The City of Arts and Sciences has been the setting for some of the most surreal film shoots and events and has welcomed stars of all kinds throughout its nearly 30-year history. George Clooney, Pope Benedict XVI, Yoko Ono, and Rosalía are names that have very little in common beyond having participated in an event at this venue, but there is one even more peculiar (and probably much more famous) figure who will visit Valencia’s most iconic landmark for the first time next week: Pikachu.
The European Space Agency (ESA) and Pokémon have created an exhibition on the mysteries of the universe, and the venue chosen in Spain to host this experience is the Museu de les Ciències. The event begins on Sunday, October 4, and visitors can explore the exhibition and participate in various activities through April 30, 2027.
This exhibition features a wide variety of panels and educational activities that combine different Pokémon with real space science. It’s a perfect opportunity for children (and adults) to learn in a fun way about topics as varied as the exploration of the Moon, Mars, Jupiter, and Mercury; the Galileo satellite system; asteroid defense; and European space missions—especially those involving the Ariane 6 and Vega-C rockets.
The Astronaut Pikachu Who Spent Months in Space
The undisputed star of the exhibition is, as expected, Pikachu. But this is a very special one: a “Pikachu Astronaut” plush toy that traveled to the International Space Station and spent 67 days in orbit. In total, it made more than 1,000 orbits around our planet alongside European astronaut Sophie Adenot.
Plus, if you visit the exhibition and play Pokémon GO, you’ll be able to catch this very special Pokémon and many other rare creatures that will appear from time to time. These appearances of rare Pokémon will occur mainly during the first week, from October 4 to 10.
If you’d like to take home a special souvenir or are a collector of the famous Japanese Pokémon franchise, an exclusive merchandise collection will be launched , featuring clothing, accessories, and other unique items that will be available for purchase in the museum’s gift shops.
