Universidade de Vigo

Wildfire Picosatellite Constellation & UAVs Remote Sensing: Active fire mapping and management (FIRE-RS)

Year: 2016

Principal researcher: Fernando Aguado Agelet

Financing: Fondos FEDER, Interreg Sudoe

Period: 01/07/2016 - 30/06/2019

https://interreg-sudoe.eu/en/proyectos/wildfire-picosatellite-constellation-uavs-remote-sensing-active-fire-mapping-and-management/

This project develops an innovative solution for the early detection, active mapping and prediction of forest‑fire behaviour through the combination of ground‑based infrared sensors, a picosatellite constellation and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The system works by collecting data via ground sensors (such as hotspot coordinates, fire perimeter estimation, meteorological conditions), transmitting this through satellite links to a mission‑control centre; then UAVs are deployed to overfly the fire zone, collect high‑resolution imagery and feed the fire‑propagation modelling software.
The ultimate goal is to provide emergency services and coordination centres with a tool that enhances monitoring, decision‑making and operational response during wildfires—thus improving safety, reducing environmental damage and strengthening resilience.