Community Corner

NORAD to Track Santa on Christmas Eve

Get real time updates on Santa's progress courtesy of the North American Aerospace Defense Command.

 

The countdown clock is ticking. In just a few hours, Santa will take to the skies as he begins his voyage around the world to deliver toys to all good boys and girls.

To help parents and excited children keep track of Santa's progress, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) will once again be tracking Santa this year using a combination of radar, satellites, Santa Cams and fighter jets.

Find out what's happening in Oconeewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

According to NORAD, "Tracking Santa starts with the NORAD radar system called the North Warning System. This powerful radar system consists of 47 installations strung across the northern border of North America. On December 24th, NORAD monitors the radar systems continuously for indications that Santa Claus has left the North Pole."

Once Santa leaves the North Pole, infrared sensors on NORAD's satellites will help track Santa and his reindeer.

Find out what's happening in Oconeewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Amazingly, Rudolph's bright red nose gives off an infrared signature, which allows our satellites to detect Rudolph and Santa," officials stated.

When Santa reaches the United States, he will be accompanied by American NORAD fighter pilots in either the F-15, F-16 or the F-22.

To follow Santa's progress throughout the evening, visit the NORAD website, download the official NORAD Tracks Santa app or call NORAD at 1-877-HI-NORAD on Christmas Eve.

You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter.


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