Lightning in Space: Fact or Fiction?

AI Thread Summary
Lightning, as known on Earth, does not occur in the vacuum of space due to the absence of oppositely charged clouds needed for its formation. While the concept is popular in science fiction, the conditions required for lightning are not present in space. Theoretical discussions suggest that an electrical arc could happen in a vacuum, but this is considered unlikely. The density of interstellar gas and dust is typically too low to generate the necessary charge buildup. Overall, lightning in space remains a fascinating but improbable phenomenon.
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does a phenomena such as lightning happen in the vacuum of space? it's often talks about in sci fi, but i wonder if it actually occurs (theoretically or actually) i tried a google search which turned up nothing.
 
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No, you do not have opposittely charged clouds which are close enough in space.
 
Theoretically though, could anelectrical arch occurr in a vacuum?
 
Possible, but, unlikely. The density of interstellar gas and dust is generally insufficient to allow sufficient charges to develope.
 

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