Abstract

Scanning probe microscopy and gradient imaging are two techniques for imaging at sub-wavelength spatial resolution. Gradient imaging in the form of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has so far been demonstrated only in the radio- and microwave frequency domains [1]. An extension of MRI to optical frequencies for imaging (semi-) transparent objects is of interest because an optical photon detection process is inherently more sensitive than magnetic induction detection, potentially leading to increased spatial resolution. Rare-earth ions incorporated into a crystalline host are promising as a prototype system for demonstration of high spatial resolution OMRI.

© 1991 Optical Society of America