Mars - Nili Patera Dunes

The Mars - Nili Patera Dunes print from the Radiance Series captures one of the most active dune fields on the Martian surface.

Imaged by the HiRISE camera aboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter on 8 February 2015, it reveals intricately sculpted sand formations shaped by prevailing winds atop dark volcanic lava beds within the ancient caldera of Nili Patera, near the Martian equator. The undulating ridges and ripples are both visually striking and scientifically significant, showing how aeolian processes continue to reshape the landscape today.

Nili Patera’s dunes are remarkable for their measured mobility. Through repeated HiRISE imaging, scientists have observed that the sand here migrates far more rapidly than previously thought. The distinctive barchan forms and ripple patterns demonstrate the energy of Martian winds and the complexity of sand transport within the planet’s thin atmosphere. Tracking these movements has deepened understanding of Martian climate, wind dynamics, and the rates at which rock is eroded, transported, and redeposited across the surface.

This print was created from original high-fidelity HiRISE data and processed with meticulous care to preserve fine structural detail, tonal accuracy, and the natural texture of the dune field.

Operating since 2006 aboard the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, HiRISE - the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment - continues to transform planetary science through imagery at sub-metre resolution. Its observations have revealed the planet’s active surface processes, atmospheric interactions, and the timeless dialogue between wind and terrain.

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

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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.

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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.

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