Guest editorial: Introduction to the special section on near-field antenna systems for communications and sensing

Abstract

The increasing demand for wireless systems that can operate effectively in the near field of radiating devices represents a significant shift in research approaches for antenna engineers. In near-field scenarios, traditional far-field approximations often fail to yield accurate results. This necessitates a specialized approach to develop channel modeling and efficient radiating devices designed for near-field applications. Such methodologies are essential for advancing the next generation of antennas that can meet the stringent requirements of near-field environments in various applications, including near-field communications, imaging, and sensing. This special section explores innovative techniques for the analysis, design, and modeling of antennas and propagating channels that are specifically tailored for near-field sensing and next-generation communication systems.