Did you know that gravitational waves originating from outer space actually carry enough force to stretch and compress our planet? You’ve probably never noticed—the change is so small that only extremely sensitive laser systems are able to measure these waves. Learn more about the Laser Interferometric Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) and its findings over the last four years, including how the universe synthesizes gold. Join Exploratorium scientist and educator Desiré Whitmore as she gives our live AfterDark audience glimpse into what lies ahead in the future of laser technology!