Quantum navigation: Unhackable, GPS-free

What this episode covers

What happens when GPS goes down: jammed, spoofed, or completely denied?In this episode of TechFirst, host John Koetsier sits down with Michael Biercuk, founder and CEO of Q-CTRL, to explore one of the most surprising breakthroughs in quantum technology: quantum navigation.While most of the quantum world is focused on computing, Q-CTRL is building something entirely different: AI-powered quantum sensing systems that can navigate aircraft, drones, and vehicles without GPS.Even more surprising? This technology didn’t exist just over a year ago. Now it’s already shipping.You’ll learn:• How quantum sensors can “see” invisible features of the Earth• Why magnetic and gravitational fields enable GPS-free navigation• How this system achieves 100x better accuracy than current GPS alternatives• Why it works in environments where other systems fail (clouds, water, darkness, interference)• The role of AI software in stabilizing fragile quantum systems in real-world conditions• What this means for aviation, defense, and the future of autonomous systemsThis is a deep dive into a fast-moving frontier where quantum meets real-world deployment, and it’s happening faster than almost anyone expected.⸻Guest:• Michael Biercuk, Founder & CEO, Q-CTRL• Company: Q-CTRL • Website: https://q-ctrl.com⸻👉 Subscribe for more conversations on AI, quantum tech, and the future of innovation:https://techfirst.substack.com⸻⏱️ Chapters0:00 Quantum Navigation vs Quantum Computing0:34 Introduction to Michael Biercuk & Q-CTRL1:12 What Is Quantum Navigation?2:00 How Quantum Sensors Enable Navigation2:52 Magnetometers vs Gravimeters Explained3:28 Do You Need to Pre-Map the Earth?4:18 Earth’s Magnetic Field & Why Maps Stay Accurate5:18 GPS Spoofing & Why Quantum Nav Matters6:00 Accuracy: 100x Better Than GPS Alternatives7:00 Why Multi-Mode Navigation Is the Future7:42 Limits of Star Cameras & Visual Navigation8:38 The Vibration Problem in Quantum Systems9:30 How Software Replaces Hardware Stabilization10:28 System Size: From Sensor to Loaf of Bread11:15 Cost, Use Cases & Drone Deployment12:00 First Sales & Commercial Rollout12:45 Market Size: Aviation & Drone Opportunity13:20 Final Thoughts on Quantum Sensing13:45 Speed of Innovation & Closingr

Share this episode

Similar Episodes

I'm ok

Mar 26, 2026 ·1m

REMIX: Why we over-shop and compulsively acquire, and how to stop, with Dr Jan Eppingstall

Jan 9, 2026 ·61m

REMIX: OCD and hoarding disorder with Jenna Overbaugh

Jan 2, 2026 ·47m

REMIX: Therapy and hoarding disorder - what are the options? With Dr Jan Eppingstall

Dec 26, 2025 ·78m

REMIX: ADHD and hoarding disorder with Professor Sharon Morein

Dec 21, 2025 ·46m

#207 13 actionable pieces of mental health advice from six former podcast guests

Dec 12, 2025 ·53m

Similar Podcasts

MG Show MG Show The MG Show, hosted by Jeffrey Pedersen and Shannon Townsend, is a leading alternative media platform dedicated to uncovering the truth behind today’s most pressing political issues. Launched in 2019, the show has grown exponentially, offering unfiltered insights, comprehensive research, and real-time analysis. With a commitment to independent journalism and factual integrity, the MG Show empowers its audience with knowledge and encourages active participation in the political discourse. French Your Way Jessica: Native French teacher founder of French Your Way Boost your French listening skills and test your comprehension with this one of a kind series of podcasts. Get the chance to listen to a real conversation between native speakers talking at normal speed AND customise your learning experience through carefully designed sets of questions (2 levels of difficulty) available for download at www.frenchvoicespodcast.com. All interviews also come with the transcript. French teacher Jessica interviews native speakers of French from around the world who share a bit of their life and passion. Where else would you meet in one same place a French yoga teacher based in Melbourne, a soap manufacturer from Provence, or a couple cycling around the world? That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding That Hoarder Hoarding disorder is stigmatised and people who hoard feel vast amounts of shame. This podcast began life as an audio diary, an anonymous outlet for somebody with this weird condition. That Hoarder speaks about her experiences living with compulsive hoarding, she interviews therapists, academics, researchers, children of hoarders, professional organisers and influencers, and she shares insight and tips for others with the problem. Listened to by people who hoard as well as those who love them and those who work with them, Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder aims to shatter the stigma, share the truth and speak openly and honestly to improve lives. The Small Business Startup School – Business Notes | Financial Literacy | Retail Psychology – For Professionals & Entrepreneurs The Small Business Startup School Inc. Starting or buying a small business? While personal circumstances may vary, business patterns remain timeless. On The Small Business Startup School, we explore strategies, insights, and practical solutions to help entrepreneurs confidently navigate their journey.Hosted by Ola Williams—a retail entrepreneur, fintech founder, and financial coach with over two decades of experience—this podcast marries financial awareness and retail psychology with optimism to deliver actionable takeaways.Join us to learn, grow, and connect as we uncover the keys to business success.Let’s continue to learn together and be encouraged to keep on connecting!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of TechFirst with John Koetsier?

This episode is 13 minutes long.

When was this TechFirst with John Koetsier episode published?

This episode was published on April 15, 2026.

What is this episode about?

What happens when GPS goes down: jammed, spoofed, or completely denied?In this episode of TechFirst, host John Koetsier sits down with Michael Biercuk, founder and CEO of Q-CTRL, to explore one of the most surprising breakthroughs in quantum...

Can I download this TechFirst with John Koetsier episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.