Hangar at Peterson Space Force Base Transforms into NORAD Santa Tracking Hub
Peterson Space Force Base is gearing up for the holiday season as one of its hangars transforms into the NORAD Tracks Santa operation center on Wednesday, Dec. 18. With Christmas Eve fast approaching, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) is preparing to use its advanced technology to follow Santa’s journey across the globe.
A Holiday Tradition Born from a Mistake
The NORAD Tracks Santa program has its origins in 1955, when a child mistakenly called the combat operations center at the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) in Colorado Springs, hoping to speak to Santa Claus. A local advertisement had misprinted the number for a Santa hotline, directing calls to the unlisted operations center instead.
An Air Force colonel, realizing the error and not wanting to disappoint the child, instructed the team to track Santa’s movements and respond to children’s calls. This heartwarming gesture became a tradition, and when NORAD absorbed CONAD’s mission a few years later, it continued the Santa tracking program. Now, 69 years later, the program is a cherished holiday event.
Hangar 123: The New Home for Santa Tracking
In 2023, NORAD Tracks Santa moved its operation into Hangar 123 at Peterson Space Force Base. The hangar was chosen for its ample space, including a large briefing room and sufficient parking to accommodate the volunteers and staff who run the program.
The hangar now serves as the operational base for the Santa tracking team, ensuring the mission of keeping an eye on Santa’s global journey is carried out efficiently. Volunteers at the center answer calls and share updates with eager children and families awaiting Santa’s arrival.
Advanced Technology for a Beloved Tradition
Using cutting-edge radar systems, satellites, and jet fighters, NORAD tracks Santa as he and his reindeer deliver presents and spread holiday cheer. The program has become an international phenomenon, with millions of children around the world checking in for updates on Santa’s progress on Christmas Eve.
Hangar 123 is now the heart of this joyful mission, embodying the spirit of the holiday season and continuing a tradition that began with a simple phone call nearly seven decades ago.
