Intuitive Machines has finalized its acquisition of aerospace company KinetX as part of a push to broaden its deep space navigation and constellation management capabilities and related offerings for customers.
Combining Intuitive’s Data Service Platform With KinetX’s Deep Space Navigation Tech
Intuitive Machines said Wednesday it will combine its data service platform with KinetX’s deep space navigation technology to deliver secure communications and precision navigation capabilities in support of customers’ lunar and interplanetary missions.
“By uniting deep space navigation and data services, we’re giving customers the confidence to securely operate across the solar system with precision and autonomy so they can explore and innovate faster,” said Intuitive Machines CEO Steve Altemus. “With KinetX’s navigation expertise now paired with our lunar-proven spacecraft and data network, we believe Intuitive Machines is positioned to lead in cislunar space and carry that advantage forward to Mars.”
KinetX has NASA certification for deep space navigation and has supported planetary missions, including navigation services to the moon, asteroids, Mercury and Pluto.
With KinetX’s deep space navigation and mission planning expertise, Intuitive Machines can enhance its ability to deliver end-to-end space data relay platforms for interplanetary and lunar missions.
Expanding Data Services Portfolio, Infrastructure Footprint
“Adding KinetX to Intuitive Machines expands our data services portfolio and accelerates our work in building the secure, scalable space capabilities our nation and customers depend on,” Altemus stated.
The transaction also broadens the space technology company’s infrastructure footprint across various U.S. locations, including Houston, Phoenix and Maryland, in alignment with key opportunities in national security space, civil exploration and future Mars telecommunications initiatives.
Intuitive Machines completed the stock acquisition for $30 million before closing adjustments, including approximately $15 million in cash and about 1.4 million shares of its common stock.
