For over seven decades, a remarkable tradition has unfolded on Christmas Eve, captivating children and families worldwide. It’s a high-tech pursuit with a heartwarming goal: tracking Santa Claus as he embarks on his annual journey.
The North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD, undertakes this extraordinary mission. Utilizing sophisticated satellite technology and military-level precision, they monitor Santa’s sleigh as it soars through the skies, updating a real-time map of his progress.
The story began in 1955, not with intention, but with a happy accident. A newspaper advertisement encouraging children to call Santa mistakenly printed the phone number for the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center. Calls flooded in, and a tradition was born.
CONAD embraced the unexpected role, and in 1958, when NORAD was formed, they seamlessly continued the beloved task. What started as a response to a misprinted number evolved into a cherished Christmas Eve ritual.
NORAD’s tracking typically begins in the early morning hours of December 24th, as Santa lifts off from the North Pole. His route generally follows the International Date Line, beginning with stops in the South Pacific, New Zealand, and Australia.
From there, Santa journeys through Asia, Africa, and Europe, before crossing the Atlantic to reach Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Central and South America. It’s a whirlwind tour, executed with incredible speed and precision.
While Santa’s exact schedule remains a closely guarded secret – “Only Santa knows his route,” NORAD playfully admits – history suggests he arrives only when children are fast asleep. A crucial detail for parents everywhere!
Dedicated uniformed personnel and volunteers staff the NORAD Tracks Santa Operations Center, answering calls and providing updates throughout the night. It’s a testament to the spirit of the season and the dedication of those involved.
So, whether you’re a child eagerly awaiting his arrival, a parent seeking a little Christmas magic, or simply fascinated by the technology behind the tracking, the NORAD Santa Tracker offers a unique and enchanting experience.
It’s a reminder that even in a world of complex systems and advanced technology, the wonder of Christmas – and the magic of Santa Claus – endures.
