Perspectives on magneto-optical microscopy techniques

Abstract

Magneto-optical microscopy is an exceptionally versatile imaging technique for probing magnetic microstructures in various magnetic materials. The magnetic imaging technique enables the study of magnetic domains in ferrimagnets, ferromagnets, and antiferromagnets across broad spatial and temporal scales. It is based on magneto-optical effects that directly probe the magnetic state, such as the magneto-optical Faraday and Kerr effects. Other options include imaging based on the magneto-optical Voigt effect and the indirect imaging of magnetization-related properties through magnetostructural birefringence effects. Accurate implementation and distinction of these optical and magneto-optical effects within a polarization-sensitive imaging setup present both opportunities and challenges. We review existing variations and advances in magneto-optical domain imaging, as well as potential future directions. With expected improvements, efficient optical-based magnetic imaging will remain indispensable for studying magnetic materials and devices. The continuous evolution of these methods demonstrates the versatility of magneto-optical microscopy. The development and application of magneto-optical imaging techniques are ongoing.