{
  "id": 10988212,
  "title": "What is UCF Space Game? Annual tradition reaches 10th year with new uniforms",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/30/what-is-ucf-space-game-annual-tradition-reaches-10th-year-with-new",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-30T16:49:37.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/ucf-space-game-annual-tradition-164937931.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Citronaut, UCF's iconic mascot with astronaut head and orange body, originated as a tribute to Florida Technological University's ties to NASA during its founding in the 1960s. The university's Space Game tradition has persisted through several coaching changes, now reaching its 10th year with new uniforms. UCF's first undefeated football season coincided with the rebranding and introduction of astronaut-themed apparel on September 29th. The Space Game, celebrated annually, showcases UCF's deep connection to the space program and offers a unique, high-profile match on nationally televised Friday nights. UCF's 10th Space Game against Baylor on October 30th will air on ESPN, following a 56-12 win against Arizona in the previous year's game.",
  "summary": "UCF football is prepping for its 10th annual Space Game. Here's why the school honors its aerospace roots and the Knights become the Citronauts.",
  "key_points": [
    "Citronaut mascot represents UCF's NASA ties",
    "Space Game tradition continues 10th year",
    "October 30 game televised on ESPN"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}