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NORAD: Track Santa

Picture 9

Picture 9Sure Santa makes a trip around the world in one night, but how exactly does he do it. Well, now you can track his flight with NORAD, as he journeys around the world and right to your own home.

NORAD tracks Santa’s most famous flight and has been doing so for over 50 years.

The website provides internet surveillance, so kids at home can track Santa Claus—Through NORAD the public can receive updates from the North Pole, visit his village online and track St.Nick using Google Earth.

Not to mention, in addition to the NORAD internet Santa tracker, NORAD offers a phone program to track Santa’s journey through text message updates.

Tracking Santa at NORAD uses a radar system called the North Warning System consisting of 47 installations strung across the northern border of North America that is monitored continuously for any sign of Santa. From the moment of lift off the second detection system is out into effect.

Soon, satellites way above Earth’s surface detect heat and with Rudolph’s bright red nose passing through, the satellites are able to pick up the famous sleigh and the third tracking system is activated.

A number of high-tech digital cameras called the Santa Cam Network, that are only used once a year, capture images and videos of Santa and his Christmas crew as they go globetrotting.

Finally, the fourth and last system of fighter jets intercept and welcome Santa to North America where both Canadian and American fighter pilots ride alongside Santa for a safe flight.

This year, New York Air National Guardsmen from the Eastern Air Defense Sector will play a key role Saturday night as the NORAD tracks Santa Claus and his reindeer.

“NORAD has supported Santa Claus’ Christmas Eve operations for more than 50 years and we are always delighted to participate,” said Col. John Bartholf, EADS commander. “I can assure everyone that EADS will do everything in its power to assist Santa with his critical mission.”

The Sector Operations Control Center will monitor Santa’s eastern U.S. journey as he delivers toys and gifts. The SOCC will conduct what’s called a special radar monitor mission on Santa’s sleigh, providing them with continuous location updates.

Additionally, EADS-controlled fighter aircraft also will be prepared to assist, and in case of poor flying weather, EADS will provide the jolly old elf with navigation and guidance.

 

Track Santa by visiting the NORAD Tracks Santa website, www.noradsanta.org.