Google & Microsoft Launch Santa Tracking Websites for Kids

These days, thanks to the help of modern technology, it has become that much easier to track Santa Claus and his reindeer. Google and Microsoft have both launched their own tracking websites to allow kids from around the globe an alternative way to check on St. Nick other than looking at the clock.

In a report with Yahoo News, children could track Santa's Santa's course on Christmas Day. Kids from around the world can also find ways to explore the world and find out more about the places Santa is visiting. Google, for instance, allows children to click on certain points of interest and load photos and information from Wikipedia.

Microsoft, on the other hand, is launching its tracker in collaboration with NORAD (the North American Aerospace Defense Command). Microsoft is taking a similar approach and is making use of search engine, Bing.

CTV News reports that the Santa Tracker's hub is located at Colorado's Peterson Air Force base. Hundreds of volunteers are also standing by to accept calls from an estimated 125,000 children all around the world asking where in the world is Santa.

In places like Alaska, remote NORAD identification technicians who monitor their computer screens 24 hours a day. They also spend Christmas Eve serving as Santa trackers.

A system of radar stations and satellites monitor all air traffic that enter U.S. and Canadian airspace. All aircraft are reported to have a unique code to identify themselves. In the event that an aircraft does not have a code, NORAD can send out jets to identify the aircraft. 

Technicians in Canada and the United States would report so-called sightings of a sleigh full of toys being pulled about by flying reindeer.

Tech. Sgt. John Gordinier, an Alaska NORAD spokesman said that this is one of the largest military community relations events of the year.

According to Gardiner, Santa usually leaves the North Pole and flies to the international date line over the Pacific Ocean. He added that St. Nick begins deliveries in island nations before making his way west in the Northern and Southern hemispheres. He added that Alaska is usually Santa's last stop before heading home.

Starting at 10 p.m. on Dec. 23, children from all around the world can call a toll-free number, 877-446-6723 (877-Hi-NORAD). Children can also speak to a live phone operator to ask about Santa's location. 

NORAD has 157 telephone lines and hundreds of volunteers on call, which includes first lady Michelle Obama. NORAD also has an official website, a Twitter account, and an official Facebook page as well.