<P> The International Space Station ( ISS ) is a space station , or a habitable artificial satellite , in low Earth orbit . Its first component launched into orbit in 1998 , the last pressurised module was fitted in 2011 , and the station is expected to be used until 2028 . Development and assembly of the station continues , with components scheduled for launch in 2018 and 2019 . The ISS is the largest human - made body in low Earth orbit and can often be seen with the naked eye from Earth . The ISS consists of pressurised modules , external trusses , solar arrays , and other components . ISS components have been launched by Russian Proton and Soyuz rockets , and American Space Shuttles . </P>
<P> The International Space Station ( ISS ) is a space station , or a habitable artificial satellite , in low Earth orbit . Its first component launched into orbit in 1998 , the last pressurised module was fitted in 2011 , and the station is expected to be used until 2028 . Development and assembly of the station continues , with components scheduled for launch in 2018 and 2019 . The ISS is the largest human - made body in low Earth orbit and can often be seen with the naked eye from Earth . The ISS consists of pressurised modules , external trusses , solar arrays , and other components . ISS components have been launched by Russian Proton and Soyuz rockets , and American Space Shuttles . </P>
what 's the orbit of the international space station
what 's the orbit of the international space station
low Earth orbit
low Earth orbit