Pokémon pop up at London Science Museum


A Cosmic Friendship: Pokémon and the European Space Agency Launch a Journey into the Universe

Prepare to look up, because a magical partnership is taking flight. The Pokémon Company has teamed up with the European Space Agency (ESA) to launch an extraordinary collaboration that promises to take fans on an unforgettable journey from the world of Pokémon to the vastness of space.

This incredible alliance is built on a foundation of wonder, taking the spirit of discovery that defines every Pokémon adventure and blending it with the awe-inspiring reality of space exploration. The collaboration aims to bring the wonder of the Solar System and the wider Universe to visitors across Europe through special exhibitions and exclusive merchandise.

The theme of this venture is beautifully illustrated by a recent feat: a beloved Pikachu soft toy spent 67 days aboard the International Space Station during an ESA astronaut’s mission, completing approximately 1040 orbits of Earth. This achievement serves as a perfect metaphor for the collaboration—bridging the terrestrial with the cosmic in a way that sparks curiosity in everyone.

Over the coming months, this cosmic theme will unfold in physical spaces. Temporary exhibitions centered on Space and Pokémon will debut at ESA sites throughout Europe before migrating to major museums across the continent. These events will feature themed panels that explore the key aspects of Europe’s space activities, from how missions are launched and how astronauts are supported, to the study of the Sun and the Solar System, all infused with playful Pokémon characters.

The collaboration is already set to mark a significant timeline, with launch events scheduled across Europe, including key dates in Rome, Netherlands, Germany, and Spain, ensuring that the wonder reaches many European destinations. Participating museums, such as the Cité de l’espace in Toulouse, the Deutsches Museum in Nuremberg, and the Science Museum in London, will be among the locations where this space-meets-Pokémon experience takes place.

Beyond the exhibitions, fans will have access to exclusive merchandise, including a range of apparel, accessories, and collectibles. This shared experience is designed not just for fun, but to inspire. As ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher noted, this partnership is about unlocking new ways for people to connect with space. “By taking space exploration beyond traditional settings, we hope to ignite curiosity, spark a sense of wonder about our Universe and encourage people of all ages to discover the opportunities that space offers for the future,” he explained.

The enthusiasm from The Pokémon Company mirrored this vision. Mathieu Galante, senior director of licensing at The Pokémon Company International, highlighted the shared spirit of exploration. “Every Pokémon journey begins with a sense of wonder about what lies beyond the world you know,” he said. “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.”

This fusion of imagination and science proves that whether you are exploring the constellations or chasing a mythical creature, the spirit of discovery is universal. The Pokémon x ESA collaboration is set to remind everyone that the greatest adventures lie in exploring the limits of the world, together.

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