Systems and methods for protecting a flight recorder are provided. In certain embodiments, a crash survivable memory unit, comprises a memory device that records flight data; a flexible insulation layer that inhibits thermal energy from conducting from an external side of the flexible insulation layer to an internal side of the flexible insulation layer, wherein the internal side faces the memory device; a microlattice layer abutting the internal side and enclosing the memory device, the microlattice layer configured to distribute thermal energy that passes through the flexible insulation layer substantially throughout the microlattice layer; and a heat absorbing material that impregnates the microlattice layer, the heat absorbing material configured to absorb the thermal energy in the microlattice layer; and an impact resistant layer encircling the flexible insulation layer, wherein the impact resistant layer absorbs shocks that result from other objects contacting the impact resistant layer.