Zeeko take up cutting-edge research lab at Space Park Leicester
An award-winning global leader in ultra-precision polishing technology, has taken occupation of a research lab at the University of Leicester’s prestigious £100 million space research and innovation facility.
Zeeko Ltd, renowned for their cutting-edge machines that produce high-precision optics for the space industry, has taken up a research lab at Space Park Leicester to further their groundbreaking work in optical innovation.
With a rich history of contributing to space missions and a stellar reputation in the field of high-precision optics, Zeeko Ltd has made significant advancements in the industry.
Their expertise was recognised with two King’s Awards last year, marking their excellence in innovation and contribution to UK industry.
Its lab at Space Park Leicester will serve as a hub for Zeeko Ltd’s research project focused on optics for laser fusion, a revolutionary technology with the potential to change the landscape of energy generation.
This project, which brings significant research and development activity to Leicester, is set to push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of freeform optics.
Zeeko Ltd’s commitment to innovation aligns seamlessly with Space Park Leicester’s mission to foster cutting-edge research and collaboration in space-related technologies. The research conducted in their lab will not only contribute to scientific advancements but may also play a direct role in the manufacturing of parts for future satellite missions.
Richard Freeman, Managing Director of Zeeko Ltd, said: “We moved to Space Park Leicester because it provides access to highly knowledgeable people, important diagnostic instrumentation and a fertile environment for developing links with potential end-users of research outputs.
“Our new lab is allowing us to further our research in optics for laser fusion and continue to provide groundbreaking solutions for the space industry.”
Zeeko Ltd’s Ultra-Precision Surfaces (UPS) research group has established an advanced optical manufacturing research facility at the iconic Leicester venue run in collaboration with Space Park Leicester.
The group has been awarded the Super-polished Freeform Optical Systems (SFOS) project. Funded by the Eureka SMART program, the project is led by Zeeko Ltd and brings together Space Park Leicester and the University of Leicester with Thin Metal Films Ltd and Swiss academic and industry partners. The project’s primary objective is to develop superior processes and metrology to deliver complex ‘freeform’ optics of unprecedented quality.
Professor David Walker, Research Director at Zeeko Ltd, said: “Our work in laser fusion optics is at the forefront of technological advancements. The facilities at Space Park Leicester offer us the perfect environment to develop and refine our technologies, ensuring that we remain leaders in the field of ultra-precision optics.”
Dr Adrian Martindale, of Space Park Leicester and the University of Leicester’s School of Physics and Astronomy, added: “We are proud to welcome Zeeko Ltd to our growing community of innovators. Their decision to base their research lab here is a testament to the cutting-edge environment we offer, and we look forward to supporting their continued success in advancing space and energy technologies.”
Space Park Leicester continues to attract leading industry players, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for research, innovation, and collaboration in the space sector. For further information about Zeeko Ltd, visit https://www.zeeko.co.uk/home/.
Main image: Zeeko Research Director, David Walker, inside the new lab at Space Park Leicester