NORAD's Santa Tracker Continues Beloved Holiday Tradition

What began as a Cold War-era morale booster now delights millions of children worldwide with real-time updates on Santa's journey.

• The NORAD Santa Tracker, active since 1955, uses advanced radar, satellites, and volunteer operators to track Santa's global journey on Christmas Eve.
• The tradition originated from a misdialed phone call to the Continental Air Defense Command, leading to a creative embrace of the holiday spirit by Colonel Harry Shoup.
• More than 100,000 children call NORAD annually to ask about Santa's location, while millions more follow online in nine languages via the website and app.
• The effort is supported by volunteers and corporate sponsors, ensuring its continuity even during potential U.S. government shutdowns.
• NORAD incorporates Rudolph's glowing red nose as a heat signature to track Santa, blending technology with the magic of Christmas.

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Hindustan Times mint Associated Press Evening Standard