The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan will collaborate with The Pokémon Company (Headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Tsunekazu Ishihara) to hold the “Pokémon Astronomical Observatory,” a special exhibition where visitors can have fun learning about the mysteries of the Universe, that will be hosted by various science museums in Japan. Through this project we aim to spark children’s interest in space, strengthen the talent pool which studies science, and increase overall support for basic science.

Astronomy is a science which discovers many mysteries in the vast Universe and seeks their answers. The development of astronomy has been driven by the intellectual curiosity of all humans, most notably researchers; the suspense and thrill of new discoveries. The adventures that unfold in the Pokémon game series can be said to be similar to astronomy in many ways, with their suspense and thrill from new discoveries and encounters with the mysterious creatures known as “Pokémon.”

At the “Pokémon Astronomical Observatory” Special Exhibition, everyone, especially children, can enjoy the excitement of exploration and discovery. In the exhibition hall, together with many Pokémon, you can study various visions of the Universe discovered over human history. Please enjoy this unique combination of learning and encounters not available anywhere else.

The “Pokémon Astronomical Observatory” is scheduled to be a traveling exhibition. Starting from the grand opening at Sagamihara City Museum on November 1, 2025, it will be hosted in turn by science museums and other exhibition spaces across Japan. Please refer to the official webpage (Japanese language only) for more details.

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