London’s Science Museum has opened a free Pokemon Space Trail, created with the European Space Agency and The Pokemon Company International.

The trail runs from October 2, 2026, to January 3, 2027. It places Pokemon characters at nine stops across the museum’s galleries, each paired with a real story from European space science. Free trail guides can be picked up in the Energy Hall.

The installations feature Pikachu, Lunatone, and Arceus in large-scale displays. One stop links NASA and ESA’s Artemis programme, which aims to return people to the Moon, with lunar Pokemon evolutions. A separate Pokemon x ESA shop on the mezzanine sells exclusive merchandise, including an Astronaut Pikachu plush. The shop needs its own free timed ticket.

The opening week overlaps World Space Week, from October 4 to 10. Pokemon GO players can also catch special encounters linked to the event.

Why it matters: pairing a beloved game with real space science is a clever way to pull families into museums. With the trail free and timed for the school holidays, it is set to be one of London’s most popular autumn attractions.