World-renowned physicist Stephen Hawking has died aged 76.

He died peacefully at his home in Cambridge in the early hours of the morning.

In 1963, Professor Hawking contracted motor neurone disease and was given two years to live.

He was regarded as one of the most brilliant theoretical physicists since Albert Einstein.

His children Lucy, Robert and Tim have released the following 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.”

Ross Greenwood speaks with Australian National University Cosmologist, Doctor Brad Tucker who says Hawking pushed people to challenge themselves and the unknown.

“He made great discoveries which then, in turn, challenged us to think more broadly.”

“Stephen Hawking has overcome everything and done more in every parameter of space than you can even imagine.

“He did it with gusto and he did it with a true heart of not only improving himself but improving humanity and challenging us along the way to make us better ultimately.”

Listen to Dr Tucker’s tribute in full below