WASHINGTON — IonQ, a Maryland-based quantum computing company, announced May 7 it has reached an agreement to acquire Capella Space, the first U.S. firm to launch a commercial radar imaging satellite.
The acquisition advances IonQ’s ambitious plan to create the world’s first space-based quantum key distribution (QKD) network — a technology that promises unhackable communications for government and commercial users.
Founded in 2015, IonQ specializes in developing quantum computing hardware and software. Unlike conventional computers, which store data in binary form, quantum computers rely on the laws of quantum mechanics to perform complex calculations exponentially faster than traditional machines. One of their most anticipated uses is quantum key distribution, which can detect and thwart any attempt to intercept encryption keys.
The financial terms of the transaction weren’t disclosed. The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and other standard closing conditions.
Capella, founded in 2016, operates a fleet of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites capable of imaging Earth through clouds and at night. The company launched its first satellite in 2018 and has since grown into a trusted provider of imagery for U.S. government and commercial clients. Until now, it has been backed by venture capital, strategic partners, and individual investors.
IonQ’s interest in Capella goes beyond satellite hardware. The radar firm holds classified contracts and operates secure facilities, which could give IonQ a pathway into defense and intelligence markets as it builds out its space-based quantum vision.
Quantum internet vision
“We have an exceptional opportunity to accelerate our vision for the quantum internet,” said IonQ CEO Niccolo de Masi. “By leveraging long-distance quantum repeaters from Lightsynq combined with Capella’s top-secret signals capabilities, IonQ expects to build global quantum-secure networks.”
The acquisition of Capella comes alongside a separate deal IonQ announced May 7 for Lightsynq Technologies, a Boston-based startup that developed the first functional quantum repeater. Quantum repeaters are a key enabler for extending the range of quantum communications, which are currently limited to relatively short distances.
IonQ also signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea’s Intellian Technologies, a maker of satellite communication antennas and gateways. The partnership is intended to support the physical infrastructure of IonQ’s proposed quantum key distribution network—enabling both satellite-to-ground and satellite-to-satellite communications.
Frank Backes, CEO of Capella, said 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 satellites, he said, will integrate with IonQ’s quantum capabilities to “enhance analytics, sensors and security to bolster commercial applications and global defense and intelligence missions.”
