Scientists are developing a heat-resistant memory device that helps run computers on Venus and beyond

Scientists have created a new type of computer memory that can withstand temperatures so high they can melt rock. This breakthrough paves the way for machines that can work in the toughest places on Earth and beyond.

Current storage devices such as solid-state drives (SSDs) cannot withstand extreme temperatures. They usually fail at temperatures around 572 degrees Fahrenheit (300 degrees Celsius). But this new memory, based on a special material called ferroelectric aluminum scandium nitride (AlScN), operated even at staggering temperatures of 600 degrees Celsius.

This opens up exciting possibilities for using computers in places where they were previously insufficient. Imagine sensors and other devices operating flawlessly in nuclear reactors, in deep-sea oil exploration, or even on the scorching surface of Venus!

The key to the resilience of this new memory is its precise design. The material is incredibly thin and is only 45 nanometers – 1,800 times smaller than a human hair! Finding the perfect thickness was key. It is too thin and the material will not drape well. Too thick and it won’t be effective.

Tests have shown that the memory can withstand one million read cycles and remain functional for over six hours – an impressive feat. It paves the way for a new generation of computers that can run almost anywhere.

“From drilling deep into the Earth to space exploration,” say the scientists, “these high-temperature memory devices could revolutionize computing where traditional electronics would fail.” This technology has the potential to push the boundaries of science and exploration.

The future of computing may even include entirely new chip designs. By combining this heat-resistant memory with powerful processors, scientists are predicting a new era of “non-silicon” computing. These machines could be ideal for data-intensive tasks such as artificial intelligence (AI), especially in harsh environments where current silicon-based systems struggle.

This study marks a significant step forward. It offers hope for powerful artificial intelligence processing on distant planets and a new wave of exploration powered by ultra-durable computing technology.