Hyperspectral soil sampling apparatus to produce soil maps

A soil sampling device, comprising:

• a computer system configured to store and process data related to a location of a soil sampling and spectral data and to display the collected scan data on a display screen;
• an equipment housing configured to support the computer system;
• a GPS sensor housed in the equipment housing to identify a location to extract the soil sample;
• a sampling chamber configured to store the soil sample during one or more scans, which blocks ambient light to ensure accurate spectroscopy readings and provides a mechanism to support the disposal of the soil sample after testing;
• a core rod column and a sampling element configured to extract the soil sample, wherein the sampling element is configured to cut the soil, migrate the soil upward to the sampling chamber, and homogenize the material in a first stage;
• a driver mechanism housed in the equipment housing to drive the sampling element and core rod column to extract the soil sample;
• a homogenization cylinder configured to support the equipment housing and the sampling chamber, wherein the homogenization cylinder encloses the sampling element and the driver mechanism and provides an area for mixing and homogenization of the soil sample;
• a stomp pad configured to control the depth of the soil sampling and to provide support during the actuation of the sampling element;
• an sampling element cover configured to retract and advance during the soil sample collection to ensure sample capture and containment;
• a quick disconnect configured to allow for the removal of the sampling element for cleaning and removing debris;
• and
• a probe consisting of a light source and fiber optic cable configured to scan the soil sample.