Integrated space applications in the early detection and management of bushfires

On the 7th of February 2009, Australia faced one of its most devastating fire disasters - Black Saturday. The devastation and resulting cost of these fires are still being realised, however; this disaster has certainly put the spotlight on the way in which fire authorities track and manage large fire threats. Australia, along with many developed countries has implemented ground based infrared and/or visual cameras to assist authorities in remotely sensing fire. All ground based sensors have significant limitations in range, especially when sensing in complex terrain