Abstract: Proximity focused streak tube having a photocathode for converting photon images into photoelectrons. A phosphorous screen is provided for receiving the photoelectrons. The photocathode and the phosphorous screen define a longitudinal tube axis. A passive channel plate is provided which has a plurality of parallel bores therein. The channel plate is disposed in relatively close proximity to the photocathode and so that the bores are inclined at an angle with respect to longitudinal tube axis so as to minimize feedthrough of visible photons. A source of voltage is connected between the photocathode and the passive channel plate causing the photoelectrons to be extracted from the photocathode and to pass through the bores in the channel plate. First and second spaced apart beam electrodes are disposed between the channel plate and the phosphorous screen.