A method for manufacturing a magneto-optical data storage system. The method includes the steps of providing a support surface and rotatably mounting a magneto-optical disk having a planar storage surface with a plurality of concentrically disposed data tracks onto the support surface. A proximal extremity of an arm is pivotably mounted on the support surface so that a distal extremity of the arm pivots between first and second positions relative to the storage surface. An optical light emitter and receiver emitting a laser beam is carried by the distal extremity of the arm. A flying magneto-optical head is mounted on the distal extremity of the arm. A mirror assembly is attached to the head. The mirror of the mirror assembly can be rocked between first and second positions for reflecting the laser beam between the optical light emitter and receiver and the storage surface of the magneto-optical disk so as to permit the optical recording and/or reading of information on the storage surface.