IonQ is acquiring Space ISAC founding member Capella Space as part of 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.
“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 IonQ CEO Niccolo de Masi. “Through our announced acquisition of Capella 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 Capella CEO Frank Backes. “Quantum technologies have the potential to revolutionise 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 defence and intelligence missions,” he added.
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 defence 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 New York facility.
Additionally, IonQ recently signed a USD22 million partnership with EPB, a leading energy and communications provider in Tennessee, to launch the nation’s first quantum computing and networking hub.
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.
