ESA and Pokémon launch European tour following Pikachu's ISS mission

The European Space Agency (ESA) and The Pokémon Company International have launched a major collaboration to promote space science through pop culture. The initiative centers on an astronaut Pikachu plush that spent 67 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS) between April and June 2026, completing approximately 1,040 orbits alongside ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot.

To celebrate the mission, a traveling exhibition will tour various ESA sites and major European museums from late 2026 through April 2027. The tour includes locations in France, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. The exhibits aim to educate the public on European space missions, solar system research, and astronaut support using Pokémon characters to engage younger audiences.

The partnership also includes a digital component via the mobile game Pokémon GO. From October 2026 to April 2027, players can participate in special activities, including one-star raids and themed research at participating museums, to encounter the Astronaut Pikachu character.