As wildfires are increasing in recent times, due to climate change, there is a critical need for rapid detection and effective response. Current satellite-based methods often provide outdated or low-resolution imagery, which makes it difficult to respond to fires before they cause widespread destruction.
In a recent development, Google Research alongside Earth Fire Alliance and other key partners, has developed a satellite constellation called FireSat.
Raises €25M funding
Now, OroraTech, a space-based thermal-infrared data intelligence startup headquartered in Munich, has closed €25 million in Series B funding. The round was led by Korys, which invested in Sensorfact, the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF), which invested in AmphiStar and REDUCED, and long-standing investor Bayern Kapital, which backed DeepDrive and Symphera. Many of the company’s current investors, including Edaphone Private Impact Fund, Ananda Impact Ventures, ConActivity KG, and Findus Venture, also contributed to this round.
Previously, the Munich startup specialising in wildfire intelligence secured €20 million in funding a few months back and €15 million in funding back in 2022.
Expansion in key markets
The newly raised funds will be used to expand OroraTech’s existing footprint in North America and the Asia Pacific region—key markets where the need for effective wildfire management is increasing rapidly. This includes investments into advancing its proprietary orbital thermal sensor network and predictive AI technologies. These innovations will enhance the precision and speed of wildfire detection, allowing decision-makers to better assess risks and make data-driven choices that improve operational efficiency.
“Our investment in OroraTech highlights our dedication to nurturing innovative companies that leverage technology for the benefit of our planet. We selected OroraTech for their pioneering satellite-based wildfire detection platform and are thrilled to support their ground-breaking efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat the consequences of climate change,” said Frederik Simoens, Investment Director, and Karel Van Cleemput, Senior Investment Manager at Korys.
“OroraTech stands as one of the most dynamic SpaceTech pioneers in Germany. Since our investment in 2021, the company has not only strengthened its foundation but has also expanded its global footprint,” added Monika Steger, Managing Director of Bayern Kapital. “We invest in high-tech trailblazers with bold, future-forward visions. Supporting OroraTech’s mission to deliver cutting-edge wildfire and thermal intelligence for a sustainable future is a source of pride for us.”
Thermal-infrared camera to control wildfire
Founded in 2018, by Florian Mauracher, Rupert Amann, and Thomas Grübler with backgrounds of a mix of engineering and computer science, and a hint of volunteering firefighting, OroraTech can track wildfires from a nanosatellite, saving lives and forests, with an early warning. The company enables organisations and fire agencies to actively respond to the global wildfire crisis, reducing damage and saving lives.
Since the launch of the first thermal sensor FOREST-1 in 2022 and the first commercial sensor FOREST-2 in 2023, the company has established a network of sensors that continuously monitors the Earth’s temperature on a global scale. It is claimed that its technology detects fires of any scale, day or night, and alerts customers if their assets are at risk, ensuring timely action within three minutes.
Its Wildfire Intelligence Solution is used by customers across six continents, including operations in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Greece, and the US, from commercial enterprises to governmental organisations.
Last year, the company entered into a €20 million contract with the European Space Agency, supporting the Greek government to further demonstrate its global impact and commitment to providing long-term solutions for wildfire prevention and management.
Martin Langer, CEO of OroraTech stated: “We are thrilled to welcome Korys, ECBF, and all our partners as we embark on this next phase of our journey. Their strategic support, combined with the continued confidence of our existing investors, will be pivotal as we enhance our technology and grow globally. Together, we are poised to make significant strides in eradicating the devastating impact of extreme wildfires worldwide.”
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