Improvements to which sensor system during the 1990s allowed users to "own the night"?

The correct answer focuses on the advancements in low-light imaging technology during the 1990s, which significantly contributed to the ability of users to "own the night." This phrase signifies a substantial enhancement in the capability to operate effectively in low-visibility conditions, particularly during nighttime or in other dimly lit environments.

Low-light imaging technology is designed to amplify ambient light, allowing for clearer visibility in dark situations. This capability became particularly important for military operations, where conducting missions under the cover of darkness could provide tactical advantages while reducing vulnerability to detection by adversaries. The improvements in this technology led to more efficient reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting, thereby enhancing overall mission success rates.

In contrast, while infrared imaging also plays a crucial role in nighttime operations by detecting heat signatures, it does not solely rely on ambient light and is more commonly associated with identifying or tracking specific targets rather than general situational awareness in low-light conditions. Sonar systems are primarily used for underwater navigation and detection, and radar systems are more effective in various weather conditions but are not specifically tied to night operations. Therefore, low-light imaging's advancements were pivotal in revolutionizing nighttime strategic capabilities.