We demonstrate a non-Hermitian system by introducing topological dynamics in coherent laser arrays. It consists of a large set of mutually interacting optical vortices subject to arbitrary topological transformations realized by metasurfaces in a closed environment. Like atoms in a crystal, the vortices are arranged in a regular lattice producing Bragg diffraction peaks. Prior art focussed on demonstrations of single vortex sources employing concepts from non-Hermitian and topological photonics to add charge reconfigurability and to mitigate manufacturing fault effects. We extrapolate these concepts to vortex arrays that demonstrate tunability and robustness akin to those of topical single vortex sources.

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Marco Piccardo, Michael De Oliveira, Andrea Toma, Vincenzo Aglieri, Andrew Forbes, and Antonio Ambrosio, "Vortex crystals with dynamic topologies," Proc. SPIE PC12017, Complex Light and Optical Forces XVI, PC120170Y (Presented at SPIE OPTO: 9 March 2022; Published: 9 March 2022); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2607712.6292429865001.