An image intensifier tube includes a photocathode (20) with an active layer (52) providing an electrical spectral response to photons of light. The photocathode (20) also includes integral spacer structure (42) which extends toward and physically touches a microchannel plate (22) of the image intensifier tube in order to establish and maintain a desirably precise and fine-dimension spacing distance “G” between the photocathode and the microchannel plate. A method of making the photocathode and a method of making the image intensifier tube are described also.