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Nobel Prize Winner Professor Brian R. Schmidt Inspires SHS & SHSID Students with Cosmic Insights

October 17, 2025

On the morning of October 16, 2025, Shanghai High School welcomed Professor Brian R. Schmidt, the Nobel Laureate in Physics and the 12th Vice-Chancellor and President of the Australian National University. He shared the 2011 Nobel Prize in Physics with Saul Perlmutter and Adam Riess for their discovery of the accelerating expansion of the universe through observations of distant supernovae.





Principal Feng Zhigang, Head of Shanghai High School, together with Deputy Party Secretary Fan Xinqiang and other school leaders, extended a warm welcome to Professor Schmidt and his delegation. During the visit, the two sides exchanged commemorative gifts, with Professor Schmidt presenting a special item from the Australian National University, personally inscribed by him, to commemorate Shanghai High School’s 160th anniversary.





In the Zhentao Lecture Hall, Professor Schmidt delivered a captivating lecture to over 150 teachers and students from both the local and international divisions. The session was hosted by Ma Feng, Principal of SHSID High School. The hall was filled to capacity, and the atmosphere was vibrant. An engaging lecuture about the universe's mysteries took place, attracting many astronomy enthusiasts on a scientific journey beyond age and borders.




Professor Schmidt started by asking, “Why do we look up at the stars?” He led students through important milestones in astrophysics—Hubble’s Law, the Big Bang, dark matter, and dark energy—using impressive visuals and research cases to show how scientific discoveries challenge our view of the cosmos. Drawing parallels with everyday technology like smartphones, he highlighted how curiosity fuels innovation.He mentioned that astronomy is entering a new phase, driven by advances in gravitational wave detection, exoplanet exploration, and black hole imaging.






In the Q&A session, students posed thoughtful questions on the fate of the universe, the nature of dark energy, and scientific inquiry, leaving a strong impression on Professor Schmidt.


“Listening to a Nobel laureate up close was absolutely awe-inspiring!”


“Professor Schmidt not only demonstrated the rigor of science, but also conveyed the poetry and passion inherent in exploring the universe.”


“This is the very scientist whose name appeared in my physics textbook—now actually standing at our school’s podium.”


——Thrilled words from SHSID student audience










During their visit to SHSID, Professor Schmidt and his delegation toured the school’s historic Longmen Building, the School History Museum, and the innovation laboratories. He spoke highly of the school’s educational achievements and academic atmosphere.




Following the "Starry Starry Night: ANU Southern Hemisphere Astronomy Exhibition" held in November 2024 at the Shanghai High School Art Gallery, this event marks another profound collaboration between Shanghai High School and the Australian National University (ANU). The visit of Professor Schmidt was more than a feast of knowledge—it was a celebration of the spirit of science. Professor Schmidt encouraged students to stay curious and fearless in asking questions, inspiring them to explore the frontiers of astronomy and physics. Shanghai High School International Division will continue bringing in top-tier academic resources and creating opportunities for students to engage with world-class scientists, fueling their passion for discovery.


(Written by Wang Yan　Pictures by Yang Jiawei, Tang Yinjun, Wang Tongyan  Reviewed by Gu Ying, Shen Chenli)