TUBIN Tuesday: Tracking Los Angeles Fires from Orbit
On January 11, 2025, a series of devastating wildfires ravaged parts of Los Angeles, California. The infernos led to widespread destruction of homes, forced thousands of residents to evacuate, and left an indelible scar on the region. From the vantage point of space, the TUBIN satellite was able to meticulously track these events, providing invaluable data.
A Dual Perspective: Visual and Infrared
The images captured by TUBIN offer a unique dual perspective, combining visible light and infrared (IR) data. This composite showcases not only the dense smoke plumes drifting lazily over the Pacific Ocean but also the intense heat signatures emanating from the active fire hotspots.
This visual and IR composite allows us to see both the tangible spread of the smoke and the invisible thermal energy of the blaze itself. It's a powerful demonstration of how satellite technology can transform an abstract event into actionable information.
The Power of Earth Observation
These images serve as a stark reminder of the critical importance of satellite-based Earth observation. By turning our orbital perspective into tangible, actionable insights, satellites like TUBIN play a vital role in disaster response and the ongoing monitoring of critical events like wildfires. The ability to quickly assess the scale and intensity of such events from space can significantly aid in resource allocation and emergency management efforts.
📍 Location: Los Angeles, California, USA 📅 Date: 11 January 2025 🛰️ Satellite: TUBIN (TUBSAT 27)
