Our Mission

Team SUPA’ HOT is a Junior undergraduate research team and part of the Gemstone Honors Program at the University of Maryland. 

Taking inspiration from the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s “emberometer” invention, Team SUPA’ HOT aspires to develop a mobile version of this technology. The goal is to design and build an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that utilizes binocular stereo vision to collect real-time data about embers emitted during a wildfire. Not only do we believe UAVs have the capability to significantly aid firefighters in preventing the loss of life and property, but we hope our technology can aid future researchers in developing a concrete understanding of the key role embers play in wildfire spread. 

Being in our third year, we are currently designing and prototyping our data collection cameras alongside our faculty mentor, Dr. Fernando Raffan-Montoya, a professor in the Fire Protection Engineering department at UMD. 

Through this fundraising campaign, we are hoping to raise the money needed to continue purchasing equipment for our ambitious project. This money will aid in covering test site fees, buying more powerful cameras, computing equipment, and more! 

Your gift will help us make tremendous strides forward in our research! Every single gift is greatly appreciated. Your support aids our contribution to the fight against the ever-growing threat wildfires present to the world! 

Contact Us:

Email: supahot2025@gmail.com

Website: https://mgoldb2.wixsite.com/supa-hot

Gifts in support of the University of Maryland are accepted and managed by the University of Maryland College Park Foundation, Inc., an affiliated 501(c)(3) organization authorized by the Board of Regents. Contributions to the University of Maryland are tax deductible as allowed by law. Please see your tax advisor for details.