The Search for Gravitational Waves

The basic physics of g.w.'s emission, propagation and detection is outlined. The general features of candidate sources and detectors are discussed, showing how astrophysical emission events could be detected by devices not far from their Standard Quantum Limit. Two kinds of ground based detectors currently under active development, Km size interferometers and mK cold massive mechanical resonators, promise to approach such a SQL. Their concepts are described together with the perspectives for optimal sensitivity. Current and perspective strategies for a confident identification of g.w. signals with networks of few detectors are commented in conclusion.