An apparatus configured to obtain, process, and relay data to a user in a coherent and useful manner. An active fiducial is equipped with an interface for receiving and transmitting data. The fiducial may transmit its position using a satellite-based position sensing device such as a GPS. Active fiducials may also be equipped with battery power pack regenerated with solar cells. Similarly, the fiducials can be equipped with at least one video camera or other device having a focal plane array and a computer software system, configured to recognize shapes. The fiducials may also be equipped with inductive coils or other means for sensing metal containing compounds. The active fiducials may be equipped with a gas chromatograph. The active fiducials may use a variety of propulsion means including motor driven tracks, motor driven wheels, propellers, or other device or a combination of devices.