Intuitive Machines (NASDAQ:LUNR) saw its stock soar 5.59% in pre-market trading, following the company's announcement of its Near Space Network Services (NSNS) program during its first-quarter earnings call. The aerospace firm is strategically pivoting towards generating recurring, high-margin revenue from lunar orbit infrastructure, which has excited investors.
The NSNS program includes a Lunar Data Satellite constellation designed to provide secure and continuous connectivity for navigation, command, and control of spacecraft around the Moon. CEO Stephen Altemus emphasized that this infrastructure will serve various customers, including NASA, which has already granted an $18 million task order under its Commercial Lunar Payload Services program. The company plans to launch its first NSNS data relay satellite alongside its IM-3 lunar delivery mission in the first half of 2026, positioning Intuitive Machines as a key player in lunar exploration and communication services.
This strategic move comes as Intuitive Machines continues to strengthen its financial position and market presence. The company reported $62.5 million in revenue for the first quarter, up 14% from the previous quarter, with a substantial order backlog of $272.34 million. As a critical partner for NASA's Artemis Program, Intuitive Machines is carving out a niche in the growing space industry, with its stock gaining increased attention from investors looking to capitalize on the expanding lunar economy.