During World Space Week 2026, from October 4 at 12:00 a.m. to October 10 at 11:59 p.m. local time, trainers can encounter a new costumed Pokémon – Astronaut Pikachu. This special Pokémon appears in one‑star raids and is also available through a Free Timed Research task. Completing the research before October 12 at 11:59 p.m. local time grants trainers a chance to catch Astronaut Pikachu, with a shiny version possible for lucky players.
The way to obtain the new Pokémon is straightforward. One‑star raids are scattered throughout the game world, and the Timed Research can be accessed directly from the app. Unlike many short‑lived events, the excitement doesn’t end after the week. From October 2026 through April 30, 2027, visiting participating science and space museums in Europe unlocks additional Pokémon GO gameplay inspired by space, including encounters with Astronaut Pikachu in one‑star raids.
The partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA) adds an educational layer to the event, aligning virtual fun with real‑world exploration. Museums can enrich their exhibitions with augmented‑reality elements, while fans get a compelling reason to explore both the game and cultural sites. This collaboration showcases how gaming can intersect with science outreach, turning a typical Pokémon encounter into a celebration of human achievement in space.
Community reaction has been mixed but largely positive. While some players have questioned the scale of the event – noting that a one‑star raid and a free research task may feel limited – many appreciate the novelty of a themed Pikachu costume and the chance to engage with museum locations. The event also hints at future possibilities for broader thematic collaborations, suggesting that other scientific or cultural organizations could partner with Pokémon GO to inspire adventure and learning.
Overall, the Astronaut Pikachu initiative highlights the potential for gamification of education and demonstrates that even a single, focused event can generate excitement, encourage real‑world exploration, and lay the groundwork for richer, ongoing partnerships between gaming and the sciences.