Spire Global, Inc. (NYSE: SPIR) has secured a NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory contract to explore the development of an advanced wildfire detection and monitoring system via space-based technology. In collaboration with OroraTech, a leader in thermal intelligence from orbit, Spire aims to provide a scalable, cost-effective solution to track and manage wildfires.
This initiative involves a low-cost, satellite-based network for real-time wildfire monitoring across the U.S., merging Spire's expertise in satellite operations with OroraTech's specialized thermal infrared sensors. OroraTech's established orbital sensor network already supports wildfire detection for diverse global clients, including commercial forestry, public safety agencies, and conservation groups.
Delivering timely data to emergency responders is crucial, as it helps accelerate decision-making and improves wildfire response strategies. According to a United Nations report by UNEP and GRID-Arendal, the frequency and intensity of extreme wildfires could increase by 30% by 2050, underscoring the urgency for more effective monitoring solutions.
"Wildfires are an escalating threat with far-reaching impacts on our environment and communities," said Peter Platzer, CEO of Spire Global. "Current monitoring methods fall short during peak periods of fire intensity. By leveraging the transformative power of space-based technology and our partnership with OroraTech, we aim to close this gap and provide a scalable, low-cost solution for early wildfire detection and monitoring."
In a significant technological stride, Spire and OroraTech plan to deploy OroraTech's next-generation satellites by 2025. Known as OTC-P1, this constellation will be the first comprehensive network focused solely on detecting and managing wildfires from space.
"Our orbital detection capabilities are incredibly valuable for quickly finding, tracking and predicting the spread of wildfires and will play a crucial role in mitigating their impact," said Thomas Grubler, Chief Strategy Officer and co-founder of OroraTech. "Together with Spire, this unique technology is prepared to close the detection gap and make actionable data available for thousands of federal, state and local fire departments and agencies."
This NASA contract builds on Spire and OroraTech's previous achievements, including a Canadian Space Agency contract in 2023 for a project aimed at providing continuous wildfire monitoring across Canada from space.
