Fire can be a villain and a hero. It poses a significant threat to human lives when it comes too close to our dwellings. Yet, it is also a key part of most ecosystems, allowing vegetation to turn over a new leaf. Until recently the extent of this global phenomenon has been difficult to quantify. Using the MODIS satellite, which flies overhead twice a day, we can identify fires from space. The imagery has been difficult for scientists let-alone citizens to access. With this new Fire Inspector web app, anyone can investigate where and when fires have occurred over the globe during the past two decades.

 

Play around with the app here: Fire Inspector