Annular Flows in Ring Polariton Condensates

We explore the dynamics and characteristics of exciton-polariton condensates within cylindrical micropillar cavities, emphasizing the manipulation and understanding of azimuthal polariton currents. Employing non-resonant optical pumping and advanced interferometry techniques, we investigate the formation and behavior of polariton condensates in various geometrical configurations, including ring-shaped and petal-like structures. Our research reveals that while uniformity in azimuthal density distribution is not a strict requirement for the emergence of azimuthal polariton currents. We demonstrate the feasibility of controlling these polariton currents and provide a qualitative comparison of interferometry methods using plane and spherical reference waves. This comparison focuses on their effectiveness in visualizing the currents and in extracting the phase information of the polariton condensate.