Wildfire Satellites

The first few posts on this blog involved the Yosemite wildfire, and the fire has since been contained, wildfire prevention technology is taking a huge step forward. Taking mitigation to a whole new level, Cal Berkeley researches are developing a satellite that could detect wildfires in their infant stages. Using infrared sensors, the satellite can detect a wildfire when it's under an acre in size. In a state that just lost millions due to a massive wildfire, it should be no surprise that they're attempting to come up with new techniques to decrease the impact. However, this is taking it to another level. Obviously satellite's in space are going to cost millions of dollars, so is the cost really worth it to prevent only potential millions in fire damage? I feel like that's the future question on the development of this satellite. While it most certainly would make an impact, the cost just operate may not make it worth the money lost in wildfire damage. But than you also have to consider the potential safety of humans effected by wildfire's, how much do you pay for that? All things to be considered as the wildfire satellite continues its development. http://www.hcn.org/blogs/goat/wildland-firefighting-goes-high-tech