About Us: The Michigan Bicentennial Archive (M-BARC)

Welcome to the Michigan Bicentennial Archive (M-BARC), a groundbreaking initiative that combines innovation, history, and the enduring spirit of the University of Michigan. As a multidisciplinary venture led by some of the brightest minds across our university, M-BARC is dedicated to celebrating the University of Michigan’s 200th anniversary in a way that transcends time and space.

At its core, M-BARC is about preserving and sharing stories—the narratives of students, faculty, and alumni who have shaped and been shaped by the University of Michigan. We are designing, creating, and launching the first-ever space time capsule, an ambitious project that will orbit the Earth for the next 100 years. This capsule will carry 1,000 unique interviews etched onto durable silicon wafers, ensuring that the voices of today will echo for generations to come.

Our Mission

M-BARC seeks to commemorate the University of Michigan’s rich legacy while inspiring future generations to connect with the shared experiences of Wolverines worldwide. By placing this archive into orbit, we are creating a bridge between the past, present, and future—a beacon of our university’s pursuit of knowledge, innovation, and impact.

Our Vision

Through the space time capsule, we aim to:

• Preserve a diverse tapestry of voices, capturing the triumphs, challenges, and dreams of the Michigan community.
• Showcase the university’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration by uniting engineering, storytelling, and archival science.
• Serve as a symbol of hope and inspiration for the next century, reminding the world of the enduring power of education and exploration.

What Makes Us Unique?

M-BARC is not just an archive—it’s a historical milestone. By employing cutting-edge technology and innovative preservation techniques, we are ensuring that the stories of our community are safeguarded against the test of time. The silicon wafers, selected for their durability, represent a fusion of art and science, preserving our voices in a form designed to withstand the harsh conditions of space.

Who We Are

M-BARC is a collaborative project that brings together students, faculty, and alumni from various disciplines, including engineering, history, communication, and design. With the support of the University of Michigan community, we aim to make this project a testament to the university’s spirit of excellence and creativity.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare for launch, we invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey. Whether you’re a current student, a proud alumnus, or simply someone inspired by the possibilities of human achievement, we encourage you to follow along and be part of history in the making.

Explore. Celebrate. Orbit.
The Michigan Bicentennial Archive is more than a project—it’s a legacy. Together, we are sending the stories of today into the universe, ensuring that the Wolverine spirit will shine brightly for centuries to come.