Lightning in Space: Fact or Fiction?

[muser]

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.

 

[pixel01]

No, you do not have opposittely charged clouds which are close enough in space.

 

[LURCH]

Theoretically though, could anelectrical arch occurr in a vacuum?

 

[Chronos]

Possible, but, unlikely. The density of interstellar gas and dust is generally insufficient to allow sufficient charges to develope.