Overview

• New research reveals Kuiper Belt Object 486958 Arrokoth, nicknamed 'Space Snowman,' may contain ancient ices formed over 4.6 billion years ago.
• Study challenges previous models, suggesting volatile ices in these objects can be preserved for billions of years.
• Findings indicate Kuiper Belt objects could act as dormant 'ice bombs,' erupting violently when brought closer to the sun.
• Research could inform future missions like NASA's CAESAR, aimed at returning comet samples to Earth.
• Study redefines understanding of comet evolution and the preservation of volatile substances in the outer solar system.