Avalanche Detectors

The Avalanche Risk Evaluation Platform integrates multi-sensor satellite data and ground-based telemetry to deliver high-fidelity, near-real-time avalanche risk assessments. The system combines optical, radar, and thermal datasets from Copernicus Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 missions, MODIS (Terra), and the Copernicus DEM (GLO-30) to generate spatially resolved Avalanche Susceptibility Index (ASI) maps at 30 m resolution. Sentinel-2’s multispectral imagery enables snow and water detection using NDSI and NDWI indices, while Sentinel-1’s C-band radar identifies new snow accumulation and surface instability through differential backscatter and polarization analysis. MODIS thermal data introduces daily land surface temperature layers, and the DEM-derived terrain parameters—slope, curvature, and aspect—quantify snow stability conditions.

The model fuses these these data streams, delineating terrain predisposition from low to very high avalanche susceptibility. The platform further enhances accuracy by integrating on-site Arduino-based meteorological sensors connected via the Kinéis satellite IoT network, allowing continuous temperature, humidity, and pressure readings from high-altitude stations. This hybrid data ecosystem enables interpolation during satellite data gaps and improves the temporal continuity of risk estimation.

From a business standpoint, the product scales across three tiers:

• Free – public access to basic awareness maps for mountain communities and recreationists;

• Pro (€4.99/mo) – advanced visualization tools and real-time alerts for professional guides and rescue teams;

• Commercial (€3000/yr) – full API access and data intelligence for institutions, ski resorts, and national rescue agencies.

The platform’s initial rollout focuses on the Alpine and Balkan regions, where avalanche fatalities remain a persistent threat. By fusing spaceborne observation with on-site telemetry, the system enables scientific credibility, early market traction, and recurring revenue, positioning it as a cornerstone in next-generation mountain safety intelligence.

Avalanche risk mapping is a critical enabler for redefining safe terrestrial exploration, ensuring that future tourism routes through alpine terrains can be monitored with satellite precision. By fusing Earth Observation data with on-site IoT telemetry, the platform pioneers the same remote sensing and risk assessment infrastructure required for terrestrial expeditions. The system’s ability to model environmental hazards demonstrates how space-borne technologies can safeguard human mobility. 

Links:

• Web application - https://avalanche-detectors-v2.streamlit.app/
• GitHub - https://github.com/mcaneff/Avalanche-Detectors/tree/dev
• Mobile mock up - https://avalanche-detectors.vercel.app/
• Mobile mock up demo - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ZOKwf1C0pWU

Team Members:

Michael Caneff – Team Lead, Business & Engineering

Denislav Bonchev - Meteorologist & Data Analysis

Valentyn Shopov - Physicist, Design & Frontend

Nikola Kazlachev - Physicist, Engineering & Data analysis

Nikola Dekovski - Physicist, Business & Research

Nikola Georgiev - Backend & Data analysis