# 200-Year-Old Physics Experiment Could Shape Future Computers Optical skyrmions could revolutionize data storage and communication technologies. - **Source:** [Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily](https://brifing.si/source/0eef8637-6c5b-4e79-8f5b-6c9c6b36cf16) - **Published:** 2026-07-13 - **Topic:** [Data & AI](https://brifing.si/c/data-ai) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/dc358ddb-7060-46f1-a610-c6a5690cdac5 ## What Are Optical Skyrmions? Optical skyrmions are tiny, stable swirling structures formed within the properties of light. These structures hold promise for future technologies due to their potential in encoding and storing information. Traditionally, their production required complex and expensive materials. ## Rediscovery of a 200-Year-Old Experiment Scientists at NTU Singapore have used the 200-year-old Poisson spot experiment to produce optical skyrmions in a simpler way. This method relies on the principle of light bending around an object without the need for complex materials. ## Four Types of Skyrmions Simultaneously Researchers successfully produced four different types of skyrmions at the same time using the Poisson spot setup. These types include spin skyrmions, Stokes skyrmions, electric field skyrmions, and magnetic field skyrmions. ## Topological Structures of Light Properties of light such as intensity, phase, polarization, and electromagnetic field vectors can form topological structures. These structures remain stable even when stretched or distorted and can be controlled by scientists. ## Potential in Computing and Photonics Optical skyrmions could play a significant role in information processing, photonics, and advanced materials research. This discovery opens new doors for future technological advancements. ## Significance of the Research This study simplifies the production of optical skyrmions, offering new research opportunities for scientists. It has the potential to revolutionize future computer and communication technologies. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713000755.htm — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._