southafricatoday.net
Sep 24, 2026
Space42 and Telespazio Ibérica Begin Wildfire Monitoring in Spain supported by High Altitude Platform Systems
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
Space42’s subsidiary Mira Aerospace and Telespazio Ibérica launched the ApusNeo18 high‑altitude platform system (HAPS) for wildfire monitoring in Spain. The first flight departed from Fuerteventura’s Canarias Stratoport, reached about 16,000 feet, and stayed aloft for 29 hours, setting two European HAPS records. The platform transmitted live, high‑resolution electro‑optical and infrared imagery, demonstrating its capability for real‑time wildfire detection. A multi‑flight campaign will continue through October, gradually increasing altitude toward the stratosphere and extending coverage to Gran Canaria.
💡 Why It Matters
- · The mission shows how HAPS can provide persistent, high‑resolution surveillance that complements satellites and ground sensors, offering faster, more accurate data for emergency responders during wildfire events.
