Quantum computing firm IonQ ($IONQ) signed an MOU with the US Department of Energy to build on the company’s work to bring quantum tech to orbit.
Next steps: The MOU aims to allow IonQ to perform an in-orbit demo of quantum-secure comms. The partnership will also study the use of quantum tech in space for other priorities—options include offering a secure alternative to GPS and investigating quantum networking.
“This collaboration is about turning possibility into practice, and learning by doing,” Rima Kasia Oueid, DOE senior commercialization executive and lead architect of the department-led Quantum-in-Space Collaboration that includes IonQ as a new partner, said in a statement. “This collaboration will help us seed a quantum sandbox in space to support resource exploration, and manufacturing of high-value products.”
How we got here: During the past year, IonQ has announced two important acquisitions to build out its quantum offerings.
- In January, IonQ completed its acquisition of quantum networking company Qubitekk.
- In May, it announced that it would acquire SAR imaging company Capella Space.
Bigger picture: Quantum computing could open up many benefits for the space industry, including quickly processing and analyzing data in-orbit, tracking space debris more precisely to increase safety and cut down required maneuvering, and increasing the security of satellites and their data—something that’s of great interest to the national security and intelligence communities.
