A complex packing proof becomes formally checkable

What changed

A large proof combining mathematical arguments and computation was translated into a proof-assistant verification workflow.

Scientific scope

Congruent sphere packing in Euclidean three-space; the specified HOL Light and Isabelle formalization.

Evidence

The project’s published account describes the completed proof and its verification components. Its earlier proof-review history helps explain what the formalization added.

Contributors

• Hales and the 22-person paper byline · VERIFICATION: The formalization project; complete retained byline remains in the linked record.
• Ferguson and Hales · SCIENCE: Earlier Kepler proof contribution; it is not counted again as a new discovery here.
• HOL Light and Isabelle · INFRASTRUCTURE: Proof-assistant tools, not modern generative-AI authors.

• Hales et al.: A formal proof of the Kepler conjecture

Provisional WRS assessment, edition 2026-10-16.1. Independent expert calibration is pending. This grade does not certify correctness or assign ownership.

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