Detecting linear dichroism with atomic resolution

X-ray linear dichroism has been pivotal for probing electronic anisotropies, but its inherent limited spatial resolution precludes the atomic-scale investigations of orbital polarization. Here we introduce a versatile electron linear dichroism methodology in scanning transmission electron microscopy that overcomes these constraints. Using electron energy loss spectroscopy with an atomic-sized probe and selecting momentum transfers along two orthogonal directions, we directly visualize orbital occupation at individual atomic columns in real space. Using strained La_0.7Sr_0.3MnO₃ thin films as a model system, we resolve the Mn3d e_g orbital polarization with sub-ångström precision. We show that compressive strain stabilizes 3z²-r² occupation whereas tensile strain favours x²-y². These results validate our approach against established X-ray measurements, achieving the ultimate single-atomic-column sensitivity. We further demonstrate two optimized signal extraction protocols that adapt to experimental constraints without compromising sensitivity. This generalizable platform opens unique opportunities to study symmetry-breaking phenomena at individual defects, interfaces and in quantum materials where atomic-scale electronic anisotropy governs emergent functionality.