Astronaut Pikachu is blasting off into space for the first time!
The Pokémon Company International has partnered with European Space Agency (ESA) to “shine cosmic light on ESA’s space exploration missions and to inspire the next generation of explorers.” French astronaut Sophie Adenot introduced the collaboration and her mission Epsilon where she and Pikachu went to the International Space Station to conduct scientific and technology experiments, and prepare people for future space exploration. The partnership with The Pokémon Company International is meant to blend education with creativity.
Adenot is the second French woman to join the European Astronaut Corps and is the first to fly to the ISS. She’s also the first French woman to complete her first spacewalk in August 2026. She was awarded the Medal of the French National Assembly in 2021 for her ambassador work for gender equality in sciences.
This collaboration “represents a unique opportunity for ESA to connect broad audiences with space through creative storytelling,” according to Anne‑Sophie Bradelle, Head of ESA Communication Department. “Rooted in shared values of curiosity and imagination, this collaboration supports ESA’s ambition, as set out in Strategy 2040, to inspire Europe, especially young people and future generations.”
Pokémon fans, especially Pikachu fans, in Europe are in for a real (space) treat. The Pokémon Center shop will have an impressive lineup of merch to celebrate the collaboration. A preview of the merch can be seen below and it appears to feature Pikachu in the white and navy blue ESA astronaut outfits, and space-related Pokémon Lunatone, Minior, and Cosmog.
The ESA online shop will also have some Pikachu-themed ESA merch such as T-shirts, a notepad, pins, and a tote bag.
Pokémon GO will also have some special events happening during World Space Week.
ESA’s World Space Week will run from October 4 to 10.
Source: Pokémon Center
Discover more from Redbeanime
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
