NORAD Santa Tracker Keeps the Magic of Christmas Alive for Children Around the Globe
For the 69th consecutive year, the ‘North American Aerospace Defense Command’ is set to monitor Santa’s voyage as he delivers gifts to children everywhere.
For kids around the world, one of the highlights of the holiday season is the excitement surrounding the arrival of Santa Claus and his journey to place presents beneath the Christmas tree.
Given the vast number of over 2 billion homes globally and the limited time available for this festive task, the “North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD)” allows children to not only follow Santa’s real-time journey but also to engage in the festivities.
Using NORAD’s “North Warning” radar system across 47 locations, along with satellites and fighter jets, they closely monitor radar for signs of Santa Claus departing from the North Pole.
Each year, more than 100,000 children reach out to NORAD in Colorado Springs, with volunteers ready to answer holiday or Santa-related inquiries in various languages on Christmas Eve.
Furthermore, NORAD provides Santa’s virtual North Pole Village on its website, featuring a holiday countdown, games, a movie theater, holiday music, and a web store.
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“There are screams and giggles and laughter,” Sommers recalled.
The tracker also provides entertaining facts about Santa’s journey, such as the speed of his sleigh, the number of stops made so far, and the total presents remaining, making the experience engaging for excited children.
“I’m really excited to have an opportunity to participate, and the thing I’m most looking forward to is the interaction with all of the citizens spreading cheer during the holidays.”
Origins of Santa Tracking
The tradition started back in 1955 during the Cold War when a department store mistakenly advertised the wrong number for kids to call Santa Claus.
A young boy ended up calling the “Continental Air Defense Command,” now known as NORAD, asking to speak with Santa while sharing his wish list.
Colonel Harry Shoup, who was on duty, decided to play along with the misdial and assured the child that he would monitor Santa’s movements via their radar.
From that moment onward, around 50 callers followed each day, leading to the establishment of a cherished tradition. Combining some holiday magic with technology, NORAD continues to spread joy, holiday spirit, and excitement for children worldwide.
