A Pikachu plushie traveled to the International Space Station with French astronaut Sophie Adenot on the European Space Agency's Epsilon mission in February. The Pokémon Company and ESA announced a collaboration to promote World Space Week (October 4-10) through shared values of curiosity and adventure, with new merchandise including Pikachu plushies, pins, and trading card accessories launching in their online stores.
The Pokémon Company International and the European Space Agency are collaborating for World Space Week 2026, beginning October 4. French astronaut Sophie Adenot carried a special Pikachu plush to the International Space Station, and exhibitions featuring Pokémon will be displayed at ESA facilities and European museums. Collaboration merchandise including plush, trading card accessories, and apparel will be available through PokemonCenter.com and the ESA online shop.