Newly unveiled 3D images of Mars will help scientists understand the Red Planet's unique topography, scientists say.

So-called digital terrain model pictures have been built up thanks to a high-resolution stereoscopic camera aboard Mars Express, the European Space Agency orbiter.

The models allow scientists to 'stand' on planetary surfaces.

Although ordinary images can give spectacular bird's-eye views, they can only convey part of the picture.

"Understanding the topography of Mars is essential to understanding its geology," says Professor Gerhard Neukum, principal investigator for the stereoscopic camera.

The camera was especially designed to provide this information and, after years of data processing, the first comprehensive 3D images are wowing researchers.