NORAD Tracks Santa’s 69th Journey
Santa Claus is gearing up for another epic journey around the globe this Christmas Eve. For the 69th year in a row, NORAD, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, will be diligently tracking his whereabouts as he spreads holiday cheer to children worldwide. This long-standing tradition of monitoring Santa’s movements has become a beloved part of the holiday season for families across the globe.
Origins of the Santa Tracking Tradition
The roots of NORAD’s Santa tracking mission can be traced back to a heartwarming incident in 1955 when Air Force Col. Harry Shoup received a call from a child who had misdialed a number in a department store ad, believing she was reaching Santa. Thinking on his feet, Shoup embraced the spirit of the season and played along, sparking a tradition that has endured for decades. Since then, NORAD has made it their mission to keep tabs on Santa’s journey, ensuring that children everywhere can follow his progress on Christmas Eve.
Presidential Participation and Global Reach
In addition to NORAD’s dedicated efforts, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden have joined in on the fun, fielding calls from eager children eager to know Santa’s whereabouts. The tradition of tracking Santa has transcended borders, with early calls pouring in from Japan and Europe, eventually giving way to an influx of inquiries from the U.S. and Canada as the day progresses.
The Magic of NORAD’s Santa Tracker
As the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Eve, NORAD’s radar stations in Canada and Alaska spring into action, detecting an infrared signal emanating from Rudolph’s nose, signaling the start of Santa’s journey. Throughout the day, NORAD’s geostationary satellites keep a watchful eye on Santa as he traverses the globe, spreading joy and merriment wherever he goes.
NORAD’s motto, “We Have the Watch,” underscores their commitment to safeguarding North America, even when it comes to tracking Santa. While Santa may be the one calling the shots, NORAD’s dedicated team ensures that his whereabouts are always known, bringing a touch of magic to the holiday season.
As we eagerly anticipate Santa’s upcoming voyage, let’s take a moment to appreciate the timeless tradition of NORAD’s Santa Tracker, which continues to enchant and delight audiences around the world year after year. So, grab a cup of cocoa, gather your loved ones, and get ready to follow Santa’s journey on Christmas Eve with NORAD by your side.
