Every Christmas Eve, millions of children worldwide eagerly await updates on Santa Claus’s journey, thanks to the North American Aerospace Defense Command’s (NORAD) Santa Tracker. This beloved holiday tradition, which began in 1955, combines advanced technology with festive cheer, capturing the imagination of families across the globe.
The origins of the Santa Tracker date back nearly 70 years to a happy accident. A Sears department store advertisement had mistakenly printed NORAD’s predecessor’s hotline number, encouraging children to call Santa Claus. When the first call came through, Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup answered and, realizing the error, decided to provide a report on Santa’s whereabouts. That simple act of kindness led to what has now become a global phenomenon.
Each year, NORAD uses its state-of-the-art radar systems, satellites, and jet interceptors to track Santa’s sleigh as it travels across the globe. In addition to these sophisticated tools, a dedicated team of volunteers fields over 150,000 calls and countless emails from children and families eager to know when Santa will arrive in their area.
The Santa Tracker has grown significantly in the digital age. A dedicated website and mobile app now allow users to follow Santa in real-time on an interactive map, play holiday-themed games, and watch videos about his journey. The platform, offered in multiple languages, ensures that the excitement reaches an international audience.
The project is powered by partnerships with technology leaders such as Microsoft and Amazon Web Services, ensuring its systems run smoothly for millions of users. Behind the scenes, NORAD staff and volunteers work tirelessly on Christmas Eve to manage the operation, making the tracker not just a high-tech marvel but also a heartwarming display of community spirit.
For NORAD, the Santa Tracker offers a unique way to engage with the public beyond its usual defense mission. It’s an opportunity to spread joy and foster a sense of unity during the holiday season.
As December 24 approaches, anticipation builds for the moment families can check in on Santa’s progress. Whether tracking his sleigh over the pyramids of Egypt or the snowy landscapes of Alaska, the NORAD Santa Tracker has become a cherished part of Christmas tradition, bringing the magic of the season to life for children of all ages.