Intuitive Machines to Acquire Goonhilly and COMSAT to Expand Space Network
The acquisition adds a network of ground stations to enhance deep space communications and position, navigation, and timing capabilities.
Intuitive Machines, Inc. (LUNR) completed its acquisition of Goonhilly Earth Station Limited and COMSAT LLC. The transaction integrates the Goonhilly Lunar and Deep Space Communications, Commercial Satcom, and Defense and Security divisions into the Intuitive Machines portfolio.
The acquisition is intended to strengthen the company's space infrastructure services by adding a network of ground stations. This expansion increases visibility across major Earth-viewing arcs and enhances contact opportunities for lunar and deep space missions. Additionally, the deal expands capacity on the company's space data network for communications, data transport, and position, navigation, and timing (PNT).
“Intuitive Machines provides the infrastructure services customers need for their missions in Earth orbit, on the Moon, and across deep space. Integrating Goonhilly and COMSAT expands our space infrastructure with proven ground assets and connected deep space capabilities,” said Steve Altemus, CEO of Intuitive Machines.
Goonhilly is a deep space communications provider with major ground station assets in the United Kingdom, while its sister company, COMSAT, offers commercial satcom services. The assets include the GHY6 32-meter antenna and the cryogenically cooled GHY3 30-meter antenna, providing multiband support across X-band, S-band, and Ka-/Ku-band. The integration of these assets is expected to provide customers with greater flexibility in mission design for spacecraft operating throughout lunar and deep space.
This move follows a series of aggressive expansions by Intuitive Machines to establish itself as a multi-domain space prime. In January 2026, the company completed the $800 million acquisition of Lanteris Space Systems, a spacecraft manufacturer. The company also secured a $175 million strategic equity investment in February 2026 to advance its communications and data processing networks.
The expanded network is expected to deliver sustained lunar and cislunar operations. The transaction was subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission and under the UK National Security and Investment Act 2021.