Ahuna

Ahuna Mons is a prominent cryovolcanic mountain on the dwarf planet Ceres. It is located in the southern hemisphere of Ceres and rises about 4 kilometers above the surrounding terrain, with a base spanning roughly 20 to 25 kilometers in diameter. The feature was imaged in high resolution by NASA's Dawn spacecraft during its orbital mission around Ceres from 2015 to 2018. Its dome-like summit and flow-like flanks are interpreted as evidence of cryovolcanic activity, formed by the ascent of volatile-rich material such as water ice or briny liquids from the interior.

Formation and age: The surface around Ahuna Mons appears relatively young compared with much of Ceres, suggesting emplacement within the last tens of millions of years, though the exact timing remains uncertain. The morphology implies a volcanic or diapiric origin rather than simple tectonic uplift.

Composition and geology: The mountain is composed of ice-rich materials mixed with silicates. Spectral data indicate surface frost and variability in composition across the feature, consistent with volatile-laden materials being mobilized to the surface.

Impact and significance: Ahuna Mons is one of the clearest pieces of evidence for geologic activity on Ceres, challenging the view that small Solar System bodies are geologically dead. Its existence informs models of volatile distribution and internal processes on Ceres and similar bodies.

Naming: The name Ahuna Mons was approved by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in 2015. The designation follows IAU conventions for naming features on Ceres. See also Dawn mission and Ceres.