Who Tracks Santa & How They Got Started
Every year, children around the world eagerly await the arrival of Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. But have you ever wondered who is responsible for tracking Santa’s journey around the globe? There are two major players in the Santa tracking game: NORAD and Google.
The tradition of tracking Santa began in 1955 when a Sears Roebuck & Co. advertisement misprinted a phone number for children to call Santa. Instead of reaching Santa, the phone number connected to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center. Colonel Harry Shoup, who was on duty that night, answered the phone and began providing children with updates on Santa’s whereabouts. This heartwarming mistake led to the tradition of NORAD tracking Santa’s journey every Christmas Eve.
In 2007, Google launched its own Santa Tracker, providing a fun and interactive way for people around the world to follow Santa’s progress on Christmas Eve.
Why Is Santa In Different Locations?
One of the most common questions children have about Santa tracking is why he seems to be in different locations at the same time. The answer lies in the different time zones around the world. As Santa travels from east to west, it appears as though he is in multiple places at once. NORAD and Google both work to provide accurate updates on Santa’s location as he makes his way around the globe.
Finding Santa On A Map, Via The Web
Both NORAD and Google offer a live map on their websites that allows users to see Santa’s current location, as well as his past stops. The maps are updated in real-time, providing an exciting way for children and families to follow Santa’s journey.
Where’s Santa Been So Far?
Throughout the night, both NORAD and Google provide updates on Santa’s stops, including interesting facts about each location. This can be a fun way for children to learn about different countries and cultures as they follow Santa’s journey.
Santa Cam Video Catches Santa In Flight
One of the most exciting features of both Santa trackers is the use of “Santa cams” to capture footage of Santa as he makes his way around the world. These live video feeds provide a thrilling glimpse of Santa and his reindeer as they soar through the sky.
Santa Tracker Apps
In addition to their websites, both NORAD and Google offer mobile apps for tracking Santa. These apps provide all the same features as the websites, but in a convenient and portable format.
Search For Santa
Both NORAD and Google have search functionality on their Santa tracking websites, allowing users to quickly find Santa’s current location and learn more about his journey. This can be especially helpful for parents and caregivers who want to keep their children updated on Santa’s progress.
Tracking Santa On TV With Chromecast
NORAD offers a unique way to track Santa’s journey on TV using Chromecast. By casting the NORAD Santa tracker from a mobile device to a TV, families can enjoy watching Santa’s progress on the big screen.
Tracking Santa Through Social Media
Both NORAD and Google engage with their audiences on social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, providing updates and answering questions about Santa’s journey. This can be a fun way for families to interact with the Santa trackers and stay informed about Santa’s whereabouts.
Santa’s Location By Voice Phone Call Or Email
In addition to their online and mobile platforms, NORAD offers a toll-free phone number and email address that children can use to get updates on Santa’s location. This provides another avenue for children to stay connected with Santa throughout Christmas Eve.
Overall, the Santa trackers provided by NORAD and Google offer an exciting and interactive way for children and families to follow Santa’s journey around the world. Whether using the websites, mobile apps, or social media platforms, there are plenty of ways to stay updated on Santa’s whereabouts and make Christmas Eve even more magical.