Fig. 2 (IMAGE) Forschungsverbund Berlin Caption The x-ray scattering signal from a thin magnetic film increases after it was hit by a laser pulse, monitoring the formation of skyrmions. After 300 picoseconds the topological transformation is finished and skyrmions were created. The x-ray microscopy images show the magnetic patterns in the thin film before (left) and after (right) the laser pulse hit the film. The skyrmions are identified with the black dots and have a size of 70 nanometers on average. Credit MBI Usage Restrictions The image may only be used with appropriate caption and credit. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.