NORAD’s Time-Honored Tradition: Tracking Santa for Over Six Decades

As the holiday season approaches, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) gears up for its annual tradition of tracking Santa Claus on his global journey. This unique mission, which has captivated the hearts of millions for more than 65 years, has its roots in an unexpected event that unfolded in 1955.

The origins of NORAD’s Santa tracking can be traced back to a serendipitous incident when a young child accidentally dialed the unlisted phone number of the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center. Responding to an advertisement urging kids to call Santa, Colonel Harry Shoup, the Director of Operations, took the call and, in a moment of creativity, instructed his staff to use radar systems to monitor Santa’s progress from the North Pole.

This impromptu decision marked the beginning of a cherished tradition that persisted with the formation of NORAD in 1958. Every December 24th since then, NORAD has faithfully tracked Santa’s route, providing real-time updates on his whereabouts to children and families worldwide.

NORAD utilizes its sophisticated satellite systems, high-powered radar, and jet fighters to monitor Santa’s movements. The organization receives calls from around the globe on Christmas Eve, with eager children seeking updates on Santa’s location. In addition to the hotline, the NORAD Tracks Santa® website and various social media platforms keep enthusiasts informed and engaged.

The success of the NORAD Tracks Santa® program is made possible through the collective efforts of volunteers and support from government and corporate partners. This collaborative endeavor underscores the commitment to spreading joy and creating a sense of wonder during the holiday season.

NORAD, a bi-national organization jointly operated by the United States and Canada, has a broader mission beyond tracking Santa. Originally focused on aerospace warning and control, NORAD’s responsibilities have evolved to include maritime warning since the renewal of the NORAD Agreement in 2006. The organization plays a crucial role in monitoring airspace, defending against potential threats, and responding to emergencies.

Headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, NORAD’s bi-national cooperation has proven effective in fulfilling its roles of watching, warning, and responding. The events of September 11, 2001, highlighted NORAD’s continued relevance to North American security, showcasing its ability to provide a potent military response to counter domestic airspace threats.

The men and women of NORAD work tirelessly, monitoring the skies and waterways of the United States and Canada, ensuring the safety of the continent. Twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, NORAD tracks not only Santa but also airplanes, missiles, space launches, and other potential threats, reflecting its unwavering dedication to national security.

While the tradition of tracking Santa began as a fortuitous accident, NORAD has embraced and nurtured it over the years. As the only organization equipped with the technology, qualifications, and personnel to undertake this festive mission, NORAD remains honored to be Santa’s official tracker. The continuity of this heartwarming tradition exemplifies NORAD’s commitment to both safeguarding the nations it serves and spreading joy to people of all ages during the holiday season.

You can track Santa on Christmas Eve at the official NORAD website, https://www.noradsanta.org/

Article by multiple RFHC Contributors