A320 pilot reports no green gear indications or ECAM indications after gear extension during approach. After trouble shooting a second approach is accomplished and the gear indicates normally. Flight flew through clouds which generated excessive static electrical discharges during the first approach.

Narrative

Prior to the FAF we lowered the landing gear. We had no green lights or ECAM indicating that the gear was down and locked; however it 'sounded' as though the gear was down. We executed a go around at approximately 1;500 FT AGL. Earlier in the approach we flew through moderate rain-producing clouds which generated excessive static electrical discharges. We were clear of clouds and rain approximately 5 miles outside of FAF in VMC. We flew north of the airport to work the problem. We first consulted the aircraft FM and found no procedure addressing the problem of no gear down indication. We then; through ACARS; asked Dispatch to call us to discuss our situation with them along with Maintenance Control. However; after numerous attempts we were unable to make contact with them. After debating all options we decided to declare an emergency; and return lowering landing gear normally and make a normal approach and landing. When we lowered the gear outside the FAF; all indications were normal. Landing was uneventful. Maintenance believes that we probably had a lightning strike and that we had momentarily lost our 1 LGCIU.