Quantum technology is the next big thing — a tech revolution that will transform science, industry, and everyday life.
At Munich Quantum Instruments, we build cutting-edge photonic quantum sensors designed for real-world impact. Scalable, high-performance, and future-ready, our technology brings quantum applications to life — on an industrial scale.
Together, our founding team offers vast expertise in the development of quantum sensors, which gives us a significant edge in this highly specialized field. In addition to their expertise in quantum sensor development, our team members also bring extensive experience working in the industry and startup sectors, which gives us a broader perspective on how to navigate the complexities of running a successful business.
Overall, we are proud to have such a talented and experienced founder team leading our company and driving our mission to revolutionize the field of quantum sensing.
From left to right: Sven Ernst, Christian Schmid, Dr. Rasmus Flaschmann, Lucio Zugliani, Dr. Andreas Vetter.
In partnership with Creotech Instruments and the European Space Agency, Munich Quantum Instruments develops a fiber-coupled SNSPD system to enable ultra-high-speed quantum key distribution (QKD) for both terrestrial and space-based networks. The detector is designed to achieve count rates exceeding 2 GHz and features a large active detector area for efficient coupling to few-mode and large-core optical fibers. This next-generation SNSPD system is an essential component for future QKD ground stations allowing for large data rates, which will be built up as part of the European Union’s Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) initiative.
The QKD HRDP project exemplifies a unique fusion of quantum and space technologies. As noted by Creotech Instruments President Dr. Grzegorz Brona, “The detector will, for example, be used in communication with deep space missions but will primarily serve as a component of the future quantum network for satellite-based encryption key distribution." The project positions the consortium at the forefront of the rapidly expanding global QKD market.
In partnership with Creotech Instruments and the European Space Agency, Munich Quantum Instruments develops a superconducting nanowire single-photon detector (SNSPD) system for advanced optical space communication. The detector features a large active area and a four-quadrant design enabling tracking of sattelites. The LAND project supports deep-space optical communication (DSOC) and quantum key distribution (QKD) demonstrator missions, including future links from the lunar gateway to Earth.
The new SNSPD module is designed for photon-starved scenarios, delivering high detection efficiency, low dark count, and ultra-low jitter, which are all critical for long-distance free-space optical communication. Integrated into a compact, free-space coupled, telescope-mountable cryogenic system, the detector enables precise beam tracking and Pulse Position Modulation (PPM) signal decoding. This technology represents a significant step toward scalable, European-built, high-performance optical communication systems for space and terrestrial networks using both quantum and classical communication protocols.
Munich Quantum Instruments is grateful for the support and collaboration of the following partners and funding agencies: