Pokémon and ESA Launch Space-Themed Collection With Astronaut Pikachu Plush, TCG Gear and More
Pokémon is heading into orbit for World Space Week 2026, and the collaboration with the European Space Agency is bringing a new collection of space-themed merchandise along for the ride. The Pokémon Company International and ESA have teamed up for a broader World Space Week program built around space exploration, science and Pokémon, but collectors will have plenty to chase as part of the celebration. Pokémon Center is releasing an assortment of collaboration merchandise that includes Astronaut Pikachu plush, Pokémon TCG accessories, apparel, pins, patches and display pieces featuring artwork created for the partnership.
The Astronaut Pikachu plush are likely to be among the most recognizable pieces from the collection. Pokémon says both versions wear ESA-inspired astronaut outfits, connecting them directly to the Pikachu plush that traveled to the International Space Station with French ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot. That real-world Pikachu spent 67 days in orbit from April 11 through June 17, completing approximately 1,040 orbits before returning to Earth.
Trading card collectors are getting their own part of the release. Pokémon Center is offering a double deck box, card sleeves, a playmat and a binder decorated with art from the ESA collaboration. The products do not introduce a new Pokémon TCG card or promo, but they give players and collectors a full group of matching accessories built around the space theme.
The collaboration also includes a pin and patch set using the featured Pokémon and ESA artwork, along with a puzzle and additional Astronaut Pikachu display pieces. On the apparel side, the main collaboration artwork appears on a shirt and hoodie, while a bomber jacket uses space-themed Pokémon patches as part of its design.
Some of the merchandise is being sold through Pokémon Center, while ESA is carrying its own assortment of Pikachu-themed products including T-shirts, a tote bag, notepad and pins. Additional collaboration merchandise is also expected through ESA retail channels and museum shops connected to the World Space Week exhibitions.
The collectibles are part of a much larger Pokémon x ESA program running around World Space Week, October 4 through October 10. ESA facilities and museums across Europe are hosting a temporary exhibition combining Pokémon with information about space exploration, while Pokémon GO is adding activities centered on Astronaut Pikachu at participating locations.