This holiday season, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) is once again preparing for its charming annual mission: to track Santa Claus as he journeys around the globe delivering gifts to children. This beloved tradition, which has captivated millions of families, has been celebrated for 69 years, beginning with an accidental phone call destined for Santa.
The genesis of this magical mission traces back to 1955 when a young girl mistakenly called the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) instead of Santa’s hotline. Harry Shoup, then the duty officer, understood the child’s intentions and assured her he would help track Santa, thereby setting the groundwork for what would become NORAD’s holiday highlight. This year, Colonel Mark Lachappelle, stationed at NORAD’s Colorado headquarters, reflects on the joy of continuing this festive legacy: "It’s one of the things I look forward to most throughout the year," he remarked as he prepares for another busy tracking night.
Today, tracking Santa involves over 1,000 volunteers—both military and civilian—who man phone lines and engage with thousands of calls from excited children asking where Santa is on Christmas Eve. Major Jennifer Derenzis underscored the uniqueness of this mission: "The Continental Air Defense Command, our predecessor, took the original phone call from a child—this magical happenstance led to the Santa Tracker we know today." On Christmas Eve, volunteers will answer more than 130,000 calls as children worldwide seek updates on Santa's whereabouts.
Tracking Santa is no small feat, especially considering he doesn’t file traditional flight plans! The personnel at NORAD utilize sophisticated technology including radar from the North Warning System, satellites, and NORAD military aircraft. Lt. Elise De Garie told reporters, "We track Santa using three systems: radars including the North Warning System, satellites, and NORAD military aircraft." With radar installations scattered across Alaska and Northern Canada, NORAD can monitor Santa the moment he departs from the North Pole.
Satellites positioned 22,300 miles above Earth come equipped with infrared sensors capable of detecting heat—making it easy for NORAD to track Santa’s sleigh, especially due to the glow of Rudolph’s famously bright nose. Once identified, fighter jets, including Canadian CF-18s and various American models such as the F-15 and F-22, accompany Santa on his route to bring extra cheer and watch over his safety.
The tradition has become more than just tracking; it is pivotal to raising holiday spirit among families globally. NORAD’s online platform and phone service allow families to keep tabs on Santa’s movements, creating excitement and anticipation. "The website features games, live updates, and everything needed to keep the Christmas spirit alive," noted Colonel Lachappelle. Families can connect with Santa’s mission and share their experiences through NORAD’s social media platforms as well.
Yet, there’s more to Santa’s flight than just presents. According to NORAD statistics, the website receives millions of visitors each year from over 200 countries, all eager to join the countdown to Christmas. "I really love when you get questions from children," exclaimed Lachappelle, adding how children’s frank questions often bring joy to those involved. The interaction is one of the most rewarding parts of the mission for many volunteers.
Interestingly, Santa operates on his timetable. According to NORAD’s insights, he typically departs the North Pole around 6 AM EST and visits each house between 9 PM and midnight, ensuring children are sound asleep when he arrives, amplifying the magical nature of his visit. "Only Santa knows when he will arrive at your house," explained De Garie, emphasizing the mystery and excitement surrounding his flight.
On Christmas Eve, NORAD not only monitors Santa’s voyage but also ensures parents and children understand the joy of believing. If children are awake when Santa arrives, he will move on to other homes, only to return later. Although some might wonder about catching Santa on doorbell cameras, De Garie chuckled, "He’s got it all figured out already!"
A hallmark of the occasion is the importance of tradition. Colonel Shoup's initial engagement with the first child who called created not just an unforgettable memory but ignited the enduring spirit of cheerful engagement with families. Today, NORAD serves as the bridge uniting children with the magic of Christmas, ensuring Santa is tracked across the night sky during one of the most anticipated nights of the year.
So, how will you track Santa this Christmas Eve? Families are encouraged to prepare for the excitement by checking NORAD’s dedicated website, visiting noradsanta.org, or dialling 1-877-HI-NORAD for updates. Each year, this mission continues to remind us all of the wonder of childhood belief and the joy of giving. No matter where you are, NORAD is here to bring holiday cheer, keeping the magic of Santa alive for generations to come.
