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Safety and Security

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Overview

ESA is supporting the development of satellite-based services for safety and security

The world is changing. Natural hazards are evolving, and the threat landscape is becoming more complex. Satellite data and technology offer a unique vantage point to safeguard lives, infrastructure, and societies. This programme enables the development and demonstration of novel services that strengthen safety and security in an increasingly complex world.

Vision

ESA BASS supports the development of services addressing safety and security challenges in civilian contexts. This includes all natural hazards and intentional threats, where the primary objective is civil protection, resilience, and crisis management rather than military or combat operations. Activities span preparedness, response, and recovery, with Focus Areas reflecting domains where the programme builds on established experience and partnerships.

Challenges

Wildfires

Wildfires are increasing in frequency, intensity and impact, posing growing risks to lives, infrastructure and natural ecosystems. Satellite data and technology play a crucial role across the full lifecycle of wildfire management.

 

Arctic region

The Arctic is undergoing rapid environmental and socio-economic change, with implications for safety, security and resilience. Space-based services support monitoring, navigation, and risk awareness in remote and harsh conditions, supporting the sustainable use of the region.

 

 
 

Adversarial threat protection

Intentional threats, including violent extremism, criminal and economic exploitation, cyber and information operations, technological misuse, and hostile state actions, present complex and evolving risks to public safety, societal resilience, infrastructure, and essential services. Space-based capabilities support threat detection, surveillance, situational awareness, and secure communications across civil and security domains.

 

 

News and Events

From parking lots to airports and highways, clear and accurate road markings are key to keeping our urban environments moving safely.…

The UK was in the spotlight last week as the UK Space Conference took place in Manchester. Always an important date in the space…