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NORAD’s Santa Tracker Marks 70 Years With Web Calling and Multilingual Support

Dec. 24 brings a volunteer-run hotline powered by NORAD’s defense sensors for real-time Santa updates.

Overview

  • For the first time, callers can reach NORAD through the website, with virtual interpreter support available in over 200 languages.
  • The traditional 1-877-HI-NORAD line will run from 4 a.m. to midnight Mountain Time on Dec. 24, staffed by more than 1,000 volunteers at Peterson Space Force Base.
  • NORAD says it uses the same radars, satellites and jets it employs year-round to track Santa, beginning at the international date line over the Pacific.
  • Families can follow along on the website and mobile app, with frequent Santa Cam videos posted on Christmas Eve and site content offered in nine languages.
  • NORAD notes the outreach relies on corporate sponsors and volunteers, with no taxpayer funding used for the program.