Vortex coronagraphy from self-engineered liquid crystal spin-orbit masks

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel, self-engineered liquid crystal vortex mask for optical vortex coronagraphy, offering a tunable and potentially simpler fabrication method for phase masks used in optical imaging with phase singularities.

Contribution

It presents a new approach to creating tunable vortex masks using liquid crystal topological defects, advancing optical coronagraphy technology.

Findings

Successful fabrication of electrically tunable vortex masks

Potential for simplified phase mask production

Enhanced capabilities in optical imaging with phase singularities

Abstract

We report on a soft route towards optical vortex coronagraphy based on self-engineered electrically tunable vortex masks based on liquid crystal topological defects. These results suggest that a nature-assisted technological approach to the fabrication of complex phase masks could be useful in optical imaging whenever optical phase singularities are at play.