The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a U.S. government agency established in 1970 within the Department of Commerce. Its mission is to study and understand Earth's oceans, atmosphere, and coastal regions as they affect the United States. NOAA conducts research, collects environmental data, and provides forecasts and warnings related to weather, climate, oceans, and coasts. It also manages fisheries, protects marine species, and supports scientific research on environmental phenomena. NOAA operates through several specialized offices, including the National Weather Service which provides forecasts and warnings, and the National Marine Fisheries Service which manages coastal fisheries. It maintains satellites, research vessels, and a fleet of hurricane hunter aircraft to fulfill its functions.