Mars - Medusae Fossae Formation

The Mars - Medusae Fossae Formation print from the Radiance Series captures the wind-sculpted terrain of one of Mars’s most enigmatic regions.

Imaged by the HiRISE camera aboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter on 31 December 2007, it reveals intricate systems of linear sand ridges-known as yardangs-carved into the soft deposits of the Medusae Fossae Formation. These ridges, aligned with prevailing Martian winds, illustrate the continuing power of aeolian processes to shape and rework the planet’s surface.

Extending for more than 5,000 kilometres along the Martian equator, the Medusae Fossae Formation is a vast accumulation of easily eroded volcanic and sedimentary material. Its origin remains uncertain, with hypotheses ranging from volcanic ash and wind-blown dust to ancient pumice flows. The region is thought to be Mars’s largest single source of atmospheric dust, exhibiting alternating smooth plateaus and deeply incised grooves. Studies indicate deposits several kilometres thick, and their elevated sulfur and chlorine content point to an explosive volcanic history. Even today, Martian winds continue to remodel the landscape, exposing buried craters and revealing remnant stream beds preserved as raised, curving ridges.

This print was meticulously created from original high-fidelity HiRISE image data, processed to retain subtle tonal gradations and authentic surface texture. The fine interplay of ridges, shadows, and light captures the complexity of Martian geomorphology and the ongoing evolution of its surface.

HiRISE - the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment - has operated aboard the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter since 2006, imaging Mars at sub-metre resolution. Its observations have transformed the study of landscape evolution and surface processes, providing unprecedented insight into the planet’s geological past and present.

The Radiance series presents planetary science as fine art - orbital imagery from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter processed from raw mission archive data into large-format prints.

Every image is captured by HiRISE, the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment - the most powerful camera ever sent to another planet. Operating since 2006 at an altitude of roughly 300 kilometres, HiRISE captures Mars at near-metre resolution, revealing surface processes, geological structures, and landforms at a scale and clarity previously impossible.

Each Radiance print is made from raw JP2 sensor data sourced directly from the HiRISE mission archive, processed to preserve authentic surface structure and tone while balancing scientific accuracy with visual clarity.

Image credits: NASA / JPL-Caltech / University of Arizona.

All prints are produced to order on 250gsm archival matte paper using pigment-based inks, chosen for colour accuracy and long-term stability.

Each print is rolled in acid-free tissue and shipped in a rigid cardboard tube, sealed for moisture protection, ready for framing on arrival.

Large · 70 × 50 cm · 28 × 20 in

XLarge · 100 × 70 cm · 40 × 28 in

UK: Free · 3-5 working days

Europe: €8.50 · 3-7 working days · No customs charges

USA & Canada: $8.95 / $12.00 CAD · 5-10 working days

Australia: $14.00 AUD · 5-10 working days

Rest of World: £14.95 · 7-14 working days

All prints are produced to order and dispatched within 1-3 working days. Orders placed before 5pm GMT ship the same day. You'll receive tracking information by email once dispatched.

Orders outside Europe may be subject to local customs charges on delivery - these are the responsibility of the recipient.

Full delivery information →

Returns accepted within 30 days. Email returns@axisophy.com with your order number and we'll provide return instructions.

Return postage is the customer's responsibility except where the print arrives damaged or there's been an error - in which case we'll arrange a replacement or refund immediately, no return needed.

Full returns policy →