Saturn's sixth-largest moon, Enceladus, constantly sprays water vapor and icy particles into space through giant cracks near its south pole.
Researchers say that those magnificent plumes are now losing 20 to 40 percent less material than previously estimated.
Advanced supercomputer simulations helped researchers model how ice particles and vapor move after erupting from Enceladus into space.
This revised leakage rate alters the way scientists assess the Moon's internal processes, oceanic behavior, and long-term energy balance.
Enceladus continues to be one of the most interesting worlds in the solar system, as its hidden ocean is believed to possess conditions favorable for the emergence of life.
Previous estimates were based solely on simplistic assumptions, but this new study provides a more realistic picture of plume exit dynamics.
It is important to determine how much material is being emitted from this satellite, because plume chemistry offers scientists a rare opportunity to indirectly study the subsurface ocean.
These research results could further influence future missions designed to collect samples from Enceladus's plume material, search for biosignatures, and directly investigate habitability.
Despite the low rate of loss, Enceladus continues to supply water to Saturn's atmosphere. This demonstrates that the moon remains geologically active and scientifically significant.
This discovery does not undermine the mystery of Enceladus; on the contrary, it further strengthens scientists' understanding of how this icy ocean world functions internally.