Joonsung Park
Hardware Engineer — GENIUS Olympiad Gold.
PCB, firmware, 3D modeling.
Maple-Seed–Inspired Sensors for Earliest Wildfire Detection
PALANG builds an ultra-lightweight, drone-deployable sensor network to detect wildfires within 30 seconds. Mimicking the aerodynamic properties of maple seeds, the sensors autonomously scatter across forests and form a real-time mesh. By distinguishing smoldering through infrared and VOC signals and flaming through rapid flicker detection, PALANG enables fast, targeted response before small sparks grow into catastrophic wildfires.
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Our work is grounded in innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to protecting communities and ecosystems.
To detect wildfires at ignition — within seconds, not hours — and provide actionable intelligence through affordable, scalable technology that protects lives, ecosystems, and communities.
A world where wildfires are no longer catastrophic threats but manageable events, thanks to early detection, predictive AI, and global collaboration.
Our team was formed at Korea Minjok Leadership Academy (KMLA) in Gangwon, a region often threatened by wildfires. In 2024, nearby wildfire alerts inspired us to begin early detection research. This commitment deepened in April 2025, when the Inje wildfire sent emergency alerts to our dormitory—a stark reminder of how sudden and dangerous wildfires can be. Though we were safe, that moment strengthened our resolve to create PALANG: a system built for real terrain, unpredictable weather, and rapid response.
Read Our Full StoryPALANG enables ultra-fast, ultra-low-cost wildfire detection for large-scale forest protection.
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Our integrated approach combines cutting-edge technology with nature's wisdom.
PALANG sensors are inspired by maple seeds, allowing stable aerial deployment and wide forest coverage.
Onboard algorithms detect smoke and heat signals in real time, ensuring rapid and accurate wildfire alerts.
Sensors self-organize into a mesh network, enabling large-area coverage even in remote terrain.
Solar-powered systems allow continuous operation with no external power source or maintenance.
Biodegradable and lightweight materials reduce environmental impact and simplify disposal after use.
Simple drone-based drop systems enable coverage of vast forest areas within hours, not weeks.
A multidisciplinary team combining hardware innovation, web development, and economic strategy to bring PALANG to life.
Hardware Engineer — GENIUS Olympiad Gold.
PCB, firmware, 3D modeling.
Web Master — Built KMLA online platforms. Frontend & Design.
Business Lead — International Economics Olympiad Silver. Strategy & Partnerships.
A quick overview of deployment, detection, and AI forecasting.
Join insurers, forestry agencies, utilities, and governments in reducing wildfire loss.