Satellite launch kicks off a new effort to monitor wildfires from space
1 min read
Summary
A prototype satellite has been launched as part of a mission to detect wildfires from space, backed by Google and developed by the Earth Fire Alliance and Muon Space.
The FireSat constellation is due to be fully operational by 2030 and will incorporate at least 50 satellites.
The system will use real-time, high-fidelity infrared data to spot fires as small as 5 x 5m, giving people much earlier warning than current technologies allow.
FireSat satellites will be able to monitor every point on Earth at least twice a day, with “key wildfire-prone regions” monitored more frequently.
The team behind the project hailed its potential to help protect lives, communities, ecosystems and economies against the growing threat of wildfires.