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About

Eleonora Ammannito is a leading figure in planetary science, whose research centers on the mineralogical composition and evolution of small bodies in the solar system, with a particular focus on the dwarf planet Ceres. Her major contributions stem from her integral role in the Dawn mission, where she served as a Deputy Principal Investigator for the Visible and Infrared Spectrometer (VIR). Through this work, she provided definitive evidence of widespread ammoniated phyllosilicates on Ceres, fundamentally altering our understanding of the dwarf planet’s formation and its potential for organic chemistry. Her findings have been pivotal in demonstrating that Ceres is a chemically active, water-rich world. With over 10,000 citations to her name, her impact is profound. Beyond her work on Ceres, she has also contributed to the COSPAR Planetary Protection Policy, helping to shape the ethical and scientific framework for future Mars missions. Her achievements include receiving the NASA Exceptional Public Achievement Medal and serving as a co-investigator on multiple international missions, solidifying her reputation as a key architect of modern planetary exploration.