Can you give us an overview of Knight Optical and its role within the space industry?
Knight Optical is a leading provider of optical components and sub-assemblies. It has been established for over 30 years and has offices in the UK and the United States. We were recently acquired by Torrent Photonics, a US precision optics manufacturer. In relation to the space industry, Knight Optical supplies optical components for a wide range of instruments, such as satellites and telescopes.
We work closely with our customers to create custom solutions for their projects. We may not know exactly what we are supplying a component for (as they can be top-secret projects!), but we will always ensure clients get the right optics to meet their unique specifications. Our account managers work alongside design engineers, research teams and customers all the way from prototype to the final product. Our company supplies optical and photonic solutions to a broad range of development partners, universities and end users, including organisations like NASA and ESA.
What are some of the most unusual or challenging problems Knight Optical has encountered in the space sector?
Tough and unusual problems we encounter in the space industry range from the size of the optical components needed to incredibly tight specifications. In cases where we face challenging optical payloads (such as large optics that need to be lightweight), Knight Optical has also optimised the build of mirrors and housings to meet requirements. To give just one example, we worked on a large sapphire window for NASA, which was a huge challenge due to the scale and size of the product required. For this project, we had to map out all the scratches and digs on the window, but the most challenging part was arranging testing to ensure the specifications were met and confirmed.
How do the demands of the space industry differ from those of other industries Knight Optical serves?
Projects tend to take longer for the space industry than other sectors with which Knight Optical works. Often, one of our account managers can work on a project for a couple of years, from conception to the final product, handling many specification changes and requotes. The space industry also has very specific and stringent testing and quality requirements, and Knight Optical regularly provides certification for MIL-Specs and First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) to meet these.
Could you share specific examples of optical solutions developed by Knight Optical for space applications?
We have provided optical solutions for a wide range of space applications, including lenses and mirrors for telescopes, communications systems and orbiters, windows, and even components for LiDAR earth observation. Our extensive portfolio covers lenses, mirrors, and windows in space-preferred materials such as zerodur, aluminium and germanium, sapphire, and optical glass. Knight Optical also has project-specific account managers who can provide advice and expertise to the space industry.
How closely does Knight Optical work with its clients to develop customised solutions for their unique space exploration or satellite technology needs?
Once a client has their specification, Knight Optical can work closely with them on prototyping, manufacturing, and providing certifications. Our Operations team can provide quick turnaround on stock and custom requests, and we have high-volume manufacturing capabilities in the US.
How is Knight Optical preparing to meet the evolving needs of space exploration and commercial space ventures?
Our company is in constant contact with our clients, so we know how market requirements are evolving. Space is a strong sector, and we have consistently served it. Our clients know we have the flexibility and experience to meet their specification requirements. A lot of our success in the space industry has been due to the long-standing relationships we have with our clients, which are built on trust, fast lead times, and competitive prices.
With the increasing emphasis on sustainability in space, how does Knight Optical address concerns like resource efficiency or environmental impact in its product development?
Knight Optical ensures that only the required number of products is manufactured as a component supplier and that we don’t create unnecessary waste or components. We are also ISO 14001 accredited for environmental management.
How do you see Knight Optical’s contributions shaping the future of space exploration?
At Knight Optical, we see ourselves as the optics partner of choice for the space sector, enabling clients to continue to push boundaries and explore further.
