<br /> <p>The University of Cambridge paid tribute to Stephen Hawking in a video released after his death on Wednesday, March 14, describing him as one of the world’s most brilliant minds</a>.</p><p>Famous for his contribution to physics, and his work popularizing science, Hawking died</a> at his home in the early hours on Wednesday. He was 76.</p><p>A statement released by his children said</a>: “We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today. He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years.”</p><p>The college flag at Gonville & Caius, where Hawking was a fellow for more than 50 years, flew at half-mast on Wednesday.</p><p>Hawking completed extensive work</a> in the field of cosmology. He was diagnosed with motor neurone disease at the age of 21, and defied medical expectations of an early death.</p><p>The Motor Neurone Disease Association reported</a> an influx of donations on the morning of Hawking’s death.</p><p>British Prime Minister Theresa May described</a> him as “brilliant and extraordinary” and said that his “courage, humour [and] determination to get the most from life was an inspiration”.</p><p>NASA also paid tribute</a> to Hawking, describing him as “a renowned physicist and ambassador of science.” Credit: University of Cambridge via Storyful</p><br />
