Thunderstorms are a fierce and spectacular sight to behold, but when viewed from space their power is even more awe-inspiring.

Thunderstorms are a fierce and spectacular sight to behold, but when viewed from space their power is even more awe-inspiring. 


Thanks to Terry Virts, an astronaut currently in residence at the International Space Station, those of us confined to Earth now have an opportunity to behold the splendor. 


At the time of the recording the storm was moving over Central Africa, producing heavy rains and rapid lightning flashes. 


As the bolts struck land, they also sent bursts of light upwards, creating the magnificent show visible from the station.