By Derek Smith, Originally published by Michigan Engineering News
The first prototype of the FireSat constellation launched into low-Earth orbit in March, paving the way for a large network of satellites that will help enhance wildfire detection, mitigation and response around the world.
The entire constellation will eventually consist of 50 satellites that will use infrared cameras to detect and track wildfires from space. They will also use a next-generation Global Navigation Satellite System Reflectometry (GNSS-R) receiver that can measure soil and vegetation moisture based on how the surface reflects GPS microwaves, harnessing signals already bouncing off the Earth from navigation satellites.
Once the FireSat constellation reaches full capacity in 2030, it will provide a near real-time view of the world’s wildfires every 20 minutes, as well as data for more accurate wildfire forecasts and warnings.