Next-nearest-neighbor coupling with spinor polariton condensates

We report on experimental observation of next-nearest-neighbor coupling between ballistically expanding spinor exciton-polariton condensates in a planar semiconductor microcavity. All-optical control over the coupling strength between neighboring condensates is demonstrated through distance-periodic pseudospin screening of their ballistic particle outflow due to the inherent splitting of the planar cavity transverse-electric and transverse-magnetic modes. By screening the nearest-neighbor coupling we overcome the conventional spatial coupling hierarchy between condensates. This offers a promising route toward creating unconventional nonplanar many-body Hamiltonians using networks of ballistically expanding spinor exciton-polariton condensates.