Frontiers in diffraction unlimited optical methods for spin manipulation, magnetic field sensing and imaging using diamond nitrogen vacancy defects

The nitrogen vacancy defect centre in diamond has attracted intense research interest owing to their appealing optical and electronic properties, which have laid the ground for new approaches for diffraction unlimited optical methods. In particular, the optical detected magnetic resonance of the electron spin of nitrogen vacancy centre at room temperature underpins many areas in nanophotonics, spintronics and quantum optics. This article reviews the recent development of super-resolution imaging and sensing nanoscopy based on this fascinating defect centre in diamond. These breakthroughs are presently indicating a new class of nanoscale sensors of tiny magnetic and electric fields at room temperature, as well as emerging fluorescent and magnetic probes for next generation nanoscopy and all-optical spin recording.