Innovative wildfire detection: high-altitude balloons from the urban sky

Taking an innovative approach to fighting wildfires, startup Urban Sky has begun testing high-altitude balloons equipped with infrared sensors to detect, track and potentially prevent the spread of wildfires. The balloons, launched from the back of a pickup truck, float up into the stratosphere to capture high-resolution photos of wildfires and measure ground temperature spots.

The main objective of this initiative is to provide early detection of forest fires. The balloons map vegetation density and soil moisture content, which is then processed in real time and combined with data on dry lightning and other ignition sources to generate a “risk score” for certain locations . This effectively identifies areas where a fire is likely to occur.

Data collected by the balloons is transmitted to computers on the ground via a satellite link, making it accessible to anyone with an Internet connection. While still in the testing phase, Urban Sky plans to upload the data to a fire intelligence system. This would make data available within minutes to anyone with access, including firefighters, helping organizations prioritize the deployment of their often limited resources.

Balloons offer a unique advantage over other technologies used to track wildfires. Unlike satellites, which can only pass over a wildfire area once or twice a day, a balloon can pass over a specific area and send continuous updates. They also provide a higher level of detail than drones and can cover a larger area in less time.

Urban Sky balloons are also cost effective and easy to use. They are small and light, and can be launched by an operator from the back of a pickup truck in less than 10 minutes. Once they land, the balloons can be checked for leaks, patched if necessary, and flown again.

As wildfires become more frequent and intense due to climate change, technology like Urban Sky's balloons could be crucial to managing and preventing such disasters. The company plans to begin commercializing the balloons in the coming months, with support from a grant from NASA's FireSense Program.