Pikachu is venturing beyond Earth’s atmosphere as part of a new partnership between The Pokémon Company International and the European Space Agency (ESA) to celebrate World Space Week 2026. According to the ESA, a Pikachu toy spent 67 days in orbit aboard the International Space Station, completing 1,040 trips around the planet between April 11 and June 17, alongside seven human astronauts including ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot.
World Space Week 2026 and European Museum Exhibitions
To mark World Space Week, running from October 4 through October 10, 2026, the collaboration brings temporary exhibitions and interactive programs to ESA sites and major museums across Europe. These venues include the ESA Headquarters in Paris, ESRIN in Rome, ESTEC in Noordwijk, Netherlands, ESOC in Darmstadt, Germany, ESAC in Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain, and ECSAT in Harwell, United Kingdom. Visitors will explore themed Pokémon character panels that detail how Europe launches missions, supports ISS astronauts, and studies the solar system.
Did you know? Pikachu completed 1,040 orbits of Earth during its 67 days aboard the International Space Station.
Official Statements on the ESA and Pokémon Partnership
ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher stated that inspiring future generations remains a key part of the agency’s mission. “Through this collaboration with Pokémon, we are unlocking new ways for people across Europe to connect with space through a unique and engaging experience,” Aschbacher said, adding that the initiative aims to ignite curiosity about the universe.
Mathieu Galante, senior director of licensing at The Pokémon Company International, noted that the spirit of discovery has always been central to being a Pokémon Trainer. “Collaborating with ESA opens a new frontier for fans, bringing together the world of Pokémon and the wonder of space for visitors at locations across Europe,” Galante stated.
Pokémon GO Activation and Exclusive Merchandise Collections
The collaboration introduces a specialized Pokémon GO in-game activation running from October 4, 2026, to April 30, 2027. Trainers visiting participating science and space museums will encounter unique gameplay featuring space mysteries and close encounters with Astronaut Pikachu. Additionally, exclusive ESA x Pokémon apparel, accessories, and collectibles will launch through official agency and Pokémon retail channels, including partner museum shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is World Space Week 2026?
World Space Week runs from October 4 through October 10, 2026.
How long was Pikachu on the International Space Station?
A Pikachu toy spent 67 days in orbit aboard the ISS, from April 11 to June 17, completing 1,040 orbits.
When does the Pokémon GO space activation run?
The in-game activation runs from October 4, 2026, to April 30, 2027, at participating science and space museums.
Explore More: Check out our latest space exploration updates and visit the official ESA website for a complete list of exhibition dates and venue locations spanning October 2026 through April 2027.