New wildfire-monitoring satellite system will be ‘game changer’ in North, officials say
A revolutionary satellite system is set to transform wildfire monitoring and firefighting efforts in Canada’s North. The new WildFireSat constellation, with a price tag of $72 million, is expected to be operational by 2029. The Canadian Space Agency has awarded the contract to design the system to Ontario-based exactEarth Ltd., a subsidiary of Spire Global Canada.
According to Mike Smith, chief meteorologist with Yukon Wildland Fire Management, the WildFireSat constellation will provide more accurate real-time information to both firefighting teams and the general public. While NASA’s VIIRS and MODIS satellites are currently assisting Canadian firefighters, they are nearing the end of their lifespan. The WildFireSat constellation aims to replace these satellites and enhance the capabilities of monitoring wildfires.
The WildFireSat constellation will consist of seven microsatellites equipped with infrared sensors that can measure the heat emitted by wildfires on a daily basis. This data will help track the intensity and spread of fires, providing valuable insights for firefighting efforts. Smith emphasized that the level of detail provided by WildFireSat is impressive, allowing for precise monitoring of fire locations and behavior.
One of the key features of WildFireSat is its polar orbit, which will enable it to pass over Canada daily during peak burning times in the late afternoon and early evening. This continuous monitoring will provide unprecedented insights into active fires, allowing for more effective response strategies. Additionally, the data collected by WildFireSat will be instrumental in forecasting smoke and air quality, benefiting both firefighting operations and public health.
A major advantage of the government-owned WildFireSat system is its accessibility to the public. Smith highlighted the importance of making wildfire data available to tourism operators and outdoor enthusiasts who may be impacted by remote fires. By providing open access to the data, the Canadian Space Agency aims to empower the public to make informed decisions and enhance safety during wildfire seasons.
Mike Westwick, manager of wildfire prevention and mitigation for the N.W.T. government, expressed enthusiasm for the new satellite system. He highlighted the unique advantage of the polar orbit, which will provide more frequent overpasses for the N.W.T. compared to other regions in Canada. This enhanced coverage will enable better protection of communities, infrastructure, and natural habitats, ultimately improving the overall response to wildfires in the North.
