IonQ’s Quantum Power Play: Acquiring Skyloom Global to Dominate the Quantum Networking Race

Quantum computing just got a major shakeup—IonQ is swallowing Skyloom Global whole to turbocharge its quantum network ambitions. Here's why Wall Street's already overhyping it.

Strategic Synergy or Desperate Land Grab?

The move gives IonQ instant access to Skyloom's laser-based satellite quantum communication tech—critical infrastructure for building a hack-proof quantum internet. Because apparently, regular internet wasn't fragile enough.

Quantum Winter Coming?

While rivals pour billions into hardware, IonQ's betting big on connectivity. Smart play—or just another way to burn VC cash before the funding well runs dry? Either way, traders are pricing in 'quantum supremacy' like it's going out of style.

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Skyloom has built close to ninety optical units for U.S. space goals by 2025. These units help send large data loads at high speed. As a result, IonQ gains new tools that support secure links for quantum use on land, air, sea, and space.

Earlier this week, IonQ leader Niccolò de Masi spoke on CNBC and said Skyloom will join the firm’s larger plan for quantum links and sensors. He said the firm seeks to build a full platform that joins quantum computing, secure links, and new sensor tech. Skyloom adds space data FLOW to that mix.

More Deals and New Growth

IonQ has used a steady stream of deals to build a wider quantum stack. First, the firm acquired Qubitekk, which specializes in quantum links. Next, it acquired ID Quantique, which specializes in secure cryptographic tools and sensors. Then it agreed to buy Oxford Ionics for about $1.1 billion, and it bought Lightsynq for work on photonic units and quantum memory. The firm also bought Capella Space, which helps build space-based quantum links, and it added Vector Atomic, which builds navigation tools.

Skyloom began in 2017 and has worked with U.S. groups in both low and high Earth orbits. It also runs a plant in Colorado. Thus, the deal adds to IonQ’s push to build a full global reach for quantum tech.

Revenue and Plans

IonQ said it has raised its outlook for 2025 revenue to $110 million. The firm said it has also doubled revenue each year since its 2021 public debut. It raised about $3.5 billion this year, with $2 billion of that raised in the past six weeks. This gives the firm more room to grow and more room to fund new steps.

IonQ also said it has new work with EPB in Chattanooga and with the University of Chicago. These moves help build a new base for quantum computing and secure links in the U.S. With Skyloom, IonQ adds more reach in space, which can help build a wider quantum network in the years ahead.

Is IONQ Stock a Buy?

On the Street, IonQ holds a Strong Buy consensus rating. The average IONQ stock price target stands at $76.86, implying a 61.03% upside from the current price.