Fire Science at Ames
What is Fire Science?
Fire Science involves the application of research and technology before, during, and after a fire, in order to help ecosystems, animals, and human communities thrive. Researchers in this field at NASA Ames work with partners from universities to wildland firefighters, in order to collect important data such as fuel moisture, fire temperature and speed, and air quality, and to innovate new technologies for making fire management safer and more effective.
Why is it important?
Fire is a natural and important element of many ecosystems, but extreme wildfires can be detrimental to the environment and our communities. Improving fire prevention, management, and recovery are the keys to maintaining healthy ecosystems. Continual advancement in wildfire science and applications is critical to improving our understanding of how fires behave, and their impact on communities and the environment.
Missions & Projects
Located in Northern California, Ames is deeply invested in fire research.
Fire missions and projects work on developing research and technologies that benefit practitioners on the ground, and deepening our understanding of how fire behavior is changing over time.
Read More About Fire Missions and Projects
Fire Science Internships
Ames hosts two primary internships related to fire science.
The NASA Ames FireSage internship partners with San Jose State University to equip students with expertise in fire ecology and remote sensing technologies. The NASA Ames Fire&Air internship partners with California State University, Stansislaus to train students in two main research areas: atmospheric effects and causes of wildfires, and the study of aerosols in biomass burning.
Read More About Fire Science Internships
Fire Stories at Ames
Explore stories related to the work NASA Ames Earth Science Division is doing in the realm of fire science.
Scientist Profile: Jacquelyn Shuman Blazes New Trails in Fire Science
NASA Ames Hosts National Wildfire Coordinating Group
NASA Leaders View Climate Science, Wildfire Innovations at NASA Ames
NASA Ames Hosts 20th Annual TFRSAC Meeting, Highlights Interagency Collaboration for Wildfire Management
