A subsidiary of Spire Global Canada was awarded the C$72 million contract to design Canada’s WildFireSat constellation.
WildFireSat will consist of seven microsatellites tailored to monitor active wildfires across Canada on a daily basis and provide essential data to fire managers and other responsible authorities.
“Detecting wildfires is one of the most impactful satellite capabilities, offering significant benefits for public safety, environmental health and the economy,” Theresa Condor, CEO of Spire Global said.
“We’re proud to work with the Government of Canada, which is paving the way in developing a next-generation wildfire monitoring system to protect its citizens and communities.”
It is estimated that around $1 billion is spent each year in Canada to combat wildfires and the data from WildFireSat will enable responsible authorities to track fire behaviour, identify high-risk wildfires and make informed decisions to better protect Canadians.
It will also be used in air quality forecasts to help Canadians stay informed and protect themselves from wildfire smoke.
“The WildFireSat mission will provide near real-time wildfire data to be used in smoke and air quality forecasts, ensuring Canadians have the information they need to protect their health,” Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Steven Guilbeault said.
“Our government remains committed to helping communities adapt and build resilience — for us, our children, and future generations."
In order to deliver on the contract, Spire plans to expand its existing Canadian office in Cambridge Ontario to add satellite manufacturing and test equipment, enabling WildFireSat and future missions to be manufactured domestically in Canada.
Spire will partner with OroraTech, Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation’s Wakâ Mne – Science and Culture Initiative to enable the participation of Indigenous businesses in the WildFireSat mission, driving direct economic benefits and employment opportunities.
