US-based aerospace startup Muon Space has shared the first images from its recently launched FireSat Protoflight satellite, aimed at detecting and tracking wildfires across the planet. The satellite was launched in March as part of a SpaceX Transporter-13 mission, in collaboration with the Earth Fire Alliance, a non-profit organisation focused on real-time fire data.
“These first light images confirm that our IR sensors are operating as designed and collecting high-quality data,” said Dan McCleese, chief scientist at Muon Space.
The FireSat Protoflight is the first of 50 satellites planned by Muon Space to form a full wildfire detection constellation. This satellite orbits in low-Earth orbit and uses a custom-built high-dynamic range six-channel multispectral infrared instrument. It captures data in visible, near-infrared, short-wave infrared, mid-wave infrared, and long-wave infrared bands simultaneously.
This advanced imaging system allows the satellite to scan over 1,500 kilometres at once and detect fires as small as five-by-five meters. It can also distinguish between real wildfire threats and false positives like industrial gas flares. One of the early images captured heat signatures at Libya’s Sarir oil field, correctly identifying them as gas flares rather than wildfire threats. The mid-wave and long-wave infrared channels helped confirm the detection accuracy.
Once wildfire data is gathered, it is quickly shared with first responders, local communities, and decision-makers to improve response times and reduce wildfire risks.
The first block of three more FireSat satellites is scheduled for launch in 2026. Muon Space plans to have the full constellation operational by 2030, offering complete global coverage. The system will scan the entire planet every 20 minutes, with even more frequent checks in wildfire-prone regions.
This development marks a major step forward in space-based wildfire monitoring, providing faster and more precise data to help protect lives, land, and communities.
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