Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication on Public Understanding of Science

The Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication was initiated in 2016 to recognize and honor individuals from the arts community who have made significant contributions to raising awareness of science. This prestigious annual award aims to bridge the gap between science and the public, celebrating those who effectively communicate complex scientific ideas through various artistic mediums. Recipients of the medal receive a unique award featuring a portrait of the renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, created by the legendary cosmonaut Alexei Leonov. The reverse side of the medal showcases an image of Leonov performing the first-ever spacewalk, symbolizing the spirit of exploration and discovery. Additionally, the medal features an image of the 'Red Special', the iconic guitar of Queen's guitarist and astrophysicist Brian May, further emphasizing the intersection of science and the arts. The inaugural awards were presented at the Starmus Festival, with the first recipients chosen personally by Hawking himself. The distinguished recipients included acclaimed composer Hans Zimmer, physicist Jim Al-Khalili, and the science documentary 'Particle Fever', all of whom have made remarkable contributions to science communication. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #StephenHawkingMedal #ScienceCommunication #StarmusFestival #HansZimmer #JimAl-khalili