Stephen Hawking Photo: Supplied
Scientist and author Stephen Hawking has died aged 76.
His family confirmed that he had died peacefully at his home in Cambridge in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
His children Lucy, Robert and Tim issued a statement.
"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. His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world. He once said, 'It would not be much of a universe if it wasn't' home to the people you love'. We will miss him forever."