OzFuel: Space-based vegetation fuel flammability monitoring system

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 (15-25 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. Show more