Microchannel Plate Imaging Detector Technologies for Uv Instruments

There has been significant progress over the last few years in the development of technologies for microchannel plate (MCP) imaging detectors in the ultraviolet. The nominal configuration of this type of detector consists of a photocathode to convert incoming radiation to photoelectrons, MCP’s to amplify the signals, followed by either an optical or electronic image readout scheme. Areas where significant developments have occurred include, enhancements of quantum detection efficiency through improved photocathodes, advances in microchannel plate performance characteristics, and development of high performance image readout techniques. In this paper the current developments in these areas are summarized,.