A breakthrough in wildfire detection: How a new constellation of satellites can detect smaller wildfires earlier

Wildfires are on the rise, fueled by increasingly hot and dry conditions across the globe. Traditionally, firefighters have been limited to using satellite imagery that's either low in resolution or updated sporadically, often only a few times a day. This delay means fires can grow to the size of a soccer field before they're even detected.

In a groundbreaking move, Google Research has joined forces with fire management experts to develop FireSat, a specialized satellite constellation aimed at spotting wildfires as tiny as a classroom (about 5x5 meters). With FireSat, authorities will gain access to high-resolution images updated every 20 minutes worldwide, enabling them to tackle fires before they escalate into major threats.

To get this project off the ground, Google.org has committed $13 million to the Earth Fire Alliance, the nonprofit spearheading the FireSat initiative, with further backing from the Moore Foundation.

A constellation of satellites that can detect smaller wildfires with better frequency

To revolutionize wildfire detection, the Google Research team, in collaboration with Muon Space and the Environmental Defense Fund, developed custom infrared sensors for the satellites. These sensors are designed to pick up on small-scale fires. FireSat leverages AI to quickly compare any 5x5 meter area on Earth with past images, factoring in nearby infrastructure and local weather conditions to identify fires. To refine our detection model for smaller fires and create a baseline dataset for the AI, we conducted test flights over controlled burns. Muon Space is set to launch the first satellite in early 2025, with the complete constellation to follow in subsequent years.

Once operational, FireSat will deliver near real-time data on the location, size, and intensity of early-stage wildfires, allowing firefighters and emergency services to act swiftly and effectively. Beyond immediate response, FireSat's data will contribute to a global historical record of fire spread, aiding Google and scientists in enhancing our understanding and modeling of wildfire behavior. This initiative builds on our ongoing collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service on fire simulation.