To human eyes, the surface of Mars appears as various shades of red, but HiRISE is also sensitive to near-infrared light. This allows HiRISE to distinguish subtle differences in surface composition, especially in complex terrains.

Here we see materials at the northern edge of Syrtis Major, one of the largest volcanoes on Mars. Lavas from this volcano are typically rich in iron and magnesium-bearing minerals, which give them a dark bluish tone in HiRISE enhanced color images. These lavas flowed on top of older clay-rich sedimentary rocks near the Nili Fossae region west of Jezero Crater.

In a closeup, the older clay-rich layers display striking orange and pink tones. These ancient rocks are crosscut by fractures, and smaller ripples of bluish sand are visible across the surface.

Written by: James Wray  (19 February 2026)