Here’s Why Intuitive Machines Is Rocketing Higher On Thursday

Key Points
Intuitive Machines is one of the primary beneficiaries of recently-renewed interest in lunar exploration.
Given that missions to Earth’s natural satellite are now likely to become a regular occurrence, Intuitive Machines’ solutions should experience significant demand.
This stock’s volatility will make it difficult for plenty of investors to own, but risk-tolerant investors may appreciate its potential upside.
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Shrugging off Wednesday's lethargy to rekindle Tuesday's solid bullishness, shares of Intuitive Machines (NASDAQ: LUNR) are flying again today, up 12.5% as of 1:40 p.m. ET.
Just don't look for any company-specific news from or about this name. You won't find it. Rather, look to the skies... literally. The chief reason LUNR shares are soaring is currently racing toward the moon, taking at least some Intuitive Machines’ technology with it.
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What put Intuitive Machines into orbit today?
Yes, the catalyst here is Wednesday evening's successful launch of NASA's Artemis II mission to the moon. It wouldn't be happening like it is without Intuitive Machines' technology.
Simply put, Intuitive Machines makes a range of solutions that not only make getting to and from the Earth's moon possible, but also lay the groundwork for its exploration, and eventually, even its colonization. Its Nova-C lunar lander, for instance, is capable of autonomously delivering 130 kilograms (287 pounds) of payload to the moon's surface using methane as rocket fuel. The company's also developing a vehicle to navigate the moon's surface. Intuitive Machines even designed and built the network of data relay satellites being used to track the Orion capsule currently making its way to the moon.
Given the attention that mankind's first trip back to the moon since 1972 has understandably received, it's no surprise that investors are suddenly interested in the companies supporting these missions, which are expected to become regular occurrences. To this end, analysts expect Intuitive Machines' revenue to soar nearly 350% to $944 million this year, en route to a 2028 top line of more than $1.4 billion, when the company is projected to be profitable.
Its story has never been more promising
There's certainly no lack of growth opportunity here, once the world becomes confident enough in mankind's ability to safely travel to and from the moon, and do constructive work while there. Rather, the chief issue here is arguably the stock's valuation. Intuitive Machines' market cap is already a hefty $5.0 billion, possibly limiting its upside (particularly in the near term).
That said, there's no denying the excitement now surrounding this stock -- not to mention the entire moon exploration business -- could continue prodding near-term gains. Its story is certainly more promising and more real right now than it's ever been before.
Bottom line? It's too much risk and volatility for some investors. If you're willing and able to digest both, however, there's a case to be made that LUNR can indeed continue rallying, fueled for as long as the euphoria lasts.
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James Brumley has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Intuitive Machines. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.