capella’s existing satellite constellation and top-secret signals capabilities will support space-to-space and space-to-ground quantum communication, enabling ultra-secure global data links.
- This move aligns IonQ with emerging space infrastructure needs, enhancing both commercial and defense missions through integrated quantum sensing, analytics and secure transmission.
- The Space Insider Market Intelligence Platform provides a continuously updated analysis of this rapidly evolving sector. Read about our latest Space-Based QKD Market Map here.
PRESS RELEASE — IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a leading commercial quantum computing and networking company, today announced plans to launch a global space-to-space and space-to-ground satellite quantum key distribution (QKD) network, highlighting its ambitions to be the first company to have both a quantum network and quantum computer in space. To facilitate development of this network, IonQ has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Capella Space Corporation, a signals platform leader for top-secret government and commercial applications. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2025 subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals.
Building on IonQ’s recent acquisition of Qubitekk, a leading quantum networking company, and ID Quantique, SA, a global leader in quantum-safe networking and quantum detection systems, and IonQ’s recently announced memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Intellian Technologies, Inc., a global provider of satellite communication antennas and ground gateway solutions, the acquisition of Capella will deepen and accelerate IonQ’s quantum networking leadership. The acquisition will also expand IonQ’s quantum computing partnerships with US top-secret agencies through Capella’s Facility Security Clearance.
“We have an exceptional opportunity to accelerate our vision for the quantum internet, where global Quantum Key Distribution will play a foundational role in enabling secure communications,” said Niccolo de Masi, CEO of IonQ. “Through our announced acquisitions of Lightsynq and Capella today, and the work we’ll do with Intellian, IonQ is well positioned to lead the next-generation quantum internet.”
QKD secures communications by leveraging quantum technologies to ensure that encryption keys cannot be intercepted or copied without detection. Historically, QKD has been limited to deployment at smaller distances. By leveraging long-distance quantum repeaters from Lightsynq combined with Capella’s top-secret signals capabilities, IonQ expects to build global quantum-secure networks.
“Space is the next frontier for IonQ’s leadership in quantum computing, quantum networking, and ultra-secure environments,” said Frank Backes, CEO of Capella. “Quantum technologies have the potential to revolutionize space-based operations by enabling ultra-secure communications that transmit data to and from platforms with unmatched security. Capella’s advanced platform and proven constellation will integrate with IonQ’s quantum capabilities to enhance analytics, sensors, and security to bolster commercial applications and global defense and intelligence missions.”
This acquisition will strengthen IonQ’s position in advancing quantum networking technologies that are essential for building the quantum internet and supporting infrastructure development in the space economy. It will also build on recent defense and intelligence momentum, including a quantum networking contract with the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security (ARLIS) and agreements with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to deploy a quantum networking system at its Rome, New York, facility. Additionally, IonQ recently signed a $22 million partnership with EPB, a leading energy and communications provider in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to launch the nation’s first quantum computing and networking hub.
Space Insider Market Intelligence Platform provides a continuously updated analysis of this rapidly evolving sector. Read about our latest Space-Based QKD Market Map here.
Matt Swayne
With a several-decades long background in journalism and communications, Matt Swayne has worked as a science communicator for an R1 university for more than 12 years, specializing in translating high tech and deep tech for the general audience. He has served as a writer, editor and analyst at The Space Impulse since its inception. In addition to his service as a science communicator, Matt also develops courses to improve the media and communications skills of scientists and has taught courses.
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