From California's wildfires to emergency responses worldwide – the potential of this innovation is massive photo credit: NASA/Brandon Torres-Navarrete NASA researchers and CAL FIRE chiefs test PAMS in Monterey County Imagine fighting wildfires from the air around the clock, even when smoke and darkness limit visibility. This episode delves into a groundbreaking project by NASA's Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations that's making this a potential reality. We explore their successful initial validation of a new, portable airspace management system (PAMS) designed to provide reliable air traffic control for firefighting aircraft in low-visibility conditions – a major hurdle in current wildland fire response. Hear directly from NASA researchers and a representative from CAL FIRE about this innovative technology tested in a mountainous region of Northern California and its potential to revolutionize aerial firefighting and monitoring, ultimately enhancing safety and effectiveness. This tech also has applications for various emergency responses around the world. Guests in this episode: Carol Carroll, Deputy Associate Administrator for NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate, Washington D.C. Dr. Min Xue, ACERO project manager at NASA’s Ames Research Center Deputy Chief Marcus Hernandez, Office of Wildfire Technology Research and Development Resources in this episode: NASA Demonstrates New Wildland Fire Airspace Management System CAL FIRE Research Development and Innovation Suggestions for guests or topics? Email
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