Fire Detection by Satellite - A Global Challenge

Forest and land fires are an increasing threat to the environment in both the tropical and boreal regions of the world, therefore posing a global problem. The use of satellites to detect fires is a technological option, by which permanent, extensive and realtime fire detection is feasible. Due to orbit considerations, a constellation of small, dedicated satellites on low earth orbits is needed to guarantee a short period between observations at the same location. To obtain real-time data, a groundstation is required to dump the data of the observed area. An area within a radius of about 2000 km can usually be covered around a local groundstation. Within a demonstration project, space-born detection and monitoring of fires in real-time could be proved as feasible. This paper describes the operational experience and operational requirements for a global space-borne fire detection system as well as further options in the overall system setup. This project used the DLR satellite BIRD as a space sensor, the real-time reception of data took place over the ESA station Villafranca in Central Spain, and data processing was performed by DLR (Germany) and LATUV (Spain). During the whole fire season of 2003 man-made and natural fires were observed.