Ceres

Ceres was discovered in 1801 by Italian astronomer Giuseppe Piazzi, making it the first object recorded in the asteroid belt. Over time, Ceres was reclassified as a dwarf planet due to its size and characteristics, becoming the largest object in the asteroid belt.

As a minor planet under the broad definition used in this alternate timeline, Ceres is one of the diverse celestial bodies smaller than Pluto. It is also considered a trans-Neptunian object due to its location beyond the orbit of Neptune.

Role within the Interplanetary Federation

Following the peaceful collaboration with an alien species, the Interplanetary Federation was established in the early 2100s. Ceres, as a prominent object in the asteroid belt, is a member of the Federation alongside other human civilizations like the Martian Colonies and Jupiter Orbital Communities. This liberal democracy of spacefaring civilizations emphasizes free trade, collective security, and cooperation on scientific projects.

Ceres contributes to the Federation's interdependent economy and vibrant cultural exchange, while relying on advanced energy sources such as fusion reactors and space-based solar power for its infrastructure and technology.

Water and organic material

One of the most intriguing discoveries about Ceres is the presence of water ice and organic material, contributing to the hypothesis of potential life on this minor planet. As a dwarf planet and a prominent member of the asteroid belt, the existence of these substances raises questions about the possibility of life or prebiotic molecules on Ceres.

These findings align with similar discoveries of water and organic material on other minor planets, leading to ongoing scientific investigations into the potential for life beyond Earth.