Radiosonde-constrained full-wave modeling framework for near- and far-field electromagnetic propagation in a stratified atmosphere

Abstract

This research proposes a simulation-based framework for electromagnetic (EM) wave propagation in near- and far-field regimes under varying atmospheric conditions. Within a compact-range model, temperature, pressure, and humidity profiles from radiosondes are employed to create height-dependent refractive index distributions. The propagation in a stratified dielectric medium is investigated using a frequency-domain full-wave formulation of Maxwell's equations. The transmission coefficient (S21), beamwidth, and phase delay are all analyzed numerically. The results demonstrate attenuation fluctuations of up to 12.4%, beam broadening of 3–5°, and an RMSE of 0.5–0.83 dB relative to standard conditions. The suggested approach increases prediction accuracy by ∼35% over static models and incorporates refractivity-induced phase variations. The study is based on simulation, with future experimental validation expected.