Enabling Rapid Response Observations in Time-Domain Astrophysics and the Science It Can Achieve

Time-Domain astronomy is the study of astronomical objects whose brightnesses change as a function of time, and like the objects that it encompasses, the field is also constantly changing. With the expectations of large-scale surveys (e.g. ZTF and LSST) and alerts associated with non-localized events (gravitational waves), it must prepare to meet the challenges associated. Within this dissertation, we discuss the work done to address these needs within the community and locally at Steward Observatory, followed by the scientific results that rapid responses can produce. We present the Gravitational Wave Treasure Map, a tool designed to alleviate efforts in searching for counterparts associated with gravitational wave events. We describe the infrastructure established at Steward Observatory's telescopes by developing the software to facilitate rapid responses at the MMT along with efforts with the Arizona Robotic Telescope Network. And finally, we overview two SNe Ia studies that highlight the important science achieved when transients are discovered, classified, and characterized during the earliest times since their explosions. We conclude by discussing the future directions of the field of time-domain observational research, what is expected from observatories to achieve early science, and reflecting upon the ecosystem of the field