Rendering of wildfire satellite detection. Photo: Spire Global

The Canadian Space Agency awarded Spire Global Canada and OroraTech a $72 million Canadian dollar ($50 million) contract to design and develop a dedicated satellite constellation to monitor wildfires in Canada, Spire announced Feb. 7.

This project is part of the WildFireSat mission, which aims to enhance wildfire detection and response. The contract was initially awarded in May 2023. Spire will partner with OroraTech to develop the payloads for the satellite constellation.

“Detecting wildfires is one of the most impactful satellite capabilities, offering significant benefits for public safety, environmental health and the economy,” said Theresa Condor, CEO of Spire Global.

The WildFireSat constellation is scheduled for launch in 2029 and will operate for at least five years under the management of the Canadian Space Agency. 

To support this project, Spire will expand its Canadian office in Cambridge, Ontario, to include satellite manufacturing capabilities. The mission involves partnerships with indigenous communities, aiming to provide economic benefits and employment opportunities while enhancing wildfire response and community protection.