Detection of single photons with THickGEM-based counters

A systematic study of the THGEM detector response as a function of its geometrical parameters and electrodes' applied voltage has been performed. Dedicated electrostatic calculations to optimize the detector design have been accomplished. Data obtained from small photon detector prototypes operating in single photon detection mode are presented and discussed. In particular the key aspect of photo-electron extraction from the photo-cathode surface is investigated via the timing spectrum response of the detector for different electric field conditions at the photo-cathode: a comparison of the measured time distributions and the simulation results is illustrated.