Post by : Saif
Al-Najjar
For the 70th consecutive year, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, commonly known as NORAD, has tracked Santa Claus as he journeys around the globe on Christmas Eve. This delightful tradition combines holiday cheer with the sophisticated tools of air defense, bringing joy to children and families worldwide.
NORAD's Santa tracking began by coincidence in 1955, when a newspaper mistakenly published the wrong phone number for kids to call Santa. Instead of dismissing the calls, an officer informed the children that Santa was en route and well. This thoughtful response eventually evolved into a beloved yearly event.
Each Christmas Eve, NORAD states that Santa launches from the North Pole in his sleigh pulled by reindeer. As he does not file a flight plan, officials can’t anticipate his exact route. They often say that only Santa knows where he’s headed next and when he’ll arrive at each household.
According to NORAD, the tracking process begins with radar systems stationed in the Arctic that pick up Santa’s sleigh as it takes off. Following that, satellites track his journey around the planet. Interestingly, these are the same satellites used for monitoring missile threats in North America, demonstrating how advanced technology can also serve a playful purpose.
NORAD jokingly claims that Rudolph’s bright red nose helps satellites lock onto the sleigh through heat sensors. Additionally, the command shares updates, maps, and images online, enabling children around the globe to follow Santa’s progress as he delivers presents.
This year, U.S. President Donald Trump took part in the festivities by answering calls from children while observing the Santa tracker. From his home in Florida, he informed one child about Santa's current location, adding humor to the event by stating that tracking Santa ensures there’s no “bad Santa” entering the country.
While the tone is lighthearted, the Santa tracker acts as an important means for NORAD to engage with the public. It showcases a more approachable aspect of an organization typically associated with defense and security. For countless families, keeping track of Santa's path has become an integral part of their Christmas Eve traditions.
After 70 years, NORAD's Santa tracking remains a beacon of creativity, generosity, and festive spirit, reminding us that even serious institutions can share joy during one of the most enchanting nights of the year.
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