The rings of Saturn are composed of trillions of independently moving icy particles. These range in size from that of a speck of dust to a family car. While this might sound like a recipe for chaos, the ring system is relatively stable and beautifully intricate. From its inner edge out to its furthest rim the main ring system spans a staggering 62,000km (38,500 miles). Despite their vast width the rings are, at most, only a few hundred metres thick.

The closer you look, the more rings you see. Cassini's cameras show how the broad main rings are actually made up of thousands of narrower ringlets. This true-colour image also shows the wide gaps separating the main rings.

Image taken on 12 December 2004

Alice Wessen, Cassini Mission scientist

Role: ‘I manage NASA’s Education and Public Outreach programmes for space missions such as Cassini. It’s a real privilege to share the science and wonder of the Cassini mission with the world.’

Based at: NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, USA

My favourite image (below): ‘This view of Saturn shows the artistry of the science and engineering teams who captured and created such a unique image. The reason this image is my favourite is the glimpse of “home” though the rings of Saturn. All of our world, all of our history and hopes are only a few pixels across.’