What is the asteroid named after Stephen Hawking?

The asteroid named after Stephen Hawking is 7672 Hawking. It is a minor planet orbiting the Sun and was named to honor the English theoretical physicist, cosmologist and author.

The object was originally discovered as 1995 UO2 on 24 October 1995 by Canadian astronomer Duncan Waldron at the Klet Observatory in the Czech Republic. After receiving its permanent number and name, it became 7672 Hawking. Like most numbered asteroids, it is commonly written with the number first followed by the name; parentheses may also appear in formal astronomical notation as (7672) Hawking.

The asteroid is one of several things named for Hawking. Other examples include buildings, academic fellowships and a science-communication medal. Its name should not be confused with Hawking radiation, which is the theoretical prediction that black holes can emit thermal radiation. Nor is 7672 Hawking a moon or a spacecraft: it is a small Solar System body, generally classified as a minor planet.