Stephen Hawking was a British scientist considered to be one of the most prominent scientific minds of our time. His contribution is mostly recognized in the field of theoretical physics and cosmology.
Early life
Stephen Hawking was born on January 8th, 1942 to Frank Hawking and Isobel Hawking. He was one of four siblings, having two sisters and an adopted brother. Although the family lived in London, the beginning of WWII urged them to move to Oxford in search of a safe place for life. During the fifties, the family moved to St Albans in Hertfordshire where Frank Hawking became a head of parasitology division at National Institute for Medical Research.
Education
Stephen Hawking began his education at St Albans School for Girls, but switched to St Albans School at the age of eleven. Under the pressure of his father, Stephen Hawking attended the University College at Oxford where he earned his B.A. Following his attendance at Oxford, Hawking left for graduate work at Trinity Hall in Cambridge.
Achievements
During his graduate work, Stephen Hawking focused his attention to known theories regarding the creation of the universe. It was the joint work with his colleague Robert Penrose that brought them both the Adams award in 1966. In their research, Hawking and Penrose calculated that with respect to the general theory of relativity and models of physical cosmology, universe began as a singularity. Growing ever popular in scientific community, Hawking began his work related to black holes mechanics. In 1974 he calculated that black holes emit a certain type of radiation before they evaporate. Such radiation is known today as Hawking radiation.
Later life
Stephen Hawking remains one of the most respected authorities in today’s physics community. He continues his work in relation with today’s brightest scientists and researchers. Stephen Hawking was awarded many awards during his career, one of them being the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He also has a number of scientific research centers and university houses named after him.
He passed away on 14 March 2018 aged 76, his ashes were interred in the nave at Westminster Abbey alongside other famous British scientists such as Isaac Newton.
Stephen Hawking quotes
“Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.”
“My goal is simple. It is a complete understanding of the universe, why it is as it is and why it exists at all.”
“God not only plays dice, He also sometimes throws the dice where they cannot be seen.”
“People won’t have time for you if you are always angry or complaining.”