The Unreachable Genius: How a Nobel Winner's Passion for Nature Nearly Delayed History

When the call came from the Swedish Academy in October 2019, informing the world of the latest Nobel laureates in Chemistry, one name stood out not just for his groundbreaking work, but for his immediate unavailability: John B. Goodenough. At 97 years young, the trailblazing pioneer of the lithium-ion battery wasn't waiting by the phone.

Instead, he was out on a hiking trail, enjoying the vibrant autumn scenery, completely off the grid and blissfully unaware of the monumental recognition coming his way.

Goodenough, a professor at The University of Texas at Austin, along with M. Stanley Whittingham and Akira Yoshino, was honored for developing the lithium-ion battery—a revolutionary invention that powers everything from our smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and medical devices.

Yet, the news of his Nobel Prize had to wait for him to return from his cherished outdoor adventure. This delightful anecdote speaks volumes about the man: a brilliant scientist whose passion for discovery is matched only by his love for a robust, active life.

His colleagues and students recount that Professor Goodenough wasn't merely a researcher; he was a force of nature himself.

Known for his insatiable curiosity and relentless pursuit of knowledge, he continued to actively work in his lab well into his nineties, pushing the boundaries of energy storage. He often expressed that his work was far from over, always looking towards the next challenge, the next material, the next breakthrough.

The brief period of being 'unreachable' became an endearing footnote in his extraordinary life, underscoring a character that prioritized personal well-being and a connection with the natural world alongside his profound scientific endeavors.

It’s a testament to a life lived fully, proving that age is truly just a number when it comes to intellectual vigor and a love for the outdoors. His story serves as an inspiring reminder that dedication to one's calling, whether in the lab or on a mountain path, can lead to the most unexpected and celebrated moments.

Ultimately, Goodenough did return, accepted his well-deserved accolade, and continued to inspire generations of scientists.

His legacy is not just the ubiquitous battery that powers our modern world, but also the vibrant example of a life dedicated to both rigorous inquiry and the simple, profound joys of nature.