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Quantum materials combining strong correlations and spin-orbit coupling are predicted to generate multiple exotic ground states. For example, in topological Kondo insulators, interactions within a lattice of local moments open a hybridization gap in the conduction band, within which topologically protected heavy Dirac surface states emerge. When a lattice moment is removed, the resulting Kondo hole is predicted to create oscillations in the electron screening cloud, with accompanying magnetic fluctuations. Here we use scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy to image the interaction between a Kondo hole and the topological surface state in SmB₆. We show that Sm vacancies induce oscillations in the hybridization gap and electrochemical potential, matching predictions for Kondo holes [1], while B-site defects do not. Furthermore, we find that only Sm-site defects cause significant scattering of the topological surface state. Our results demonstrate how intrinsic, nominally nonmagnetic defects can generate magnetic fluctuations that provide a new mechanism for scattering topological surface states.

[1] Figgins & Morr, Phys. Rev. Lett. 107, 066401 (2011).