Small-size prototype of a MPGD single photon detector for compact RICHs

MicroPattern Gaseous Detectors (MPGD) for single photon detection has been developed within AIDA2020 (DELIVERABLE: D13.5) and fully validated by its successful application in the RICH counter of the COMPASS experiment at CERN SPS. Progress towards a compact RICH concept requires the use of novel photoconverters with the goal of major robustness and increased photoconversion rate to make the use of shorter radiators possible. A small size prototype of MPGD for single photon detection has been built and used to study a novel, alternative photoconverter. Encouraging results have been obtained. They pave the path towards further studies of the photoconverter properties towards applications in gaseous photodetectors.