NASA has been working on developing new technologies to enhance aerial firefighting operations, particularly at night. One of the key advancements being tested is the Portable Airspace Management System (PAMS), which allows drones and remotely piloted aircraft to operate safely even in low-visibility conditions. The PAMS units, about the size of a carry-on suitcase, are equipped with necessary components like a computer, radio, and ADS-B receiver to ensure safe deployment of drones for wildfire response.
Tests conducted at various locations across the country have shown promising results, with the PAMS successfully detecting conflicts, alerting pilots, and sharing real-time aircraft location and weather updates. The system can significantly improve aerial coordination during wildfire operations, ultimately reducing the impact of large wildfires and saving more lives.
NASA’s ACERO project, operating within the agency’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate, plans further flight evaluations this year to refine the wildfire technologies and transfer them to firefighting agencies for operational enhancement. The ultimate goal is to improve wildfire operations, reduce the impact of large wildfires, and ultimately save more lives.
This initiative is part of NASA’s broader efforts to support the Advanced Air Mobility mission. For more information on the project, visit NASA’s website, and for details on Overwatch Aero, visit their website. The advancements in aerial firefighting technologies hold great promise for safer and more effective wildfire response operations both day and night.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
