Abstract: An apparatus for detecting objects on or beneath a surface of a medium having a reach-in arm, the base of the reach in arm connected to a platform, and the distal end of the reach-in arm connected to a sensor. The sensor detects objects on or beneath the surface of a medium and is capable of monitoring the distance of the sensor from objects in the path of the sensor. Motor controllers are connected to the reach-in arm and the sensor for controlling the movements of the reach-in arm and sensor. A computer is in communication with the reach-in arm, the sensor, and the motor controllers. The computer detects objects on or beneath the surface of a medium; determines the location of the reach-in arm and sensor relative to objects in their paths; and controls the movement of the reach-in arm and sensor either automatically using pre-programmed software or according to user inputted commands.