AMC-15
Represents information pertaining to satellite AMC-15, which is leased from other third parties.
AMC 15 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements Asset and Liability Transfers Between Levels
Amount of transfers between levels within the fair value hierarchy
Represents the amount of transfers between the levels of fair value hierarchy that have taken place during the period.
Schedule of marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and other investment securities
Investment [Table Text Block]
AMC-16
Represents information pertaining to satellite AMC-16, which is leased from other third parties.
AMC 16 [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Accounting policy disclosures
Accounting Policies [Table]
Summarization of the disclosures for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity.
Accounts Receivable Contracts in Process [Member]
Contracts in process
Amounts due from customers or clients for contracts in process.
Award Type [Axis]
Africa, Asia and the Middle East
Represents the information about the African, Asian and Middle Eastern locations of the entity.
Africa Asia and the Middle East Segment [Member]
Aggregate Additional Payment if Option to Extend Agreements is Exercised Less than
Maximum additional aggregate payments required under cross license agreements if options are exercised
Maximum additional aggregate payments required under cross license agreements if options are exercised
Represents the information pertaining to all other geographical segments of the entity.
All other
All Other Geographic Segments [Member]
Aggregate Payment under Agreement Less than
Maximum aggregate payments required under cross license agreements
Maximum aggregate payments required under cross license agreements
Amendment Description
All Other and Eliminations
All Other Segments and Eliminations [Member]
Represents information pertaining to segments not specifically identified and intersegment eliminations.
All Other and Elimination
Amendment Flag
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable from Related Parties Current.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable from Related Parties, Current
Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - DISH Network (in dollars)
Amount Funded to Debtors under Credit Facility
Represents the amount funded to the debtors under the Credit Facility.
Amount funded to debtors under the Credit Facility
Amount of remanufactured receivers and accessories purchased from related party
Amount of remanufactured receivers and accessories purchased from related party.
Amount of Remanufactured Receivers and Accessories Purchased from Related Party
Amount of Remanufactured Receivers and Accessories Purchased from Related Party Less than
Amount of remanufactured receivers and accessories purchased from related party, less than
Amount of remanufactured receivers and accessories purchased from related party less than
Amount Owed to Entity under Terms of Credit Agreement
Represents the amount owed to the entity under terms of credit agreement for secured financing.
Amount owed to entity under the terms of credit agreement
Aggregate principal amount of non-revolving multiple draw term loan
Approximate Decrease in Fair Value of Debt Investments Due to Hypothetical Adverse Change
Approximate decrease in fair value of debt investments due to hypothetical adverse change.
Approximate decrease in fair value of debt investments
Assets purchase agreement with TerreStar Networks, Inc. (TerreStar)
Represents the asset purchase agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of TerreStar Networks, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
Asset Purchase Agreement Terre Star [Member]
Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain]
Represents the gross unrealized gain or loss on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss).
Available For Sale Securities, Gross Realized Gain (Loss) before Tax
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss), before tax amount
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss), tax (expense) benefit
Represents the gross unrealized gain or loss on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss).
Available For Sale Securities, Gross Realized Gain (Loss) During Period Tax
Bell TV
Represents Bell TV, a major customer of the entity.
Bell TV [Member]
Blockbuster
Represents the details pertaining to Blockbuster, Inc.
Blockbuster Inc [Member]
Brazil Authorization Rights [Member]
Brazil authorization
Represents the details pertaining to Brazil authorization rights.
Breach of Fiduciary Duties [Member]
Breach of fiduciary duties
Represents details pertaining to breach of fiduciary duties.
Represents details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement for certain sports related programming.
Broadcast Agreement for Certain Sports Related Programming [Member]
Broadcast Agreement for Certain Sports Related Programming
Broadcast Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement.
Broadcast Agreement [Member]
Business Acquisition Contractual Rights Acquired
Contractual rights to receive cash discounts on future launch services
Represents the amount of contractual rights acquired to receive cash discounts on future launch services.
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Cash to be paid for each issued and outstanding share of unvested restricted stock and unvested stock option of Hughes pursuant to the Hughes Agreement (in dollars per share)
Business Acquisition Cost of Acquired Entity Cash to be Paid Per Unvested Share as Per Merger Agreement
Business Acquisition Cost of Acquired Entity Cash to be Paid Per Unvested Share as Per Merger Agreement
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation in Process Research and Development
In-process research and development
Business acquisition purchase price allocation in process research and development.
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Current Assets (Liabilities), Net
Other current
Business acquisition purchase price allocation other current assets liabilities net.
Business Combination Acquisition Related and Compensation Costs
Transaction and compensation costs
Business combination, acquisition-related and compensation costs.
Business Combination Ownership Percentage Acquired by Related Party
Ownership interest acquired by related party (as a percent)
Business combination, ownership percentage acquired by related party.
Less than 12 months
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses
Represents information pertaining to satellite CMBStar, which is owned by the entity and is under construction.
CMBStar [Member]
CMBStar
California Subscriber Lawsuit
Represents details pertaining to patent infringements.
California Subscriber Lawsuit [Member]
Capital Lease Obligations, Increase (Decrease) Due to Change in Monthly Recurring Payment
Capital lease obligations increase decrease due to change in monthly recurring payment.
Decrease in capital lease obligations
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due after Fourth Full Fiscal Year
Thereafter
Capital leases future minimum payments due after fourth full fiscal year.
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due First Full Fiscal Year
2013
Capital leases future minimum payments due first full fiscal year.
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Fourth Full Fiscal Year
2016
Capital leases future minimum payments due fourth full fiscal year.
Document Period End Date
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Remainder of Year
2012 (nine months remaining)
Capital leases future minimum payments due remainder of year.
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Second Full Fiscal Year
2014
Capital leases future minimum payments due second full fiscal year.
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Third Full Fiscal Year
2015
Capital leases future minimum payments due third full fiscal year.
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.
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 loss carry forwards fully offset by a valuation allowance
The amount of capital loss carryforwards which are fully offset by a valuation allowance.
Capital Loss Carryforward Fully Offset by Valuation Allowance
Capital Transaction with Related Party in Connection With Launch Service
Capital Transaction with Related Party in Connection with Launch Service
Capital transaction with DISH Network in connection with the launch service (Note 17)
Capital transactions with Related Party, net of tax
Capital Transactions with Related Party, Net of Tax
Capital transactions with DISH Network, net of tax
Capitalized Software Costs
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.
Capitalized Software [Policy Text Block]
Related Party Transaction, Cash Provided
Cash Provided to Joint Venture
Cash provided to joint venture.
Entity [Domain]
Total
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses
Represents the details pertaining to the Ciel-6i Agreement.
Ciel 6i Agreement [Member]
Ciel-6i Agreement
Commitment under Credit Agreement
Commitment under credit agreement.
Commitment under credit agreement
Represents the Class D common stock.
Class D common stock
Common Class D [Member]
12 or more
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses
Common Stock Convertible into Number of Shares of Class A Common Stock
Number of shares of Class A common stock into which each share of common stock is convertible
Common stock convertible into number of shares of Class A common stock.
Common Stock Voting Rights in Event of Change of Control
Votes per share in event of change of control
Represents the number of votes per share in the event of change of control.
Construction in progress: Other
Represents the information pertaining to other constructions in process.
Construction in Progress Other [Member]
Contractual Obligations [Line Items]
Commitments and Contingencies
Contractual Obligations, Number of Satellite Launch Contracts
Satellite-related obligations, number of satellite launch contracts
Contractual obligations, number of satellite launch contracts.
Contractual Obligations, Type [Axis]
Information pertaining to the future maturities of contractual obligations of the entity.
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.
Contribution from Related Party in Connection with Spinoff
Contribution from DISH Network in connection with the Spin-off
Contribution from Related Party in connection with spin off.
Restricted marketable investment securities
Available-for-sale Securities, Restricted, Noncurrent
Credit Facility [Member]
Credit facility
Represents details pertaining to the credit facility.
Customer rental equipment
Represents information pertaining to customer rental equipment.
Customer Rental Equipment [Member]
DBSD North America Agreement [Member]
DBSD North America Agreement
Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America Agreement.
DISH Broadband [Member]
DISH Broadband
Represents the details pertaining to DISH Broadband.
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains
Unrealized Gains
DISH Network
Represents the details pertaining to Dish Network.
DISH Network [Member]
DISHOnline.com Services Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the DISHOnline.com Services Agreement.
DISHOnline.Com Services Agreement [Member]
DISH Remote Access Services Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the DISH Remote Access Services Agreement.
DISH Remote Access Services Agreement [Member]
DISH Telesat Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the DISH Telesat Agreement.
DISH Telesat Agreement [Member]
Debt Discount and Deferred Financing Net Noncurrent
Debt discount and deferred financing, net
Represents the carrying amount of as of the balance sheet date of debt discount originally recognized at the issuance of the instrument that has yet to be amortized and deferred financing cost incurred.
Debt Repurchase Price, Percentage in Event of Change of Control
Debt repurchase price percentage in event of change of control.
Repurchase price in the event of change of control, percentage of principal
Debtor-In-Possession Credit Facility
Represents details pertaining to 15 percent Senior Secured Paid-in-Kind Notes, due in 2014.
Debtor in Possession Credit Facility [Member]
Deferred Tax Assets Net Operating Losses and Tax Credit Carryforwards
The amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible operating loss carryforwards and the tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of future tax deductions arising from all unused tax credit carryforwards which have been partially reduced by a valuation allowance.
Net operating losses and credits included in deferred tax assets
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
Defined Contribution Pension [Line Items]
Employee Benefit Plans
Defined Contribution Plan Age of Employee to Make Additional Contributions
Age of employee to make additional contributions
Represents the age of employee to make additional contributions to a defined contribution plan.
Defined Contribution Plan Cost Recognized [Abstract]
Expense Recognized Related to the 401(k) Plan
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Axis]
Disclosures about defined contribution plan.
Defined Contribution Plan [Domain]
The name of the defined contribution plan.
Defined Contribution Plan, EchoStar 401K Plan [Member]
Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar 401(k) Plan.
EchoStar 401(k) Plan
Defined Contribution Plan Eligible Period of Service for Matching Contribution
Eligibility for employer matching contributions, period of service
The period of service required for eligibility for matching contributions by the employer.
Defined Contribution Plan Employee Additional Contribution Limit
Employee additional contribution limit
The limit of annual employee additional contributions to the plan.
Defined Contribution Plan Employer Match Employee Contribution Level One
Percentage of eligible compensation, matched 100% by employer
Represents the first level of employee contributions (percentage of compensation) which are matched by the employer.
Percentage of eligible compensation, matched 50% by employer
Represents the second level of employee contributions (percentage of compensation) which are matched by the employer.
Defined Contribution Plan Employer Match Employee Contribution Level Two
Defined Contribution Plan Employer Match Level One
Employer match of employee contributions of 3% of eligible compensation (as a percent)
Represents the employer matching contribution of the first level of employee contributions.
Represents the employer matching contribution of the second level of employee contributions.
Defined Contribution Plan Employer Match Level Two
Employer match of employee contributions for 6% of eligible compensation (as a percent)
Employer matching contribution as a percentage of voluntary employee contributions under 401(k) plan (as a percent)
Defined contribution plan employer matching contribution as percentage of employee voluntary contribution.
Defined Contribution Plan Employer Matching Contribution as Percentage of Employee Voluntary Contribution
Defined Contribution Plan, Hughes 401K Plan [Member]
Represents information pertaining to the Hughes 401(k) Plan.
Hughes 401(k) Plan
Defined Contribution Plan Maximum Annual Contribution By Employee Amount
Employer maximum annual contribution Per employee under 401(k) plan
Represents the annual dollar limit an employee may contribute to a defined contribution retirement plan.
Defined Contribution Plan Maximum Annual Contribution Employee Percent Of Eligible Compensation
Maximum percentage of employee gross pay, by the terms of the plan, that the employee may contribute to a defined contribution plan.
Contribution limit per employee, as a percentage of eligible compensation
Defined Contribution Plan Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee for Highly Compensated Employees Percent
Highly compensated employee contribution limit as percentage of eligible compensation for highly compensated employees
The limit of annual employee contributions made by highly compensated employees to the plan per calendar year as a percentage of compensation.
Defined Contribution Plan Number of Plans
Number of 401(k) employee saving plan
Represents the number of plans under the defined contribution plan.
Deluxe Echo Star LLC [Member]
Deluxe
Represents the details pertaining to Deluxe /EchoStar LLC.
Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)
Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share amount due to contingency terms upon meeting certain company goal which was not probable of being achieved.
Dilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Dilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share Amount [Abstract]
Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share
Dish Mexico
Represents the details pertaining to Dish Mexico.
Dish Mexico [Member]
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
DISH Network dividend paid to its shareholders (in dollars per share)
Dividends paid during the period by former parent company to its Class A and Class B common shareholders.
Dividend Per Share Paid by Former Parent
Entity Voluntary Filers
Document and Entity Information
Entity Current Reporting Status
Due from Related Parties, Less than
Due From Related Parties, Less Than
Due From Related Parties, Less Than
Entity Filer Category
E-Contact LLC Technology [Member]
E-Contact Technologies, LLC
Represents details pertaining to E-Contact Technologies, LLC.
Entity Public Float
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current
Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero
Amount receivable from related party
Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization
EBITDA
Earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortization
Entity Registrant Name
EchoStar III - fully depreciated
Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar III (fully depreciated).
EchoStar III [Member]
Entity Central Index Key
EchoStar I
Represents information pertaining to satellite EchoStar I, which is leased from DISH Network.
EchoStar I [Member]
EchoStar IV - fully depreciated
Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar IV (fully depreciated).
EchoStar IV [Member]
EchoStar IX
Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar IX.
EchoStar IX [Member]
EchoStar Technologies Business
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.
EchoStar Technologies Business [Member]
EchoStar Technologies Business
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
EchoStar VIII
Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VIII.
EchoStar VIII [Member]
EchoStar VI
Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VI.
EchoStar VI [Member]
EchoStar VI - fully depreciated
Receivable Type [Axis]
EchoStar XII
Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XII.
EchoStar XII [Member]
Echo Star XVII [Member]
Represents the details pertaining to EchoStar XVII.
EchoStar XVII
EchoStar XVII or Jupiter [Member]
EchoStar XVII/Jupiter
Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XVII or Jupiter satellite.
EchoStar XVI
Represents the details pertaining to EchoStar XVI.
EchoStar XVI [Member]
EchoStar XV Launch Service
Represents the details pertaining to the EchoStar XV Launch Service.
EchoStar XV Launch Service [Member]
EchoStar XV
Represents the details pertaining to EchoStar XV.
Echo Star XV [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Use Carryforward from Former Parent
Effective income tax rate reconciliation use carryforward from former parent
Use of carryforward from former parent (as a percent)
El Paso Lease Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the El Paso lease agreement entered into with DISH Network.
El Paso Lease Agreement [Member]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan Maximum Fair Value of Common Stock Permitted to be Purchased Per Annum
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 Minimum Requisite Service Period
Minimum period for which full-time employees employed by the entity are eligible to participate in the ESPP
Employee Stock Purchase Plan minimum requisite service period.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan Number of Shares Authorized
Number of shares authorized for issue
Employee Stock Purchase Plan number of shares authorized.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan Number of Shares Available for Grant
Number of shares that remain available for issuance
Employee Stock Purchase Plan number of shares available for grant.
Purchase price as percentage of closing market price on the last business day of each calendar quarter under ESPP
Employee Stock Purchase Plan Purchase Price as Percentage of Closing Market Price
Employee Stock Purchase Plan purchase price as percentage of closing market price.
Represents details pertaining to the entity's stock awards.
EchoStar Awards
Entity Stock Awards [Member]
Equipment revenue - DISH Network
Equipment Revenue, Related Party
Equipment revenue related party.
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Europe
Represents the information about the European locations of the entity.
Europe Segment [Member]
Document Fiscal Period Focus
FCC Authorization Rights [Member]
FCC authorizations
Represents the details pertaining to Federal Communications Commission authorization rights.
February 2008 Secured Financing Commitment [Member]
February 2008 Secured Financing Commitment
Represents details pertaining to 15 percent Senior Secured Paid-in-Kind Notes, due in 2014.
Regulatory Authorizations and intangible assets
Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite Lived Identifiable Intangible Assets [Member]
Identifiable intangible assets subject to amortization
Represent the information pertaining to identifiable intangible assets which are subject to amortization.
Finite lives
Finite Lived Regulatory Authorizations [Member]
Represents information pertaining to the definite lived regulatory authorizations.
Frequency of Spectrum Acquired
Frequency of spectrum acquired (in GHz)
Frequency of spectrum acquired.
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other
Represents furniture, fixtures, equipment and other property, plant and equipment owned by the entity.
Furniture Fixtures Equipment and Other [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Company which Held Certain FCC Authorization
Gain on sale of a company which held certain FCC authorization
Gain (loss) on sale of company which held certain FCC authorization.
Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current
Trade accounts payable - DISH Network
Amount payable to related party
The difference between the book value and the sale price of other nonspecific investments securities, which include debt and equity securities. This element is used when other, more specific, elements are not appropriate. This element refers to the gain (loss) included in earnings.
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Investments Securities
Other investment securities - gains (losses) on sales/exchanges
Gain Loss Recognized Due To Capital Lease Reduction
Gain recognized due to decrease in capital lease obligation
The amount of gain or loss recognized due to a contractual change in a capital lease obligation.
Represents a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity.
Gamma Acquisition LLC [Member]
Gamma Acquisition L.L.C. (Gamma)
Legal Entity [Axis]
Gilbert Lease Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Gilbert Lease Agreement.
Gilbert Lease Agreement [Member]
Document Type
Goodwill Acquired During Period 2
Troppus acquisition
The aggregate amount of goodwill acquired in in a second reportable transaction during the period and allocated to the reportable segment. The value is stated at fair value based on the purchase price allocation.
Represents the stock awards held by employees of the entity.
Held by EchoStar employees
Held by Employees of Entity [Member]
Represents the stock awards held by employees of the related party.
Held by DISH Network employees
Held by Employees of Related Party [Member]
Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement [Member]
Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement.
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero
Total trade accounts receivable, net
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $16,051 and $16,894, respectively
Hughes Business
Represents Hughes segment which provides equipment and services to the broadband communications marketplace.
Hughes Business Segment [Member]
Hughes Business
Hughes Communications Acquisition [Member]
Hughes
Represents the other debt and capital lease obligation attributable to acquisition of Hughes Communications.
Represents details pertaining to the acquisition of Hughes Communications and its subsidiaries.
Hughes Acquisition
Hughes Communications [Member]
Hughes Systique Corporation [Member]
Hughes Systique Corporation
Represents the details pertaining to Hughes Systique Corporation.
Hughes Telematics Inc.
Represents the details pertaining to Hughes Telematics Inc.
Hughes Telematics Inc [Member]
Impairment of Goodwill Fair Value Estimate Percentage Change in Discount Rate
Goodwill impairment, Decrease in discount rate (as a percent)
Represents the percentage increase (decrease) in discount rate as a part of fair value estimates for goodwill impairment.
Goodwill impairment, Decrease in estimated cashflow (as a percent)
Impairment of Goodwill Fair Value Estimate Percentage Change in Estimated Cashflow
Represents the percentage increase (decrease) in estimated cash flow as a part of fair value estimates for goodwill impairment.
Impairments of Goodwill, Indefinite Lived and Long Lived Assets
Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current
Total trade accounts receivable
Impairments of Goodwill, Indefinite-Lived and Long-Lived Assets [Text Block]
Impairments of Goodwill, Indefinite Lived and Long Lived Assets [Text Block]
Impairments of Goodwill, Indefinite-Lived and Long-Lived Assets
Accounts Payable, Trade, Current
Trade accounts payable
Income (Loss) from Consolidated Subsidiaries
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its consolidated subsidiaries.
Equity in earnings (losses) of consolidated subsidiaries, net
Equity in losses (earnings) of consolidated subsidiaries, net
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes Minority Interest and Income (Loss) from Consolidated Subsidiaries
Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income or expense before, income taxes, extraordinary items, income or loss from consolidated subsidiaries, and noncontrolling interest.
Income (loss) before income taxes and equity in earnings (losses) of consolidated subsidiaries, net
Represents information pertaining to the indefinite lived orbital rights.
Indefinite lives
Indefinite Lived Orbital Rights [Member]
Initial Term of Satellite Capital Leases
Initial lease term of satellite
Initial term of satellite capital leases.
Insurance period after the launch of satellite
Represents the period after the launched date during which a satellite is insured.
Insurance Period Of Satellite Launched
Inverness Lease Agreement [Member]
Inverness Lease Agreement
Represent the details pertaining to Inverness Lease Agreement.
Joint Venture in Taiwan
Represents the details pertaining to the joint venture entered into by the entity in Taiwan.
Joint Venture in Taiwan [Member]
EchoStar XVII/Jupiter
Represents the information pertaining to the Jupiter, a next-generation, high throughput geostationary satellite.
Jupiter [Member]
Launch service assigned to DISH Network
Launch service assigned to related party.
Launch Service Assigned to Related Party
Leased Satellites
Represents details pertaining to leased satellites.
Leased Satellites [Member]
Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Claims Paid Prepayment
Portion of EchoStar's initial litigation settlement payment related to future periods
Liability for unpaid claims and claims adjustment expense claims paid prepayment.
Line of Credit Provided to Joint Venture
Line of credit provided to joint venture
Line of credit provided to joint venture.
Line of Credit Provided to Joint Venture Balance, Outstanding
Line of credit provided to joint venture, balance outstanding
Line of credit provided to joint venture, balance outstanding.
Litigation Settlement, Estimated Settlement and Other Costs
Estimated settlement costs, plaintiff's attorney fees and other related expenses
Litigation settlement estimated settlement and other costs.
Litigation Settlement, Initial Payment
Initial settlement amount paid
Litigation settlement initial payment.
Litigation Settlement, Intellectual Property, Liability Contribution
Litigation settlement intellectual property liability contribution.
Intellectual property liability contribution
Trade Accounts Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Litigation Settlement, Number of Annual Installments
Litigation settlement, number of annual installments
Litigation settlement number of annual installments
Estimated dollar amount of future payments payable by EchoStar
Litigation settlement total amount to be paid by entity through six annual installments.
Litigation Settlement, Total Amount to be Paid by Echostar Through Six Annual Installments
Litigation Settlement, Total Amount to be Paid Through Six Annual Installments
Aggregate of six annual installment amounts between 2012 and 2017
Litigation settlement total amount to be paid through six annual installments.
Long Term Debt Issue Price as Percentage of Principal Amount
Long term debt issue price as percentage of principal amount.
Debt instrument issued, issue price (as a percent)
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties
Receivables from related party
Long Term Debt Redemption Price as Percentage of Principal Amount
Long term debt redemption price as percentage of principal amount.
Percentage of principal amount at which the entity may redeem some or all of the notes to the date of redemption
Long Term Debt Redemption Prior to June 15 2014 Price with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount
Long term debt redemption prior to June 15 2014 price with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount.
Redemption price as percentage of principal redeemable any time before June 15, 2014
Long Term Debt Redemption Prior to June 15 2014 with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount
Long term debt redemption prior to June 15 2014 with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount.
Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes redeemable before June 15, 2014
Long Term Debt Redemption Prior to June 15 2015 Price with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount
Long term debt redemption prior to June 15 2015 price with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount.
Redemption price as percentage of principal amount of notes redeemable at any time before June 15, 2015
Long Term Debt Redemption Prior to June 15 2015 with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount
Long term debt redemption prior to June 15 2015 with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount.
Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes redeemable at any time before June 15, 2015
Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the 2005 LTIP).
LTIP 2005
Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member]
Long-term performance based plans
Long Term Performance Based Plans [Member]
Represents the details pertaining to the long-term incentive plans of the entity.
Long Term Purchase Commitment and Other Obligations [Member]
Purchase and other obligations
Represents the information pertaining to purchases and other obligations of the entity.
Loss Contingency, Contribution Towards Settlement Agreement
Portion of the $300 million initial settlement agreement payment paid by EchoStar
Loss contingency contribution towards settlement agreement.
Loss Contingency Disablement Provision
Disablement provision contempt sanction amount
Loss contingency disablement provision.
Loss Contingency, Estimated Percentage of Annual Payments, Payable by Entity
Estimated percentage of annual future payments payable by EchoStar
Loss contingency estimated percentage of annual payments payable by entity.
Loss Contingency Number of Set Top Boxes Not Disabled
Loss contingency, number of set-top boxes not disabled.
Number of set-top boxes not required to be disabled
Loss Contingency Settlement, Agreement Consideration, Percentage to be Made by Related Party
Percentage of litigation settlement amount to be made by EchoStar
Represents the percentage of litigation settlement amount to be made by related party.
Loss Contingency Terms [Abstract]
Loss contingency terms
Management Services Agreement
Represents details pertaining to Management Services Agreement.
Management Services Agreement [Member]
Marketable and Other Investment Securities Fair Value Method Policy [Policy Text Block]
Marketable and Other Investment Securities -Fair Value Method
Marketable and other investment securities fair value method policy.
Maximum Liability for the Unvested Stock Options of Acquired Entity
Maximum liability for the unvested stock options of acquired entity
Maximum liability for the unvested stock options of acquired entity.
Meridian Lease Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Meridian Lease Agreement.
Meridian Lease Agreement [Member]
Other
Represents details pertaining to mortgages and other notes payable.
Mortgage and Other Notes Payable [Member]
8% mortgage payable due in installments through 2015
Represents details pertaining to 8 percent mortgage payable due in installments through 2015.
Mortgages and Other Unsecured Notes Payable [Member]
Move Network Services Agreement [Member]
Move Networks Services Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Move Networks Services Agreement.
Move Networks
Represents details pertaining to the acquisition of Move Networks.
Move Networks [Member]
Multiplication Factor for Conversion of Original Stock Option to Adjusted Stock Option
Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to adjusted stock option
Multiplication factor for the conversion of original stock option to adjusted stock option.
Multiplication Factor for Conversion of Original Stock Option to New Stock Option
Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to new stock option
Multiplication factor for the conversion of original stock option to new stock option.
NagraStar
Represents the equity method investee of the entity.
NagraStar LLC [Member]
New Stock Options for Portion of Original Stock Options
Portion of the number of shares that were exercisable under the original option needed to receive a new stock option.
Represents new stock options for a portion of original stock options.
Nimiq 5 Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Nimiq 5 Agreement.
Nimiq5 Agreement [Member]
Nimiq 5
Represents information pertaining to satellite Nimiq 5, which is leased from other third parties.
Nimiq 5 [Member]
Non Cash Stock Based Compensation Expense
Additional stock based compensation expense
Represents the non-cash stock-based compensation expense.
Represents details pertaining to the non-performance based awards of the entity.
Non-Performance Based Stock Awards
Non Performance Based Stock Awards [Member]
North America [Member]
North America
Represents the information about transactions with North American locations of the entity.
8% note payable for EchoStar IX satellite vendor financing, payable over 14 years from launch
Represents details pertaining to 8 percent notes payable for EchoStar IX satellite vendor financing, payable over a period of 14 years from the launch.
Note Payable 8.00 Percent for EchoStar IX Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 14 Years from Launch [Member]
Number of Amplifier Loss in Reporting Period
Represents the number of satellites that experienced the loss of travelling wave tube amplifiers.
Loss of TWTAs
Number of Board Members Entity May Appoint under Master Investment Agreement
Number of board members the Company may appoint under Master Investment Agreement
Number of board members entity may appoint under Master Investment Agreement.
Number of DBS transponders available.
Number of DBS Transponders Available
Number of DBS transponders available
Number of In Orbit Satellites Acquired
Number of in-orbit satellites acquired
Number of in-orbit satellites acquired.
Number of International Customers to Whom License Granted
Number of international customers to whom license granted.
Number of international customers to whom license granted
Number of Major Customers
Number of major customers.
Number of major customers
Number of Owned and Leased in Orbit Satellites
Number of owned and leased in-orbit satellites
Number of owned and leased in-orbit satellites.
Number of Owned and Leased in Orbit Satellites Used by Reportable Segment
Number of owned and leased in-orbit satellites used by segment
Number of owned and leased in-orbit satellites.
Number of Plaintiffs
Number of plaintiffs
Number of plaintiffs.
Number of Satellites Acquired
Number of satellites acquired
Number of satellites acquired.
Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit, Utilized by Reporting Entity
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 under Capital Leases
Number of satellites utilized under capital lease
Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity under capital leases.
Number of Satellites Present in Geostationary Orbit of Reporting Entity
Total number of owned and leased satellites present in geostationary orbit of reporting entity
Number of satellites present in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator.
Number of Satellites under Construction Acquired
Number of satellites under construction acquired
Number of satellites under construction acquired.
Number of Shareholder Class Action Lawsuits Filed Against Entity
Number of shareholder class action lawsuits filed against the entity
Number of shareholder class action lawsuits filed against entity.
Number of Spot Beams Option One
Number of spot beams.
Number of spot beams
Number of indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries against which lawsuit was filed
Number of Subsidiaries Against which Lawsuit Filed
Number of subsidiaries against which lawsuit filed.
Number of Transponders Available for Use
Number of transponders available for use
Represents the number of transponders available for use.
Number of Transponders Available, Option Two
Number of transponders available, option two
Number of transponders available option two.
Number of Transponders, Option One
Number of transponders, option one
Number of transponders option one.
Number of Traveling Wave Tubes
Number of traveling wave tubes
Represents the number of traveling wave tube amplifiers.
Represents the number of votes per share of common stock owned.
Number of Votes Per Share of Common Stock
Votes per share
Operating Loss Carryforwards Attributable to Stock Based Compensation
Net operating loss carryforwards attributable to stock-based compensation
Represents the amount of net operating loss carryforwards attributable to stock-based compensation that will not be recognized as a credit to additional paid in capital until such deductions reduce taxes payable.
Other Comprehensive Income Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Gain Loss Arising During Period Net Of Tax Other
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Amount after tax, before reclassification adjustments, resulting from the process of expressing in the reporting currency of the reporting entity those amounts that are denominated or measured in a different currency, and from transactions whose terms are denominated in a currency other than the entity's functional currency, including or excluding impact on noncontrolling interest.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Unrealized Holding Gains (Losses) on Available for Sale Securities and Other Adjustments Net of Tax
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net and other
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.
Total
Other Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations including current portion
Other debt and capital lease obligations.
Other Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Noncurrent
Capital lease obligations, mortgages and other notes payable, net of current portion
Other debt and capital lease obligations, noncurrent.
Other (including restricted)
Investments in debt securities other than variable rate demand obligations, auction-rate securities, or mortgage-backed securities. Includes investments that are restricted and those that are not restricted.
Other Debt Securities Nonrestricted and Restricted [Member]
Other equipment financed under capital lease obligations
Represents details pertaining to other equipment financed under capital lease obligations.
Other Equipment Financed under Capital Lease Obligation [Member]
Less current portion
Other long term debt and capital lease obligations current.
Other Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Current
All other
Represents other major customers of the entity.
Other Major Customers [Member]
Other
Other nonoperating income expense other.
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense), Other
Other Segment [Member]
Other segment
Represents information pertaining to other segment.
Net Investment in EchoStar
Ownership Interest [Member]
This element represents Ownership Interest.
Ownership Percentage in Joint Venture Not to be Sold
Ownership percentage in joint venture not to be sold
Represents the ownership percentage in joint venture not to be sold.
Patent Cross License Agreements [Member]
Patent Cross-License Agreements
Represents the details pertaining to the Patent Cross-License Agreements.
Patent infringement
Represents details pertaining to patent infringements.
Patent Infringement [Member]
Percentage Equity Interest Acquired after Giving Effect to Earn Out
Percentage of equity investment acquired after giving effect to earn-out (as a percent)
Percentage equity interest acquired after giving effect to earn out.
Percentage Equity Interest Acquired before Giving Effect to Earn Out
Percentage equity interest acquired before giving effect to earn out.
Percentage of equity investment acquired before giving effect to earn-out (as a percent)
Accrued Investment Income Receivable
Accrued interest on fair value of debt investments
Percentage of Hypothetical Adverse Change in Price of Debt Instruments
Percent of hypothetical adverse change in the price of debt instruments.
Hypothetical adverse change in the price of debt instruments (as a percent)
Percentage of Notes Tendered for Exchange
Percentage of notes tendered for exchange.
Percentage of notes tendered for exchange on 2/27/2012
Percentage Ownership in Variable Interest Entity by Other Related Parties
Percentage ownership in variable interest entity by other related parties.
Ownership percentage by related party
Period of Investment
Period of investment.
Period of investment
Portion of Liability Accrued for the Unvested Stock Options of Acquired Entity
Portion of liability accrued for the unvested stock options of acquired entity
Portion of liability accrued for the unvested stock options of acquired entity
UNITED STATES
United States
Proceeds from Payments to Contributions Distributions from to Affiliates
Contributions to subsidiaries and affiliates, net
The cash inflow or outflow from (to) an entity that is affiliated with the entity by means of direct or indirect ownership.
Proceeds from Rights Assigned under Contract
Represents the proceeds received by the reporting entity for rights assigned under a contract.
Proceeds from rights assigned under a contract
Proceeds from Sale of Investment by Counter Party to Related Party
Sale of interest in the entity by counter party
Proceeds from sale of investment by counter party to related party.
Proceeds from Sale of Investment to Related Party
Proceeds from sale of investment to related party.
Sale of interest in the entity
Product Support Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Product Support Agreement.
Product Support Agreement [Member]
Professional Services Agreement
Represents details pertaining to the Professional Services Agreement.
Professional Services Agreement [Member]
Satellite under construction: Other
Represents the information pertaining to progress amounts of other satellite constructions.
Progress Amounts for Satellite Construction Other [Member]
Promissory notes
Represents details pertaining to promissory notes.
Promissory Notes [Member]
QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement.
Quetz Sat1 Lease Agreement [Member]
QuetzSat-1
Represents the information pertaining to satellite QuetzSat-1, which is under construction.
QuetzSat 1 [Member]
QuetzSat-1 Transponder
Represents the details pertaining to the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement.
Quetz Sat1 Transponder Agreement [Member]
RUS Service Implementation Agreement [Member]
RUS Service Implementation Agreement
Represents information pertaining to RUS Service Implementation Agreement.
Range of Exercise Prices $00.00 - $10.00
Represents the range of exercise prices from 0.00 dollars to10.00 dollars.
Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 00.00 to 10.00 [Member]
Range of Exercise Prices $00.00 - $40.00
Represents the range of exercise prices from 00.00 dollars to 40.00 dollars.
Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 00.00 to 40.00 [Member]
Range of Exercise Prices $10.01 - $15.00
Represents the range of exercise prices from 10.01 dollars to15.00 dollars.
Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 10.01 to 15.00 [Member]
Range of Exercise Prices $15.01 - $20.00
Represents the range of exercise prices from 15.01 dollars to 20.00 dollars.
Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 15.01 to 20.00 [Member]
Range of Exercise Prices $20.01 - $25.00
Represents the range of exercise prices from 20.01 dollars to 25.00 dollars.
Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 20.01 to 25.00 [Member]
Range of Exercise Prices $25.01 - $30.00
Represents the range of exercise prices from 25.01 dollars to 30.00 dollars.
Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 25.01 to 30.00 [Member]
Range of Exercise Prices $30.01 - $35.00
Represents the range of exercise prices from 30.01 dollars to 35.00 dollars.
Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 30.01 to 35.00 [Member]
Range of Exercise Prices $35.01 - $40.00
Represents the range of exercise prices from 35.01 dollars to 40.00 dollars.
Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 35.01 to 40.00 [Member]
Real Estate Lease Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Real Estate Lease Agreement.
Real Estate Lease Agreement [Member]
Receiver Agreement 2012 [Member]
2012 Receiver Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the 2012 Receiver Agreement.
Prior receiver agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Receiver Agreement.
Receiver Agreement [Member]
Reconciliation from Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization to Consolidated [Abstract]
Reconciliation between EBITDA to reported net income in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss)
Reduction in Asset Carrying Amount Due to Reduction in Capital Lease Obligation
Reduction in asset's carrying amount due to reduction in capital lease obligation
The reduction in the carrying value of assets held under capital lease due to a contractual change in a capital lease obligation.
Reduction of Capital Lease Obligations and Associated Asset, Value 2
Reduction of capital lease obligations and associated asset value
Represents the amount with respect to reduction of capital lease obligations.
Reduction of capital lease obligation for AMC-16
Reduction of Capital Lease Obligations And Associated Gain Value.
Reduction of Capital Lease Obligations and Associated Gain Value
Regulatory Authorizations [Member]
Total regulatory authorizations
Represents information pertaining to the regulatory authorizations.
Related Party Awards [Member]
Represents details pertaining to the related party stock awards.
DISH Network Awards
Related party joint venture
Related Party Joint Venture [Abstract]
Related Party Transaction, Sales of Digital Set Top Boxes and Related Accessories
Digital set-top boxes and related accessories
Related party transaction sales of digital set top boxes and related accessories.
Related Party Transaction, Sales of Engineering Services
Related party transaction sales of engineering services.
Engineering Services
Related Party Transaction Sales of Other Services
Other services
Represents the sale of other services to related parties.
Related Party Transaction, Sales of Satellite Services
Sales of satellite services
Related party transaction sales of satellite services.
Uplink services
Related Party Transaction Sales of Uplink Services
Related party transaction sales of uplink services.
Related Party Transactions Agreement, Automatic Renewal Period
Automatic renewal period
Related party transactions agreement automatic renewal period
Related Party Transactions Agreement, Maximum Number of One Year Renewal Options
Number of successive one year renewal options
Related party transactions agreement maximum number of one year renewal options.
Related Party Transactions Agreement Maximum Number of Three Year Renewal Options
Number of successive three year renewal options
Related party transactions agreement maximum number of three year renewal options.
Related Party Transactions, Agreement Renewal Option Additional Term
Additional term of renewal option
Represents the additional term of renewal option.
Related Party Transactions Agreement, Renewal Option, Term
Term of renewal option
Related party transactions agreement renewal option term.
Related Party Transactions Agreement, Term
Agreement term
Related party transactions agreement term.
Related Party Transactions Agreement Term from Commencement of Service Date
Related party transactions agreement term from commencement of service date.
Agreement term from commencement of service date
Related Party Transactions Agreement, Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity
Required minimum notice period for termination of agreement by the reporting entity
Related party transactions agreement termination notice required by the reporting entity.
Related Party Transactions Agreement Termination Required Notice Period from Related Party, Minimum
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 Cash Received
Cash received from related party
Related party transactions cash received.
Related Party Transactions, Fair Value of Rights
Fair value of rights assigned
Related party transactions fair value of rights.
Related Party Transactions, Grants Receivable by Related Party
Grants receivable by related party
Related party transactions, grants receivable by related party.
Related Party Transactions Lease Termination Period from Effective Date
Period from the effective date of the lease after which the lease terminates
Represents the period from effective date of the lease agreement after which the lease terminates.
Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Available
Number of DBS transponders available to receive services
Related party transactions, number of DBS transponders available.
Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Expected to Receive Services
Number of DBS transponders expected to receive services
Related party transactions number of DBS transponders expected to receive services
Number of DBS transponders expected to receive services
Related party transactions number of DBS transponders expected to receive services per agreement.
Related Party Transactions Number of DBS Transponders Expected to Receive Services Per Agreement
Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Receiving Services
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 Sublease
Number of DBS transponders currently receiving services subleased back from related party
Related party transactions number of DBS transponders receiving sublease services.
Accrued Royalties, Current
Accrued royalties
Related Party Transactions, Recorded Value of Rights
Recorded value of rights assigned
Related party transactions recorded value of rights.
Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement
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 Specific Service
Required minimum notice for termination of individual service
Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of specific service.
Related Party Transactions, Rights Excess Amount Paid
Excess of paid amount over recorded amount of rights assigned
Related party transactions rights excess amount paid.
Remanufactured Receiver Agreement
Represents details pertaining to the Remanufactured Receiver Agreement.
Remanufactured Receiver Agreement [Member]
Restricted performance units awarded by a company to their employees as a form of incentive compensation.
Restricted Performance Units
Restricted Performance Units [Member]
SES Latin America [Member]
SES
Represents the details pertaining to SES Latin America S.A.
SES SA [Member]
SES
Represents the details pertaining to SES S.A.
SPACEWAY 3
Represents the information pertaining to SPACEWAY 3 satellite.
SPACE WAY 3 [Member]
Sale of South.com, L.L.C.
Represents the details pertaining to the sale of South.com, L.L.C.
Sale of South.Com LLC [Member]
Santa Fe Lease Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Santa Fe Lease Agreement.
Santa Fe Lease Agreement [Member]
Satellite Related Obligation [Member]
Satellite-related obligations
Represents the information relating to satellite-related obligations of the entity.
EchoStar Satellite Services Business
Represents 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.
Satellite Services Business [Member]
EchoStar Satellite Services Business
Satellite capacity leased from Dish Network
Represents details pertaining to Satellite services leased from Dish Network.
Satellite Services Leased from Dish Network [Member]
Satellites financed under capital lease obligations
Represents details pertaining to satellites financed under capital lease obligations.
Satellites Financed under Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Satellites
Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity.
Satellites [Member]
Satellites - owned
Schedule of Construction in Process [Table Text Block]
Schedule of construction in process.
Schedule of construction in process
Schedule of Contractual Obligations [Table]
Schedule of information pertaining to contractual obligations of the entity.
Schedule of Defined Contribution Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Disclosures about defined contribution plans.
Schedule of depreciation expense
Schedule of depreciation expense.
Schedule of Depreciation Expense [Table Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Tabular disclosure of amortizable intangibles assets, in total and by major class, including the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization. It also discloses the carrying value of intangible assets not subject to amortization, excluding goodwill, in total and by major class.
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Regulatory authorizations
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Tabular disclosure of intangible assets, excluding goodwill, in total and by major class. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of the company.
Schedule of Satellites [Table Text Block]
Schedule of satellites
Schedule of satellites.
Schedule of Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Holder [Axis]
Pertinent data describing and reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by the entity prior to the spin-off.
Pertinent data describing and reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by the entity prior to the spin-off.
Schedule of Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment, Original Award Issuer [Axis]
Schedule of Unrecognized Non Cash Stock Based Compensation Expense Under the 2005 LTIP [Table Text Block]
Schedule of unrecognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense under the 2005 LTIP
Schedule of unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense under the 2005 LTIP.
Sea Launch Credits Noncurrent
Sea Launch credits
Represents the carrying amount of as of the balance sheet date of amounts paid for sea lunch credits.
Represents details pertaining to the 6.5 percent Senior Exchangeable Paid-in-Kind notes, due in 2014
Senior Exchangeable Paid in Kind 6.50 Notes Due 2014 [Member]
6 1/2 % Senior Exchangeable Paid-In-Kind Notes Due June 15, 2014
7 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
Represents details pertaining to 7 5/8 percent senior notes, which are due in 2021.
Senior Notes 7.625 Percent, Due 2021 [Member]
Senior Notes
6 1/2% Senior Secured Notes due 2019
Represents details pertaining to 6 1/2 percent senior secured notes, which are due in 2019.
Senior Secured Notes 6.50 Percent, Due 2019 [Member]
Senior Secured Notes
Senior Secured Notes and Senior Notes [Member]
Represents details pertaining to Senior Secured Notes and Senior Notes collectively known as Notes.
Notes
Represents details pertaining to 15 percent Senior Secured Paid-in-Kind Notes, due in 2014.
15% Senior Secured Paid-in-Kind Notes due February 15, 2014
Senior Secured Paid in Kind Notes 15 Percent, Due 2014 [Member]
Services and other revenue - Related Party.
Services and Other Revenue, Related Party
Services and other revenue - DISH Network
Amount of equipment and service revenue provided to related party
Settlement Number of Shareholder Class Action Lawsuits Contemplation of Dismissal
Number of shareholder class action lawsuits, contemplation of dismissal under settlement
Number of shareholder class action lawsuits, contemplation of dismissal under settlement
Set-top box
Represents details pertaining to Set-top box.
Set top box [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax
Accumulated net unrealized gains, net of tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Disclosures Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation (in dollars)
Accumulated depreciation
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested Right to Receive Award upon Holding One Unit of Award
Restricted stock unit converted into new restricted stock units
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options nonvested right award upon holding one unit of award.
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted-average exercise price (in dollars per share)
Weighted average price at which grantees can acquire shares under plans other than stock option plans.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI")
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated future forfeiture rate.
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Estimated Future Forfeiture Rate
Future forfeiture rate (as a percent)
The period of time in which the equity-based award expires.
Expiration term
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Expiration Period
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Holder [Domain]
Details pertinent to an equity-based compensation award held by employees.
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Number of Employees Holding Stock Options
Number of employees holding stock options
Represents the number of employees holding stock options during the period.
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Attempted Grants In Period Gross
Gross number of share options (or share units) which the entity attempted to grant during the period.
Stock option grants attempted (in shares)
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options Grants in Period Determined Invalid
Options granted during period determined to be invalid
Represents the number of options granted under the plan determined to be invalid.
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Options Outstanding, Intrinsic Value [Abstract]
Aggregate intrinsic value
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Percentage, Awards Vested Per Year after First Four Years
Percentage of awards vesting per annum after first four years
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award percentage awards vested per year after first four years.
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Percentage, Awards Vested Per Year During First Four Years
Percentage of awards vesting per annum during first four years
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award percentage awards vested per year during first four years.
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Right to Receive Award upon Holding One Unit of Award
Stock option converted into new stock options
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award right to receive award upon holding one unit of award.
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Total Options and Non Option Awards, Outstanding Number
Total stock options and restricted performance units (in shares)
Number of shares reserved for issuance under stock option and non-option equity instrument agreements awarded that validly exist and are outstanding, including vested instruments.
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment, Original Award Issuer [Domain]
Details pertinent to an equity-based compensation award held by employees.
Share Based Compensation Award Terms [Abstract]
LTIP Terms
Share Based Compensation Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Adjustment
Reduction in exercise price (in dollars per share)
Represents the adjustment to exercise price of stock option resulting from payment of dividend.
Shares of Common Stock Issued to Acquire Spectrum
Shares of common stock issued to acquire spectrum.
Shares of common stock issued to acquire spectrum
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals Transaction Costs
Cash purchase price
Significant acquisitions and disposals, transaction costs.
SlingService Services Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Sling Service Services Agreement.
Sling Service Services Agreement [Member]
Software Useful Life
Software useful life
Useful life of software that is either acquired, internally developed, or modified to meet the entity's needs.
South America and the Carribean
Represents the information about the South American and Carribean locations of the entity.
South America and the Carribean Segment [Member]
Statements of Operations Data [Abstract]
Statements of Operations Data (unaudited)
Stock Awards Outstanding by Company and Award [Table Text Block]
Schedule of stock awards outstanding
Stock awards outstanding by company and award.
Stock based compensation and other, net of tax.
Stock Based Compensation and Other, Net of Tax
Stock-based compensation and other, net of tax
Strategic
Investments in debt or equity securities of public companies that are highly speculative and have experienced and continue to experience volatility.
Strategic Marketable Investment Securities [Member]
Equity securities - Strategic
Subscriber Acquisition Costs, [Policy Text Block]
Deferred Subscriber Acquisition Costs ("SAC")
Disclosure of the entity's accounting policy for subscriber acquisition costs.
Tax related to capital transaction with related party in Connection with the launch Contract.
Tax Related to the Capital Transaction with Related Party in Connection with the Launch Contract
Tax related to the capital transaction with DISH Network in connection with the launch contract (Note 19)
Tax Sharing Agreement
Represents information pertaining to Tax Sharing Agreement.
Tax Sharing Agreement [Member]
Technology Development Licensing
Represents details pertaining to technology development licensing.
Technology Development Licensing [Member]
TT&C Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the TT and C Agreement.
Telemetry Tracking and Control Agreement [Member]
Telesat Canada
Represents details pertaining to Telesat Canada.
Telesat Canada [Member]
Additional Paid in Capital
Additional paid-in capital
Terre Star Agreement [Member]
TerreStar Agreement
Represents details pertaining to TerreStar Agreement.
TerreStar Corporation and TerreStar Network
Represents details pertaining to TerreStar Corporation and TerreStar Network Inc.
Terre Star Corporation and TerreStar Network Inc [Member]
Terre Star Corporation
Represents details pertaining to TerreStar Corporation, a legal entity.
TerreStar Corporation [Member]
Terre Star Network Inc.
Represents details pertaining to TerreStar Network Inc., a legal entity.
TerreStar Network Inc [Member]
Ti Vovs Dish Network and Echostar Corporation [Member]
TiVo vs. Dish Network and Echostar Corporation
Represents information pertaining to legal proceedings of TiVo vs. Dish Network and Echostar Corporation.
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Additional Paid-In Capital
Represents the total number of satellites that experienced the loss of travelling wave tube amplifiers.
Total number of TWTAs lost on the satellite
Total Number of Amplifier Loss
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments accounted for at fair value net.
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments Accounted for at Fair Value, Net
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments accounted for at fair value, net
Unrecognized Non Cash Stock Based Compensation Expense on Vested Portion
Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense on vested portion.
Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense on vested portion
Unrecognized Tax Benefit [Member]
Unrecognized tax benefit
Represents the information relating to unrecognized tax benefit of the entity.
Uplinking equipment
Represents the information pertaining to Uplinking and Gateway equipment satellite.
Uplinking and Gateway Equipment [Member]
Represents the details pertaining to the Varick sublease agreement with DISH Network.
Varick Sbulease Agreement [Member]
Varick Sublease Agreement
Vesting Rights Percentage
Vesting rights percentage.
Percentage of stock awards vesting per year
Related Party Ownership Interest Held in Entity
Ownership interest in the entity (as a percent)
Represents the percentage of ownership interest in the entity held by the related party.
Vigilos, LLC
Represents details pertaining to Vigilos, LLC.
Vigilos LLC [Member]
Watts Per Channel, Option One
Watts per channel, option one
Watts per channel option one.
Watts Per Channel, Option Three
Watts per channel, option three
Watts per channel option three.
Watts Per Channel, Option Two
Watts per channel, option two
Watts per channel option two.
Weather Related Programming Agreement
Represents the details pertaining to the Weather Related Programming Agreement.
Weather Related Programming Agreement [Member]
Consumer Rental Program Period of Service Contract
Consumer rental program period of service contract.
Period of service contract under consumer rental program
Schedule of EBITDA [Table Text Block]
Schedule of reconciliation of EBITDA to reported income (loss) before income taxes
Tabular disclosure of information which reconciles EBITDA to reported income or loss before income taxes.
Echo Star XIX [Member]
EchoStar XIX
Represents the details pertaining to EchoStar XIX.
Set Top Box Application Development Agreement [Member]
Set-Top Box Application Development Agreement
Represent the details pertaining to the Set-Top Box Application Development Agreement.
Investment in Debt Security Stated Interest Rate
Interest rate (as a percent)
Represents the stated interest rate on a specific investment in debt securities.
Net Income Loss Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest EBITDA Adjustment
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
EBITDA adjustment for net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest.
XiP Encryption Agreement [Member]
XiP Encryption Agreement
Represents details pertaining to the XiP Encryption Agreement.
Minimum Period of Notice Required to be Given by Related Party to Extend Term of Agreement
Minimum notice period required to extend the agreement term
Represents the minimum notice period required to be given by the related party to extend the term of the agreement.
D1 Satellite [Member]
Represents information pertaining to D-1 satellite.
D-1
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation
Income tax (expense) benefit related to stock awards and other
Non-cash, stock-based compensation
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Advertising Expense
Advertising Expenses
Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Advertising Costs
Affiliated Entity [Member]
Affiliated entity
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Allocated share-based compensation expense
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable (in dollars)
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Total amortization expense
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization of intangible assets and other
Amortization of Financing Costs
Debt issuance costs amortized
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Anti-dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Current Assets:
Assets [Abstract]
Assets
Assets, Noncurrent
Total noncurrent assets
Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member]
Satellites acquired under capital leases
Assets
Total assets
Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Noncurrent Assets:
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Current
Debt security
Total marketable investment securities - current
Debt security with contractual maturities of one year or less
Estimated Fair Value
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value
Less than 12 months
Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities, Current
Total marketable investment securities - current
Equity security
Estimated Fair Value
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Fair value of marketable investment securities in a loss position
Total
Available-for-sale Securities
Total marketable investment securities
Estimated Fair Value
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Noncurrent
Debt securities with contractual maturities greater than one year
Amortized cost
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities
Equity security
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses [Abstract]
Unrealized losses on marketable investment securities in a loss position
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value
12 months or more
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract]
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities
Available-for-sale Securities, Current
Marketable investment securities
Total marketable investment securities - current
Amortized cost
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value
Total
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses
Unrealized Losses
Unrealized Gains
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Components of our available-for-sale investments
Amortized cost
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Buildings and improvements
Construction in Progress Buildings and Improvements
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic
Basic EPS (in dollars per share)
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Marketable Securities
Marketable investment securities
Deferred tax liabilities
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets
Other current assets, net
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract]
Supplemental pro forma financial information (Unaudited)
Regulatory authorizations
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets Not Amortizable
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount
Goodwill (non-deductible)
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired
Percentage of issued and outstanding shares acquired
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Total revenue
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Supplemental pro forma financial information (Unaudited)
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net
Total purchase price
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract]
Purchase Price Allocation
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)
Net income attributable to EchoStar
Cash to be paid for each issued and outstanding share of common stock, vested stock option, unvested restricted stock unit and unvested stock option of Hughes pursuant to the Hughes Agreement (in dollars per share)
Business Acquisition, Share Price
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Diluted EPS (in dollars per share)
Acquisitions
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets
Other intangible assets
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities
Current liabilities
Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity [Abstract]
Agreement and plan of merger to acquire all of the outstanding equity of Hughes and its subsidiaries (the "Hughes Merger")
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Receivables
Accounts receivable
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities
Long-term liabilities
Acquisition
Hughes Acquisition
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interests
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncontrolling Interest
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Assets
Other noncurrent assets
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment
Property and equipment
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Acquisitions
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs
Hughes Acquisition costs
Acquisition related transaction costs
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
2014
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
2017
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Present value of net minimum lease payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Total minimum lease payments
Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation
Accumulated depreciation on satellites acquired under capital leases
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals
Future minimum sublease rental income
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred
Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations
Capital Lease Obligations
Capital lease obligations
Capital Leased Assets, Gross
Estimated fair value of satellites acquired under capital leases
Capital Leases, Income Statement, Amortization Expense
Depreciation expense under capital leases agreements
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
2015
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
2013
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Thereafter
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid
Capital expenditures included in accounts payable
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Net Minimum Payments
Net minimum lease payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Future minimum lease payments under capital lease obligations, together with the present value of the net minimum lease payments
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Capital lease obligations
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
2016
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]
Capital lease obligation
Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Less : Current portion
Current portion of capital lease obligations
Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent
Long-term portion of capital lease obligations
Capital lease obligations, net of current portion
Less : Amount representing interest
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments
Capitalized Computer Software, Net
Capitalized software costs
Capitalized software
Capitalized Computer Software, Gross
Capitalized Computer Software, Net [Abstract]
Capitalized Software Costs
Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization
Amortization expense relating to capitalized software costs
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash Acquired from Acquisition
Acquisition of Hughes Communications, cash acquired
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
Cash equivalents (including restricted)
Class of Treasury Stock [Table]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stockholders Equity (Deficit)
Class of Stock [Domain]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies.
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 12)
Commitments and Contingencies
Common Class A [Member]
Class A common stock
Common Stock [Member]
Class A and B Common Stock
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Common stock, shares outstanding
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Common stock
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common stock, shares issued
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)
Common Class B [Member]
Class B common stock
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares authorized
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)
Common Class C [Member]
Class C common stock
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Temporary differences, which give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Related Tax Effects
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to EchoStar
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income (loss)
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Consolidated Financial Statements
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block]
SCHEDULE I - Parent Company Information
SCHEDULE I - Parent Company Information
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Principles of Consolidation
Construction in Progress [Member]
Construction in progress
Construction in progress
Construction in Progress, Gross
Estimated fair value
Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year
2014
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year
2017
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block]
Schedule of future maturities of contractual obligations
Contractual Rights [Member]
Contract-based
2016
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year
Remaining contract obligation
Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months
2013
Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year
2015
Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year
Thereafter
Remaining contract obligation
Contractual Obligation
Total
Contribution of Property
Contribution to DISH Digital
Contribution to Dish Digital
Contribution of assets to Dish Digital
DISH Digital
Corporate Joint Venture [Member]
Corporate Bonds
Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Cost of Goods Sold
Cost of sales - equipment
Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cost of Equipment and Services
Cost-method Investments, Aggregate Carrying Amount
Cost Method
Cost of Services
Cost of sales - services and other
Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Costs and Expenses:
Costs and Expenses:
Costs and Expenses
Total costs and expenses
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Current benefit (provision)
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total current benefit (provision)
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)
Foreign
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
Federal
Customer Relationships [Member]
Customer relationships
Long-term Debt, Gross
Carrying amount
Debt outstanding
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Other Long-Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block]
Debt
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Total debt and capital lease obligations
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure
Fair Value
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt instrument issued for the funding of the acquisition
Principal amount of debt issuance
Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Debt Issuance Costs
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Interest
Annual Debt Service Requirements
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Rate Range, Maximum
Effective interest rates for satellite capital lease obligations, maximum (as a percent)
Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings
Debt instrument issued
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Rate Range, Minimum
Effective interest rates for satellite capital lease obligations, minimum (as a percent)
Debt Securities [Member]
Debt securities
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate During Period
Weighted average interest rate (as a percent)
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Interest rate (as a percent)
Net operating loss carryforwards subject to expiration
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities, Current
Deferred revenue and other
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net [Abstract]
Deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Federal
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Deferred benefit (provision)
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Foreign
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Total deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred tax benefit
Total deferred benefit (provision)
Deferred tax benefit
Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current
Current portion of net deferred tax assets
Deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Net deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract]
Deferred tax assets:
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Deferred Subscriber Acquisition Costs, Noncurrent
Deferred subscriber acquisition costs included in "Other noncurrent assets, net"
Subscriber acquisition
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent
Noncurrent portion of net deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards
Capital loss carry forwards for federal income tax purposes
Unrealized losses on investments, net
Deferred Tax Assets, Other Comprehensive Loss
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Other asset
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals
Accrued expenses
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost
Stock-based compensation
Deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Other liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Depreciation and amortization
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current
Deferred tax liabilities
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee, Percent
Contribution limit for non-highly compensated employees as percentage of eligible compensation
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount
Discretionary stock contributions, net of forfeitures, under 401(k) plan
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee, Amount
Employer maximum annual contribution Per employee under 401(k) plan
Vesting percentage of matching contributions to eligible employees
Defined Contribution Plan, Employers Matching Contribution, Annual Vesting Percentage
Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
401(k) Employee Savings Plan
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized
Matching contributions made by the company during the year
Depreciation [Abstract]
Depreciation expense
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense
Total depreciation expense
Depreciation
Technology-based
Developed Technology Rights [Member]
Director [Member]
Jeffrey A. Leddy, a director
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Stock-Based Compensation
Due from Related Parties, Current
Advances to affiliate
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock:
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Diluted (in dollars per share)
Diluted EPS (in dollars per share)
Diluted (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Basic (in dollars per share)
Basic EPS (in dollars per share)
Basic (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Earnings per Share
Earnings per Share
Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock:
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract]
Actual tax provision reconciliation to the amounts computed by applying statutory Federal tax rate to income before taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations
Total income tax benefit (provision), net (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential
Foreign taxes and income not U.S taxable (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate
Statutory rate (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes
State income taxes, net of Federal benefit (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance
Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost
Stock option compensation (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Dividends
Dividend received deduction (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses
Goodwill impairment (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments
Other (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Other
Stock write-off (as a percent)
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Period for recognition of compensation cost
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-Based Compensation
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Stock options
Employee Stock [Member]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain]
Unrecognized stock-based compensation cost, net of estimated forfeiture
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Aggregate Disclosures [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation
Percentage of total revenue
Entity-Wide Revenue, Major Customer, Percentage
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Sales to each customer and its percentage of total revenue
Equity Method Investments
Equity Method
Equity and Cost Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Other Investment Securities - Cost and Equity Method
Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment
Impairment of joint venture investment
Equity interest in joint venture
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Ownership Interest
Ownership percentage of voting securities in investments that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Other Investment Securities - Noncurrent
Equity Securities [Member]
Equity securities
Equity securities-Strategic
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Common Stock Repurchase Program
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Total
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value by Asset Class [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3
Transfers from level 2 to level 3
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair value measurements on recurring basis
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements
Settlements
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Issues
Issuances
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Asset Class [Axis]
Net unrealized gains included in earnings
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of marketable securities
Fair value of orbital incentive obligations
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases
Purchases
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value measurements
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of changes in Level 3 instruments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Level 3 Investment Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Schedule of fair value measurements
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Changes in Level 3 instruments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Level 3
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Level 2
Orbital incentive obligations
Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value
Balance at the end of the period
Balance at the beginning of the period
Useful life
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Weighted Average Useful life
Amortization period of license term
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
2017
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Finite lives
Cost
Other intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Estimated future amortization of intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Accumulated Amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five
Thereafter
2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Other intangible assets, net
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Intangible assets, net
Carrying Amount
Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]
Foreign Currency
Gain (Loss) on Investments
Realized gains on marketable investment securities and other investments
Realized gains on marketable investment securities and other investments (includes reclassification of realized gains on available-for-sale ("AFS") securities out of AOCI of $16,530 and $127,995, respectively
Total unrealized and realized gains (losses) on marketable investment securities and other investments
Realized gains on marketable investment securities and other investments
Realized gains (losses) on marketable investment securities and other investments
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block]
Components of gains (loss) on sales of marketable investment securities and other investments
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Investments
Marketable and other investment securities
Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt
Gain (loss) on redemption of debt
Goodwill
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period
Balance at the end of the period
Goodwill and Intangible Asset Impairment [Abstract]
Impairments of Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Indefinite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Contribution to DISH Digital
Goodwill, Other Changes
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill
Goodwill
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Hughes acquisition
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Goodwill, Subsequent Recognition of Deferred Tax Asset
Deferred tax adjustment
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill associated with various acquisitions
Impairment
Goodwill, Impairment Loss
Other Intangible Assets
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Impairment of Long-lived Assets
Impairment of terrestrial wireless licenses
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill)
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use
Impairment charge
Impairments of assets
Impairment of assets
Impairment losses
Impairment charges of long-lived assets
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign
Foreign
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
Income Taxes
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Equity in losses (earnings) of unconsolidated affiliates, net
Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates, net
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic
Domestic
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Provision for taxes
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Income tax benefit, net
Income tax benefit (provision), net
Total income tax benefit (provision), net
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Taxes Paid
Cash paid for income taxes
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable, Related Parties
Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network
Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash and Investments
Change in restricted cash and marketable investment securities
Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities
Accrued expenses and other
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets
Other current assets
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade
Trade accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables
Trade accounts receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Related Parties
Trade accounts payable - DISH Network
Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Assets and Liabilities, Net
Change in noncurrent assets and noncurrent liabilities, net
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Inventory
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital
Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements
Dilutive impact of stock awards outstanding (in shares)
Indefinite-lived orbital rights, intangible assets
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)
Indefinite lives
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Impairments of Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Other Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
Interest Revenue (Expense), Net
Interest expense, net
Interest Payable, Current
Accrued interest
Capitalized Interest Related to satellites under construction
Interest Costs Capitalized
Capitalized interest
Interest expense, net
Interest Income (Expense), Net
Interest Expense, Debt
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized
Interest expense, net
Interest Paid
Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest)
Interest Expense [Member]
Interest expense on long-term debt and capital lease obligations
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventory
Inventory
Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves
Finished goods
Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves
Raw materials
Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]
Inventory
Inventory, Net
Inventory
Total inventory
Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves
Work-in-process
Investment Income, Interest
Interest income
Investment Income, Dividend
Dividend income from one of the entity's strategic investments
Nonrecurring dividend from a strategic investment
Dividend income from a strategic investment
Investment Owned, Balance, Principal Amount
Amount owed to entity under terms of credit agreement
Investment Owned, at Fair Value
Aggregate principal amount of investment held
Total marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents and other investment securities
Investments
Investments
Investments [Member]
Investment Securities
Investments and Cash [Abstract]
Marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and other investment securities
Investments in Debt and Equity Instruments, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) [Text Block]
Investment Securities
Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures
Investments in consolidated subsidiaries, including intercompany balances
Investment Securities
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Land [Member]
Land
Operating Leases, Rent Expense
Total rent expense
Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities Assumed
In-orbit incentive obligation for Echostar XVI
Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total noncurrent liabilities
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Current Liabilities:
Liabilities
Total liabilities
Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Noncurrent Liabilities:
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Liabilities and Equity
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid, Prior Years
Portion of EchoStar's initial litigation settlement payment related to prior periods
Line of Credit [Member]
Line of credit
Litigation Case Type [Domain]
Litigation Settlement, Gross
Settlement amount
Litigation Case [Axis]
Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]
Trade Accounts Receivable
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations
Less: Current portion
Long-term Debt [Member]
Long-term debt obligations
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion
Long-term portion of debt and capital lease obligations
Debt
Long-term Investments
Other investment securities
Total marketable and other investment securities - noncurrent
Total other investment securities - noncurrent
Long-term Investments [Abstract]
Other investment securities - noncurrent:
Other Investments Securities - Cost and Equity Method
Current portion of long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Long-term debt, net of current portion
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Commitment and Contingencies
Loss Contingency Accrual, Carrying Value, Payments
Initial payment for litigation settlement consideration
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Major Customers [Axis]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain]
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Marketable Investment Securities
Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss)
Marketable investment securities
Marketable Securities, Noncurrent
Debt and equity securities
Marketable and other investment securities noncurrent fair value method
Fair Value Method
Marketable Securities, Realized Loss, Other than Temporary Impairments, Amount
Marketable investment securities - other-than-temporary impairments
Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract]
Advertising Costs
Maximum [Member]
Maximum
Minimum [Member]
Minimum
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Noncontrolling interests
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Changes in valuation and qualifying accounts
Long-Lived Assets
Long-lived assets
Name of Major Customer [Domain]
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash flows from operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash flows from investing activities
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic
Net income attributable to EchoStar
Net income (loss) attributable to EchoStar
Net income
Net income (loss) attributable to EchoStar
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract]
Net income (loss) attributable to EchoStar
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash flows from financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements
Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Total other income (expense), net
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Other Income (Expense):
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Other notes payable
Number of business segments
Number of Reportable Segments
Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination
Acquisition of Hughes Communications
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest
Favorable leases
Off-Market Favorable Lease [Member]
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Sublease Revenue
Sublease rental income
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Net operating loss carryforwards
Operating Income (Loss)
Operating income
Operating income
Operating Lease Expense [Member]
Operating lease obligations
Organization and Business Activities
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Organization and Business Activities
Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Related Tax Effects
Other Comprehensive Income, Noncontrolling Interest [Text Block]
Total other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Other
Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Noncurrent
Other Assets, Current
Other current assets
Other Assets
Other Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net
Marketable and other investment securities - other-than-temporary-impairments
Other, net
Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement
Other, net
Other Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Estimated fair value of future launch services
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Other noncurrent assets, net
Total noncurrent assets
Other Liabilities and Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent
Long-term deferred revenue and other long-term liabilities
Inorbit incentive obligation
Other comprehensive income (loss), tax (expense) benefit
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax
Unrealized holding gains on AFS securities and other
Other Assets
Other noncurrent asset disclosures
Recognition of previously unrealized gains on AFS securities in net income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax
Reclassification of realized gains on available-for-sale ("AFS") securities out of AOCI
Other Intangible Assets, Net
Regulatory authorizations
Total regulatory authorizations
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax
Tax effects on foreign currency translation adjustments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax, [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income, before-tax amount
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax
Foreign currency translation adjustments, before-tax amount
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, before tax amount
Other Debt Obligations [Member]
Other
Other (including restricted)
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, tax (expense) benefit
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Other, net
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Other long-term liabilities
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Realized gains on marketable investment securities and other investments
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current
Accrued expenses and other
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent, Parenthetical Disclosures [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income, tax (expense) benefit
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Other comprehensive income (loss), before-tax amount
Parent Company [Member]
Echostar Corporation
Parent [Member]
Parent [Member]
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Other, net
Payments of Debt Issuance Costs
Debt issuance costs
Debt issuance costs
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Class A common stock repurchases
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Purchases of property and equipment
Capital expenditures
Payments to Acquire Notes Receivable
Aggregate principal amount of investment acquired
Payments to Acquire Investments
Purchase of strategic investments included in marketable and other investment securities
Purchase of strategic investment securites
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Acquisition of Hughes Communications, net of cash acquired of $98,900
Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets
Acquisition of regulatory authorizations
Purchases of marketable investment securities
Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities
Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries
Purchase of additional equity interest
Hughes Communications Shareholder Lawsuit
Pending Litigation [Member]
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Employee Benefit Plans
Employee Benefit Plans
Plan Name [Domain]
Plan Name [Axis]
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued
Preferred Stock, $.001 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred Stock, shares authorized
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued
Preferred Stock, shares issued
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share)
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding
Long-term prepaids
Prepaid Expense, Noncurrent
Distribution received from investments in affiliates
Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates
Distribution received from investment in affiliates
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Other
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities
Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities
Sales of marketable investment securities
Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Investing Activities
Proceeds from insurance settlement
Proceeds from Interest Received
Cash received for interest
Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options
Net proceeds from Class A common stock options exercised and issued under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments
Proceeds from sale of strategic investments
Proceeds from Sale of Investment Projects
Sale of interest in the entity
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income
Net income
Depreciable Life
Property plant and equipment useful life
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Useful life
Original Useful Life
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $2,361,258 and $2,261,699, respectively
Property and equipment, net
Carrying amount
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Total property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Property and Equipment
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Provision for Doubtful Accounts
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Receivable Type [Domain]
Trade Accounts Receivable
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounts Receivable
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related party transactions
General and administrative expenses - DISH Network
Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party
Related Party [Domain]
Related Party [Axis]
Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Repayment of long-term debt and capital lease obligations
Research and Development Expense
Research and development expenses
Research and Development Expense [Member]
Research and development expenses
Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Research and Development
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Restricted stock units
Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent
Restricted cash and marketable investment securities
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated deficit
Retained Earnings [Member]
Accumulated Deficit
Revenue Recognition [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition
Revenue recognized from equipment and services provided to related party
Revenue from Related Parties
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition
Intersegment revenue
Segment Reporting Information, Intersegment Revenue
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Geographic Information
Revenues
Revenue
Revenues [Abstract]
Revenue:
Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercisable
Expected term of options
Minimum expected term of options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of estimated future amortization of intangible assets
Sales Revenue, Goods, Net
Equipment revenue - other
Total revenue
Revenue, Net
Total revenue
Revenue
Sales Revenue, Services, Net
Services and other revenue - other
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]
Schedule of components of the benefit (provision) for income taxes
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Investments [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of stock option activity
Schedule of Costs of Retirement Plans [Table Text Block]
Schedule of expense recognized related to the 401(k) Plan
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block]
Schedule of components of income before income taxes
Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block]
Summary of sales to major customer and its percentage of total revenue
Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of tax effect allocated to component of other comprehensive income (loss)
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of restricted stock unit activity
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of assumptions of Black-Scholes option valuation model
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the effect of income on the entity's basic and diluted earnings per share
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases [Table Text Block]
Future minimum lease payments under capital lease obligations
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]
Schedule of inventory
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of income tax rate reconciliation
Schedule of reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
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 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table]
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of related party transactions
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block]
Final allocation of purchase price
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Schedule of quarterly results of operations
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities
Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table]
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table]
Schedule of Unrealized 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 other intangible assets subject to amortization
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Marketable investment securities:
Marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and other investment securities
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table]
Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table]
Schedule of stock-based compensation expense
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Goodwill
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of noncurrent assets
Schedule of Other Assets, Noncurrent [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block]
Schedule of exercise prices for stock options outstanding and exercisable
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of total revenue, capital expenditures and EBITDA by operating segment
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block]
Schedule of trade accounts receivable
Segment, Geographical, Groups of Countries, Group One [Member]
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting
Principal Business
Segment Reporting
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Segment Reporting
Segment [Domain]
Segment, Geographical [Domain]
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Payments in connection with acquisitions
Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Additional General Disclosures [Abstract]
Share-based compensation additional disclosures
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Weighted - Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock unit activity
Share-based Compensation
Stock-based compensation
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Maximum
Volatility factor, high end of range (as a percent)
Forfeited and cancelled (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Volatility factor, low end of range (as a percent)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Minimum
Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Total restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period (in dollars per share)
Awards vesting period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Vesting period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum
Risk-free Interest Rate, high end of range (as a percent)
Stock option grants (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross
Stock-Based Compensation
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period (in shares)
Restricted stock units (in shares)
Total restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period (in shares)
Restricted Performance Units (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Vested (in shares)
Stock-Based Compensation
Forfeited and cancelled (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Granted (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum
Risk-free Interest Rate, low end of range (as a percent)
Exercised (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Forfeited and cancelled (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate
Volatility factor (as a percent)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Exercisable at end of period, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Dividend yield percentage
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Vested (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted-average grant-date fair value (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Exercisable at end of period (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Number of common stock available for future grant under stock incentive plans (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Stock option activity
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]
Black-Scholes option valuation model, assumptions
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures
Granted (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period
Forfeited and cancelled (in shares)
Number of stock options exercisable (in shares)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options
Exercise Price Range [Axis]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Exercise prices for stock options outstanding and exercisable:
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Total options outstanding, beginning of period (in dollars per share)
Total options outstanding, end of period (in dollars per share)
Weighted-average exercise price (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding
Number of stock options outstanding (in shares)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit
Exercise prices, outstanding stock option awards, low end of range (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Total options outstanding, beginning of period (in shares)
Total options outstanding, end of period (in shares)
Stock options (in shares)
Stock options outstanding (in shares)
Award Type [Domain]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit
Exercise prices, outstanding stock option awards, high end of range (in dollars per share)
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Acquisition Costs or Sale Proceeds
Cash purchase price of assets
Software [Member]
Capitalized software costs
Statement [Table]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Business Segments [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Geographical [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount
Amount of shares that may be repurchased
Stock Compensation Plan [Member]
Stock awards
Stock Options [Member]
Performance based options
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised
Exercise of stock options
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan
Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock
Employee benefits
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Exercised (in shares)
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Amount of shares authorized for repurchase
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans
Number of shares of common stock purchased under ESPP
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock
Other
Stockholders' Equity, Other
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total stockholders' equity
Beginning balance
Ending balance
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Total EchoStar stockholders' equity
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease)
Subsequent Events [Text Block]
Subsequent Events
Subsequent Events
Subsidiaries [Member]
Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation ("HSSC")
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:
Threatened Litigation [Member]
Hughes Communications Shareholder Lawsuit
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount
Tax credits available to offset future tax liabilities
Tax benefit from stock awards exercised
Tax Benefit from Stock Options Exercised
Trade accounts receivables
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]
Trademarks [Member]
Trademark portfolio
Treasury Stock, Value
Treasury stock, at cost
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired
Number of shares repurchased
Treasury Stock [Member]
Treasury Stock
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method
Class A common stock repurchases, at cost
Value of shares repurchased
Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis]
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense
Unamortized debt issuance costs
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of unrealized gains (losses) on marketable investment securities
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments
Unrealized/realized gains on investments accounted for at fair value, net
Unrealized/realized gains on investments accounted for at fair value, net
Gains on investments accounted for at fair value, net
Gains on investments accounted for at fair value, net
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense
Interest and penalty (in million dollars)
Additions from Hughes Acquisition
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Acquisition
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Beginning Balance
Ending balance
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations
Reductions based on expirations of statute of limitations
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities
Reductions based on tax settlements
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Additions based on tax positions related to prior years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Unrecognized tax benefits if recognized, could favourably affect our effective tax rate
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount
Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense
Charged to Costs and Expenses
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Balance at Beginning of Year
Balance at End of Year
Valuation Allowance [Table]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions
Deductions
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation and qualifying accounts
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage
Ownership interest in related party (as a percent)
Variable Rate Demand Obligation [Member]
VRDNs
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock:
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Basic (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Diluted (in shares)
Diluted (in shares)
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Available For Sale Securities Tax
Tax effects on unrealized gains or losses on available-for-sale securities
Progress billings offset against contracts in process
Billed Contracts Receivable
Fees included in Cost of sales-services and other
Related Parties Amount in Cost of Sales
Purchases from related party
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party
Commitments to purchase from NagraStar
Purchase Obligation