The Pokemon franchise is participating in World Space Week, which begins October 4, through a collaboration between The Pokemon Company and the European Space Agency (ESA). This initiative aims to highlight space exploration and features a special Pikachu plush.
As part of the promotion, a Pikachu plush accompanied French astronaut Sophie Adenot on her journey to space in June. Moments from this trip were documented to support the ongoing campaign. The ESA will host exhibitions at its facilities during ESA Open Days and at museums across France, Italy, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom during World Space Week. These events are intended to educate and engage younger audiences in space exploration.
Exclusive merchandise related to the collaboration will be available. This includes plush toys, Pokemon Trading Card Game accessories, and a replica of the astronaut Pikachu plush, complete with an astronaut outfit and bomber jacket. The ESA's online shop will also feature Pikachu-themed apparel and accessories such as T-shirts, tote bags, notepads, and pins.
The announcement also touches upon the potential for merchandise to be targeted by scalpers, a recurring issue within the Pokemon fandom. Past instances, such as a chaotic event at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam over a limited-edition trading card and resellers listing Krispy Kreme Pokemon donuts online, illustrate this trend. In related news, All Nippon Airways recently unveiled a Pokemon-themed airliner to commemorate 30 years of the franchise, featuring popular characters like Pikachu and Sprigatito.