Scientists at the University of Southampton are working on a project that could very well revolutionize modern data memory technology.
They call it the “Superman memory crystal” because of its similarity to “memory crystals” in Superman’s Fortress of Solitude in the Superman films.
Scientists from the university’s Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) have developed a way to use nanostructured glass to record up 360 terabytes of data. The largest hard drive currently on the market holds 10.
Using ultrafast laser pulses, the files are recorded in three layers of nanostructured dots. The nanostructures change the way light travels through glass, modifying polarisation of light that can then be read by combination of optical microscope and a polariser.
The scientists are creating this technology to record major historical documents, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Newton’s Opticks, the Magna Carta and the Kings James Bible, and keep them in a digital form that could outlive the human race should the worst come to pass.
The ORC's Professor Peter Kazansky says, “It is thrilling to think that we have created the technology to preserve documents and information and store it in space for future generations. This technology can secure the last evidence of our civilisation: all we’ve learnt will not be forgotten.”
The “crystal” also boasts thermal stability up to 1,832 degrees Fahrenheit -- which runs hot for molten lava -- and a virtually unlimited lifetime at room temperature.
Below is a short video of the fabrication process from the ORC.