There are a lot of safety requirements when you send people to space—you’re sending humans into an infinite vacuum, so space agencies spend millions on equipment and technology, research and safety. Yet, despite millions poured into protection, The Pokémon Company sent two cards up there and didn’t bother to even sleeve them.
Look, I’m not judging. At least, not too much. I wouldn’t send a Pikachu SIR from one of Pokémon TCG’s most sought-after sets into the endless abyss above us without protection myself, but maybe I’m just overthinking it. Or, perhaps, The Pokémon Company didn’t read my best Pokémon card sleeves guide. Whatever, I’m not mad.
When Sophie Adenot went to the International Space Station earlier this year, she took Surging Sparks’ Pikachu ex #238 and Minior #201 with her. That’s the same Pikachu that the community lovingly calls ‘Butthole Pikachu’. Just for the record there.
However, the pair makes the first set of Pokémon cards to officially be in space. Yet, without our atmosphere blocking the dangers of the Sun’s UV rays, I can only imagine those poor chases being somewhat tarnished. Either way, it is a monumental occasion, so I suppose I can’t be too judgmental.
However, if you want to celebrate this collaboration in the right way, you can always buy some of the new Pokémon x ESA accessories. That way, you can protect your cards in a selection of space-themed goodies, and know that you’re storing your Pokémon sets in the right way.
What card would you have sent to space? Leave a comment below—personally, I would’ve sent the new Jirachi ex SIR from 30th Celebration. With a sleeve on, of course.
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