Researchers have demonstrated the presence of robust topological edge states in a two-dimensional photonic system using silicon photonics. By synthesizing synthetic magnetic fields at room temperature, they observed topological edge states of light in a 2D system, showing their resistance to both intrinsic and introduced disorder. The study uses silicon-on-insulator technology to fabricate a 2D array of coupled optical ring resonators, enabling the simulation of a magnetic field for photons. The edge states are robust against disorder and can be directly observed via optical imaging. The experiment confirms the feasibility of using photonics to realize topological order in both non-interacting and many-body regimes. The results show that light propagates along the system edges, maintaining a consistent propagation profile despite disorder, and that edge states are protected by topological properties. The study also demonstrates that edge states can bypass defects, maintaining transport even in the absence of resonators on the edge. The findings open new avenues for exploring topological physics and quantum simulations in photonic systems.Researchers have demonstrated the presence of robust topological edge states in a two-dimensional photonic system using silicon photonics. By synthesizing synthetic magnetic fields at room temperature, they observed topological edge states of light in a 2D system, showing their resistance to both intrinsic and introduced disorder. The study uses silicon-on-insulator technology to fabricate a 2D array of coupled optical ring resonators, enabling the simulation of a magnetic field for photons. The edge states are robust against disorder and can be directly observed via optical imaging. The experiment confirms the feasibility of using photonics to realize topological order in both non-interacting and many-body regimes. The results show that light propagates along the system edges, maintaining a consistent propagation profile despite disorder, and that edge states are protected by topological properties. The study also demonstrates that edge states can bypass defects, maintaining transport even in the absence of resonators on the edge. The findings open new avenues for exploring topological physics and quantum simulations in photonic systems.