Stephen Hawking

A brilliant British physicist, cosmologist, and author who revolutionized our understanding of the universe.

Stephen Hawking (1942-2018) was a brilliant British theoretical physicist, cosmologist, and author who made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the universe. Despite being diagnosed with ALS at the age of 21, which left him almost completely paralyzed, Hawking's mind soared above his physical limitations. His work on black holes revolutionized astrophysics, revealing their radiation emission, known as Hawking radiation. His book "A Brief History of Time" became a global phenomenon, making complex scientific ideas accessible to the general public. Hawking's distinctive synthesized voice and remarkable resilience inspired millions worldwide. His scientific legacy and impact on popular culture continue to inspire generations, fostering curiosity about the mysteries of the cosmos.

Quote

“Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.”Stephen Hawking

Fun Fact

A fascinating fun fact about Stephen Hawking is that he became the first quadriplegic to experience weightlessness in zero gravity. In 2007, he took a parabolic flight aboard a modified Boeing 727 aircraft, known as the "Vomit Comet." During the flight, the aircraft followed a parabolic trajectory, allowing passengers to experience brief periods of weightlessness. This unique experience allowed Hawking to float freely in the cabin, defying the limitations imposed by his physical condition and enjoying the sensation of weightlessness. It was a remarkable and inspiring moment that showcased Hawking's determination to explore and embrace the wonders of the universe.

Inventions and Discoveries

The No-Hair Theorem (1970s)

Hawking contributed to the development of the No-Hair Theorem, which suggests that black holes can be characterized by only a few properties, such as mass, charge, and angular momentum.

Hawking Radiation (1974)

Hawking's discovery revolutionized our understanding of black holes by proposing that they emit radiation due to quantum effects near their event horizon.

The Hartle-Hawking State (1983)

Hawking, along with physicist James Hartle, proposed a theory known as the Hartle-Hawking state or the "no-boundary proposal," which offers a mathematical framework for describing the beginning of the universe.

The No-Hair Theorem (1970s)

Hawking contributed to the development of the No-Hair Theorem, which suggests that black holes can be characterized by only a few properties, such as mass, charge, and angular momentum.

Hawking Radiation (1974)

Hawking's discovery revolutionized our understanding of black holes by proposing that they emit radiation due to quantum effects near their event horizon.

The Hartle-Hawking State (1983)

Awards and Recognitions

Albert Einstein Medal (1978)

Presidential Medal of Freedom (2009)

Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics (2013)

Copley Medal (2006)

Fundamental Physics Prize (2012)