Exploiting hidden singularity on the surface of the Poincaré sphere

Jinxing Li, Aloke Jana, Yueyi Yuan, Kuang Zhang (), Shah Nawaz Burokur () and Patrice Genevet ()
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Jinxing Li: Harbin Institute of Technology
Aloke Jana: Colorado School of Mines
Yueyi Yuan: Harbin Institute of Technology
Kuang Zhang: Harbin Institute of Technology
Shah Nawaz Burokur: Univ Paris Nanterre
Patrice Genevet: Colorado School of Mines

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-7

Abstract: Abstract The classical Pancharatnam-Berry phase, a variant of the geometric phase, arises purely from the modulation of the polarization state of a light beam. Due to its dependence on polarization changes, it cannot be effectively utilized for wavefront shaping in systems that require maintaining a constant (co-polarized) polarization state. Here, we present a novel topologically protected phase modulation mechanism capable of achieving anti-symmetric full 2π phase shifts with near-unity efficiency for two orthogonal co-polarized channels. Compatible with -but distinct from- the dynamic phase, this approach exploits phase circulation around a hidden singularity on the surface of the Poincaré sphere. We validate this concept in the microwave regime through the implementation of multi-layer chiral metasurfaces. This new phase modulation mechanism expands the design toolbox of flat optics for light modulation beyond conventional techniques.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60956-2

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