Skyrmion-like states in multilayer exchange coupled ferromagnetic nanostructures with distinct anisotropy directions

We report the experimental observation of magnetic skyrmion-like states in patterned ferromagnetic nanostructures consisting of perpendicular magnetized Co/Pt multilayer film exchange coupled with Co nanodisks in vortex state. The magnetic force microscopy and micromagnetic simulations show that depending on the magnitude of Co/Pt perpendicular anisotropy in these systems two different modes of skyrmion formation are realized.