Aristotle University launches satellite‑based forest monitoring for Greece

The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki is leading the SAT4FOREST project, creating a satellite‑based service to continuously monitor Greek forests. The system combines simulated data from European satellites with real‑time imagery from Greek micro‑satellites that began launching in August 2024, offering about three‑metre resolution—much finer than the 10‑20 metre resolution of the European data. The service will map fuel loads, assess fire risk and track forest ecosystem health across the entire country.

Data products will be provided to the Central Forest Service, regional forest directorates, the ministries of Environment, Energy and Climate Crisis, as well as research institutes and private users. Updated information is expected at least twice a year, with more frequent refreshes when needed, supporting decision‑making for fire prevention, risk mapping and natural‑resource management. The project runs until June 2026 and is financed by the EU Recovery and Resilience Fund through Greece’s Ministry of Digital Governance.