This simply connected is called the universal covering group.

E.g. in the case of $SO(3)$ and $SU(2)$, $SU(2)$ is simply connected, but $SO(3)$ is not.

It allows you to do two things:

The Disc theorem is a concept in complex analysis and deals with the behavior of holomorphic functions. Specifically, it is related to the area of function theory. While there are various formulations and different contexts in which the term "Disc theorem" might be used, one specific interpretation often referenced involves properties related to holomorphic functions defined on the unit disk in the complex plane.

The Generalized Stokes' Theorem is a fundamental result in differential geometry and vector calculus that extends the classical Stokes' theorem, relating integrals of differential forms over manifolds to their behavior on the boundaries of those manifolds. It serves as a powerful tool in various fields such as physics, engineering, and mathematics, particularly in the study of differential forms, topology, and manifold theory.

In the context of differential geometry and complex analysis, a **complex geodesic** typically refers to a generalization of the concept of a geodesic in the realm of complex manifolds or complex spaces. The classical notion of a geodesic is a curve that is locally a distance minimizer between points in a given space. In Riemannian geometry, geodesics are trajectories that exhibit extremal properties (typically, minimizing lengths) in a curved space.

Neil Turok is a South African theoretical physicist known for his work in cosmology and theoretical physics. He is particularly recognized for his contributions to understanding the early universe and the nature of the Big Bang. Turok has been involved in research related to the cyclic universe model, which proposes that the universe undergoes endless cycles of expansion and contraction. He has also done significant work in mathematical physics and has been an advocate for scientific education in Africa.

Alexander Wissner-Gross is an American physicist, entrepreneur, and inventor known for his work in areas such as physics, computer science, and artificial intelligence. He gained some recognition for his research on complex systems and information theory. Wissner-Gross has also been involved in various startups and initiatives focused on technology and innovation.

Charles L. Kane is a prominent physicist known for his work in condensed matter physics, particularly in areas such as topological insulators, graphene, and materials science. He has made significant contributions to our understanding of quantum mechanics and its applications in novel materials. Kane is a professor at the University of Pennsylvania and has received various awards for his research, including being recognized as a fellow of the American Physical Society.

Pydlpoly is a Python library designed for polynomial interpolation and approximation, particularly useful in fields like numerical analysis and data fitting. It offers tools for constructing polynomial representations of data points, allowing for efficient evaluation, differentiation, and integration of polynomials. This can be particularly useful in applications where polynomial fitting is necessary, such as signal processing, curve fitting, or numerical simulations.

Giovanni Vignale is a name that may refer to different individuals, but in a scientific context, it is widely recognized as belonging to an expert in the field of physics, particularly in the areas of astrophysics and gravitational physics. Giovanni Vignale has made contributions to research on topics such as quantum mechanics and gravitational effects in various contexts.

Jack Sarfatti is an American theoretical physicist known for his work in the fields of physics and consciousness, as well as his involvement in various unconventional theories regarding physics and the nature of reality. He has been associated with discussions surrounding topics such as time travel, quantum mechanics, and the intersection of physics and consciousness. Sarfatti has also been vocal about his views on the implications of advanced technology and has engaged with ideas related to UFOs and extraterrestrial life.

Janna Levin is an American astrophysicist, cosmologist, and author known for her work on black holes, the early universe, and gravitational waves. She is also recognized for her efforts to communicate complex scientific concepts to the general public through her books, lectures, and media appearances.

John Woollam is an American physicist known for his contributions to the field of optical thin film characterization and materials science. He is particularly recognized for his work on ellipsometry, a technique used to measure the change in polarization as light reflects or transmits through materials. Woollam has been instrumental in developing instruments and methodologies for accurate material characterization, which have applications in various industries, including semiconductors, optics, and nanotechnology.

As of my last knowledge update in October 2021, Richard Stratt does not appear to be a widely recognized public figure, concept, or topic. It's possible that he may be a private individual, a character in a fictional work, or a figure who emerged in public discourse after my last update.

Maxim Chernodub is a physicist known for his work in the fields of condensed matter physics, particularly in relation to phenomena such as superconductivity, quantum materials, and the theoretical aspects of these areas. His research often explores the interplay between topology and quantum mechanics in solid-state systems.

Varadaraja V. Raman is an accomplished Indian-American scientist, educator, and author, known for his contributions in the fields of science and philosophy, particularly in scientific realism and the philosophy of science. He has written extensively on topics that bridge science and religion, advocating for a dialogue between these two domains. His work often explores the implications of scientific discoveries on spiritual and philosophical issues.

It seems like there might be a misunderstanding or typo, as "Walter Benenson" does not refer to a widely recognized public figure, concept, or topic in historical, cultural, or academic contexts. If you meant "Walter Benjamin," he was a German Jewish intellectual and a prominent cultural critic, known for his writings on aesthetics, literature, and societal critique.