Generation and transformation of topological textures via spin-orbit interaction in bulk crystals
Phys. Rev. Applied 25, 014008 – Published 5 January, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/398v-xw4n
Abstract
The generation and dynamic control of optical skyrmions enable topological structured light. However, existing approaches require complex experimental setups or sophisticated fabrication technology, limiting their scalability. Here, we introduce a method to generate and manipulate optical skyrmions without nanofabrication or precise alignment, leveraging spin-orbit interaction in a uniaxial crystal. By focusing a fundamental Gaussian beam along the optical axis of the crystal, the skyrmion texture will be generated in the output field. Furthermore, we demonstrate controlled transformation between different topological states by modulating the incident polarization. This approach provides a direct route for manipulating compact topological light and paves the way for applications based on optical skyrmions.
