Recent progress of in-fiber WGM microsphere resonator.

In-fiber whispering gallery mode (WGM) microsphere resonators have received remarkable attention due to the superiorities of compact structure, high stability and self-alignment. As an in-fiber structure, WGM microsphere resonators have been demonstrated in various applications, such as sensors, filters and lasers, which have significant impacts on modern optics. Herein, we review recent progress of in-fiber WGM microsphere resonators, which involve fibers of diverse structures and microspheres of different materials. First, a brief introduction is given to in-fiber WGM microsphere resonators, from structures to applications. Then, we focus on recent progresses in this field, including in-fiber couplers based on conventional fibers, capillaries and micro-structure hollow fibers, and passive/active microspheres. Finally, future developments of the in-fiber WGM microsphere resonators are envisioned.