Abstract: A device for penetrating the earth includes a hollow cylindrical housing holding a computer controller that automatically controls the device. A battery within the housing supplies power for the components. A hydraulic system within the housing engages the earth to resist movement of the housing when required and to push the housing downward if needed. A drill head shaft slides up and down within the housing. The main body of the drill head is located below the housing. The drill head has a diameter that is larger than that of the housing. A semi-auto cartridge chamber within the housing cyclically fires cartridges above the shaft to propel it downward. When the housing is not heavy enough to resist upward reaction thrust from a cartridge explosion or to fall downward following the drill head then the computer activates the hydraulic system to engage the earth.