The European Space Agency (ESA), responsible for managing Europe’s space exploration efforts, has partnered with the Pokémon license holders to create a unique space-themed outreach initiative. The collaboration includes a special exhibition and various activities aimed at engaging the public, especially young people, in space science and technology. A notable part of this partnership involved a Pikachu plush that traveled to the International Space Station (ISS) with French astronaut Sophie Adenot during her mission in April through June. Usually, such plush toys are used to help astronauts adjust to microgravity during launch, but in this case, Pikachu became the symbol of the ESA-Pokémon collaboration. ESA aims to inspire future generations and increase interest in space through this creative partnership. ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher emphasized the goal of "inspiring curiosity, triggering a sense of wonder about the Universe, and encouraging people of all ages to discover the opportunities space offers for the future." The collaboration includes a series of exhibitions across Europe, where space-themed content is presented through the lens of Pokémon characters. These exhibitions will highlight European space activities, such as rocket launches, astronaut missions, and research on the Sun and asteroids. The first exhibition will be held in Paris at the ESA headquarters on September 19 and 20. Visitors will have the chance to see the Pikachu that traveled to the ISS, as well as interactive displays and educational content. Following the Paris event, the exhibition will travel to various European space facilities, including locations in Italy, Germany, and Spain. Starting in October, the exhibition will also be displayed at popular tourist sites, such as the Cité de l’Espace in Toulouse, and other museums across Europe. While the initiative is expected to continue until April 2027, exact dates for future exhibitions have not yet been announced. In addition to the exhibitions, the partnership includes ESA-branded Pokémon merchandise available for purchase and special events within the mobile game Pokémon Go, running from October 4 to April 30, 2027. These in-game events will allow players to engage with space-themed content. Visitors to participating museums will also have the opportunity to interact with Pikachu dressed in an astronaut costume. More details about the events and exhibitions can be found on the Pokémon Go mobile game website.