FireSat Protoflight Deployed on Transporter-13 Mission
Marks Major Milestone in Global Wildfire Monitoring
A significant milestone in the deployment of the FireSat constellation was achieved with the deployment of the Muon Space FireSat Protoflight as part of the SpaceX Transporter-13 rideshare mission. This initiative aims to transform global wildfire detection, monitoring, and response.
"We are demonstrating how purpose-built constellations can deliver transformative solutions at the speed our customers and partners require."
Jonny Dyer, Muon Space
Designed and built by Muon Space—including its state-of-the-art six-channel multispectral infrared (IR) instrument—FireSat showcases the company's expertise in delivering fully integrated, mission-tailored satellite systems from concept to operation. Following its launch on March 14 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, Muon Space has successfully established communications with the satellite and confirmed its operational health.
"The FireSat mission exemplifies Muon Space's ability to rapidly design, build, and deploy high-performance remote sensing systems tailored to address complex, real-world challenges," said Jonny Dyer, CEO of Muon Space. "FireSat is just the beginning. We are demonstrating how purpose-built constellations can deliver transformative solutions at the speed our customers and partners require."
Announced in May 2024, the FireSat Constellation is a collaboration between Muon Space and Earth Fire Alliance, combining Muon's expertise in space-based remote sensing with the Alliance's deep knowledge of wildfire management and response strategies. This partnership aims to enhance global wildfire response, management, and situational awareness by providing actionable data to first responders, policymakers, and communities facing escalating wildfire threats.
Working closely with hundreds of members of the federal, state, and local fire communities, Muon Space developed the FireSat system and delivered its first satellite to orbit in just 16 months. The initiative has been supported by leading NGOs and philanthropic organizations, including Environmental Defense Fund, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and others.
"Designing and building an advanced infrared instrument capable of detecting wildfires with high confidence required significant scientific and engineering innovation," said Dan McCleese, Chief Scientist of Muon Space. "This achievement underscores Muon Space's ability to push the boundaries of space-based observation, advancing not only wildfire intelligence but also a broad range of critical operational, scientific, and security applications."
The planned 50+-satellite constellation will eventually provide global coverage with each point on Earth observed every 20 minutes with key wildfire-prone regions benefiting from more frequent observations.
"FireSat is a game-changer for wildfire response," said Brian Collins, Executive Director of Earth Fire Alliance. "For too long, decision-makers have relied on outdated or incomplete fire data. FireSat is poised to provide persistent, high-fidelity, and detailed information that will empower end users to save more lives and structures, better protect ecosystems, and reduce economic losses."
Muon is currently developing three additional satellites, which will launch in 2026. FireSat is expected to reach full operational capacity by 2030.