Magnetic Skyrmion Encoding by 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.
Cite
@article{arxiv.2601.23067,
title = {Magnetic Skyrmion Encoding by Structured Light},
author = {Zhang Qifan and Yu Wangke and Nie Zhongquan and Shen Yijie and Lin Shirong},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2601.23067},
year = {2026}
}