Many particle physics theories beyond the Standard Model (BSM) admit topologically stable cosmic string solutions. If Nature is described by such a theory, a network of strings will form in the early universe and persist to the present time. The strings carry energy and hence lead to characteristic signatures in many observational windows. Searching for signals of strings in the sky can lead to new constraints on BSM models. Conversely, cosmic strings may also help solve some current mysteries in astrophysics, e.g. the origin of super-massive black holes.