Ceres
Ceres, in the asteroid belt at 414 million km average distance, is the largest object in the belt. Its water ice and organic molecules make it a target for mining and astrobiology.
Details
- Distance: 414000000 km
- Travel Time: ~365 days
- Scientific Interest: Subsurface ocean, astrobiology
- Surface Conditions: 0.03 Earth gravity, no atmosphere, cold (-106°C)
- Challenges: Long travel time, low gravity landing, solar power limitations
- Past Missions: Dawn