Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is a powerful form of atomic emission spectroscopy. Used on the Mars Science Laboratory rover for planetary exploration, Honeybee is developing a system to deploy this technology in a down-hole application to improve exploration in the mining sector.

LIBS uses a laser pulse to excite molecules, and can detect elemental composition based on the emission spectra. By taking in-situ LIBS measurements for mining exploration or geotechnical analysis, Honeybee can help surveyors create a detailed map of the borehole stratigraphy. This technology can provide more information about the mineralogy of a formation earlier in the process, enhancing efforts to understand the strength, ore quality, and economic value of a given formation.