Stephen Hawking biography, married, ex wife, elaine mason, awards, children, disease, net worth

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<h2>Early Life and Family Background</h2>
<p>Stephen Hawking was born on January 8, 1942, in Oxford, United Kingdom, under the zodiac sign of Capricorn. His father, Frank Hawking, was a medical researcher, and his mother, Isobel Hawking, was active in the field of education. He had three siblings: two sisters, Mary and Philippa Hawking, and a brother, Edward Hawking.</p>

<h2>Education and Academic Foundations</h2>
<p>Although the family faced financial challenges, education was highly valued. Both parents attended the University of Oxford. Stephen began his early education at St Albans School and later attended Westminster School. Notably, he briefly attended St Albans High School for Girls, which permitted younger boys at that time due to co-educational rules. He later went on to study at University College, Oxford, where he earned a degree in physics. He completed his postgraduate studies at Trinity Hall, Cambridge, focusing on cosmology.</p>

<h2>Scientific Contributions and Cosmology</h2>
<p>Stephen Hawking made groundbreaking contributions in the field of cosmology and theoretical physics. He developed significant theories on general relativity and quantum mechanics, changing how scientists understand black holes. One of his most famous discoveries was that black holes emit radiation, later termed <strong>Hawking Radiation</strong>.</p>

<p>He also explored the concept of cosmological inflation, proposing that the universe underwent an extremely rapid expansion just after the Big Bang, which then gradually slowed. His work further elevated public interest in topics such as gravitational physics and the origins of the cosmos, and he frequently delivered lectures on these subjects around the world.</p>

<h2>Search for Extraterrestrial Life and Popular Theories</h2>
<p>Beyond academic circles, Hawking actively promoted initiatives aimed at discovering extraterrestrial life, expressing both excitement and caution regarding contact with alien civilizations. He also offered accessible explanations for complex scientific ideas, making science more relatable to the general public.</p>

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<h2>Personal Life and Health Challenges</h2>
<p>While pursuing his <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doctor_of_Philosophy">Ph.D.</a> at Cambridge, Hawking was diagnosed with motor neurone disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Though doctors initially gave him only a few years to live, the disease progressed more slowly than expected. During this period, he became engaged to <a href="/biography/jane-hawking">Jane Wilde</a>. The couple married and later had three children: sons Robert and Timothy Hawking, and a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucy_Hawking">daughter</a>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucy_Hawking">Lucy Hawking</a>.</p>

<p>Hawking and <a href="/biography/jane-hawking">Jane</a> eventually divorced in 1995. That same year, he married Elaine Mason, a nurse who had worked with him. This marriage lasted 11 years before ending in divorce in 2006.</p>

<h2>Technological Adaptations and Advocacy</h2>
<p>As his condition deteriorated, Hawking lost his ability to speak and relied on technology for communication. A speech-generating device was initially installed in his wheelchair, and later, Intel developed a specially designed system that allowed him to communicate through his facial expressions and brain signals. These innovations enabled him to continue his academic work and public outreach effectively.</p>

<p>Throughout his life, Hawking also became an advocate for disability rights and independence for those living with severe physical conditions. His resilience and the support of adaptive technologies set a powerful example worldwide.</p>

<h2>Legacy and Net Worth</h2>
<p>Stephen Hawking passed away in 2018, leaving behind a profound legacy in science and popular culture. Although his exact annual salary is not publicly known, his estimated net worth at the time of his death was over USD 20 million. This wealth reflected not only his academic achievements but also book royalties, lecture appearances, and documentary features.</p>

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