Human Genome Stored in ‘5D Memory Crystal’ That Could Last Until the End of the Universe


Scientists have stored a copy of the human genome in a nearly indestructible “5D memory crystal,” which could preserve this genetic information for billions of years, potentially until the end of the universe. Developed by researchers at the University of Southampton, the crystal is highly durable, capable of withstanding extreme conditions, and can store up to 360 terabytes of data. While the crystal could theoretically be used to revive humanity in the distant future, some experts are skeptical about its practical use. However, the technology could also help preserve the DNA of endangered species for future restoration.

Scientists have made a groundbreaking achievement by storing a copy of the human genome in a nearly indestructible “5D memory crystal.” This new data storage format, developed by researchers at the University of Southampton, could preserve valuable information for billions of years, potentially surviving until the end of time. The crystal, made from a synthetic material resembling fused quartz, is recognized as the “most durable data storage material” by Guinness World Records.
The crystal, about the size of a coin, could theoretically remain stable at room temperature for 300 quintillion years, far longer than the predicted lifespan of the universe.Even at elevated temperatures reaching 374 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius), it has the potential to endure for 13.8 billion years, which is roughly the age of the universe. The crystal is also capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, immense pressure, and cosmic radiation, making it resilient enough to endure long space journeys and potential environmental catastrophes.
To store data within the crystal, researchers used lasers to encode information onto millions of 20-nanometer-wide nodes within a five-dimensional matrix. This advanced technique allows the crystal to hold an immense amount of data—up to 360 terabytes, far surpassing typical storage devices. In this case, the entire human genome, comprising approximately 3 billion nucleotide letters (A, C, G, and T), was stored in the crystal.
The crystal will be placed in the “Memory of Mankind” collection, deep within the Hallstatt salt mine in Germany, where it could serve as a time capsule for future civilizations. Researchers speculate that, if humanity were to go extinct, an advanced civilization—either evolved from humans or from an alien world—might use the crystal’s information to revive our species. However, some experts, like Thomas Heinis from Imperial College London, are skeptical about the feasibility of such a revival, citing the difficulty of understanding and reading the stored data in the future.
Despite this skepticism, the technology opens up other possibilities, such as preserving the DNA of endangered species for potential restoration in the future. This could provide a safeguard against the loss of biodiversity due to climate change and human activities, ensuring that the genetic blueprint of various species, including humans, is preserved for future generations.

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