In a groundbreaking effort to safeguard human's genetic blueprint, scientists are developing innovative ways to store the entire human genome in ultra-durable crystals. The goal is to preserve our DNA for future generations, ensuring that our genetic information can survive for thousands, even millions, of years.
Using crystal-based data storage, researchers can encode massive amounts of information, including the entire human genome, into tiny, indestructible structures. This approach could protect our genetic data from natural disasters, climate change, or technological obsolescence. By combining the resilience of crystals, scientists are creating a "time capsule" of human life that could be accessed by future generations, no matter what happens to our civilization.
The 360 terabyte data crystal will remain stable at room temperature for 300 quintillion years—a lifespan that only drops down to 13.8 billion years (i.e., the universe’s current age) if heated to 374 degrees Fahrenheit. Throw in the ability to survive both higher and lower temperatures, direct impact forces up to 10 tons per square centimeter, as well as lengthy exposure to cosmic radiation, and it’s easy to see how it is still the Guinness World Record holder for the most durable digital storage medium.
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