UPDATE: NORAD is actively tracking Santa Claus as he embarks on his annual Christmas Eve journey, delivering gifts to millions of children worldwide. As of December 24, 2023, the North American Aerospace Defense Command confirms Santa took off from his home at the North Pole and is making his way across the globe.
This beloved tradition, which began in 1955, continues to capture the hearts of families every holiday season. NORAD officials say they provide real-time updates and images of Santa’s travels using advanced technology originally intended for military purposes.
“NORAD tracks Santa, but only Santa knows his route, which means we cannot predict where or when he will arrive at your house,” said a senior NORAD official in a press statement. This means children eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival must rely on NORAD’s updates for clues about his journey.
Using its polar radar network and the same satellites that monitor missile launches, NORAD detects Santa’s liftoff and tracks his movements. As soon as Rudolph lights up his iconic red nose, military personnel can pinpoint Santa’s location with precision. The excitement builds as families across the globe check updates on NORAD’s dedicated Santa Tracker website.
A fascinating backstory adds to this magical event. The tradition started after a 1955 misprint in a Colorado Springs newspaper mistakenly published the wrong number for children to call Santa. Instead, they reached the Continental Air Defense Command, where a kind officer reassured the kids that Santa was airborne and on schedule to deliver gifts.
Earlier today, U.S. President Donald Trump engaged with children while monitoring Santa’s progress from his residence in Mar-a-Lago, Florida. As he spoke to a child in Pennsylvania, he confirmed Santa’s current location in Copenhagen, Denmark, adding, “What would you like from Santa?” He humorously emphasized the importance of tracking Santa for national security, stating, “We want to make sure he’s not infiltrated, that we’re not infiltrating into our country a bad Santa.”
The NORAD Santa Tracker not only provides joy to children but also serves as a unique reminder of holiday spirit amidst a world filled with challenges. As Santa spreads cheer across continents, families unite in anticipation of his arrival, making this event a cherished part of Christmas Eve.
As the evening progresses, NORAD will continue to update its tracker, ensuring that families stay informed about Santa’s journey. Keep an eye on the NORAD website for the latest updates on when Santa will be arriving at your home. This year, the magic of Christmas is alive and well, with Santa soaring through the skies, delivering joy to children everywhere.
