California Launches “FireSat” Wildfire-detection Satellites

July 7, 2026 – The Newsom Administration announced the launch of the first three FireSat wildfire detection satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base, through a partnership between California and Earth Fire Alliance (EFA). FireSat is the first satellite system specifically designed to detect wildfires using frequent high-resolution data. These three satellites will begin delivering wildfire data within months, the first step toward a full constellation of more than 50 satellites by 2030 that will cover the entire planet every 20 minutes, catching fires as small as a schoolyard before they grow into megafires. These three satellites will use frequent high-resolution data to identify and monitor wildfires in real time — helping firefighters combat wildfires and protect life and property.