MARATTO

article · Light Science & Applications

More than just a name? From magnetic to optical skyrmions and the topology of light

202515 citationsOpen accessUniversity of the Witwatersrand

Abstract

Topology is usually perceived intrinsically immutable for a given object. We argue that optical topologies do not immediately enjoy such benefits. Using 'optical skyrmions' as an example, we show that they will exhibit varying textures and topological invariants (skyrmion numbers), depending on how to construct the skyrmion vector when projecting from real to parameter space. We demonstrate the fragility of optical skyrmions under a ubiquitous scenario--simple reflection off an optical mirror. Optical topology is not without benefit, but it must not be assumed.

Research topics

  • Neural Networks and Reservoir Computing
  • Magnetic properties of thin films
  • Random lasers and scattering media

Read the original research

This page summarises published work. The authoritative version sits with the publisher.

DOI: 10.1038/s41377-024-01708-7

Is something wrong with this record? Report it or request removal.

Discussion

Discuss this research

Have you built on this work, tried to replicate it, or seen it applied in practice? Share what you know. Verified researchers and MARATTO™ domain experts can open a discussion, and any member can reply. Contributions are reviewed before they appear.

No discussion yet. Open the first thread.