Why Intuitive Machines (LUNR) Is Still a Polarizing Space-Tech Bet

Intuitive Machines, Inc. (NASDAQ:LUNR) is one of the best “moonshot” tech stocks to buy according to short sellers. The stock’s latest publicly reported short interest stood at 28.15% of float as of April 30, 2026.

The company strengthened its moonshot case on May 14, when it reported first-quarter 2026 revenue of $186.7 million, compared with $62.5 million in the prior-year period. Intuitive Machines also posted positive adjusted EBITDA of $2.7 million and a record quarter-end backlog of about $1.06 billion, up from $213.1 million at the end of 2025. The backlog increase included acquired backlog from Lanteris, as well as new awards primarily tied to the IM-5 mission, a government defense contract, and other contracts.

The short interest reflects why LUNR remains a polarized space-tech name rather than a conventional growth stock. The company is trying to turn lunar missions, defense work, space networks, and payload delivery into a broader commercial platform, but the story still depends on mission execution, government contract timing, and integration of Lanteris. Investors also had reasons to stay cautious after the quarter, as Investor’s Business Daily reported that the company missed analyst expectations for both revenue and earnings per share.

Why Intuitive Machines (LUNR) Is Still a Polarizing Space-Tech Bet

Intuitive Machines, Inc. (NASDAQ:LUNR) is a space technology company that provides lunar access, lunar data services, orbital services, space systems, and related infrastructure for government and commercial customers.

While we acknowledge the risk and potential of LUNR as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than LUNR and that has 10,000% upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.

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