Wednesday, December 21, 2011

HOW SANTA IS TRACKED

NORAD uses four high tech systems to track Santa are radar, satellites, "Santa Cams" and fighter jets.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 Christmas Eve, NORAD monitors the radar systems continuously for indications that Santa Claus has left the North Pole.

The moment that radar indicates Santa has lifted off, a second detection system is then initiated. Satellites positioned in geo-synchronous orbit at 22,300 miles from the Earth’s surface are equipped with infrared sensors, which enable them to detect heat. Amazingly, Rudolph's bright red nose gives off an infrared signature, which allow our satellites to detect Rudolph and Santa. 

The third tracking system is the Santa Cam network. We began using it in 1998, which is the year we put our Santa Tracking program on the internet. Santa Cams are ultra-cool, high-tech, high-speed digital cameras that are pre-positioned at many locations around the world. NORAD only uses these cameras once a year on Christmas Eve. The cameras capture images and videos of Santa and his reindeer as they make their journey around the world.

The fourth system is made up of fighter jets. Canadian NORAD fighter pilots flying the CF-18 intercept and welcome Santa to North America. In the United States, American NORAD fighter pilots in either the F-15 or the F-16 get the thrill of flying alongside Santa and his famous reindeer: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and, of course, Rudolph.

Mystical and Magical it is in how this all takes place with that combination of the Air Force and Santa and his Reindeer. I still have that hunch that Santa not only do children are enlightened upon Christmas day but Santa as well has the thrill each and every year at during this time.

 

 

 

7 comments:

  1. This shall be updated as Norad as it's not just a simple task - yet a worthy one for all those whom believe within the magic of good old Saint Nick.

    Not to mention the rein deer and the elfs. They go through a tremendous six month training - mind you Santa he has always been known to be a little bit hefty but Mrs. Klaus at this time does keep a watch on him as he has always kept at the same weight.

    With two nights to go Santa, Rudolf, the Elves and Air force are within preparation for something which shall take them to every boy and girl as well as those which are young at heart. From what I heard of recent the North Pole is in a jolly preparation as they look forward to this every year. And Mrs. Klaus as well is over watching
    all of this as although she does not partake within the trip.
    She actually has much of which she oversees during this time before .........

    the trip of marvel begins.

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  2. ... and the trip marvels begins Jack. laughs*

    Last year upon reading these writings of yours ... i thought your serious and if i may recalled back i placed a song. And then, we quarreled about that song. (am laughing at these very minutes... let me please) :)

    Yet i wished Santa would be more careful with his weight and not engrossed too much in gift-giving. But give some times also to his self.

    Now ... i do not know where NORAD is aiming his reindeers but all i know is i love 'Rudolph' he is such a cute kinder reindeer. And i love rubbing his nose. laughs*


    I want to be a child again, Jack. And admittedly, i will look at the night skies on the 24th, up there.

    Merry Christmas

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  3. hope all the technology,,helps him safely on his way!
    have a,Peaceful Holiday oxo

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  4. Everyone is a child at heart! And lets look at things upon the 24....why not! :)

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  5. Oh I think by now they have this all down pat Caroline. They have had many of years of practice !

    Peace and Joy to you.

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  6. gasps..........My Granddaughter will loooooooooove this!!! Thanks Jack!!!

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  7. Most welcome Pamela as I am sure there are many with children which shall be waiting with a little gasp. :)

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