Ceres is a research area in astronomy and planetary science that focuses on the study of the dwarf planet Ceres, which is the largest object in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. Research in this area includes the study of Ceres' composition, surface features, and geological history, as well as its possible role in the origins of the solar system. Scientists are also interested in Ceres as a potential target for future space missions, including possible sample return missions or human exploration.