Yes, lightning is possible in space, but not in the way we experience it on Earth. It occurs on other planets with atmospheres.
While lightning as we know it, requiring water, oxygen, and atmospheric pressure similar to Earth's, is not possible in the vacuum of interstellar space, electrical storms have been observed on other planets within our solar system.
These lightning-like phenomena occur in the atmospheres of planets such as:
- Jupiter: Spacecraft have detected dramatic lightning bolts on Jupiter.
- Saturn: Similar to Jupiter, Saturn experiences electrical storms.
- Neptune: Evidence of lightning has also been found on Neptune.
- Uranus: Uranus is another planet where lightning activity has been recorded.
- Venus: Venus possesses a thick atmosphere where intriguing electrical storms take place.
The composition of these planetary atmospheres differs significantly from Earth's, leading to variations in the formation and characteristics of lightning. For example, instead of being fueled by water and ice crystals, Jovian lightning storms may be caused by ammonia-water clouds.
So, to clarify: Lightning is not possible in the vacuum of space where there is no atmosphere. However, it is possible and has been observed on other planets that do possess an atmosphere.
