Stephen Hawking Memorial
Stephen Hawking
While studying cosmology at Cambridge, he was diagnosed with ALS (motor neuron disease) at age 21 and given just two years to live. He defied all expectations, living and working for more than 50 years with the progressive disease.
Hawking made revolutionary contributions to our understanding of black holes. He discovered that black holes are not entirely black — they should emit radiation (now called Hawking radiation) and eventually evaporate. This insight connected general relativity with quantum mechanics in a profound new way.
His book "A Brief History of Time" (1988) sold over 25 million copies, bringing the wonders of cosmology to millions worldwide. Despite his physical limitations, he traveled the globe, lectured extensively, experienced zero-gravity flight, and became a beloved cultural icon.
He died on March 14, 2018 — on Pi Day, and Albert Einstein's birthday. His ashes were interred in Westminster Abbey, between the graves of Newton and Darwin. A fitting resting place for a man who taught us to look at the stars.
Hawking proved that the human spirit can transcend any physical limitation. 50+ years with ALS, and he never stopped exp...
His discovery of Hawking radiation bridged general relativity and quantum mechanics. One of the most profound insights o...
Every time I look at the stars, I think of his words: "Look up at the stars and not down at your feet."
His work on black holes fundamentally changed our understanding of the universe. A giant among scientists.
Hawking proved that the human spirit can transcend any physical limitation. 50+ years with ALS, and he never stopped exploring the cosmos.
His discovery of Hawking radiation bridged general relativity and quantum mechanics. One of the most profound insights of modern physics.
Every time I look at the stars, I think of his words: "Look up at the stars and not down at your feet."
His work on black holes fundamentally changed our understanding of the universe. A giant among scientists.
Hawking was proof that the mind is the ultimate frontier. His body failed him, but his intellect soared to the edges of the universe.
"A Brief History of Time" made cosmology accessible to everyone. I read it in high school and it changed my life.
He gave hope to millions with disabilities by showing that nothing can stop a determined human spirit.
Born on Galileo's death anniversary, died on Einstein's birthday. The universe has a sense of poetry.
His sense of humor despite everything was remarkable. He guest-starred on "The Simpsons" and "Star Trek" — a true pop culture icon.
His ashes rest in Westminster Abbey between Newton and Darwin. The trinity of British science.
- 1
Memorial wall is empty
2026-03-18