Canada Invests $72 Million in WildFireSat Satellite Constellation

The Canadian government has announced a $72 million investment in the WildFireSat project, aimed at deploying a satellite constellation for monitoring wildfires across the country. Designed by Spire Global Canada in collaboration with OroraTech, the constellation will consist of seven microsatellites equipped with infrared sensors to provide daily data on active wildfires, enhancing the country's firefighting capabilities. Launching in 2029, these satellites will operate at an altitude of 475 kilometers and are expected to save Canada between $1 billion and $5 billion in firefighting costs over the next five years. This initiative marks a significant advancement as Canada becomes the first country to monitor wildfires from space. Federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault emphasized the project's potential to strengthen wildfire monitoring and improve public safety, particularly for remote communities. The satellites will also contribute to air quality forecasts, helping Canadians protect themselves from wildfire smoke.