IonQ announces several planned acquisitions in the quantum area
Last November, the company announced an agreement to acquire Qubitekk Inc., the start-up that partnered with Chattanooga’s EPB on its quantum network.
IonQ, a leading commercial quantum computing and networking company, has 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.
The acquisition builds on IonQ’s recent acquisitions 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.
According to a news release, 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, Chief Executive Officer of IonQ that is based in College Park, MD. “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.”
Separately, but on the same day, IonQ announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Lightsynq Technologies Inc., a Boston-based start-up founded by former Harvard University quantum memory experts. Lightsynq’s team and intellectual property are expected to significantly accelerate both IonQ’s quantum networking and quantum computing roadmaps.
Last November, IonQ announced an agreement to acquire Qubitekk Inc., the company that partnered with Chattanooga’s EPB on its quantum network.
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