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FireSat Satellite Launched to Detect Wildfires

  • 19 Mar 2025

On 14th March 2025, the first FireSat satellite, part of a Google-backed initiative, was launched into low Earth orbit (LEO) as part of SpaceX’s Transporter-13 mission to improve wildfire detection and prevention.

Key Points

  • First-of-Its-Kind Wildfire Monitoring: FireSat aims to use AI-driven satellites to detect wildfires as small as 5×5 meters, enhancing early response efforts.
  • Project Goals: The initial phase involves deploying three satellites by next year, with a long-term target of 50 satellites providing wildfire updates every 20 minutes.
  • Google’s Involvement: Google.org, along with the Moore Foundation, has funded the project with $13 million, while Google Research is developing AI for real-time fire tracking.
  • Advantages over Existing Systems: FireSat offers high-resolution imaging and frequent updates, addressing limitations of current satellite and aerial wildfire monitoring methods.
  • Climate Change & Wildfire Risks: Rising temperatures have increased wildfire threats, with recent blazes in California causing 29 deaths and $250 billion in losses.