As massive wildfires continue to rage in southern California, our satellites, people in space and aircraft are keeping an eye on the blazes from above. This data and imagery not only gives us a better view of the activity, but also helps first responders plan their course of action. A prolonged spell of dry weather primed the area for major fires. Powerful Santa Ana winds fanned the flames and forecasters with the LA office of the National Weather Service warned that the region is in the midst of its strongest and longest Santa Ana wind event of the year. These winds are hot, dry and ferocious. They can whip a small brush fire into a raging inferno in just hours. Astronaut Randy Bresnik (AstroKomrade) shared these images from the International Space Station (ISS) over the last two days showing the smoke plumes from space, saying "Thank you to all the first responders, firefighters, and citizens willing to help fight these California wildfires." Image credits: NASA/AstroKomrade #wild...