I also wondered whether it was real, or if it was computer generated. They had to shut down the equipment whilst the storm passes as it runs on solar power, and if the power completely runs out before the storm passes there will be no way to operate it anymore because they will be unable to communicate with it. I assume the picture shown is the last taken before the storm descended upon it. That is what I heard, but I'm not entirely sure why it cannot recharge and send a signal to the tracking satellite. If anything I'd say those bolts of lightning and the dust would be more likely to damage it irreparably.

I hope it is real because it is fucking cool, I'd like to know how far away it is in that shot to get an idea of how big it is, probably about the size of a thunderstorm cloud.