IonQ, U.S. Department of Energy Partner to Advance Quantum in Space

IonQ has signed a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Department of Energy to advance quantum technologies for space applications, highlighting both the rising importance of secure quantum communication and the federal government’s growing investment in orbital infrastructure.

The agreement is tied to the DOE’s Quantum in Space initiative, which aims to expand the role of quantum computing, networking, and sensing in orbit. Under the memorandum, IonQ will design and carry out an orbital demonstration of quantum-secure communications using its satellite platform. The company and the DOE will also explore potential applications in alternate positioning, navigation, and timing systems, improved time synchronization, quantum networking, and quantum sensing technologies.

IonQ’s initial focus is to validate secure ground-to-orbit-to-ground quantum networking. Longer term, the collaboration envisions testing a wider range of use cases, from orbital quantum sensing to the deployment of algorithms and, eventually, quantum computing capabilities directly on satellites.

IonQ’s Recent Acquisitions

The initiative arrives as the United States seeks to establish a stronger foothold in both the quantum and space sectors. By integrating secure quantum communications and advanced sensing into satellite platforms, the collaboration could support areas ranging from cybersecurity to navigation, as well as the potential manufacturing of high-value products in orbit.

DOE officials described the effort as a practical step toward accelerating commercialization of emerging technologies while also creating a “quantum sandbox” for experimentation and innovation in space.

The agreement builds on IonQ’s recent acquisitions aimed at strengthening its quantum networking and space portfolios. In late 2024, the company acquired Qubitekk, a pioneer in quantum networking, followed by the purchase of space technology firm Capella in 2025. These moves have positioned IonQ as the only U.S.-based quantum computing company currently delivering commercial quantum networking systems. Installations include deployments at the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory and the EPB Quantum Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

As quantum workloads increasingly intersect with aerospace, IonQ’s partnership with the Department of Energy reinforces its role in shaping the next phase of secure communications and space-based quantum infrastructure. The collaboration underscores how both government and industry are accelerating efforts to integrate quantum capabilities into national and commercial space strategies.