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Most of the time, the International Space Station (ISS) is orbiting the Earth at an altitude of approximately 220 miles (354 km), which places it in low Earth orbit (LEO). This distance can change, however, and has varied from 205 miles (330 km) to a planned maximum of 248 miles (400 km).
Quick Answer. In 2011, the International Space Station was moved to an altitude of 248 miles above the Earth's surface. Prior to the move, the ISS had an orbit of 220 miles. Keep Learning.