Google CEO Sundar Pichai expressed gratitude to Elon Musk’s SpaceX for successfully launching the first FireSat satellite, part of an artificial intelligence (AI)–powered network aimed at detecting and monitoring wildfires. In a post on social media website X, Pichai highlighted the mission’s significance in wildfire prevention and tracking.

“We have liftoff! The first FireSat satellite is now in orbit following a successful launch this weekend,” he said. The satellite is the first of a planned constellation of over 50, designed to identify wildfires as small as 5×5 meters using artificial intelligence.

Pichai specifically acknowledged SpaceX for providing the launch vehicle and also thanked key partners, including Muon Space, the Earth Fire Alliance, and the Moore Foundation.

“Huge thanks to partners @MuonSpace @EarthFireAll @MooreFound, and special thanks to @SpaceX for the ride! Here’s a look at the satellite on the launch pad (it’s behind the yellow rectangle),” he wrote.

The FireSat initiative comes on the heels of recent catastrophic wildfires in California. In January 2025, a series of severe wildfires—most notably the Palisades and Eaton Fires—ripped through parts of Los Angeles County, resulting in significant loss of life and the destruction of thousands of structures.

What is FireSat?

FireSat is a satellite constellation developed by Google Research in collaboration with the Earth Fire Alliance, the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation, and Muon Space. The network will analyze satellite images and combine them with local weather reports to detect wildfires. The project aligns with Google’s broader environmental initiatives, such as water replenishment programs, although it contrasts with the company’s lack of transparency regarding AI’s energy consumption, as noted in its 2024 environmental report.

The FireSat initiative, which Pichai recently announced, aims to deploy over 50 satellites capable of detecting wildfires as small as 5×5 meters using AI. This follows a $13 million commitment from Google.org in 2024.

Launched via SpaceX, the satellite leverages advanced sensors and AI-driven analysis to compare real-time imagery with historical data, taking into account local weather and infrastructure to detect fires swiftly. This effort builds on Google’s 2024 partnership with wildfire authorities to enhance global fire monitoring.