We have measured the excitation spectrum of six micron magnetic squares using x-ray magnetic circular dichroism. We observe all three excitations expected in a Landau flux-closure pattern. High temporal and spatial resolution allows quantitative analysis of the excitations. A short magnetic in plane pulse excites the magnetic element and we observe precessional motion of the magnetization within the domains as well as a domain wall mode and vortex motion. The vortex moves perpendicular to the excitation field and relaxes without showing a circulating orbit.

• Received 16 December 2004

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.94.217204