A new readout of large area smart photomultipliers by Geiger-mode APDs

Future neutrino detectors require large, transparent detection volumes (water, ice, scintillator) and in turn a large number of large photomultipliers. We present a possible photon detector design based on the light amplification concept, e.g., a large, nearly spherical vacuum photon detector where the photoelectrons are accelerated onto a small scintillator. As secondary readout element Geiger-mode Avalanche photodiodes are used. Advantages and drawbacks of this readout will be discussed. Some results from initial studies will be presented.