Optical interaction with microwave in the single crystal of yttrium iron garnet

We present the experimental results on strong optical-microwave interaction in yttrium iron garnet (YIG) single-crystal. Optical interactions with different microwave modes namely, quasi-transverse electromagnetic (quasi-TEM), edge-guide and magnetostatic surface wave (MSSW) modes are presented. Wide-band optical response of the magnetic wall resonance is observed at 1 GHz. Nonreciprocal characteristics of an edge-guide mode ferrite isolator at microwave frequency is observed in the optical output. The standing wave pattern of MSSW is also observed by using an optical probe. The phenomenon is discussed with reflection of optical plane wave by Bloch walls.