Aistech Space, Telespazio Ibérica and Kreios Space drive a pioneering project for satellite-based detection of forest fires
- This consortium has been collaborating since January with the University of Vigo to prevent and manage fires using satellites in very low Earth orbit (VLEO), enabling very high-resolution imagery
- The project, involving more than 20 people, has an execution period of 30 months and a budget of €4 million
Aistech Space, Telespazio Ibérica and Kreios Space, in collaboration with the University of Vigo, are jointly working on the development of a next-generation satellite system for the early detection and monitoring of fires, enabling more effective response in firefighting. The project, which began in January and involves more than 20 people, will run for 30 months with a budget of €4 million.
This initiative, awarded by the Spanish Space Agency (AEE) במסגרת the Space Technology Programme, is based on the use of satellites in very low Earth orbit (VLEO). Unlike current systems—which often provide insufficient resolution and revisit times of several days—it will use multispectral imaging systems in the infrared range with unprecedented resolution and revisit times of less than 24 hours.
Its development is structured around four pillars: a telescope optimized for fire detection, a propulsion system capable of operating in VLEO despite atmospheric drag, a satellite platform at 200 km altitude, and artificial intelligence algorithms capable of automatically distinguishing between real fires and false alarms.
A contribution to the SDGs and a sustainable future
Forest fires, as evidenced by the disaster of this historic August with thousands of hectares burned, are a growing threat to biodiversity, public health, and community safety, while also significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
This project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, as it will cover the entire fire lifecycle: early detection, management and control during its evolution, and post-fire analysis to identify risks of re-ignition. In this way, Spain and Europe will be better prepared to respond quickly and effectively to a threat that becomes more severe each summer.
Carles Franquesa, CEO of Aistech, highlights the importance of this collaboration:
“Establishing this consortium with leading partners to develop a pioneering project is a great achievement. It reinforces our vision of the technological development we are leading and the interest our technology is generating in today’s complex geopolitical environment. In addition, this project will allow us to expand our team with highly qualified profiles, and we are very proud to offer these new opportunities.”
According to Carlos Fernández de la Peña, CEO of Telespazio Ibérica:
“The frequent and severe fires of this past August have shown the urgent need for new tools to protect both ecosystems and communities. Our role in developing image processing algorithms places us at the heart of the project, transforming data into actionable information that allows emergency teams to gain time and precision in their response.”
For his part, Adrián Senar, CEO of Kreios Space:
“This project demonstrates the enormous potential of very low Earth orbits to deliver more effective solutions to current and future challenges, applying cutting-edge technology with a direct impact on people’s lives. The Spanish Space Agency is playing a key role in turning these innovations into reality and positioning Spain at the forefront of strategic space technologies.”
About Aistech Space
Aistech Space, founded in 2015, is a leading space technology company focused on the development, manufacturing, and operation of Earth observation systems to improve sustainability, safety, and quality of life on the planet. Through its technology, the company contributes to protecting valuable resources by detecting and monitoring thermal changes on the Earth’s surface, generating and delivering high-resolution, high-frequency thermal imagery on demand. Aistech’s work is key to policies and actions aimed at decarbonization, climate change mitigation strategies, water management for food security, deforestation control through fire risk assessment, and the monitoring and surveillance of both critical assets and sensitive areas of strategic and geopolitical interest.
About Telespazio Ibérica
Telespazio Ibérica is the Spanish subsidiary of Telespazio, a joint venture between Leonardo and Thales, and one of the world’s leading satellite service operators. The company is a national leader in geoinformation and satellite navigation, with more than 35 years of experience in these fields. It is also at the forefront of other sectors such as the design and development of space systems, as well as the management of launch services and in-orbit satellite control. Additionally, it stands out in Earth observation services, communications, navigation, satellite tracking, and scientific programmes, with a strong commitment to bringing these services closer to citizens.
About Kreios Space
Founded in 2021, Kreios Space develops satellites designed to operate in very low Earth orbit (VLEO), and is currently Europe’s leading company in these new orbits. Its patented air-breathing electric propulsion system enables long-term operations below 400 km, making ultra-high-resolution imaging and direct-to-device broadband connectivity possible. Kreios is headquartered in Vigo, Spain.
