Experimental Realization of Self-Guiding Unidirectional Electromagnetic Edge States

We present an experimental demonstration of self-guiding electromagnetic edge states existing along the zigzag edge of a honeycomb magnetic photonic crystal. These edge states are shown to possess unidirectional propagation characteristics that are robust against various types of defects and obstacles. In particular, they allow for the unidirectional transport of electromagnetic energy without requiring an ancillary cladding layer.