The Earth Observing System (EOS) is the centerpiece of NASA's Mission to Planet Earth, whose overall goal is to understand the total earth system (air, water, land, life, & their interactions) & the effects of natural & human-induced changes on the global environment. This report assesses NASA's plans for funding the first spacecraft of the EOS in 1998 & for developing its EOS-related basic research community. Also addresses issues related to the new Earth System Science Pathfinder program. Charts & tables.