What new technology has made it possible for astronomers to do "optical SETI" - searching for signals for extra-terrestrial civilization, not in the radio band of the spectrum, but in the visible-light band?
A) the Hubble Space Telescope was put into orbit
B) radio and TV signals have gone silent as much of the US adopts cable
C) astronomers have developed adaptive optics to deal with the twinkling of the stars
D) astronomers have built radio telescopes that can pick up the 3-degree microwave background
E) we have developed the ability to make laser pulses that are briefly brighter than the Sun

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The technology referred to is the ability to make laser pulses that are briefly brighter than the Sun, which is achieved through advancements in laser technology. This technology is essential for searching for optical signals from extraterrestrial civilizations in the visible-light band of the spectrum.

What New Technology Has Made It Possible for Astronomers to Do