Pokémon and the European Space Agency (ESA) have revealed details of their previously announced partnership, releasing photos of a Pikachu plush floating in a zero-gravity environment. This plush toy spent 67 days in space with ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot.
This collaboration commemorates World Space Week, held from October 4 to 10, 2026. The Pikachu plush orbited Earth approximately 1,040 times with the astronaut between April 11 and June 17.
The two parties also plan to release collaboration-exclusive merchandise and have unveiled the main visual for the animation. The related footage features Pokémon such as Minior, Cosmog, and Lunatone alongside Pikachu.
Pokémon GO will also host a collaboration event, featuring Pikachu in an astronaut suit in raids and limited-time challenges. ESA facilities across Europe will hold themed exhibitions introducing European space activities and research results through display panels; these exhibitions are also planned to tour various venues and events across Europe.