Google CEO Sundar Pichai gives ‘special thanks’ to Elon Musk’s SpaceX for …

CEO Sundar Pichai recently thanked Elon Musk-led space company SpaceX for launching the first FireSat satellite, part of an AI-powered constellation designed to detect and track wildfires. In a recent post on X, the Google CEO shared details about the mission, highlighting its potential impact on wildfire monitoring and prevention. “We have liftoff! After a successful launch this weekend, the first FireSat satellite is now orbiting Earth,” Pichai wrote. He explained that the satellite is the first in a planned constellation of over 50 satellites, designed to detect wildfires as small as 5x5 meters using AI.
Pichai specifically thanked SpaceX for providing the launch vehicle that carried FireSat into orbit, alongside partners Muon Space, 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).”


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 project is part of Google's broader environmental initiatives, such as water replenishment programs. However, it comes amid the company's reluctance to disclose AI's energy consumption, as noted in its 2024 environmental report, reflecting its mixed approach to climate technology.
Sundar Pichai unveiled the launch of FireSat, a component of a planned constellation comprising over 50 satellites. These satellites are equipped with advanced sensors and powered by AI, enabling them to detect wildfires as small as 5x5 meters. The initiative was made possible by a $13 million investment from Google.org in 2024.
FireSat was launched through SpaceX and incorporates cutting-edge sensors and AI-driven analysis. It compares real-time imagery with historical data, taking into account local weather conditions and infrastructure to swiftly identify fires. This builds upon Google’s 2024 partnership with wildfire authorities, which aims to enhance global fire tracking capabilities.