EVE Online Illuminate Deep Space in Tribute to Stephen Hawking

Stephen Hawking was an extremely influential man in science fiction. His work with astrophysics and cosmology helped us understand scientific concepts like relativity and black holes. When the legendary scientist passed away recently, the EVE Online community banded together to light the endless space in tribute.

This was done through the use of cynosural beacons. These orbs are used to open jump bridges that ships can use as a warp destination, but they also emit a powerful light. Usually, the sight of a cynosural beacon is the reason for fear, as an impending assault follows. But today, they're being used to pay homage to Hawking and his achievements.

One player has even traveled to the system of Molea, the location of EVE's own player-run graveyard, where they plan on leaving a memorial for him.

Pilots are lighting beacons all across New Eden, with many staying lit for hours at a time. The game restricts the use of cynosural beacons to null-sec and low-sec areas of space, where the NPC police don't travel. By these means, it's usually a dangerous place to be found in. Though momentarily, it is now a place of peace.

If you're an avid EVE Online player, now's you're chance to see the rare sight. Perhaps you can even participate in the tribute.