Three satellites in the FireSat program launched from California, capable of detecting wildfires earlier. This initiative aims to improve wildfire response in affected regions like the US, Australia, and Europe.
On July 7, 2026, three microsatellites were launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base. This marks the initial operational capability of the FireSat constellation managed by Earth Fire Alliance.
FireSat is the first satellite constellation specifically for wildfire detection, designed to identify small fires that other satellites often overlook. Each satellite utilizes multispectral imaging technology to penetrate smoke and clouds, enabling the detection of fires down to five by five meters.
The deployment of the FireSat satellites has been supported by over $15 million from Google and additional funds from the Bezos Earth Fund, which committed $26 million.
Following a three-month testing phase, the satellites will provide active data to fire agencies in regions including California and Australia. The program aims to have the capability to deliver imagery every 20 minutes with a full constellation of over 50 satellites by the early 2030s.
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Three satellites in the FireSat program launched from California, capable of detecting wildfires earlier. This initiative aims to improve wildfire response in affected regions like the US, Australia, and Europe.