Intuitive Machines acquires Goonhilly to expand deep-space communications network

Intuitive Machines has announced plans to buy Goonhilly Earth Station, a UK-based satellite communications firm. The deal includes its US subsidiary, COMSAT, and is set to finalise in the third quarter of this year. The acquisition will expand Intuitive Machines’ global reach in deep-space communications. Goonhilly operates a key ground station in Cornwall, England, equipped with 30- and 32-meter antennas. These can handle deep-space communications across multiple frequency bands, including X-, S-, Ka-, and Ku-bands. Through COMSAT, the company also manages ground stations in Connecticut and California, featuring dozens of additional antennas.

The purchase is expected to boost Intuitive Machines’ annual revenue by around $14 million. Goonhilly’s infrastructure will strengthen the company’s ability to support lunar and deep-space missions, offering greater flexibility and coverage. Kenn Herskind, Goonhilly’s executive chair, stated that the deal would help scale global deep-space communications and support future lunar exploration. NASA’s plans for multiple lunar landings in the coming years are likely to increase demand for these services. Intuitive Machines aims to create a unified, resilient system for deep-space communications and positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT).

The acquisition will give Intuitive Machines a broader network of ground stations worldwide. Goonhilly’s technology and expertise are set to play a key role in upcoming lunar missions. The deal is scheduled to complete in the third quarter, pending final approvals.