Goonhilly Earth Station to be acquired by US space firm
The proposed acquisition aims to enhance communication capabilities needed for Moon base and deep space missions
Last updated 1 day ago
Goonhilly Earth Station is poised to be acquired by Intuitive Machines, a leading provider of space technology, infrastructure, and services.
The proposed acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approval, aims to enhance communication capabilities needed for Moon base and deep space missions.
Once complete, Goonhilly will transition to a wholly owned subsidiary of Intuitive Machines, while maintaining its UK identity.
The acquisition will include Goonhilly’s subsidiary, Goonhilly USA Inc, known as COMSAT.
Since 2021, Goonhilly has established itself as a pioneering commercial provider of lunar and deep space communications services. The company has supported over 20 missions, collaborating with major space agencies like NASA, ESA, and private firms such as Intuitive Machines and ispace.
The merger between Goonhilly and Intuitive Machines is expected to drive innovation, expanding services for commercial satellite communications and national security. Goonhilly offers important radio frequency-based Space Domain Awareness capabilities, which together with COMSAT's secure satellite ground station services, enhance the operational capabilities of national and international space infrastructure.
Kenn Herskind, Goonhilly’s Executive Chairman, expressed enthusiasm, saying: “Goonhilly has spent years building a world class deep space communications capability.
“Joining Intuitive Machines will allow us to scale that capability globally and directly support the next era of lunar exploration.
"Together, we will be creating a commercial lunar communications network that is interoperable, resilient, and ready to support Artemis and international missions.”
Steve Altemus, CEO of Intuitive Machines, highlighted the importance of communication capabilities: “Customers have been clear that they want a single, integrated, and resilient solution for their communications and PNT needs as they accelerate missions at an unprecedented pace.
“Our partners of integrated space‑to‑ground network are configured to support missions across LEO, lunar, and cislunar environments through a single source for communications, PNT, and data transport.
"Goonhilly will provide the backbone for this network, scales our global ground presence, and will bring a strategic core competency to the Intuitive Machines team.”
Space Minister Liz Lloyd commended the acquisition, emphasising its potential benefits for the UK space sector, including new investment, job creation, and opportunities.
Goonhilly is committed to providing uninterrupted services to existing customers, intending to remain headquartered in Cornwall, UK. They will continue collaborating closely with COMSAT teleports in Connecticut and California, USA.