Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Inventory, Net [Abstract] Schedule of inventory Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Other comprehensive income or loss, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent, Parenthetical Disclosures [Abstract] Tax effects on foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax Tax effects on unrealized gains or losses on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax Cumulative foreign currency translation losses Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Recognition of realized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities in net income Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Recognition of other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities in net income Accumulated Other-than-Temporary Impairment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Reclassifications out of AOCI Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Gains (losses) on marketable investment securities, net Gain (Loss) on Investments, Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net Total reclassifications, net of tax and noncontrolling interests Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Estimated future amortization of the entity's intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Schedule of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Number of business segments Number of Reportable Segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating segments Operating Segments [Member] All Other and Eliminations Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Intersegment Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Hughes Business Hughes Business Segment [Member] Represents Hughes segment which provides equipment and services to the broadband communications marketplace. EchoStar Satellite Services Business EchoStar Satellite Services Business [Member] Represents Echo Star Satellite Services Business, a business segment of the entity which uses ten owned and leased in-orbit satellites and related FCC licenses to lease capacity on a full-time and occasional-use basis primarily to DISH Network. All other and eliminations All Other Segments And Eliminations [Member] Represents information pertaining to segments not specifically identified and intersegment eliminations. Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Total revenue Revenue, Net Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment EBITDA Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization Represents the amount of earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization. Interest income and expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Net Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest EBITDA Adjustment Represents the net income attributable to HSS Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Foreign Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Federal Domestic Tax Authority [Member] State State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Components of income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Components of the (provision for) benefit from income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current benefit (provision): Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current provision Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred benefit (provision): Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred provision Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total income tax provision, net Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Actual tax provision reconciliation to the amounts computed by applying statutory Federal tax rate to income before taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State income taxes, net of federal effect Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Permanent differences Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Percent Tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Percent Valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Total effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Net operating losses, credit and other carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Tax Credit and Other Carryforwards Deferred tax assets operating loss tax credit and other carryforwards. Unrealized losses on investments, net Deferred Tax Assets, Other Comprehensive Loss Accrued expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Other assets Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Other liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Total net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Noncurrent portion of net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross, Noncurrent Net operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax credit carryforwards Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount Provision for U.S. income taxes or foreign withholding taxes Deferred Tax Liability Not Recognized, Amount of Unrecognized Deferred Tax Liability, Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Balance as of beginning of period Unrecognized Tax Benefits Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Additions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions based on tax settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Balance as of end of period Unrecognized tax benefits if recognized, could affect our effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Investments [Abstract] Investment Securities Investments in Debt and Equity Instruments, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) [Text Block] Receivables [Abstract] Schedule of trade accounts receivable Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense [Abstract] Defined Contribution Plan [Table] Defined Contribution Plan [Table] Defined Contribution Plan Name [Axis] Defined Contribution Plan Name [Axis] Defined Contribution Plan Name [Domain] Defined Contribution Plan Name [Domain] EchoStar 401(k) Plan Defined Contribution Plan Echo Star401 K Plan [Member] Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar 401(k) Plan. Roth 401(k) Plan Defined Contribution Plan Roth401k Plan [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Roth 401(k) plan. Employee benefit plans Schedule of Defined Contribution Benefit Plans Disclosures [Line Items] Contribution limit per employee, as a percentage of eligible compensation Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent Employer matching contribution as a percentage of voluntary employee contributions under 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Percentage of eligible compensation, matched 50% by employer Defined Contribution Plan Employer Match Employee Contribution Level Two Represents the second level of employee contributions (percentage of compensation) which are matched by the employer. Percentage of eligible compensation, matched 100% by employer Defined Contribution Plan Employer Match Level Two Represents the employer matching contribution of the second level of employee contributions. Employer maximum annual contribution per employee under 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Amount Vesting percentage of matching contributions to eligible employees per year Defined Contribution Plan, Employers Matching Contribution, Annual Vesting Percentage Vesting percentage of matching contributions to eligible employees after specified period of service Defined Contribution Plan Employers Matching Contribution Annual Vesting Percentage after Specified Period of Service Percentage of employer's matching contributions to a defined contribution plan that vests in a given year after a specified period of service. Eligibility for employer matching contributions, period of service Defined Contribution Plan Eligible Period of Service for Matching Contribution The period of service required for eligibility for matching contributions by the employer. Matching contributions, net of forfeitures, made by the company during the year Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Discretionary contributions, net of forfeitures, under the 401(k) Plan Defined Contribution Plan Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount Net of Forfeitures Represents the amount of discretionary contributions, net of forfeitures made by the employer to a defined contribution plan. Inventory Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies [Table] Summarization of the disclosures for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Externally marketed software Software and Software Development Costs [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Cost of sales Cost of Sales [Member] Research and development Research and Development Expense [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Other noncurrent assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASU 2015-03 Accounting Standards Update 2015-03 [Member] Accounting policy disclosures Accounting Policies [Line Items] Foreign Currency Foreign Currency Translation [Abstract] Foreign currency transaction gain (loss) Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Property and Equipment Useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Weighted Average Useful life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Amount of transfers between levels within the fair value hierarchy Fair Value Measurement Asset and Liability Transfers Between Levels Represents the amount of transfers between the levels of fair value hierarchy that have taken place during the period. Orbital incentive obligations Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure Research and Development Research and Development Expense [Abstract] Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense Capitalized Software Costs Capitalized Computer Software, Net [Abstract] Useful life of the software Software Useful Life Useful life of software that is either acquired, internally developed, or modified to meet the entity's needs. Net carrying amount of externally marketed software Capitalized Computer Software, Net Capitalized Software Development Costs for Software Sold to Customers Capitalized Software Development Costs for Software Sold to Customers Capitalized costs related to development of externally marketed software Capitalized Computer Software, Additions Amortization expense relating to externally marketed software Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization Advertising Costs Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract] Advertising expenses Advertising Expense New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] Unamortized deferred costs Debt Issuance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Land Land [Member] Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Furniture Fixtures Equipment And Other [Member] Represents furniture, fixtures, equipment and other property, plant and equipment owned by the entity. Customer rental equipment Customer Rental Equipment [Member] Represents information pertaining to customer rental equipment. Satellites - owned Satellites [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity. Satellites acquired under capital leases Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] Property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Depreciable life Total property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Accumulated depreciation on satellites acquired under capital leases Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] DISH Network D I S H Network [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Dish Network. EchoStar Technologies Business EchoStar Technologies Business [Member] Represents EchoStar Technologies Business, a business segment of the entity which designs, develops and distributes digital set-top boxes and related products and technology and also provides digital broadcast operations. Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Share Exchange Agreement Share Exchange Agreement [Member] Share Exchange Agreement [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Ownership interest acquired by related party (as a percent) Business Combination, Ownership Percentage Acquired by Related Party Business combination, ownership percentage acquired by related party. Supplemental Guarantor and Non-Guarantor Financial Information Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] HSS Parent Company [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Eliminations Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Assets Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Marketable investment securities Marketable Securities, Current Trade accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Inventory Inventory, Net Advances to affiliates, net Due from Related Parties, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Restricted cash and cash equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Property and equipment, net Regulatory authorizations Other Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill Goodwill Other intangible assets, net Investments in unconsolidated entities Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Investment in subsidiaries Investments in Subsidiaries Total investments in (A) an entity in which the entity has significant influence and (B) an entity in which the reporting entity shares control of the entity with another party or group. Advances to affiliates Due from Related Parties, Noncurrent Other noncurrent assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity (Deficit) Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Trade accounts payable Accounts Payable, Trade, Current Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Advances from affiliates, net Due to Related Parties, Current Accrued expenses and other Other Sundry Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of unamortized debt issuance costs Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Deferred tax liabilities, net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Advances from affiliates Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities and Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Total HSS shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Corporate bonds Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Other Other Debt Obligations [Member] Strategic equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Debt Security Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-Sale Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Current Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities, Current Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities Targeted or Tracking Stock, Stock [Table] Targeted or Tracking Stock, Stock [Table] Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction Satellite And Tracking Stock Transaction [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction. Carrying amount of net assets transferred to shareholders' equity Targeted or Tracking Stock, Stock [Line Items] Net amount credited to shareholders' equity Stockholders Equity Increase Decrease [Abstract] Transferred net assets Targeted or Tracking Stock Related Party Transactions Transferred Net Assets Represents the amount of net assets transferred by related party under the transaction. Offering costs, net of tax Offering Costs Represents the amount of direct costs of the Tracking Stock offering. Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Net increase in shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Gain from sale of available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract] Less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value 12 months or more Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Total Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract] Less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss 12 months or more Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Total Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Supplemental Guarantor and Non-Guarantor Financial Information Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Contract-based Contractual Rights [Member] Technology-based Developed Technology Rights [Member] Trademark portfolio Trademarks [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Document and Entity Information Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Contractual maturities of debt securities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract] Debt securities with contractual maturities of one year or less Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Rolling Twelve Months, Fair Value Debt securities with contractual maturities exceeding one year Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities After Next Rolling Twelve Months Fair Value Amount of available-for-sale debt securities at fair value maturing after the next rolling twelve months following the latest balance sheet presented. Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite Useful Lives Indefinite Lived Regulatory Authorizations [Member] Information pertaining to indefinite lived regulatory authorizations. Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Related Tax Effects Other Comprehensive Income, Noncontrolling Interest [Text Block] Trade Accounts Receivable Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Subsequent Event Subsequent Events [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair value measurements on recurring basis Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair value of marketable securities Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Debt security Equity security Marketable Securities, Equity Securities, Current Total marketable investment securities Marketable Securities Dividends received from unconsolidated entity Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Contractual Obligations [Table] Schedule of Contractual Obligations [Table] Schedule of information pertaining to contractual obligations of the entity. Contractual Obligations, Type [Axis] Contractual Obligations, Type [Axis] Information pertaining to the future maturities of contractual obligations of the entity. Contractual Obligations Type [Domain] Contractual Obligations Type [Domain] Represents the type of contractual obligations, such as long-term borrowings, capital lease obligations, interest expense on long-term debt and capital lease obligations, satellite-related obligations, operating lease obligations, purchase and other obligations. Long-term debt Long-term Debt [Member] Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Interest on long-term debt and capital lease obligations Interest Expense [Member] Satellite-related obligations Satellite Related Obligation [Member] Represents the information relating to satellite-related obligations of the entity. Operating lease obligations Operating Lease Obligations [Member] Represents operating lease obligations of the entity. Commitments and Contingencies Contractual Obligations [Line Items] Total Contractual Obligation 2017 Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Fiscal Year 2018 Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year 2019 Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year 2020 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year 2021 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year Thereafter Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year Summary of contractual obligations Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Employee Stock Purchase Plan Employee Stock [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Class A common stock Common Class A [Member] EchoStar Echo Star Corporation [Member] Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar Corporation. Employee benefit plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Number of shares authorized for issue Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Number of shares that remain available for issuance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Minimum period for which full-time employees employed by the entity are eligible to participate in the ESPP Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Requisite Service Period Maximum fair value of capital stock permitted to be purchased by employees in any one year under ESPP Employee Stock Purchase Plan Maximum Fair Value of Common Stock Permitted to be Purchased Per Annum Employee Stock Purchase Plan maximum fair value of common stock permitted to be purchased per annum. Purchase price as percentage of closing market price on the last business day of each calendar quarter under ESPP Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent Employee purchases of common stock under ESPP (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work-in process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Total inventory Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] California Institute of Technology California Institute Of Technology [Member] Represents information pertaining to the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Related party transactions Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Net amount of the allocated tax attributes receivable Number of subsidiaries against which lawsuit is filed Number of Subsidiaries Against which Lawsuit Filed Number of subsidiaries against which lawsuit filed. Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation [Policy Text Block] Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation policy. Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Investment Securities Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments in Unconsolidated Entities - Cost and Equity Method Equity and Cost Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment of Long-lived Assets Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Regulatory Authorizations and Other Intangible Assets Intangible Assets Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Policy [Text Block] Represents the disclosure of accounting policy for finite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets. Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Debt Issuance Costs Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cost of Sales - Equipment and Services Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Subscriber Acquisition Costs Subscriber Acquisition Costs [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of the entity's accounting policy for subscriber acquisition costs. Capitalized Software Costs Capitalized Software [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for costs incurred when both (1) the software is acquired, internally developed, or modified solely to meet the entity's internal needs, and (2) during the software's development or modification, no substantive plan exists or is being developed to market the software externally. This policy also may address the entity's amortization policy for its capitalized computer software costs and how it evaluates such capitalized costs for impairment. Advertising Costs Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization and Business Activities Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] Hughes Retail Group Hughes Retail Group [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Hughes Retail Group Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Preferred Tracking Stock [Member] Represents information pertaining to tracking stock, a type of capital stock that the issuing company intends to reflect or track the economic performance of a particular business component within the company. EchoStar and HSSC Echo Star And Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation [Member] Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar and Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation. Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Number of satellites transferred Related Party Transactions Number of Owned Satellites Transferred Represents the number of owned satellites transferred. Proceeds from issuance of Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Number of satellites received Related Party Transactions Number of Satellites Received Represents the number of satellites received. Percentage of economic interest held Related Party Transactions Percentage of Economic Interest Held Represents the percentage of economic interest held an entity. Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Number of shares issued during the period Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Percentage of capital stock held Percentage of Capital Stock Held by Related Party Represents the percentage of capital stock held by related party. Portion of one vote entitled to each share Targeted or Tracking Stock Portion of Vote Entitled to Each Share Represents the portion of one vote entitled to each share of tracking stock. Dividend or other distributions paid on preferred stock Payments of Dividends Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of quarterly results of operations Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Gain (loss) related to trading securities Gain (Loss) on Investments [Member] Marketable investment securities and other investments Marketable investment securities—current, at fair value: Available-for-sale Securities, Current [Abstract] Marketable investment securities, at fair value Available-for-sale Securities, Current Marketable investment securities, at fair value Marketable investment securities, at fair value Dividend income Investment Income, Dividend Unrealized gains (loss) on common stock in trading securities portfolio Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Trading Securities, Equity Trading Securities, Equity Investments in unconsolidated entities—noncurrent: Long-term Investments [Abstract] Cost method Cost Method Investments Equity method Equity Method Investments Total investments in unconsolidated entities—noncurrent Total marketable investment securities and investments in unconsolidated entities Investments Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 6 1/2% Senior Secured Notes due 2019 Senior Secured Notes6.50 Percent Due2019 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6 1/2 percent senior secured notes, which are due in 2019. Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Capital lease obligations Capital Leased Assets [Line Items] Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate During Period Lease, amended agreement term Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Renewal Term Future minimum lease payments under capital lease obligations, together with the present value of the net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2018 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2019 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2020 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2021 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Less: Amount representing lease of the orbital location and estimated executory costs (primarily insurance and maintenance) including profit thereon, included in total minimum lease payments Capital Leases Future Minimum Payments Executory Costs and Orbital Location Lease Amounts to be paid by lessee to lessor for lease of orbital location, maintenance, insurance, and tax expenses related to the leased asset. Net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Net Minimum Payments Less: Amount representing interest Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Present value of net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments Less: Current portion Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term portion of capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Sublease rental income Operating Leases, Income Statement, Sublease Revenue Future minimum sublease rental income Capital Leases, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals Weighted average lease term Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract Schedule of marketable investment securities and investments in unconsolidated entities Investment [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrealized gains (losses) on marketable investment securities Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of available-for-sale securities in continuous unrealized loss position by length of time and their fair value Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value measurements Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] United States UNITED STATES Canada and Mexico North America Other Than U S [Member] Represents information pertaining to North America other than the United States. All other All Other Geographic Segments [Member] Represents information pertaining to other geographical segments of the entity. Geographic Information Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Long-lived assets Long-Lived Assets Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue: Revenues [Abstract] Services and other revenue - DISH Network Services and Other Revenue, Related Party Services and other revenue - Related Party. Services and other revenue - other Sales Revenue, Services, Net Equipment revenue - DISH Network Equipment Revenue, Related Party Equipment revenue related party. Equipment revenue - other Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Total revenue Costs and Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of sales - services and other (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) Cost of Services Cost of sales - equipment (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) Cost of Goods Sold Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Other Income (Expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest income Investment Income, Net Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized Interest Expense Loss from partial redemption of debt Gain (Loss) on Repurchase of Debt Instrument Other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other expense, net Total Nonoperating Income (Expense), Interest And Debt Expense, and Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments Represents, in the aggregate, total other income (expense), including but not limited to: income or (expense) from ancillary business-related activities; interest and debt related expenses associated with nonoperating financing activities of the entity; and the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied, which includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Income tax provision, net Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to HSS Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Comprehensive Income: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities and other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax Recognition of other-than-temporary loss on available-for-sale securities in net income Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion in Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities Recognition of realized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities in net income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive loss, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to HSS Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Schedule of other intangible assets subject to amortization Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of estimated future amortization of intangible assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of carrying amounts of net assets transferred to HSS Schedule of Carrying Amount of Net Assets Transferred under Tracking Stock Transaction [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the carrying amounts of net assets transferred under Tracking Stock Transaction. Schedule of net amounts credited to HSS' shareholders' equity Schedule of Net Amount Credited to Shareholders Equity [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of net amounts credited to Shareholders' equity in consolidated financial statements. Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Trade accounts receivables Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Contracts in process, net Accounts Receivable Contracts In Process [Member] Amounts due from customers or clients for contracts in process. Trade accounts receivable Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Trade accounts receivables Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Total trade accounts receivable, net Receivables, Net, Current Progress billings offset against contracts in process Billed Contracts Receivable Progress amounts for satellite construction, including prepayments under capital leases and launch services costs Progress Amounts For Satellite Construction Including Prepayments Under Capital Leases And Launch Costs [Member] Represents information pertaining to Progress amounts for satellite construction including prepayments under capital leases and launch costs. Satellite related equipment Satellite Related Equipment [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Satellite related equipment. Other Construction In Progress Other [Member] Represents the information pertaining to other constructions in process. Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Senior Secured Notes: Secured Debt [Member] Senior Unsecured Notes: Unsecured Debt [Member] 5 1/4% Senior Secured Notes due 2026 Senior Secured Notes 5.250 Percent Due 2026 [Member] 5.250% Senior Secured Notes Due 2026 [Member] 7 5/8% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021 Senior Unsecured Notes 7.625 Percent Due2021 [Member] Represents detail pertaining to 7 5/8 percent senior unsecured notes due in 2021. 6 5/8% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2026 Senior Unsecured Notes 6.625 Percent Due 2026 [Member] 6.625% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2026 [Member] Other Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Less: Unamortized debt issuance costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs [Member] Unamortized debt issuance costs Debt Debt Instrument [Line Items] Effective Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Carrying Amount Long-term Debt, Gross Less: Unamortized debt issuance costs Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Total debt and capital lease obligations Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Less: Current portion Fair Value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Satellite-related expenses Satellite Related Expenses Represents the amount incurred towards satellite-related expenses. Total rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Goodwill, Regulatory Authorizations and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of revenue, EBITDA, and capital expenditures by operating segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of reconciliation of EBITDA to reported income (loss) before income taxes Schedule of Reconciliation of EBITDA to Income (Loss) before Income Taxes [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of information which reconciles EBITDA to reported income or loss before income taxes. Summary of total long-lived assets and revenue attributed to the North American and other foreign locations Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Summary of sales to major customer and its percentage of total revenue Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block] Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Targeted or Tracking Stock, Stock Disclosure [Text Block] The entire disclosure for information related to target or tracking stock. Satellites SPACEWAY 3 S P A C E W A Y3 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to SPACEWAY 3 satellite. EchoStar XVII Echo Star X V I I [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XVII satellite. EchoStar III Echo Star I I I [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellite assets owned by the entity, EchoStar III (fully depreciated). EchoStar VI Echo Star V I [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VI (fully depreciated). EchoStar VII Echo Star V I I [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VII. EchoStar VIII Echo Star V I I I [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VIII. EchoStar IX Echo Star I X [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar IX. EchoStar X Echo Star X [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar X. EchoStar XI Echo Star X I [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XI. EchoStar XII Echo Star X I I [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XII. EchoStar XIV Echo Star X I V [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XIV. EchoStar XVI Echo Star X V I [Member] Represents the details pertaining to EchoStar XVI. Nimiq 5 Nimiq5 [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellite Nimiq 15, which is leased from other third parties. QuetzSat-1 Quetz Sat1 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellite QuetzSat-1, which is under construction. Eutelsat 65 West A Eutelsat 65 West A [Member] Eutelsat 65 West A [Member] AMC - 16 A M C16 [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellite AMC-16, which is leased from other third parties. Number of satellites utilized in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit, Utilized by Reporting Entity Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity. Number of satellites utilized under capital lease Capital Leased Assets, Number of Units Number of satellites utilized under operating lease Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Number of Units Carrying amount Reduction of capital lease obligation for AMC-15 and AMC-16 satellites Reduction of Capital Lease Obligations and Associated Gain Value 1 The value of reduction in capital lease obligations and associated gain due to entering into additional capital leases in connection with satellite services agreement during the period. Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - DISH Network Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable from Related Parties, Current Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable from Related Parties Current. Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, shares issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Schedule of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of construction in progress Schedule of Construction in Progress [Table Text Block] Schedule of construction in progress. Schedule of depreciation expense Schedule of Depreciation Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of depreciation expense. Schedule of satellites Schedule of Satellites [Table Text Block] Schedule of satellites. Depreciation expense Depreciation [Abstract] Total depreciation expense Depreciation Depreciation expense - capital leases Capital Leases, Income Statement, Amortization Expense Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net income (loss) Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Amortization of debt issuance costs Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs Loss from partial redemption of debt Losses (gains) and impairment on marketable investment securities, net Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Deferred tax provision Proceeds from sale of trading securities Proceeds from (Payments for) Trading Securities, Short-term Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Trade accounts receivable, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Advances to and from affiliates, net Increase (Decrease) Due from Affiliates Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable, Related Parties Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets Trade accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade Accrued expenses and other Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities Changes in noncurrent assets and noncurrent liabilities, net Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Assets and Liabilities, Net Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Net cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Purchases of marketable investment securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities Expenditures for property and equipment Changes in restricted cash and cash equivalents Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Payment for EchoStar XXI launch services Payments to Acquire Other Productive Assets Expenditures for externally marketed software Payments to Develop Software Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Payments of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Repayment of 6 1/2% Senior Secured Notes Due 2019 and related premium Repayments of Senior Debt Repayment of debt and capital lease obligations Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Net proceeds from issuance of Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock (Note 3) Advances from affiliates Increase (Decrease) in Due to Affiliates Capital contribution from EchoStar Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Net increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest) Interest Paid Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Property and equipment financed under capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Increase in capital expenditures included in accounts payable, net Increase (Decrease) In Capital Expenditures Incurred But Not Yet Paid The increase (decrease) during the reporting period of future cash outflow to pay for purchases of fixed assets that have occurred. Net noncash assets received in connection with Tracking Stock Transaction (Note 3) Net Assets Transferred Related to Tracking Stock Transaction Represents the amount of net assets transferred related to Tracking Stock Transaction. Transfer of launch contracts from EchoStar to HNS NonCash Or Part NonCash, Transfer Of Contract Represents the information pertaining to transfer of contract in noncash or part noncash transaction. Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Income/ (Deficit) Retained Earnings [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Issuance of Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock (Note 3) Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital Issuance of Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Amount of increase (decrease) to additional paid in capital (APIC) resulting from issuance of retail preferred tracking stock. Transfer of launch service contract from EchoStar to HNS Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Contributions to fund EchoStar XXI launch service contract from EchoStar to HNS Contribution Of Capital From Affiliate Contribution Of Capital From Affiliate Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Foreign currency translation adjustment Unrealized gains (losses) and other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities, net and other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gains Losses on Available-for-sale Securities, And Other Adjustments, Net of Tax Represents the sum of the unrealized holding gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, the reclassification adjustment impact on the statement of operations, and other adjustments. Balance Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investment in subsidiary Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock (Note 3) Proceeds from capital contributions from parent Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Repayment of 6 1/2% Senior Secured Notes Due 2019 and related premium Cash Targeted or Tracking Stock Related Party Transactions Transferred Cash Represents the amount of cash transferred by related party under the transaction. Property and equipment, net Targeted or Tracking Stock Related Party Transactions Transferred Property and Equipment Represents the amount of property and equipment transferred by related party under the transaction. Current liabilities Targeted or Tracking Stock Related Party Transactions Transferred Current Liabilities Represents the amount of current liabilities transferred by related party under the transaction. Noncurrent liabilities Targeted or Tracking Stock Related Party Transactions Transferred Noncurrent Liabilities Represents the amount of noncurrent liabilities transferred by related party under the transaction. Transferred net assets Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Costs and Expenses: Selling, general and administrative expenses Equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries, net Equity in Earnings of Subsidiaries Represents equity in earnings of guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries, eliminated in consolidation. Income tax benefit (provision), net Net income attributable to HSS Comprehensive Income (loss) : Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Recognition of other-than-temporary loss on available-for-sale securities in net income (loss) Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Reclassification Adjustment of Noncredit Portion Included in Net Income, Availabe-for-sale Securities, before Tax Equity in other comprehensive income (loss) of subsidiaries, net Other Comprehensive Income, Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Arising During Period, Net of Tax Represents the amount after tax, resulting from the earnings from subsidiaries accounted under equity method. Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $12,752 and $11,447, respectively Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero Prepaids and deposits Prepaid Expense and Deposits Assets, Current Represents the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. It also represents the carrying value of amounts transferred to third parties for security purposes that are expected to be returned or applied towards payment within one year or during the operating cycle, if shorter. Other current assets Other Assets, Current Noncurrent Assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $2,503,187 and $2,138,642, respectively Total noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Deferred revenue and prepayments Deferred Revenue and Credits, Current Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Accrued compensation Employee-related Liabilities, Current Accrued expenses and other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Noncurrent Liabilities: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Advances from affiliates Total noncurrent liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Shareholders’ Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock, $0.001 par value; 300 shares authorized, 81.128 shares issued and outstanding at each of December 31, 2016 and 2015 Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.01 par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized, 1,000 shares issued and outstanding at each of December 31, 2016 and 2015 Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total shareholders’ equity Hughes Systique Hughes Systique Corporation [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Hughes Systique Corporation. Dish Mexico Dish Mexico [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Dish Mexico. Deluxe Deluxe Echo Star L L C [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Deluxe /EchoStar LLC. AsiaSat AsiaSat [Member] AsiaSat [Member] Hughes Communications, Inc. [Member] Hughes Communications, Inc. [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hughes Communications, Inc. Amount agreed to be funded under term loan facility Related Party Transaction Amount Agreed to be Funded under Term Loan Facility Represents the amount agreed to be funded under the term loan facility. Interest rate (as a percent) Related Party Transaction, Rate Loan repayment Repayments of Related Party Debt Remaining balance of loan Notes Payable, Related Parties Ownership interest in related party (as a percent) Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage Ownership interest percentage by related party Percentage Ownership in Variable Interest Entity by Other Related Parties Percentage ownership in variable interest entity by other related parties. Ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Revenue from related parties Revenue from Related Parties Receivables from related parties Accounts Receivable, Related Parties Payables to related parties Due to Related Parties Operating income Schedule of consolidating balance sheet Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Schedule of consolidating statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Schedule of consolidating statement of cash flows Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Valuation and qualifying accounts Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Changes in valuation and qualifying accounts Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance at Beginning of Year Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Charged to Costs and Expenses Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Cost and Expense Deductions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Balance at End of Year Schedule of carrying amounts and fair values of the entity's debt Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of future minimum lease payments under capital lease obligations Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases [Table Text Block] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Related-party advances Related-Party Advances [Member] Related-Party Advances [Member] EchoStar Majority Shareholder [Member] Telesat Telesat Canada [Member] Represents details pertaining to Telesat Canada. SES Latin America S E S Latin America [Member] Represents the details pertaining to SES Latin America S.A. EOC EchoStar Operating L.L.C. [Member] EchoStar Operating L.L.C. [Member] Ciel Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc. EchoStar V I I capacity leased to Dish Network EchoStar VI I I capacity leased to Dish Network Echo Star V I I I Satellite Capacity Leased To Dish Network [Member] Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar VIII satellite capacity leased to Dish Network. TeleSat Transponder Agreement TeleSat Transponder Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the TeleSat Transponder Agreement. DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement. QuetzSat-1 Transponder Quetz Sat1 Transponder Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement. Quetz Sat-1 Agreement Quetz Sat1 Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement. Satellite Leasing Service Agreement Satellite Leasing Service Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellite leasing service agreement. TT&C Agreement Telemetry Tracking And Control Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the TT and C Agreement. TerreStar Agreement TerreStar Agreement [Member] TerreStar Agreement [Member] Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement. DBSD North America Agreement D B S D North America Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America Agreement. RUS Implementation Agreement RUS Service Implementation Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to RUS Service Implementation Agreement. EchoStar Professional Services Agreement Echo Star Professional Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the EchoStar Professional Services Agreement. Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] One-year LIBOR One-Year London Interbank Offered Rate [Member] One-Year London Interbank Offered Rate [Member] Required minimum notice period for termination of agreement by the reporting entity Related Party Transactions Agreement, Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity Related party transactions agreement termination notice required by the reporting entity. Expense recorded for services provided Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Annual rates Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Percentage of economic interest in the Hughes Retail Group Agreement term Related Party Transactions Agreement, Term Related party transactions agreement term. Required minimum notice for termination of agreement Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of agreement. Agreement term from commencement of service date Related Party Transactions Agreement Term from Commencement of Service Date Related party transactions agreement term from commencement of service date. Renewal option, reduction Renewal Option, Reduction in Years Renewal Option, Reduction in Years Term of renewal option Related Party Transactions Agreement, Renewal Option, Term Related party transactions agreement renewal option term. Additional term of renewal option Related Party Transactions, Agreement Renewal Option Additional Term Represents the additional term of renewal option. Number of DBS transponders available to receive services Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Available Related party transactions, number of DBS transponders available. Number of DBS transponders currently receiving services Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Receiving Services Related party transactions number of DBS transponders receiving services. Number of DBS transponders currently receiving services subleased back from related party Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Receiving Services Sublease Related party transactions number of DBS transponders receiving sublease services. Minimum required notice period for termination of agreement by related party Related Party Transactions Agreement Termination Required Notice Period from Related Party, Minimum Related party transactions agreement termination required notice period from related party minimum. Automatic renewal period Related Party Transactions Agreement, Automatic Renewal Period Related party transactions agreement automatic renewal period. Grants receivable Related Party Transactions, Grants Receivable by Related Party Related party transactions, grants receivable by related party. Required minimum notice for termination of individual service Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Specific Service Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of specific service. Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Prior to August 1, 2020 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] Prior to August 1, 2019 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member] 2026 Notes Two Thousand Twenty Six Notes [Member] Two Thousand Twenty Six Notes [Member] Debt and capital lease obligations Principal amount of debt issuance Debt Instrument, Face Amount Issue price as percent of principal amount Debt Instrument Issue Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Long term debt issue price as percentage of principal amount. Outstanding principal balance Debt redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Debt redeemed Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount Redemption price as percent of principal Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed Loss from partial redemption of debt Redemption premium Redemption Premium Write off of deferred financing fees Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Purchase price as a percentage of aggregate principal amount at which notes may be required to be repurchased in the event of change of control Debt Instrument Purchase Price, Due to Change of Control as Percentage of Aggregate Principal Amount Represents the purchase price as a percentage of the aggregate principal amount at which the debt instrument may be required to be repurchased in the event of a change of control. Potential annual redemption, as a percentage of amount outstanding Debt Instrument, Annual Potential Redemption As A Percent Of Amount Outstanding Debt Instrument, Annual Potential Redemption As A Percent Of Amount Outstanding Potential redemption as a percentage of principal Debt Instrument, Potential Redemption As A Percent Of Principal Debt Instrument, Potential Redemption As A Percent Of Principal Percent of debt holders required to call debt Debt Instrument, Percent Of Debt Holders Required To Call Debt Debt Instrument, Percent Of Debt Holders Required To Call Debt Maximum additional interest payment requirement, per week Debt Instrument, Debt Default, Maximum Additional Interest Payment Requirement, Per Week Debt Instrument, Debt Default, Maximum Additional Interest Payment Requirement, Per Week Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] All other Other Major Customers [Member] Represents other major customers of the entity. Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Revenue Sales [Member] Sales to each customer and its percentage of total revenue Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Percentage of total revenue Concentration Risk, Percentage Schedule of components of income (loss) before income taxes Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of components of the benefit (provision) for income taxes Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of income tax rate reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]