Version 0 became operational in September 1994. By providing the DAACs with the capability to process large amounts of data continuously, it is hoped that investigators will be able to identify new scientific variables of interest so that data collection methods could be changed midstream in the program. The EOS-Altimetry mission was split into Laser and Radar components and the Radar Altimetry segment was cost capped. Reconfiguring payloads also will enable EOS spacecraft after EOS-AM1 to be launched on Delta expendable launch vehicles, instead of the larger and more expensive Atlas rockets. Some scientists have suggested that because Earth system science is such a young and broad field, a wide variety of multi-purpose instruments should be included on EOS so that various measurements can be made to pursue unforeseen paths of inquiry.
Some scientists even feel that it is difficult to formulate certain relevant scientific questions.
EOS critics, however, object to spending large sums of money for EOS when its objectives do not seem to be defined clearly. EOS managers, however, argue that they have established clear scientific priorities. Advocates also argue that it is science's charter to explore untapped areas of knowledge, especially in relatively new disciplines such as Earth system science. Despite the many commercial uses for remotely sensed information, the Government is still the largest consumer of complex scientific information such as MTPE data. With launch vehicle and spacecraft development costs still high, it is difficult for private firms to recoup their investments by selling data that their spacecraft collect.