Optical vortex tracking algorithm based on the Laguerre-Gaussian transform

Abstract

Optical vortices are stable phase singularities, revealing a zero-point in the intensity distribution. The localization of this singular point is of significant importance for any application that relies on vortices and their behavior. However, there is still a need for an adaptable, fast, and precise method of singular point localization. Here we show, that the Laguerre-Gaussian transform method can meet those criteria. We compared the performance of this method with two other tracking methods (phase retrieval and weighted centroid) in various conditions. We found out that not only Laguerre-Gaussian transform offers high accuracy, but also does not lose its advantages in the low-contrast regime. The versatility of this algorithm is examined in the optical vortex aberrometry, where we sense two artificially introduced aberrations.