A red pixel in the snow: How AI solved the mystery of a missing mountaineer (www.bbc.com)

Italian mountain rescue teams successfully employed artificial intelligence (AI) to locate the body of a missing climber, Nicola Ivaldo, after extensive traditional search efforts proved fruitless. The search resumed in July 2025, leveraging AI software that analyzed over 2,600 high-resolution drone photographs taken of the terrain. The AI identified a key anomaly—a red helmet—within hours, guiding rescuers to the correct gully on the north wall of Monviso where Ivaldo’s body was found. This case illustrates the rapid advancements in AI's capabilities within search and rescue operations and raises hopes for enhancing future missions. The significance of this development lies in AI's ability to drastically reduce search times in challenging environments, potentially saving lives. Previous traditional methods could take weeks or months, while AI and drone technology can expedite the process to just hours. Despite its successes, the technology also faces limitations, such as reduced effectiveness in forested or low-visibility areas and a continued need for human verification to filter through AI detections. Moving forward, researchers aim to enhance algorithm accuracy and develop real-time analytical capabilities, further integrating AI into search-and-rescue protocols. This evolution could provide lifesaving resources in urgent situations while addressing ethical considerations surrounding the use of aerial imagery and data management.