Connect with us

Technology

Exclusive: Christopher Nolan and Kip Thorne Speak to Starmus – A Visionary Journey Through Science and Cinema

Published

on

Christopher Nolan and Sir David Attenborough have recently received the prestigious Hawking Medal for Science Communication, an honor established in 2015 by the Starmus Festival and Stephen Hawking. The award has been given to figures ranging from Jane Goodall and Brian May to Buzz Aldrin and Elon Musk.

SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, Spain, March 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan was awarded the prestigious Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication at the seventh edition of the Starmus Festival, sharing the honor with legendary naturalist Sir David Attenborough, artist Laurie Anderson and oceanologist Sylvie Earle. This accolade, established in 2015 by Starmus Festival and the late Professor Stephen Hawking, celebrates individuals who bridge the gap between science and the public through exceptional contributions to communication and education.

 

The Hawking Medal has previously been awarded to an impressive array of figures from diverse fields, including Jane Goodall, Hans Zimmer, Brian Eno, the sitcom The Big Bang Theory, and Neil deGrasse Tyson, each recognized for inspiring global audiences to engage with scientific and technological advancements. This year, Nolan’s extraordinary ability to merge science with cinematic storytelling through films like Interstellar, Oppenheimer, Inception, and The Prestige, has earned him this distinguished recognition.

Celebrating a Milestone: 10 Years of Interstellar

It’s just been the.10th anniversary of Interstellar, a film that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide for its groundbreaking portrayal of space exploration, science, and humanity’s drive to overcome impossible odds. Starmus is proud to celebrate this milestone by honoring Christopher Nolan’s visionary work and its lasting influence on both science and cinema.

The Starmus Connection: Interstellar and the Hawking Medal

Starmus, a unique festival where science and art converge, has long celebrated Interstellar as a cinematic masterpiece that brought astrophysics and the mysteries of space into the cultural mainstream. Released in 2014, the film is hailed for its commitment to scientific accuracy and emotional depth, brought to life through collaboration with physicist Kip Thorne, whose research on black holes and wormholes shaped the film’s narrative.

The film’s powerful storytelling and groundbreaking score by Hans Zimmer also made history at Starmus. Zimmer received the Hawking Medal in 2016, making Interstellar the only film to see both its director and composer honored for their contributions to science communication. This dual recognition underscores the film’s significance as a bridge between the scientific community and popular culture.

In addition to its impact on audiences worldwide, Interstellar holds a special place in Starmus history. Hans Zimmer, who composed the film’s iconic score, performed Interstellar live at the festival on two remarkable occasions:

2016: As part of a tribute to Stephen Hawking, Zimmer’s performance included inspiring lectures by Nobel laureate physicist Kip Thorne, visual effects supervisor Paul Franklin, and physicist Oliver James from DNEG, sharing insights into the groundbreaking science and visuals of the film. Zimmer was joined by legendary guitarist and astrophysicist Brian May on stage to pay tribute to Stephen Hawking, blending music and science in an unforgettable performance.2019: During the festival’s celebration of the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11, Zimmer once again performed the Interstellar score, accompanied by lectures from the same esteemed team, highlighting the enduring relevance of the film to space exploration and scientific discovery.

A Cinematic Legacy Rooted in Science and Art

Christopher Nolan openly cites Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey, based on Arthur C. Clarke’s visionary book, as a profound influence on Interstellar. Kubrick’s groundbreaking work was informed by Clarke’s deep understanding of space exploration and humanity’s future, creating a film that remains a cornerstone of cinematic and scientific dialogue.

Adding authenticity to his film, Kubrick utilized the actual breathing sounds of Alexei Leonov, the first human to perform a spacewalk. This meticulous detail lent a sense of realism and connection to the space age, demonstrating Kubrick’s commitment to science-driven storytelling. Leonov’s contributions extended far beyond cinema; he also created the sketch of Stephen Hawking that inspired the design of the Hawking Medal, bridging the worlds of art, science, and human achievement. 

The Birth of Starmus

Arthur C. Clarke, a pivotal figure in both science and literature, was instrumental in the genesis of Starmus. His conversations with Starmus founder Dr. Garik Israelian in 2001 and 2002 inspired the project, then known as “The Music of the Stars,” which evolved into the Starmus Festival in collaboration with Dr. Brian May. Many years later Brian Eno composed a track using the same Starsounds library. Clarke’s support of this initiative underscored his lifelong passion for connecting science and the arts, laying the foundation for what has become one of the world’s most unique science festivals.

Extending Kubrick’s Vision

Nolan, through Interstellar, carried forward the legacy of Kubrick’s work by collaborating with Kip Thorne, who extended the concept of the monolith from 2001 into scientifically grounded depictions of wormholes and black holes. Similarly, Hans Zimmer, who composed the film’s iconic score, ensured his music stood alongside the monumental works of Johann Strauss, György Ligeti, and Aram Khachaturian, whose compositions shaped the auditory experience of 2001: A Space Odyssey.

A Tribute to Interstellar

In honor of Interstellar’s profound impact and its enduring legacy within Starmus, the festival is releasing a special tribute video (LINK). This exclusive video will feature unique and never-before-seen footage from the 2016 and 2019 performances, including Hans Zimmer’s live renditions of the film’s score, and highlights from lectures by Kip Thorne, Paul Franklin, and Oliver James. The tribute will be a celebration of the film’s ability to inspire audiences to explore the mysteries of the cosmos and the intersection of science and art.

Honoring Science Through Art

Dr. Garik Israelian, founder of Starmus and researcher at the Institute of Astrophysics of Canary Islands (Spain), emphasized the festival’s mission to bring science closer to society:”Christopher Nolan has demonstrated that cinema can be more than entertainment; it can be a powerful tool for education and inspiration. With Interstellar, he brought the wonders of astrophysics to millions, fostering a deeper understanding of our universe.”

Continuing the Legacy

The 2024 awards ceremony celebrates the legacy of Stephen Hawking, who believed deeply in the power of storytelling to make science accessible. Nolan’s work resonates with this vision, inspiring new generations to look to the stars and dream of the impossible.

For more information about the Hawking Medal and the Starmus Festival, visit www.starmus.com.

Linked Videos:

Tribute Video: STARMUS x Interstellar hereInterview Video: Christopher Nolan & STARMUS Co-founder Dr. Garik Israelian (sharing his thoughts after receiving the prestigious Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication) here

About STARMUS 

Created by Garik Israelian PhD, astrophysicist at the Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands (IAC) and Sir Brian May PhD, astrophysicist and the lead guitarist of the iconic rock band Queen, Starmus is a festival of science, art and music that features presentations from astronauts, cosmonauts, Nobel Prize winners and prominent figures from various scientific disciplines and musical backgrounds. Starmus brings together Nobel laureates, eminent researchers, astronauts, thinkers and artists to share their knowledge and experiences, as we search for answers to the great questions of our time. 

The STARMUS Advisory Board members are: Jane Goodall, Brian May (co-founder), Garik Israelian (Director and co-founder), Peter Gabriel, Emmanuelle Charpentier, Richard Dawkins, Chris Hadfield, Jill Tarter, Steven Chu, and David Eicher.

Home of the Stephen Hawking Medal 

Stephen Hawking and Alexei Leonov, together with Brian May and Garik Israelian, worked to create the Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication in 2015, which is awarded to individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to science communication. Previous Stephen Hawking Medal winners include Dr. Jane Goodall DBE, David Attenborough, Christopher Nolan, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Jean-Michel Jarre, Brian May, Laurie Anderson, and the Apollo 11 documentary. 

For more information visit Starmus.com   

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKpe-jBecDg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2649768/Starmus_Omega_Presentation.jpg
Logo –  https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2649772/STARMUS_Logo.jpg

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/exclusive-christopher-nolan-and-kip-thorne-speak-to-starmus–a-visionary-journey-through-science-and-cinema-302410883.html

SOURCE STARMUS Festival

Continue Reading

Technology

ENROAD Aims to Redefine the Roof Box with Smart Technology and Automotive-Inspired Design at SEMA 2026

Published

on

By

LAS VEGAS, Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ENROAD, a premium automotive travel lifestyle brand, will showcase its award-winning Nomadix Pro Smart Roof Box at SEMA Show 2026, at Booth 59033 in the West Hall with Diamond Lot, from November 3rd to 6th.

Recognized with the German Red Dot Design Award, Nomadix Pro reimagines the traditional roof box with fingerprint unlocking, solar-powered operation, and ENROAD’s Trispark energy system. Combining intelligent convenience with sleek, automotive-inspired design, it transforms roof storage from a simple cargo solution into a smarter companion for every journey.

ENROAD’s debut at SEMA Show marks an important step in bringing its vision of Smart Automotive Travel to the global automotive aftermarket and outdoor recreation communities, where innovation, personalization, and adventure meet.

Automotive-Inspired Design, Refined for Every Journey

A roof box should do more than add cargo space—it should complement the vehicle it sits on. The Nomadix Pro combines a streamlined silhouette and a clean, contemporary profile with distinctive integrated rear lighting, creating a more recognizable look that brings automotive-inspired design to a traditionally utilitarian accessory.

The Nomadix Pro received the 2025 Red Dot Design Award, recognizing its design, and represents three years of product development supported by more than 10 proprietary patents.

Smart Access, Without the Extra Steps

One of the Nomadix Pro’s standout features is its fingerprint-based unlocking system, offering an alternative to carrying and using a traditional key. A mechanical backup key provides another access option when needed.

ENROAD has also rethought the details that affect everyday use. Its ClickHold™ mounting system replaces conventional bulky knobs with a rack-and-cam lever mechanism, designed to simplify installation while preserving usable interior space.

The RailTie™ fastening system, featuring adjustable aluminum rails and zinc-alloy buckles, helps secure belongings during travel. A front-mounted secondary lock provides an additional measure to help keep the lid closed at speed, while four-bar hinges allow the box to open from either side of the vehicle.

Together, these features are designed to make installation, loading and accessing gear more straightforward.

Lighting That Works Beyond the Drive

Inside the Nomadix Pro, motion-sensing is equipped, with dual sensing for light and human body, that means less fumbling around when looking for a bag, jacket or piece of camping equipment after dark. The exterior rear lighting adds a distinctive visual details and safety while driving.

Nomadix Pro also incorporates ENROAD’s Trispark solar-powered energy system, which combines solar charging, portable power and campsite illumination in one integrated solution.

Trispark features a 24,000mAh battery, fast-charging capability and adjustable lighting modes, bringing additional utility to time spent outdoors.

From its exterior lighting to its interior illumination and portable power options, ENROAD is exploring ways to make the roof box a more considered part of the automotive travel.

Built Around Real-World Use

The Nomadix Pro has undergone 24 reliability tests covering scenarios including emergency maneuvers, lane changes, rough roads, prolonged vibration, extreme cold and repeated opening and closing cycles.

Its interior features molded felt lining to help protect stored equipment, while its mounting, fastening and locking systems address the practical demands of carrying gear on the road.

These details reflect ENROAD’s focus on combining a modern look with features that serve a clear purpose.

A First Look at What’s Next

SEMA 2026 will also offer an early look at ENROAD’s upcoming smart roof box. The new version will expand the ENROAD lineup, bringing its focus on contemporary design, practical storage and user-friendly features to a broader range of customers.

Visit ENROAD at SEMA 2026

Dates: November 3–6, 2026
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center
Booth: West Hall with Diamond Lot — 59033
Website: ENROAD – Easy to Go, Easy to Feel.

About ENROAD

Established in 2024 as a lifestyle brand under PGYTECH, ENROAD specializes in innovative automotive travel solutions. Its Nomadix Pro Smart Roof Box, developed over three years with 10+ proprietary patents, won the 2025 Red Dot Design Award, combining smart convenience, functional design, and green technology.

Backed by PGYTECH’s 10+ years of product innovation, ENROAD brings this expertise to the automotive travel lifestyle mobility space,  redefining the automotive travel experience.

For more information, visit ENROAD – Easy to Go, Easy to Feel.

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/enroad-aims-to-redefine-the-roof-box-with-smart-technology-and-automotive-inspired-design-at-sema-2026-302918920.html

SOURCE ENROAD

Continue Reading

Technology

Hisense Celebrates 100 Years of Television and Marks the Origin of RGB MiniLED

Published

on

By

LONDON, Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In 1926, John Logie Baird first demonstrated his pioneering television system at 22 Frith Street, London. A century later, Hisense, a leading global brand in consumer electronics and home appliances, returned to this historic site on 24–25 October to celebrate the centenary of television under the theme “Celebrating 100 Years of Television. Hisense, the Origin of RGB MiniLED.” At Outernet London’s The Now Building, near 22 Frith Street, an immersive big-screen experience brought a century of television history to life and showcased Hisense’s latest RGB technology.

A century of television innovation has transformed how people experience entertainment. Now, with RGB MiniLED, which represents the new origin of display innovation, Hisense aims to mark the next milestone in this ongoing journey. By connecting the origin of television with RGB MiniLED, Hisense launched a campaign at 22 Frith Street and Outernet London’s The Now Building. This celebration was not only a tribute to the past, but also a statement about the future of home entertainment, highlighting Hisense RGB MiniLED’s role in the next chapter of television. Martin Wilkie, Director at World Origin Sites, also praised what Hisense has contributed, ‘What Hisense has done is take television to the next stage — and the quality shows.’

Taking place on 24-25 October, Hisense’s “London Walk through TV History” connected five stops, inviting the public to follow the campaign map, enjoy a coffee, discover London’s rich television heritage and experience the latest in display technology along the way.

The main venue was Bar Italia at 22 Frith Street, Soho, a landmark site where Baird gave his first public demonstration of television in 1926. Here, visitors could enjoy a complimentary coffee while soaking up London’s television history and collecting limited-edition souvenirs and vouchers by participating in any one activity including a photo check-in, a Q&A quiz, or social media sharing.

Notably, on the afternoon of 25 October, Iain Logie Baird, grandson of television pioneer John Logie Baird, joined the celebrations at Bar Italia to mark this special milestone and honour the legacy of television. His presence lent historical weight to the event, which is a symbolic recognition of the continuity from his grandfather’s pioneering work to Hisense’s RGB MiniLED, the next step in television evolution. Hisense is doing something similar to my grandfather: taking something that had been exclusively in the laboratory and putting it into a product the public can buy and enjoy, said Iain Logie Baird.

As part of the trail, visitors were guided to The Now Building at Outernet London, Europe’s largest immersive digital experience space, featuring a 360-degree environment with ultra-high-definition LED screens. They could explore a museum-style exhibition celebrating 100 years of television history and experience Hisense’s latest RGB technology up close.

Bringing this immersive experience to life, Hisense’s latest RGB MiniLED technology marks the new milestone in display innovation. Exemplified by its flagship 116UXS TV, the technology delivers richer, more accurate colours, exceptional brightness and contrast, and lifelike picture quality, revealing a new level of realism to the viewing experience.

Visitors could also continue along the trail to the participating retail stores. These stores offer opportunities to explore Hisense RGB MiniLED products or enjoy exclusive vouchers, as detailed below:

John Lewis & Partners, Oxford Street:  Get hands-on with Hisense RGB MiniLED TVs.Selfridges, Oxford Street & Harrods, Brompton Road: Experience Hisense RGB MiniLED TVs and enjoy an exclusive 20% discount on eligible Hisense RGB MiniLED and MicroLED TVs when redeeming the voucher in store.

*Valid until 8 November 2026.

Arun Bhatoye, Head of Marketing for Hisense UK, said: “The UK’s rich heritage of broadcasting innovation makes it a particularly meaningful place to celebrate 100 years of television. As the origin of RGB MiniLED, Hisense is proud to help shape the future of display technology, pushing the boundaries of colour, brightness and contrast to deliver more lifelike visuals and enhanced viewing comfort. We’re excited to be part of the next chapter in television history and to bring these innovations to consumers around the world.”

About Hisense

Hisense, founded in 1969, is a globally recognized leader in home appliances and consumer electronics with operations in over 180 countries, specializing in delivering high-quality multimedia products, home appliances, and intelligent IT solutions. According to Omdia, Hisense ranks No. 1 globally in the 100-inch and over TV segment (2023-2026H1). As The Origin of RGB MiniLED, Hisense continues to lead the next-generation RGB MiniLED innovation. As an Official Partner of UEFA EURO 2028, Hisense continues its legacy of global sports partnerships, bringing people closer to the moments that unite fans around the world.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hisense-celebrates-100-years-of-television-and-marks-the-origin-of-rgb-miniled-302919518.html

Continue Reading

Technology

ELEMENTL POWER, DS INVESTMENT PARTNERS AND SAMSUNG C&T TO ADVANCE NEW U.S. NUCLEAR DEVELOPMENT

Published

on

By

Proposed partnership of up to $750 million would help fund development of multiple Elementl nuclear projects

WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Elementl Power, a nuclear project delivery and capital management platform, has signed a preliminary agreement to form and fund a development partnership of up to $750 million with a consortium led by South Korean investment firm DS Investment Partners (DSIP). Samsung C&T Engineering & Construction Group, which has delivered energy projects including nuclear worldwide, is participating in the consortium as a potential strategic investor. 

The consortium would fund a portion of the proposed partnership’s projected capital and hold a significant minority interest in the partnership. The agreement consists of a letter of intent and term sheet setting out the proposed terms of the partnership and allows for participation from additional strategic and financial investors.

The proposed nuclear development partnership is intended to provide a portion of the capital necessary for up to three of Elementl’s advanced nuclear projects to achieve final investment decision (FID), supporting pre-construction activities, including permitting, interconnection and long-lead item procurement. One of the three projects is Elementl’s 1.5 gigawatt project under development in Ohio, which will use GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy’s BWRX-300 small modular reactors.  

The planned partnership would advance Elementl’s full-lifecycle development strategy and demonstrate the company’s model of matching top-tier development capital with high-quality, pre-FID advanced nuclear projects. Elementl has engaged Macquarie Capital as financial advisor to evaluate bringing additional strategic and financial investors into the partnership.

“Elementl’s partnership with DS Investment Partners and its consortium would advance our full-lifecycle development strategy and represents a first-of-its-kind capital formation model for U.S. nuclear focused purely on developing multiple utility-scale projects,” said Elementl Chairman and CEO Chris Colbert. “Once finalized, this partnership would expand our early-stage project capital, increase our access to South Korea’s nuclear supply chain and engineering expertise and enhance our position as the financial and development partner best equipped to deliver new nuclear.”

“This proposed partnership would bring together financial and industrial expertise with proven experience in the nuclear sector to support the next generation of American nuclear projects,” said DS Investment Partners CEO Seung Soo Kang. “We believe new nuclear is essential to meeting rising energy demand, and we are proud to partner with Elementl and Samsung C&T in building a strong foundation to advance these power projects.”

“This collaboration represents a unique opportunity to establish a private capital model that accelerates the path to delivery for commercial U.S. nuclear projects, and we are pleased to bring our nuclear construction experience and support to this effort with Elementl and DS Investment Partners,” said Samsung C&T Senior Vice President Jung Kim.

The proposed partnership does not constitute a final investment decision on any project. The agreement remains subject to definitive documentation, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

Elementl is backed by leading energy and infrastructure investors, including Energy Impact Partners, accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., Prelude Ventures, Breakwater North and Alumni Ventures.

About Elementl Power
Elementl Power is America’s Nuclear Prime, leading the delivery and capital management of new nuclear plants. Elementl’s platform combines expertise in energy finance, project execution, regulatory strategy, and nuclear operations with a technology-agnostic approach to drive the full lifecycle of plant development, from site selection and financing through licensing, construction and commercial operation. For more information, please visit elementlpower.io or follow us on LinkedIn.

About DS Investment Partners (DSIP)
DS Investment Partners (DSIP) is an investment firm focused on energy, technology, healthcare and strategic infrastructure, and is part of a Seoul-based financial group. Working alongside technology providers, industrial partners, and institutional investors across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and North America, DSIP seeks to support investments that enhance security, reliability and long-term sustainability while creating value for stakeholders.

About Samsung C&T Corporation
Samsung C&T’s Engineering & Construction Group has more than 40 years of engineering and construction experience operating throughout the world. The group spans commercial and residential buildings, civil infrastructure and plant construction. Its landmark projects include Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, the Riyadh Metro Project in Saudi Arabia, the Qurayyah 4,000MW CCPP Project, and the ongoing Qatar 2,000MW Solar Power Project. In the nuclear energy sector, the company has successfully delivered 12GW across 10 units, including the 5.6GW Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the UAE. It has recently undertaken the Nuclear Power Plant refurbishment project and Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), demonstrating its global competitiveness in large-scale reactor and SMR technologies, and solidifying its expertise across all areas of the nuclear industry.

CONTACT:

Timothy Wirth

Elementl Power Communications

(484)886-5705

tim@elementlpower.io

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/elementl-power-ds-investment-partners-and-samsung-ct-to-advance-new-us-nuclear-development-302919526.html

SOURCE Elementl Power Inc.

Continue Reading

Trending