Merits of coincident observation of energetic cosmic events by astronomical and gravity wave observatories

Presently there are six interferometric gravitational wave detectors in the commissioning or construction phase in North America, Europe, and Japan. Once completed this worldwide network of detectors will be capable of detecting gravitational waves with unprecedented detail and sensitivity. Their ambition reaches well beyond the first direct detection of gravitational waves; they promise the dawn of a new field, the gravitational wave astronomy. One of the major goals of interferometric gravity wave detectors is to develop and exploit gravitational wave detection in conjunction with other conventional observational techniques, which are capable of observing the same astronomical process using different methods. The most promising areas are the optical, GRB and neutrino searches for energetic processes. Coincident observation of astronomical events shall revolutionize the way we understand energetic processes and will provide a new window on compact and difficult to study astronomical objects such as stellar cores. We will discuss the status, the potential future, and benefits of collaboration amongst gravitational wave detector networks and astronomical/GRB/neutrino networks and some of the practical experiences with the LIGO detectors.