Spotlight: Lunasonde –Arizona Startup Mapping the Unseen Frontier

Arizona has long been known for mining copper from the ground. Now, Lunasonde , a Tucson-based startup, is taking that legacy into space with technology that makes the underground world visible . Founded by Jeremiah Pate, Lunasonde has developed miniaturized low-frequency radar that can scan up to two kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface—all from orbit. Think of it as an MRI for the planet. By mapping subsurface layers, Lunasonde can reveal hidden water reserves, mineral deposits, and geological structures without a single shovel hitting the dirt. The implications stretch far beyond Arizona. As humanity looks toward the Moon, Mars, and asteroids, Lunasonde’s technology could be key to identifying critical resources like water ice and rare minerals.

The company has already flown prototypes on SpaceX rideshares and is preparing its first fully capable satellite, San Xavier , for launch in 2025. After that comes Bisbee—the first near-asteroid subsurface exploration mission, slated for 2026. At the heart of Lunasonde is Pate’s vision: to solve the scarcity of life-giving resources on Earth and beyond. Named to Forbes’“30 Under 30,” Pate embodies the blend of ambition and ingenuity driving Arizona’s new wave of deep-tech entrepreneurs. Lunasonde’s rise underscores a bigger story: Arizona is becoming a launchpad for companies tackling global challenges with space-age innovation. 🚀 Stay ahead of Arizona’s innovation frontier.

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