NORAD's Christmas Mission: Tracking Santa's Secret Flight

Every Christmas Eve, a unique operation begins. The North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD, uses its military technology to track Santa Claus. NORAD is a joint US-Canada command. Its main job is to monitor and defend North American airspace. But for one night, its satellites, radar, and fighter jets follow Santa's global journey. The public can watch this mission live. NORAD provides a free online tracker. It shows Santa's location as he delivers presents. This tradition started by accident in 1955. A newspaper ad listed NORAD's phone number instead of a store's for children to call Santa. Officers answered the calls and began tracking Santa's "flight." The practice has continued for nearly 70 years. To follow Santa's progress on December 24, visit the official NORAD Tracks Santa website.