The use of an RTC XX1390 second-generation intensifier (which consists of a S20R photocathode, a micro-channel plate and a screen) was described. In visual work, very faint objects become visible. Photographically, an 18th-magnitude object has been detected through a layer of cirrus. The effective focal length used was 20 m, giving a resolution of 1 arcsecond, thanks to the short exposure times needed. With a Celestron C8 telescope, the coma of Comet Halley was photographed with 2-second exposures, allowing transitory phenomena to be detected. Used in conjunction with video techniques, high time-resolution images could be obtained, opening up the possiblity of new forms of observation of faint objects.