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How Do Reindeer Fly? NORAD Answers Kids’ Christmas Questions

How Do Reindeer Fly? NORAD Answers Kids' Christmas Questions

Grade 1 and 2 students from Range Lake School in Yellowknife received an early dose of Christmas magic when their questions about Santa were answered by none other than NORAD (North American Aerospace Defence Command). The organisation, known for its advanced tracking capabilities, has kept tabs on Santa’s Christmas Eve journey for 69 years. Brigadier General Maurizio D. Calabrese, NORAD’s Director of Intelligence and Information, provided insights that enchanted the young students.

The Tradition of Tracking Santa


 NORAD’s Santa Tracker began in 1955 after a child accidentally called a top-secret phone line. A kind-hearted colonel turned the mistake into a tradition that has since captured the imagination of children worldwide. Thousands of volunteers and high-tech systems track Santa’s flight each year, ensuring he safely delivers gifts to millions of homes.

Brig. Gen. Calabrese explained that Santa’s journey begins at the North Pole, crosses the international dateline, and moves westward over the Pacific before crossing North America. NORAD monitors his progress using a combination of radars, satellites, and fighter jets. Rudolph’s glowing red nose, emitting an infrared signal, is the easiest way for satellites to locate Santa in the night sky.

How Does Santa Stay Safe?


 Ella Wright, a Grade 1 student, wanted to know what would happen if Santa were ever in danger. Brig. Gen. Calabrese reassured her, explaining that Santa’s skills as the greatest aviator in the world keep him safe. However, if needed, Canadian fighter jets—like F-18s—can escort him, ensuring he completes his mission. These pilots often tip their wings in salute, and Santa responds with a wave, showing he’s unharmed and on schedule.

Delivering Gifts in One Night


 Leo Leask, a Grade 2 student, asked how Santa delivers presents to every child in just one night. Brig. Gen. Calabrese admitted it’s a mystery but believes Santa experiences time differently. His centuries of experience as a master logistician allow him to work quickly and efficiently, ensuring every gift is placed under the tree while children are sound asleep.

The Mystery of Flying Reindeer


 The students were inquisitive about Santa’s reindeer. Amaya Unrau, Theo Yorke, and Aurora Forget, all in Grade 2, asked how reindeer can fly without wings and stay energetic throughout the night. Brig. Gen. Calabrese acknowledged that Santa keeps some secrets classified, but he attributed their flight to the magic of Christmas Eve. He also credited children worldwide for leaving carrots and other treats that give the reindeer energy to power through their demanding journey.

He explained that Santa’s reindeer embodies the spirit of Christmas and is a testament to the magic that makes this time of year so unique.

Also Read: Bendigo Bank Outage Disrupts Services Before Christmas

A Global Tradition


 Over the decades, NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become a cherished tradition for families worldwide. By combining cutting-edge technology with holiday cheer, the annual operation ensures that Santa’s journey remains a source of joy and wonder for children everywhere.

For the students at Range Lake School, this interaction brought the magic of Christmas to life, blending their natural curiosity with the season’s excitement. Brig. Gen. Calabrese’s personalised answers made their classroom a festive hub of imagination and belief.

As Christmas Eve unfolds, NORAD’s dedicated team will continue to track Santa, celebrating the spirit of the season and reassuring children everywhere that their gifts are on their way. With his unparalleled flying skills, magical reindeer, and help from kids worldwide, Santa is ready for another successful Christmas.

So, one thing is sure for those eagerly awaiting his arrival: Santa will find his way to your home as long as you’re asleep between 9 p.m. and midnight. Magic, after all, has no limits.

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