Intuitive Machines, a prominent player in lunar infrastructure, has announced its intention to acquire Lanteris Space Systems, previously known as Maxar Space Systems, for a substantial sum of $800 million. This acquisition, facilitated by private equity firm Advent International, will broaden Intuitive Machines’ focus beyond lunar exploration to include satellite manufacturing, particularly for defense applications.
Steve Altemus, the CEO of Intuitive Machines, emphasized the significance of this transition in a press release, stating, “This marks the moment Intuitive Machines transitions from a lunar company to a multi-domain space prime, setting the pace for how the industry’s next generation will operate.” Until now, Intuitive Machines’ primary endeavors have revolved around NASA and commercial lunar missions, with limited engagement in military space initiatives.
In 2023, Intuitive Machines secured a $9.5 million award from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) as part of the Joint Emergent Technology Supplying On-orbit Nuclear Power (JETSON) program. This initiative aims to develop nuclear power sources for spacecraft, enhancing their operational capabilities and enabling longer missions through cislunar space and beyond. Following this, on October 22, 2023, the company announced a follow-on contract from AFRL, valued at $8.2 million.
The rebranding of Maxar Space Systems to Lanteris on October 1, 2023, was widely perceived as a strategic step towards this acquisition. Advent International, a private equity firm known for acquiring and restructuring companies, has positioned Lanteris to focus on national security and defense technology. Based in Palo Alto, California, Lanteris is recognized for manufacturing and operating advanced satellite systems.
Additionally, Lanteris has collaborated with industry leaders such as L3Harris, which selected Maxar Space as a subcontractor for a mission involving the construction of 18 missile tracking satellites under its contract with the Space Development Agency. The company is also noted for its production of the widely utilized Maxar-1300 series commercial communications satellites designed for operations in geosynchronous Earth orbit.
As part of its strategic roadmap, Lanteris has prioritized its business in national security and defense technology, aligning with the objectives of its new parent company. The acquisition is anticipated to conclude in the first quarter of 2026, pending the usual regulatory approvals and closing conditions.
With this move, Intuitive Machines not only enhances its portfolio but also positions itself as a significant contender in the evolving landscape of multi-domain space operations.
