Ohio State professor breaks down science behind the 2026 Nobel Prize in Physics

On Oct. 6, the 2026 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to Francis Halzen (University of Wisconsin) “for decisive contributions to the IceCube Neutrino Observatory and the discovery of high-energy neutrinos of astrophysical origin.” 

What’s all this about?

I have known Francis — as an inspiration, mentor and friend — for over 35 years. This is almost as much time as he and hundreds of his collaborators have been working on the science and engineering behind this year’s announcement. I’m delighted to see this recognition for all of them, including some of my Ohio State colleagues. My own research is in theoretical neutrino astrophysics. I am not part of the IceCube Collaboration.