The entire Human Genome stored on a ‘5D memory crystal’

Human Genome stored on a ‘5D memory crystal.’  University of Southampton

Scientists at the University of Southampton have stored the entire human genome on a ‘5D memory crystal’—a groundbreaking storage medium capable of lasting billions of years.

This technology could potentially offer a long-term backup for humanity or preserve the genetic information of endangered species for future restoration.

The 5D memory crystal, developed by the university’s Optoelectronics Research Centre, can hold vast amounts of data (up to 360 terabytes) without deteriorating, even in extreme conditions.

It is incredibly durable, and able to survive high heat, impact, and cosmic radiation, making it the most resilient data storage method known.

Memory of Mankind archive in Hallstatt, Austria.  University of Southampton

The team at Southampton, led by Professor Peter Kazansky , uses ultra-fast lasers to inscribe data into nanostructured voids precisely orientated within silica – with feature sizes as small as 20 nanometres.

“We know from the work of others that genetic material of simple organisms can be synthesised and used in an existing cell to create a viable living specimen in a lab,” says Prof Kazansky.

“The 5D memory crystal opens up possibilities for other researchers to build an everlasting repository of genomic information from which complex organisms like plants and animals might be restored should science in the future allow.”

source University of Southampton