Michael Johnson

Michael Johnson is an SAO Astrophysicist and Lecturer in Astronomy at Harvard University's Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian. His research focuses on high-resolution imaging of compact astrophysical objects, particularly using Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) with the Event Horizon Telescope to study black hole physics.

Current work centers on the Black Hole Explorer mission concept, developing next-generation instrumentation for space-based VLBI observations. Research combines theoretical modeling with instrumentation development to probe fundamental physics through photon ring analysis and spacetime visualization around black holes.

Collaborations span international Event Horizon Telescope consortium institutions. Recent publications focus on antenna design, cryogenic systems, and fundamental physics opportunities enabled by advanced interferometric techniques.