IonQ to Buy Skyloom Global to Expand Space Quantum Network

Quantum computing firm IonQ has unveiled plans to acquire Skyloom Global, a Colorado-based developer of optical communication systems for space-based quantum networks.

The acquisition, announced by IonQ Chairman and CEO Niccolò de Masi during a Nov. 11 CNBC interview, is supported by $3.5 billion in new funding to accelerate the development of fault-tolerant, quantum-secure infrastructure, Skyloom said Wednesday.

IonQ to Acquire Skyloom Global for Space-Based Quantum Expansion

Explore quantum computing and other emerging technologies revolutionizing the future of warfare at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Defense R&D Summit on Jan. 29. Register now!

What Is IonQ’s Goal With the Skyloom Acquisition?

The move is intended to enhance IonQ’s quantum computing, networking and sensing capabilities while advancing the company’s plan to build a global quantum key distribution platform. The QKD platform will integrate ground and satellite systems and build on recent acquisitions, including Qubitekk, ID Quantique, Capella Space and Vector Atomic, to create a full-stack quantum ecosystem.

“With Skyloom, our Capella business, and ID Quantique, we’re building a platform for quantum key distribution — not just on the ground, but also up into space with satellites,” said de Masi.

How Will the Acquisition Expand Quantum Capabilities?

Skyloom’s space-based optical communication technology, often referred to as a fiberless internet for Earth, combined with IonQ’s existing assets, will support real-time orbital quantum data transport and secure entanglement distribution across the planet.

Sponsor