SpaceX launches wildfire-detection satellites in California

SpaceX has launched a constellation of purpose-built wildfire-detection satellites, known as FireSat, into low Earth orbit on its Falcon 9 rockets. These satellites use cutting-edge infrared sensors to detect fires in near real-time.

The satellites also provide a massive head start over traditional weather satellites, giving firefighters crucial time to contain flames before they endanger communities. The ultimate goal is to have over 50 operational satellites by 2030, providing global wildfire updates every 20 minutes.