Computer Advances and ‘Invisibility Cloak’ Among Contenders for Physics Nobel

This year’s Nobel Prize in Physics could recognise achievements ranging from mathematical advances in computer image compression, to the creation of an “invisibility cloak,” or the science behind the James Webb Space Telescope, when the award is announced on Tuesday at 11:45 am (0945 GMT) in Stockholm.

It is the second Nobel of the 2025 season, following the Medicine Prize, awarded on Monday to a US-Japanese trio—Mary Brunkow and Fred Ramsdell from the United States, and Shimon Sakaguchi from Japan—for their discoveries of the immune system’s “security guards”.

Potential Contenders

Wavelet Theory and Computer Advances

Several experts have suggested that wavelet theory could be recognised.

David Pendlebury, head of research analysis at Clarivate, described wavelet theory as having a “dramatic impact on daily life,” despite sounding arcane.

Metamaterials and the ‘Invisibility Cloak’

Metamaterials, including the so-called “invisibility cloak,” are also popular topics among Nobel watchers. British physicist John B. Pendry has been repeatedly cited for his work in this field.

Lars Brostrom, science editor at Sveriges Radio, explained: “You usually talk about them, then people stop talking, and then they get the prize.”

James Webb Space Telescope

The James Webb Space Telescope is considered a strong contender due to its decades-long theoretical development and successful launch in late 2021. Brostrom described it as a “typical case” for a Nobel, where longstanding theory is translated into practical achievement.

Quantum Information

Work in quantum information and algorithms is also being highlighted.

Hamish Johnston, online editor of Physics World, notes that pioneering work done decades ago has now come to fruition in quantum computers and cryptography systems.

Astrophysics and Cosmology

Scientific advances in astrophysics are also on experts’ lists.

The atomic force microscope, capable of producing 3D atomic-resolution images and significant for nanotechnology, is another potential Nobel-worthy invention. Christoph Gerber of Switzerland is a key figure in this area.

Previous Laureates and Ceremony

Last year, the Physics Nobel went to Geoffrey Hinton (UK/Canada) and John Hopfield (USA) for foundational work in artificial intelligence, with both warning of societal risks arising from their discoveries.

This year’s Physics Prize will be followed by the Chemistry Prize on Wednesday, the Literature Prize on Thursday, and the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday. The Economics Prize will conclude the 2025 season on October 14.

Winners receive a diploma, a gold medal, and a $1 million cheque, presented by King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden at a formal ceremony in Stockholm on December 10, the anniversary of the death of Alfred Nobel, who established the prizes in his will.