Dynamic observation of superconducting vortices near pinning centers using electron waves

Superconducting vortices were directly and even dynamically observed by using the wave nature of electrons thanks to the development of a "coherent" field-emission electron beam. Magnetic lines of force of vortices were quantitatively observed as phase contour lines in a holographic interference micrograph and their dynamics were observed by Lorentz microscopy. The interaction of vortices with both line-and point-defects was investigated by direct observation.