The study of the Universe is moving beyond purely academic laboratories and dry reports. The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced a major partnership with The Pokémon Company International (TPCI). The main goal of this unusual collaboration is to celebrate World Space Week 2026 (October 4–10) and engage a wider audience in learning about astronomy and space technologies.
The collaboration began with a real journey into space. A Pikachu plush toy traveled to the International Space Station aboard the SpaceX Crew-12 mission, which included ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot.
The character’s orbital “adaptation period” lasted from April 11 to June 17. During 67 days aboard the ISS with a crew of seven astronauts, Pikachu completed 1,040 orbits around Earth, becoming one of the best-known space ambassadors of our time.
Interactive Science and Exhibitions Across Europe
This collaboration is not only a marketing initiative but also an educational project. In autumn 2026, temporary exhibitions will open at key ESA facilities and museum venues across Europe. Visitors will be able to learn how Europe launches space missions, supports astronauts aboard the ISS, and explores the Sun and distant regions of the Solar System.
The route of ESA Open Days includes key scientific centers:
- Paris (ESA Headquarters): September 19–20, 2026
- Rome (ESRIN): September 25, 2026
- Noordwijk, Netherlands (ESTEC): September 26–27, 2026
- Darmstadt, Germany (ESOC): October 2, 2026
- Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain (ESAC): October 3, 2026
- Harwell, United Kingdom (ECSAT): October 10, 2026
After the initial events conclude, the interactive exhibition will travel to European cities through April 2027.
Virtual Adventures
The project will also extend into the virtual world. From October 4, 2026, through April 30, 2027, Pokémon GO will host a special in-game event. Players who visit participating science and space museums will be able to complete themed tasks and encounter a rare version of Astronaut Pikachu.
In addition, a series of ESA x Pokémon merchandise will be released for collectors and fans, including clothing, accessories, and other items that will be sold in museum shops and through official distribution networks.
Inspiring Future Generations
As ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher noted, involving pop culture helps move the conversation about space beyond its usual boundaries and spark curiosity about the Universe among people of all ages. Representatives of The Pokémon Company also emphasized that the spirit of discovery and exploration of the unknown has always been at the heart of the Pokémon universe, making a partnership with real space exploration a natural step for both brands.
Earlier, we reported on a space hero who is not a toy.
According to ESA
