A new technique has been developed by the scientists at the University of Southampton for storing the data over a period of billions of years. The creation seems to reflect the future of data storage. The scientists are revealing this new technique, which is still in quite a beginner’s phase of development, at the Optical Engineering Conference in San Francisco this week. The technique involves recording of data on to small glass disks using lasers and nanostructures. The disk has been named ‘Superman memory crystal’.

Experiments on this 5-dimensional (5D) data storage technology was commenced by the scientists in 2013 after they successfully recorded 300KB of data. With the advancement in technology the researchers have now developed the disk to an extent where it can record up to 360TB of data. Data recording required combining lasers and tiny nanostructures, while optical microscope and a polarizer will be needed to view the recorded data.

Three layers of microscopic dots called nanogratings are formed by lasers during the recording, with each layer separated by five micrometers. Subsequently, for representing different information, the pattern in which dots are arranged is modified. Another captivating feature of this technology, as revealed by the researchers, is that these disks are likely to have an estimated lifespan of up to 13.8 billion years even when stored at a temperature of 374 degrees Fahrenheit.

When the recorded data will be viewed, it will be in a three-dimensional pattern, along with its actual orientation and strength of the light. However, at this early phase, extremely costly lasers have to be used for recording and therefore the scientists are on a quest for partners who can support the commercialization of the technology. Scientists have already recorded Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Magna Carta, the King James Bible and Newton's Opticks. “This technology can secure the last evidence of our civilization. All we've learnt will not be forgotten," said a Southampton professor, Peter Kazansky.