IonQ (IONQ) said it has agreed to buy Skyloom Global, which builds space optical links that move data from orbit to the ground. The deal will close after routine approval. After that, Skyloom chief Marc Eisenberg will report to IonQ leader Frank Backes.
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Skyloom has built nearly ninety optical units for U.S. space missions up to 2025. These units help send large data loads at high speed. As a result, IonQ gains new tools that support secure links for quantum use on land, air, sea, and space.
Earlier this week, IonQ leader Niccolò de Masi spoke on CNBC and said Skyloom will join the firm’s larger plan for quantum links and sensors. He said the firm seeks to build a full platform that joins quantum computing, secure links, and new sensor tech. Skyloom adds space data flow to that mix.
More Deals and New Growth
IonQ has used a steady stream of deals to build a wider quantum stack. First, the firm acquired Qubitekk, which specializes in quantum links. Next, it acquired ID Quantique, which specializes in secure cryptographic tools and sensors. Then it agreed to buy Oxford Ionics for about $1.1 billion, and it bought Lightsynq for work on photonic units and quantum memory. The firm also bought Capella Space, which helps build space-based quantum links, and it added Vector Atomic, which builds navigation tools.
Skyloom began in 2017 and has worked with U.S. groups in both low and high Earth orbits. It also runs a plant in Colorado. Thus, the deal adds to IonQ’s push to build a full global reach for quantum tech.
Revenue and Plans
IonQ said it has raised its outlook for 2025 revenue to $110 million. The firm said it has also doubled revenue each year since its 2021 public debut. It raised about $3.5 billion this year, with $2 billion of that raised in the past six weeks. This gives the firm more room to grow and more room to fund new steps.
IonQ also said it has new work with EPB in Chattanooga and with the University of Chicago. These moves help build a new base for quantum computing and secure links in the U.S. With Skyloom, IonQ adds more reach in space, which can help build a wider quantum network in the years ahead.
Is IONQ Stock a Buy?
On the Street, IonQ holds a Strong Buy consensus rating. The average IONQ stock price target stands at $76.86, implying a 61.03% upside from the current price.
