low earth orbit

noun

: a usually circular orbit from about 90 to 600 miles (about 140 to 970 kilometers) above the earth

Examples of low earth orbit in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But doing so is far too expensive for most space startups, many of which have just one or two satellites in low earth orbits. — IEEE Spectrum, 5 June 2019 While the details remain classified, the goal is to build and launch a network of hundreds of spy satellites—or maybe more—with specialized intelligence payloads into low earth orbit. — Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2025 SpaceX is far ahead, and operates the world’s largest network of satellites in low earth orbit through Starlink, which powers satellite internet services under the same brand name. — Lora Kolodny, CNBC, 6 Dec. 2025 Florida's early morning sky was home to more than just the sun on Wednesday, March 4, as SpaceX launched yet another rocket into low earth orbit. — Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 4 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for low earth orbit

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of low earth orbit was in 1961

Rhymes for low earth orbit

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Browse Nearby Words

Low Dutch
low earth orbit
Lowell
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Cite this Entry

“Low earth orbit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/low%20earth%20orbit. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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