In a recent episode of his podcast StarTalk, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson discussed the transformation of the human body after death. He emphasized that rather than disappearing, the body changes form, with its energy continuing to exist in the universe. Tyson outlined two primary post-death options: burial and cremation. He prefers burial, as it allows the body's energy to be recycled into nature through decomposition. During this process, microorganisms break down the body's components, returning energy to the Earth. Conversely, in cremation, the body's energy is converted into heat, which radiates outward as infrared energy. Tyson noted that this energy can travel through space, potentially reaching nearby star systems, such as Alpha Centauri. This concept aligns with the First Law of Thermodynamics, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed. Engineer Arvin Ash further explained that cremated ashes can mix with soil, be absorbed by plants, and re-enter the food chain, continuing the cycle of life.