Intuitive Machines has decided to transfer the production of satellites for the communication system in cislunar space to its own facilities, to gain more control over the schedule and open up new opportunities in the satellite market.
The company reported, which would produce five satellites for the constellation, which will provide communication around the Moon. The satellites are for the NASA Near Space Network Services contract (NSNS), received in September 2024 year. Own production, according to the company, will provide better control over costs and schedule.
Vertical integration of production will protect intellectual property, reduce launch costs by using joint missions with lunar landers and open new markets, such as the Golden Dome. However, the company had previously planned to use joint launches, and specific savings from the new approach are not specified.
The first satellite will be launched together with the IM-3 mission, scheduled for the second half 2026 year, after completing the final inspection of the lander in May.
Production will require initial investment. In July, Intuitive Machines received approval from the Houston government to expand manufacturing facilities at Spaceport Houston on the grounds of Ellington Airport. A lease of a nearby building with production and testing facilities has also been signed. In the second quarter, the company adjusted the cost estimate to $19,8 million, including $10,1 million reduction in revenues due to the delay of stages IM-3 to 2026 year and $9,7 million additional costs.
Irregular engineering costs for the development of the first satellite are estimated at $5 million, and the total cost of five satellites is $100 million. In-house production is considered economically more profitable compared to market prices and creates internal opportunities for new markets.
Acquisition of KinetX
6 August Intuitive Machines announced the purchase of KinetX, companies from Arizona, specializing in deep space navigation and mission design, for $30 million. The deal should be completed by the end of the year. KinetX received $9,8 million of income in 2024 year and supported NASA missions from Mercury to Pluto, and the IM-1 and IM-2 missions.
The acquisition strengthens the company's position in data transmission, national security and new opportunities, such as transmitting data from Mars. KinetX has experience managing constellations, including Iridium and MUOS, as well as in precision navigation in deep space.
Source: https://spacenews.com