A Pikachu plush traveled to the International Space Station with European Space Agency astronaut Sophie Adenot and spent 67 days in orbit, from April 11 to June 17, 2026. ESA reported that it completed approximately 1,040 orbits.
What went to space—and when
The visitor was a plush toy, not a living character or an astronaut. It accompanied ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot to the ISS as part of a collaboration between the European Space Agency and The Pokémon Company International for World Space Week 2026. ESA reported the plush’s stay as April 11–June 17, 2026, totaling 67 days and approximately 1,040 orbits. These are campaign figures, not results from a scientific study.
How the flight fits into the ESA–Pokémon program
The plush’s trip was one part of a broader public-outreach program. ESA and Pokémon also announced a temporary exhibition at ESA facilities and museums in Europe, Pokémon GO gameplay at participating museums, and exclusive merchandise. The physical plush flight, museum exhibition, game activity and merchandise are distinct parts of the program.
Pokémon GO museum activity
The announced game activation runs from October 4, 2026, through April 30, 2027. Participation depends on location and is limited to participating museums; check the event information before planning a visit. ESA’s announcement has the program details.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- POKÉMON PLUSH: Choose to cuddle Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon
- SPECIAL MATERIAL: Snuggly 8-inch Pokémon plush is made with super soft material
- AUTHENTIC DETAILS: Pikachu looks like it jumped out of the Pokémon Animated Series
- TEAM BUILDING: Collect other 8-inch Pokémon plush and build your own unique team
- OFFICIAL PRODUCT: Officially licensed Pokémon product from Jazwares
Exhibition and merchandise
The collaboration also includes an exhibition at ESA facilities and museums in Europe, along with merchandise. Space.com reported that collaboration apparel, accessories and collectibles are available through ESA and Pokémon retail channels, including partner museum shops. That does not establish that any retail astronaut Pikachu plush is the same toy that flew to the ISS.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why ESA partnered with Pokémon
ESA framed the collaboration as a way to make space exploration more approachable to the public. ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher said the partnership aimed to connect people across Europe with space through an engaging experience and to encourage curiosity about the universe and opportunities related to space. Space.com reported the announcement and quoted Aschbacher.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- CAPTAIN PIKACHU: Get ready to set sail with Captain Pikachu
- SPECIAL HAT: 8-inch Pokémon plush is super soft and wears a special captain’s hat
- AUTHENTIC DETAILS: Plush looks like it jumped right out of the Pokémon Animated Series
- TEAM BUILDING: Collect other 8-inch Pokémon plush and build your own unique team
- OFFICIAL PRODUCT: Officially licensed Pokémon product from Jazwares
Rank #3
- ICONIC POKÉMON: Get cozy with Pokémon and the new Velvet Pikachu Plush
- UNIQUE DESIGN: Unique 8-inch plush is woven with high quality velvet
- SELECT SERIES: Velvet Plush is a part of the Select Pokémon plush series
- LIMITED RELEASE: This limited line is only available for a short time in 2023
- OFFICIAL PRODUCT: Officially licensed Pokémon product from Jazwares
Rank #2
- POKÉMON PLUSH: Choose to cuddle Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon.
- SPECIAL MATERIAL: Snuggly 12-inch Pokémon plush is made with super soft material.
- AUTHENTIC DETAILS: Pikachu looks like it jumped out of the Pokémon Animated Series.
- TEAM BUILDING: Collect other 12-inch Pokémon plush and build your own unique team.
- OFFICIAL PRODUCT: Officially licensed Pokémon product from Jazwares.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
