Multi-Wavelength Observations Of Cosmological Transients

Astrophysical transients encompass some of the most powerful and violent explosions in the universe, providing a unique opportunity to observe extreme, physical environments across multiple wavelengths. These events are usually powered by a compact central engine, such as a black hole or neutron star, and involve the release of vast reservoirs of energies (typically > 1050 ergs). One such class of transient, Gamma-ray Bursts (GRBs), temporarily reach luminosities that exceed the rest of the observable gamma-ray universe, allowing us to observe these events at cosmological distances. In this thesis, I discuss multiwavelength observations of a number of astrophysical transients classes, with a particular focus on GRBs. Understanding the physical properties of such extreme events can aid with testing of our underlying, theoretical models, and the nature of the universe around us. In Chapter 2, I present the detailed multiwavelength analysis of an optically dark GRB 140713A and the origin of the missing optical flux. In Chapter 3, I discuss my investigation into the sub-threshold trigger population of the INTEGRAL satellite including a comparison of the INTEGRAL and Swift GRB samples. In Chapters 4 and 5, I introduce the SPLOT optical linear polarimetry, pilot survey, utilising polarimetry as an independent tool to highlight new transients of scientific interest and the role polarimetry may have in future transient surveys.