Shares of IONQ Inc. (NYSE:IONQ) surged 5.42% in pre-market trading on Thursday, following the quantum computing company's release of better-than-expected first-quarter results and ambitious plans for a space-based quantum network.

IonQ reported Q1 revenue of $7.57 million, slightly above analyst estimates of $7.51 million. The company's loss per share came in at $0.14, significantly better than the expected loss of $0.23 per share. This financial performance demonstrates IonQ's progress in commercializing its quantum computing technology and expanding its market presence.

Adding to investor enthusiasm, IonQ announced plans to launch a global space-to-space and space-to-ground satellite quantum key distribution (QKD) network. This initiative, which includes the acquisition of Capella Space Corporation, positions IonQ to potentially become the first company with both a quantum network and quantum computer in space. The move is seen as a significant step towards realizing IonQ's vision for a quantum internet and enhancing global secure communications capabilities.

CEO Niccolo de Masi commented on the results, stating, "We delivered important commercialization and expansion milestones for both our quantum computing and quantum networking businesses." The company's forward guidance also impressed investors, with Q2 revenue expected to be between $16 million and $18 million, and full-year 2025 revenue projected at $75 million to $95 million.