# Google-Backed Satellites Launch for Wildfire Detection New satellite technology will detect even small fires early. - **Source:** [Ars Technica - All content](https://brifing.si/source/b728770c-8dda-457a-8986-84879c9fc42c) - **Published:** 2026-07-17 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/ed518a70-4f1b-48c3-993d-266a37c40cc1 ## Wildfire Smoke and Satellite Launch As smoke from hundreds of wildfires spreads across Canada and the US, the first three operational satellites of the Google-backed FireSat program were launched into orbit. These satellites will be capable of detecting even small fires. ## Goals of the FireSat Program The FireSat satellite constellation is specifically designed for early wildfire detection. The satellites are optimized to detect small fires that other satellites might miss. ## Launch Details and Testing Phase The satellites were launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. After a three-month testing period, they will begin providing data to firefighting agencies. ## Global Coverage FireSat satellites will scan every fire-prone region on Earth at least twice a day. This will enable faster and more effective detection of wildfires. ## Financial Support and Collaborations The project received over $15 million in financial support from Google. The Bezos Earth Fund also committed $26 million, providing significant support to the project. ## Importance of Early Wildfire Detection The FireSat satellite constellation is a critical step in the early detection and control of wildfires. This technology will enable intervention before fires spread. ## Sources covering this story - https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/07/google-backed-satellites-for-wildfire-detection-launch-as-smoke-chokes-us-canada/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._