Professor Stephen Hawking dies aged 76
Cambridge reacts to the passing of one of its greatest minds
Cambridge is waking up to the very sad news that Professor Stephen Hawking – the unique scientist who made the universe make sense to millions of people our planet – has died at the age of 76.
He died peacefully here at his home in the early hours of this morning.
For over 50 years, Professor Hawking was a Fellow at Gonville and Caius, where the flag is flying at half mast and a book of condolence will be opened in the Porters’ Lodge for all those who wish to pay tribute.
He studied for his PhD at Trinity Hall before going on to make groundbreaking discoveries about black holes and relativity, as well as writing accessible science books such as A Brief History of Time.
Professor Stephen Toope, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, has paid tribute to the luminary academic: “Professor Hawking was a unique individual who will be remembered with warmth and affection not only in Cambridge but all over the world.
“His exceptional contributions to scientific knowledge and the popularisation of science and mathematics have left an indelible legacy. His character was an inspiration to millions. He will be much missed.”
Cambridge University have released this video tribute on Facebook.
Daniel Zeichner, the Cambridge MP, has added his personal condolences to warm words from around the world: “I am very sorry to hear that the world and Cambridge has lost the wonderful Stephen Hawking – an inspirational scientist, with a powerful social conscience.”
The wise, witty astrophysicist would dispute this, but he was a star.