Magnetic Skyrmion Encoding by Structured Light

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a method for ultrafast, all-optical encoding of topological magnetic textures like skyrmions using structured light, revealing a fundamental topological link between light and magnetism.

Contribution

It establishes a topological relationship between structured light and magnetic textures, enabling ultrafast optical control of skyrmions and related structures in magnetic materials.

Findings

Uncovered the relationship between light's winding number and magnetic topological charge.

Achieved ultrafast optical encoding of skyrmions, antiskyrmions, and skyrmion bags.

Provided a framework for designing skyrmion-based devices using structured light.

Abstract

Structured light fields, featuring unique topological properties and high tunability, have opened new frontiers in light-matter interactions with magnetic systems. However, the ultrafast and reconfigurable optical encoding of various types of topological magnetic textures remains a significant challenge. Here, we systematically investigate the encoding mechanism of structured light in magnets via the higher-order Poincar\'e sphere. By uncovering the precise relationship between the winding number of structured light and the topological charge of magnetic textures, we establish a fundamental topological connection between light and magnetism. This framework enables ultrafast, all-optical encoding of diverse topological spin textures in magnetic media, including skyrmions, antiskyrmions and skyrmion bags. Our work advances the fundamental understanding and all-optical control of topological magnetism, offering a promising route for designing skyrmion-based devices.