NOAA is an agency that enriches life through science. Our reach goes from the surface of the sun to the depths of the ocean floor as we work to keep the public informed of the changing environment around them.

From daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and climate monitoring to fisheries management, coastal restoration and supporting marine commerce, NOAA’s products and services support economic vitality and affect more than one-third of America’s gross domestic product. NOAA’s dedicated scientists use cutting-edge research and high-tech instrumentation to provide citizens, planners, emergency managers and other decision makers with reliable information they need, when they need it.

NOAA’s mission to better understand our natural world and help protect its precious resources extends beyond national borders to monitor global weather and climate, and work with partners around the world. 

Our agency holds key leadership roles in shaping international ocean, fisheries, climate, space and weather policies. NOAA’s many assets — including research programs, vessels, satellites, science centers, laboratories and a vast pool of distinguished scientists and experts — are essential, internationally recognized resources. We work closely with other nations to advance our ability to predict and respond to changes in climate and other environmental challenges that imperil Earth’s natural resources, human life and economic vitality.


Our mission

To understand and predict changes in climate, weather, ocean, and coasts,
to share that knowledge and information with others, and to conserve and manage
coastal and marine ecosystems and resources.

More on NOAA's science, service and stewardship

 

Science
9
Key focus areas
NOAA's diverse mission extends from the surface of the sun to the depths of the ocean
Service
12,000
Total number of NOAA personnel worldwide
Dedicated to the understanding and stewardship of the environment
Stewardship
6,773
NOAA scientists and engineers
Studying and monitoring our evolving planet