Stephen Hawking

Stephen Hawking (1942-2018) made significant contributions to theoretical physics and cosmology. His groundbreaking work on black holes led to the formulation of Hawking radiation, a theory suggesting that black holes emit radiation, eventually leading to their evaporation. This theory, published in 1974, revolutionized the understanding of black holes and quantum mechanics. Hawking's 1988 book, "A Brief History of Time," became an international bestseller, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a general audience. He held the position of Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge from 1979 to 2009, a chair that was once held by Sir Isaac Newton. Diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at the age of 21, Hawking defied medical expectations by living for more than five decades with the condition, continuing his research and public engagement throughout.