Self-Organized Vortex and Antivortex Patterns in Laser Arrays

Recently, it was shown that dissipatively coupled laser arrays simulate the classical XY model. We show that phase locking of laser arrays can give rise to the spontaneous formation of vortex and antivortex phase patterns that are analogous to topological defects of the XY model. These patterns are stable although their formation is less likely in comparison to the ground-state lasing mode. In addition, we show that small ratios of photon to gain lifetime destabilize vortex and antivortex phase patterns. These findings are useful for studying topological effects in optics as well as for designing laser array devices.