How NORAD tracks Santa’s annual journey across the globe

Santa Claus is coming to town — and you’ll know exactly when he’s set to touch down, as NORAD tracks his annual journey across the globe.

The North American Aerospace Defense Command and its top-notch radar system have been keeping tabs on Kris Kringle since 1958, in a holiday tradition that lets millions of kids around the world know exactly when to expect their presents.

This year, Father Christmas and his nine reindeer took off from the North Pole about 6 a.m. Monday and made their first stop in New Zealand, according to NORAD’s Facebook and Twitter pages, which are updated with a play-by-play of Santa’s movements.

After dropping off gifts in Papua New Guinea and Australia, St. Nick was spotted grabbing milk and cookies in Tokyo and then gliding over China near the Great Wall. Later, his sleigh was sighted sliding over Taiwan, on its way to Davao City in the Philippines.

By 10 a.m., he’s magically already delivered 1.2 million gifts, according to NORAD’s website.

Even with the federal government shuttered, NORAD announced Friday they’ll continue the Christmas staple, aided by military personnel and more than 1,500 volunteers fielding calls on Santa’s location.

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