  The field of TeV gamma-ray astronomy is reviewed with emphasis on its
relation to the origin of cosmic rays. The discovery of TeV photons from
supernova remnants and active galaxies has provided the first direct
observational link between specific astrophysical objects and particle
production at the TeV scale. TeV gamma-ray observations constrain the high end
of the electromagnetic spectrum, a regime most sensitive for testing particle
acceleration and emission models. TeV telescopes have made important
contributions to the understanding of blazars and supernova remnants, however,
it will take the next generation atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes and
satellite-based gamma-ray detectors to unravel the mystery of hadronic
cosmic-ray sources.
  A short review of TeV observations is followed by a discussion of the
capabilities and scientific potential of the next generation ground-based
atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes.
