For 70 years, the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) has maintained a unique Christmas Eve tradition: tracking Santa Claus. What began as a lighthearted response to a child’s phone call has evolved into an annual event involving over 1,000 volunteers and sophisticated technology.
Tracking a Holiday Icon
NORAD, a joint US and Canadian operation initially established to monitor the skies for threats during the Cold War, now turns its capabilities toward a more festive purpose. The organization tracks Santa’s journey from the International Date Line over the Pacific Ocean using the same radar, satellites, and jets employed in its primary defense mission.
This year, those following Santa’s travels have a new option. For the first time, individuals can track Santa through the program’s website, noradsanta.org. The website offers tracking in nine languages, including English and Japanese, making it more accessible to a global audience.
How is Santa Tracked?
According to a NORAD spokesperson, Santa’s sleigh is detectable by the same systems used to monitor potential threats. Specifically, Rudolph’s nose emits a heat signature similar to that of a missile, allowing NORAD’s satellites to pinpoint its location.
Volunteers will be answering calls on Christmas Eve from 4 am to midnight MST (12 pm to 8 am CET), continuing the tradition of providing updates on Santa’s location to children and adults alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NORAD’s primary function?
NORAD is a joint US and Canadian operation charged with monitoring the skies for threats since the Cold War.
When can I track Santa?
Santa seekers can track Santa on Christmas Eve from 4 am to midnight MST (12 pm to 8 am CET) by calling the hotline or visiting noradsanta.org.
How many languages are available on the NORAD Tracks Santa website?
The website allows people to follow Santa’s journey in nine languages, including English and Japanese.
As the day progresses, it is likely that many will continue to check in on Santa’s progress, hoping to catch a glimpse of his journey across the globe. Will this year’s tracking efforts reach a new record in terms of website visits or calls received?
