As Christmas Eve approaches, a magical tradition continues to captivate millions around the world: tracking Santa Claus on his journey around the globe. Thanks to both NORAD and Google, families can follow every step of Santa's gift delivery mission in real-time. This holiday activity has evolved from a simple tracking system to an interactive, global experience that brings joy to people of all ages, blending technology with the timeless excitement of Christmas.

The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and Google monitor Santa's worldwide journey, offering real-time updates on his location to millions of eager followers.

How did the tradition of tracking Santa Claus start?

The tradition of tracking Santa began in 1955 under unexpected circumstances. During the Cold War, the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), which later became NORAD, was tasked with monitoring US airspace for potential threats. One Christmas, a Sears ad had a typo, mistakenly directing children to call Santa directly. Instead, a young boy dialed CONAD's emergency number. Colonel Harry Shoup, who answered, initially thought it was a prank. However, when the child started listing Christmas wishes, Shoup realized it was no joke. Embracing the moment, he responded warmly with a "Ho, ho, ho! Yes, I am Santa Claus. Have you been a good boy?"

What started as a mistake evolved into a beloved holiday tradition. As more children began calling, CONAD staff members started charting Santa's route on a large map of North America, using the agency's radar to follow his journey. The following day, the media reported that Santa was "safe and secure," marking the beginning of the NORAD Tracks Santa program. For almost 70 years, NORAD has answered millions of calls from eager children asking, "Where is Santa?"

How does the tracker work?

Bob Sommers, 63, a civilian contractor and NORAD volunteer, remembers the joy of answering calls from children. "There are screams, giggles, and laughter," he said. "When I remind kids to go to bed before Santa arrives, parents often join in with, 'You hear that, kids? We need to go to bed early!'"

NORAD tracks Santa using a mix of radar, satellites, and the heat emitted by Santa's glowing reindeer nose, detectable by infrared sensors. The tracking begins on Christmas Eve, with NORAD's systems in Alaska and Canada detecting Santa's departure from the North Pole. Real-time tracking starts once he crosses the international dateline, and volunteers from around the world are ready to provide updates.

NORAD offers an app and a website, www.noradsanta.org, to track Santa's journey on Christmas Eve from 4 am to midnight, Mountain Standard Time. Additionally, people can call 1-877-HI-NORAD to speak with live operators who will provide updates on Santa's location from 6 am to midnight, Mountain Time.

Google Santa Tracker

Inspired by NORAD's initiative, Google launched its own Santa Tracker, originally introduced on the Google Earth platform. Over time, it gained popularity and now attracts millions of visitors annually. The service offers interactive elements, including games, educational content, and festive activities.

Starting at midnight UTC on Christmas Eve, the Google Santa Tracker follows Santa's journey around the globe. Users can view a live map tracking Santa's progress, while enjoying various holiday-themed games and activities. The platform also provides real-time updates on the number of presents delivered and the cities Santa visits.

"We wanted to offer people a way to see where Santa is in real time," said Google spokesperson Sarah Kelleher. "It's enjoyable for all ages, and we're proud to keep this tradition alive, just as NORAD has done for decades."

As the holiday season brings people together, the tracking of Santa has become a beloved tradition for families around the world. Whether through NORAD's long-standing efforts or Google's interactive platform, these initiatives continue to spark joy and excitement, keeping the magic of Christmas alive for all ages. So, as the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Eve, millions will eagerly follow Santa's journey, sharing in the wonder of the season.