Colorado-based engineers launching wildfire-detecting satellite [Video]

DENVER — A group of Boulder-based engineers is preparing to launch the world’s latest wildfire detection tool; a constellation of satellites that will orbit the Earth tracking fires.

The FireSat system, designed by Earth Fire Alliance, will provide free access to firefighters across the world, allowing them to spot new fires, and track existing ones.

“It’s amazing technology,” said Brian Collins. “Every part of the globe will be able to observe fires that start, how the fires behave, and their impact on the landscape every 15 minutes.”

Collins says the first satellite will be launched in March of 2025, with three more in 2026. Ultimately, they plan to have 52 satellites in orbit, allowing them to track an individual fire multiple times per hour.

The satellites will include infrared images, normal photos, and …