Quantum Cameras: Seeing Beyond the Limits | Johannes Galatsanos, Diffraqtion

Can quantum cameras see what ordinary cameras cannot—and could they help us track space debris, improve satellite imaging and search for life beyond Earth?

In this episode of the Space Curious Podcast, we're joined by Johannes Galatsanos, Co-Founder & CEO @ Diffraqtion, to explore the intersection of quantum imaging, artificial intelligence and space technology.

Johannes explains why conventional cameras encounter the diffraction limit, what information can be lost when light is converted into electronic signals, and how Diffraqtion is developing quantum-enabled optical sensing to approach these challenges differently. We discuss processing information while it is still light, optical neural networks, and the ambition to help machines “see further and think faster”.

From telescopes and space domain awareness to robotics and potential future smartphone applications, this conversation explores both the science and the practical challenges of bringing a deep-tech product out of the laboratory and into the real world.

We also follow Johannes's journey from chess and AI to quantum technology, examine how complementary co-founders build a company, and discuss why a career in quantum doesn't always require a PhD.

In this episode:

• What is a quantum camera, and how does it differ from a conventional camera?
• The diffraction limit and the information carried by light
• Photonic processing, optical neural networks and AI vision
• Why space is an attractive first market for quantum imaging
• Space debris tracking, satellite safety and space domain awareness
• Defence, commercial space applications and scientific research
• Turning quantum research into commercially useful engineering
• Practical routes into quantum and space careers
• Quantum technology myths—and applications already in everyday use
• The possibility of using quantum cameras to search for habitable worlds

Featured guest: Johannes Galatsanos — Co-Founder & CEO @ Diffraqtion
Connect with Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannesgalatsanosdueck/
Learn about Diffraqtion: https://diffraqtion.com/
Host: Arn Terry — The Space Curious Podcast
Connect with Arn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnterry/
Join the Space Curious group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/18018020/

If you're interested in quantum technology, artificial intelligence, space exploration or building a career in deep tech, subscribe to the Space Curious Podcast for more conversations with the people working at the frontier.

What would you point a quantum camera at first? Let us know in the comments.

Are you hiring? Reach Arn Terry.
Space and aerospace recruitment: https://danielernest.com/de-orbit