Orpington Astronomical Society

Astronomy => In the Media... => Topic started by: Rick on Apr 14, 2008, 16:59:12

Title: Scientist who named the black hole dies aged 96
Post by: Rick on Apr 14, 2008, 16:59:12
Legendary American physicist John Wheeler, who coined the term "black hole", helped build the first generations of US atomic bombs, and worked with some of the most fabled names in 20th century physics, has died. The famous professor passed away from pnuemonia at his home in New Jersey, aged 96.

Wheeler was described by Max Tegmark of MIT, speaking to the New York Times, as having been "the last Titan, the only physics superhero still standing". As a young man, having gained his PhD in Physics at the age of 21, Wheeler argued with Einstein and collaborated with Niels Bohr on quantum theory.

More: http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/04/14/wheeler_physicist_obituary/

More: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7347761.stm