The stately geometry of Saturn’s rings is showcased here in this photo taken by Cassini on January 14. This image spans a distance of about 2,028 miles.

Saturn’s rings are composed of particles of ice, rock and dust extending hundreds of thousands of miles into orbit, but only about 30 feet thick. Their age and origins are not known for sure, but they may be the remnants of moons pulled apart by the giant planet’s gravity, or shattered by comet collisions. Tiny moons orbit within them and help “shepherd” their material into place, clear gaps and sometimes contribute more material to them.

Saturn’s family of planet, rings and moons is like a miniature solar system unto itself.

Image credit: NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute