The caustics of Einstein beams: near-field patterns of coherent optical beams following gravitationally lensed trajectories

We used spatial light modulation to deflect coherent light beams into trajectories specified by gravitational lensing. We programmed symmetric and asymmetric lensing objects, including adding orbital angular momentum. In the far field we observed Einstein rings and arcs for symmetric lensing objects, and various types of Einstein arcs for asymmetric lensing objects, similar to what is seen in astronomical observations. In the near field we observed the caustics produced by gravitational lensing, not possible in astronomical observations, which consisted of Bessel patterns for symmetric objects, and Mathieu-like patterns and astroids for asymmetric objects.