Mark N. Horenstein

Boston University, The Graduate Center, CUNY

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Mark N. Horenstein is an electrical engineer and researcher whose work sits at the compelling intersection of electrostatics, dust mitigation, and space exploration technology. His research has made notable contributions to understanding how charged particles behave in extreme environments — from the airless surface of the Moon to the dust-laden atmosphere of Mars. Horenstein's investigations into lunar and Martian dust dynamics have advanced NASA's understanding of the hazards facing both robotic and human space exploration missions. His 2008 study on the electrostatic and gravitational transport of lunar dust shed light on how fine particulate matter behaves on the Moon's pristine, ultrahigh-vacuum surface — knowledge critical for designing safe and durable spacecraft systems. Building on this foundational work, his 2010 research further examined dust dynamics relevant to future Mars missions. Perhaps his most practically impactful contribution is his work on the Electrodynamic Screen, a self-cleaning technology designed to remove dust from concentrated solar power mirrors and photovoltaic panels. Published in 2018 and already accumulating 16 citations, this innovation addresses a real-world efficiency challenge for renewable energy systems. Horenstein's career exemplifies how fundamental electrostatics research can yield breakthroughs across both space exploration and clean energy applications.