Low loss loading, compact antenna and antenna loading method

A radio antenna for operation at a nominal frequency, comprising:

• a tubular, conductive radiating element whose length is less than one-quarter the wavelength of the nominal frequency, said radiating element being disposed substantially perpendicularly to an effective ground plane;
• and
• a tubular conductive loading element disposed within said radiating element, said loading element being electrically connected to said radiating element at a position spaced outwardly from said effective ground plane so as to provide inductance in series with said radiating element, the end of said loading element adjacent said ground plane comprising the connection point for the antenna.

A method for loading an antenna so as to combine low power loss with reduced antenna size for a given nominal operating frequency, comprising:

• providing a tubular, conductive radiating element with one end adjacent an electromagnetic mirror, the length of said radiating element being less than one-quarter the wavelength of the nominal operating frequency;
• and
• placing a tubular, conductive loading element within said radiating element with one end adjacent said mirror and electrically connecting said loading element with said radiating element at a position spaced outwardly from said mirror so as to provide inductance in series with said radiating element, the end of said loading element adjacent said mirror comprising the connection point for the antenna.