Charles Horton

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Charles Horton is a pioneering researcher in the field of space-based manufacturing, with a focus on extraterrestrial resource utilization for microelectronics and solar energy. His most notable contribution is the visionary concept of manufacturing solar cells directly on the lunar surface, detailed in his 2005 paper "Manufacture of solar cells on the moon" (22 citations). This work explores the use of lunar glass substrates and evaporated regolith thin films for antireflective coatings and insulation, laying foundational groundwork for in-situ resource utilization in space exploration. Horton’s earlier research, "Thin film microelectronics materials production in the vacuum of space" (1997, 2 citations), anticipated the International Space Station era by proposing the exploitation of space’s ultra-vacuum environment for fabricating high-quality semiconductor materials. Though his citation counts are modest, Horton’s forward-thinking ideas address critical challenges in sustainable space habitation and energy independence beyond Earth. His work remains a touchstone for researchers in space manufacturing, lunar science, and advanced thin-film technologies, inspiring new generations to consider the moon as a platform for industrial-scale production.