Two-dimensional all-optical spatial light modulation with high speed in coherent media.

We show theoretical evidence that coherent systems based on electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) can function as optically addressed spatial light modulators with megahertz modulation rates. The transverse spatial properties of cw probe fields can be modulated fast using two-dimensional optical patterns. To exemplify our proposal, we study real-time generation and manipulation of Laguerre-Gaussian beams by means of phase or amplitude modulation using flat-top image-bearing pulse trains as coupling fields in low-cost hot vapor EIT systems.