NORAD Tracks Santa

NORAD Tracks Santa Logo

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Why NORAD Tracks Santa

The Santa Colonel, US Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup

NORAD Tracks Santa 2007 Ops Center

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NORAD tracks Santa web site 2023

NORAD Tracks Santa is an annual Christmas event that begins on December 1st, with the centerpiece occurring on December 24th, Christmas Eve. It is a program in which the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a United States and Canada bi-national organization, tracks Santa Claus' journey from the North Pole to deliver presents to children around the world. This tradition started in 1955 and has since become a cherished part of holiday celebrations for many.

History

The tradition began quite by accident. In 1955, a Sears department store placed an advertisement in a Colorado Springs newspaper which told children that they could telephone Santa Claus and included a number for them to call. However, the telephone number was misprinted, and instead of connecting to Santa, the calls went through to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center, NORAD's predecessor. Colonel Harry Shoup, the officer on duty, instructed his staff to give the children who called updates on Santa's location as he made his progress around the globe. This act of goodwill was so popular that CONAD decided to continue it as an annual event. When CONAD became NORAD in 1958, the new organization took over the tradition and has been continuing it ever since.

Operation

NORAD uses its sophisticated radar and satellite systems, as well as jet fighters, to track Santa's sleigh and reindeer as they travel around the world. Volunteers staff call centers on Christmas Eve to answer calls and emails from children wanting to know where Santa is. In recent years, the program has expanded to include a website and social media platforms where children and their parents can follow Santa's journey. The NORAD Tracks Santa website features games, videos, and information about Santa and NORAD's mission.

Technological Evolution

Over the years, NORAD Tracks Santa has incorporated a variety of technological advancements to enhance the experience. Initially, updates were provided through telephone hotlines and broadcast on radio and television. With the advent of the internet, NORAD launched a website in the 1990s, which has been updated regularly to include interactive maps, live video feeds, and games. Social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube are now also used to provide live updates on Santa's journey.

Cultural Impact

NORAD Tracks Santa has become a significant part of global Christmas culture, connecting millions of children and adults to a shared experience. It not only entertains but also educates about geography as followers track Santa's progress across different countries. The event has been featured in numerous news articles and television programs, further embedding it into holiday traditions.

Criticism and Controversy

While NORAD Tracks Santa is a beloved tradition for many, it has faced criticism and controversy. Some critics argue that the program militarizes Christmas and is inappropriate for a holiday centered around peace. NORAD has responded by emphasizing the program's intent to spread joy and goodwill.

Conclusion

NORAD Tracks Santa is a unique event that combines modern technology with the magic of Christmas. It showcases the goodwill of the military and volunteers in bringing joy to children and families around the world. As technology evolves, NORAD Tracks Santa will likely continue to grow, bringing the story of Santa Claus to new generations.