Spotlight · Science
Amina Helmi Shares the 2026 Kavli Prize in Astrophysics
Published November 08, 2026
The Kavli Prize recognized Amina Helmi, Vasily Belokurov and Rodrigo Ibata for work uncovering the Milky Way’s merger history.
Amina Helmi has been named one of the 2026 Kavli Prize laureates in astrophysics, sharing the award with Vasily Belokurov and Rodrigo Ibata for research that the official announcement says uncovered fossil evidence of past mergers in the Milky Way.
The official award citation
The Kavli Prize states that the astrophysics prize for 2026 goes to Vasily Belokurov, Amina Helmi and Rodrigo Ibata for uncovering the fossil evidence of past mergers proving that the Milky Way galaxy was built through hierarchical accretion. The announcement frames the work as part of a broader effort to understand the hidden collisions that shaped our galaxy.
Scientific context in the announcement
The official page presents the astrophysics discovery alongside major advances in nanoscience and neuroscience, emphasizing that these discoveries challenge assumptions and open new lines of investigation. In the astronomy section, the page specifically highlights how merger history is rewriting the Milky Way’s past.
Editorial scope
This package stays close to the published Kavli announcement. It highlights the recognition and the official citation without adding extra claims about personal biography, institutional roles or downstream applications beyond what the source clearly supports.
Sources
This is an independent IQMIA editorial feature, not an endorsement or statement by the people mentioned.