Fig. 2. Evolution of optical metrology capabilities.

This progression highlights the transition from utilizing basic intensity attributes to leveraging a broader spectrum of light’s physical properties, ultimately leading to the full exploitation of available data. A significant driver of this evolution is the application of vortex beams, which possess unique phase structures and OAM properties, which enhance measurement precision and resolution. Vortex beams facilitate precise micro-scale engineering, biomedical research such as advanced imaging and probing, and deep-space exploration, including improved black hole measurements through OAM, increased precision surveillance, quantum sensing, and environmental monitoring. This ongoing journey toward fully utilizing light’s physical properties promises unprecedented improvements in optical metrology’s precision, accuracy, comprehensiveness, and sensitivity