Skyrmions are topologically stable fields that cannot be smoothly deformed into any other field configuration that differs topologically or possesses a different integer topological invariant, the Skyrme number. They have been studied as full skyrmions in magnetic spin systems, and more recently as baby skyrmions in optical systems. Here, we introduce an optical analogy to magnetic skyrmions and demonstrate their dynamics within a magnetic field. Our optical skyrmions and synthetic magnetic field are both engineered using superpositions of Bessel-Gaussian beams, with time dynamics observed over propagation distance. We show that the Skyrmionic form changes during propagation, exhibiting controllable periodic precession over a well defined range, analogous to time varying spin precession in homogeneous magnetic fields. This local precession manifests as the global beating between skyrmion types, while still maintaining the invariance of the Skyrme number.
The notion of a skyrmion as a topologically stable field configuration has proven to be highly versatile, manifesting in spintronics, condensed matter physics and more recently optics. Yet despite its origin in quantum field theory, skyrmions have only ever been observed as classical fields and particles. Here we report the first quantum skyrmion, existing as a non-local quantum entangled state that can be engineered and controlled through its wavefunction. We show that the topology of the quantum wavefunction makes this skyrmionic state robust to entanglement decay, remaining intact until the entanglement vanishes completely.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.