IonQ gains on partnership with US Department of Energy

** Shares of quantum computing firm IonQ IONQ.N up 5% to $65.41 in extended trading

** Company signs MOU with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to advance the development and deployment of quantum technologies in space

** IONQ says it will provide the design and execution of an orbital demonstration of quantum-secure communications using its satellite platform

** Company adds the agreement will explore alternate position, navigation, time synchronization, quantum networking, and sensing as well

** As of last close, shares were up 56.67% YTD