Since its discovery in 1801, Ceres’ composition has puzzled scientists. Previously thought to be less icy due to its cratered surface, new research from Purdue University and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab suggests otherwise. Led by Ian Pamerleau and Mike Sori, the study used computer simulations to show that Ceres is likely very icy, with a surface composed of about 90% ice mixed with some rock. This contradicts earlier beliefs that Ceres was relatively dry. The findings, published in Nature Astronomy, propose that Ceres was once a muddy ocean world that froze over time.