Here's Why Intuitive Machines Is Rocketing Higher On Thursday

By James Brumley – Apr 2, 2026 at 1:39PM ESTKey PointsIntuitive 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.Shrugging off Wednesday's lethargy to rekindle Tuesday's solid bullishness, shares of Intuitive Machines (LUNR +12.50%) 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. 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. Image source: Getty Images. 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). ExpandNASDAQ: LUNRIntuitive MachinesToday's Change(12.50%) $2.53Current Price$22.77Key Data PointsMarket Cap$3.2BDay's Range$19.23 - $24.2852wk Range$6.13 - $24.28Volume1.4MAvg Vol12MGross Margin2.57% 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.Read NextMar 31, 2026 •By Jeremy BowmanWho Owns ChatGPT? Largest Shareholders & Board of DirectorsMar 30, 2026 •By Rich SmithGood News for Space Stocks: NASA Wants 30 Moon LandingsMar 25, 2026 •By Rich SmithWhy Intuitive Machines Stock Went to the Moon TodayMar 23, 2026 •By Rich SmithWhy Intuitive Machines Stock Popped TodayMar 19, 2026 •By Rich SmithWhy Intuitive Machines Stock Dropped TodayMar 19, 2026 •By Motley Fool TranscribingIntuitive Machines (LUNR) Earnings TranscriptAbout the AuthorJames Brumley is a contributing Motley Fool stock market analyst covering consumer staples and consumer discretionary stocks. James is a former licensed stockbroker with Charles Schwab, and a registered investment adviser. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business management with a specialization in finance from Transylvania University.TMFjbrumleyX@jbrumleyStocks MentionedIntuitive MachinesNASDAQ: LUNR$22.83(+12.80%)+$2.59*Average returns of all recommendations since inception. Cost basis and return based on previous market day close.