The Looming Shadow of Existential Threats
Astrophysicist Stephen Hawking frequently addressed the existential threats facing humanity. He warned of dangers ranging from global warming to nuclear disasters, often linking them to the rapid pace of technological advancement and the potential risks of artificial intelligence. He posited that the chance of a disaster to Earth, while low in any given year, becomes a near certainty over thousands of years.
Hawking suggested that spreading out into space and colonizing other stars could safeguard the human race from such a disaster. This idea has resonated with figures like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, who similarly advocate for interplanetary travel as a necessary contingency plan.
The Doomsday Clock and Current Risks
In January 2026, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists set its Doomsday Clock to 85 seconds to midnight – the closest it has ever been to signifying global catastrophe. This assessment reflects growing concerns about multiple threats, including nuclear war, climate change, and the misuse of biotechnology and artificial intelligence.
Hawking himself identified climate change as a critical threat, warning of a potential “tipping point” that could lead to Earth’s collapse. Current data indicates global temperatures have risen by 1.41 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels as of December 2025, and are projected to exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius by March 2029.
He also expressed concern about the dangers of AI singularity – a point at which AI surpasses human control – and the potential for AI-enabled warfare, particularly involving biological weapons.
Space Colonization: A Solution or a Diversion?
The Bulletin’s 2026 report highlights waning international cooperation and increasing great power competition as factors exacerbating these risks. The pursuit of space-based resources, including lunar infrastructure and satellite constellations, is intensifying geopolitical tensions and raising concerns about nuclear proliferation.
The focus on space colonization may divert attention and resources from addressing the root causes of these threats on Earth. While space travel holds promise, tackling climate change and reducing the risk of nuclear war through international cooperation may be more attainable and equitable solutions.
Hawking himself remained optimistic, believing that humanity would rise to meet these challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Stephen Hawking’s biggest warning?
Hawking’s most dire warning was that Earth faces a near-certain disaster within the next 1,000 to 10,000 years, but that spreading into space could prevent the end of the human race.
What is the Doomsday Clock?
The Doomsday Clock is a tool created by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists to represent the likelihood of a human-made global catastrophe. In January 2026, it was set to 85 seconds to midnight.
Is space colonization a realistic solution?
While space colonization is being actively pursued, it presents significant challenges and may not address the underlying issues driving existential threats on Earth.
