OzFuel: a space-based vegetation fuel flammability monitoring system

Nicolas Younes; Marta Yebra; Joice Mathew; Robert Sharp

doi:10.1117/12.2679957

19 October 2023 OzFuel: a space-based vegetation fuel flammability monitoring system

Nicolas Younes, Marta Yebra, Joice Mathew, Robert Sharp

Proceedings Volume 12729, Sensors, Systems, and Next-Generation Satellites XXVII; 127291B (2023) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2679957
Event: SPIE Remote Sensing, 2023, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Abstract

The increasing intensity and frequency of wildfires necessitate novel approaches in understanding and monitoring vegetation fuel flammability. Here we introduce OzFuel, a multi-year project that aims to develop a constellation of hyperspectral Earth Observation (EO) instruments to monitor vegetation fuel flammability at the global scale. To achieve this, the roadmap initiates with the launch of a technology demonstrator by 2026, equipped with four distinct passbands in the Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) range of the electromagnetic spectrum, and coverage over regional Australia will capture flammability data at monthly intervals approximately. This specific instrument is currently being designed and prototyped. By 2028, a refined iteration of the OzFuel, featuring enhanced spectral resolution (15 to 25 spectral bands), will offer improved differentiation among vegetation fuels with varying levels of flammability. This advancement will stem from its heightened sensitivity to a broader array of traits that contribute to flammability. Moreover, a comprehensive coverage across Australia and focused acquisitions over the Americas and Europe will be achieved. In 2030 a global-scale monitoring system that offers weekly global updates on vegetation fuel flammability is planned. Unlike other satellite missions, OzFuel aims to monitor vegetation fuel flammability to inform where fires are likely to occur before ignition occurs enabling proactive management strategies to reduce the impact of wildfires and improve natural disaster preparedness and resilience.

Conference Presentation

(2023) Published by SPIE. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.

Citation Download Citation

Nicolas Younes, Marta Yebra, Joice Mathew, and Robert Sharp "OzFuel: a space-based vegetation fuel flammability monitoring system", Proc. SPIE 12729, Sensors, Systems, and Next-Generation Satellites XXVII, 127291B (19 October 2023); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2679957

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available