The rings of Saturn have long been a source of wonder for astronomers, and now, a NASA mission appears to be finding some answers about the origin of one of those rings.

The Cassini-Huygens mission is a combined effort between NASA, the European Space Agency and the Italian Space Agency.

Photo Credit: NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute

Newest reports from the mission say Cassini scientists may have identified the source of one of Saturn’s more mysterious rings known as ring G. The findings show it is likely produced by large, icy particles within a bright arc on its inner edge.

Scientists say those particles are confined within the arc by gravitational effects from Saturn’s moon Mimas. Another fascinating detail, is that micrometeoroids collide with the particles, releasing smaller, dust-sized particles that brighten the arc. Furthermore, the plasma in the planet’s magnetic field sweeps continually through the arc, pulling out the fine particles, which create the G ring.

The finding is evidence of the complex interaction between Saturn’s moons, rings and magnetosphere. The researchers have also concluded that there is a population of larger, as-yet-unseen bodies hiding in the arc, ranging in size from that of peas to small boulders.