The Time-of-Flight system for the PAMELA experiment in space

The Time-of-Flight (ToF) system is one of the key elements of the a Payload for Antimatter Matter Exploration and Light-nuclei Astrophysics (PAMELA) apparatus, since it must generate the trigger for all the subdetectors and provide, alongside with the magnetic spectrometer, particle identification in the lower part of the explored energy spectrum. The ToF system will be described from the point of view of its geometrical design, its mechanics and its performances. In addition, since the extremely hostile space environment, several tests have been carried out in order to qualify the entire ToF system. The measured features and performance will be also described.