ESA and Pokémon announce collaboration for World Space Week 2026

The European Space Agency (ESA) and The Pokémon Company International have announced an official collaboration to celebrate World Space Week 2026, scheduled for October 4–10, 2026. The partnership aims to inspire future generations and increase public interest in space exploration and science.

To launch the initiative, a Pikachu plush traveled to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot’s mission. The plush spent 67 days in orbit between April 11 and June 17, 2026, completing approximately 1,040 orbits around Earth.

The collaboration will feature a traveling exhibition across ESA centers in Paris, Rome, Noordwijk, Darmstadt, Spain, and the United Kingdom, as well as various European museums through April 2027. Additionally, the partnership includes exclusive merchandise, such as astronaut-themed Pikachu plushies, and special in-game events for Pokémon GO.