Microchannel plates at high rates - the challenges for future space plasma missions

The rate performance of microchannel plates (MCPs) used in the PEACE instruments of the Cluster and Double Star mission is discussed. MCPs are currently the preferred sensor element for the detection of low energy (~0 to 30 keV) electrons and ions in space plasma instruments. Low resistance plates have recently been tested for pulse height distribution and an increase in the rate handling by a factor of three have been achieved. However, for future applications, a factor of more than 25 will be required