This book contains the proceedings of the first conference dedicated entirely to the detection and use of gravitational waves. Articles include status reports on major existing prototypes, both laser interferometer and resonant bar detectors; numerical modelling of detectors; data processing requirements; quantum optical techniques; and future plans and directions for resonant bar and laser interferometer instruments. It will serve as an important summary of the status of the field at the beginning of the decade in which direct detection of gravity waves should finally be achieved, giving birth to gravitational astronomy.