On March 14, 2018, the world lost a great mind. Stephen Hawking, an English theoretical physicist, passed away at the age of 76.

In 1963 Hawking was given only two years to live after being diagnosed with ALS. This disease cost him the function of his whole body except for voluntary eye movements, but his mental capabilities were not affected.

One of the best minds of his time, Hawking leaves behind research that catapulted science into new discoveries, theories, and ideas. Here are a few things you may not have known about this amazing mind:

1. He was on the rowing team at Oxford University.

Hawking joined the rowing team his first year at school because he felt lonely. Although he was not in a position of actually rowing, he played the major role of directing. He had to quit when he was diagnosed with ALS.

2. He experienced zero-gravity with the help of scientists.

Thanks to the people at Zero Gravity Corp, Hawking was able to be lifted out of his chair and experience zero-gravity for the fun of it.

3. He wrote children's books with his daughter.

Hawking and his daughter, Lucy Hawking, wrote five children's books about a kid named George and his adventure in the universe and his discoveries.

4. He had 13 honorary degrees.

This is, of course, among many other awards.

5. He had the position of Lucasian Professor of Mathematics.

Created in 1663, this position at Cambridge University, this position was held by Issac Newton in 1669.