Optical vortex lasers [Invited]

The manipulation of light fields has become pivotal in advancing various domains of optics, including classical and quantum communications, optical trapping, optical metrology and high-resolution imaging. Among various techniques for creating optical vortices, the optical vortex lasers, distinguished by directly emitting customized beams with phase or polarization singularities, have emerged as a burgeoning tool in modern optics. This paper summarizes the recent progress of optical vortex lasers including their primary types, designing methods and diverse applications. We begin by introducing the underlying principles of optical vortices and then explore numerous methods for designing optical vortex lasers, including bulk laser, fiber laser and on-chip laser. We also highlight the optical vortex laser towards higher dimensions for shaping structured beams with more complex spatial and topological patterns. Furthermore, we outline the wide applications of optical vortex lasers and address their challenges and potential future developments. This paper serves as a thorough overview for the physics, optics and engineering communities looking to harness potential of optical vortex lasers in cutting-edge applications.