Receivables [Abstract] Trade Accounts Receivable Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transaction, Due from (to) Related Party [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Hughes Systique Corporation Hughes Systique Corporation [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Hughes Systique Corporation. NagraStar Nagra Star L L C [Member] Represents the equity method investee of the entity. Dish Mexico Dish Mexico [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Dish Mexico. Deluxe/EchoStar LLC Deluxe Echo Star L L C [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Deluxe /EchoStar LLC. SmarDTV SA Smar Dtvsa [Member] Represents the information pertains to equity method investee SmarDTV SA. Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Hughes Communications, Inc. Hughes Communications, Inc. [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hughes Communications, Inc. Related party transactions Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Amount agreed to be funded under term loan facility Related Party Transaction Amount Agreed to be Funded under Term Loan Facility Represents the amount agreed to be funded under the term loan facility. Amount funded Payments to Fund Long-term Loans to Related Parties Interest rate Related Party Transaction, Rate Repayment of loan Repayments of Related Party Debt Remaining balance of loan Notes Payable, Related Parties Ownership interest in related party Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage Ownership percentage by related party Percentage Ownership in Variable Interest Entity by Other Related Parties Percentage ownership in variable interest entity by other related parties. Equity interest in joint venture Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Purchases from related party Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party Amount payable to related party Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Digital set-top boxes and related accessories Related Party Transaction, Sales of Digital Set Top Boxes and Related Accessories Related party transaction sales of digital set top boxes and related accessories. Satellite services Related Party Transaction, 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. Amount receivable from related party Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Revenue recognized from equipment and services provided to related party Revenue from Related Parties Receivables from related party Accounts Receivable, Related Parties Current note receivable from related party Notes Receivable, Related Parties, Current Proceeds from collection of current note receivables Proceeds from Collections of Short Term Loans to Related Parties The cash inflow associated with collection, whether partial or full, of short-term loans to a related party. Inventory, Net [Abstract] Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Total inventory Inventory, Net Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Caltech California Institute Of Technology [Member] Represents information pertaining to the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). CRFD C R F D Research Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to CRFD Research, Inc a subsidiary of Marathon Patent Group, Inc. (CRFD). Elbit Elbit [Member] Elbit Systems of America Ltd. [Member] Breach of fiduciary duties Breach Of Fiduciary Duties [Member] Represents details pertaining to breach of fiduciary duties. Technology Development and Licensing, LLC Technology Development And Licensing L L C [Member] Represents details pertaining Technology Development and licensing, LLC. Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Commitment and Contingencies Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Number of subsidiaries against which lawsuit was filed Number of Subsidiaries Against which Lawsuit Filed Number of subsidiaries against which lawsuit filed. Number of petitions challenging the validity of a patent Number Of Petitions Challenging The Validity of Certain Patents Represents information pertaining to number of petitions challenging the validity of certain patents. Number of petitions denied Number of Petitions Denied Number of Petitions Denied Number of petitions pending Number Of Petitions Pending Number Of Petitions Pending Stock option grants attempted (in shares) 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 (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Stock options outstanding (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Number of reexamination petitions pending before the United States Patent and Trademark Office Number of Reexamination Petitions Pending Number of reexamination petitions pending. Number of claims cancelled Loss Contingency, Claims Dismissed, Number Total number of claims Loss Contingency, Pending Claims, Number Schedule of trade accounts receivable Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Capitalized Software Costs Capitalized Software [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for costs incurred when both (1) the software is acquired, internally developed, or modified solely to meet the entity's internal needs, and (2) during the software's development or modification, no substantive plan exists or is being developed to market the software externally. This policy also may address the entity's amortization policy for its capitalized computer software costs and how it evaluates such capitalized costs for impairment. New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Equity in losses of unconsolidated affiliates, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Gains on marketable investment securities, net Gain (Loss) on Investments, Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Deferred tax provision Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Changes in noncurrent assets and noncurrent liabilities, net Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Assets and Liabilities, Net Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Net cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Purchases of marketable investment securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities Purchases of property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Refunds and other receipts related to capital expenditures Refunds and other receipts related to capital expenditures The cash inflow associated with the refunds and other receipts related to capital expenditures. Changes in restricted cash and marketable investment securities Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash and Investments Acquisition of regulatory authorization Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Expenditures for externally marketed software Payments to Develop Software Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Repayment of other debt and capital lease obligations Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Net proceeds from Class A common stock options exercised and stock issued under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest) Interest Paid Capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Increase (decrease) in capital expenditures included in accounts payable, net Increase (Decrease) In Capital Expenditures Incurred But Not Yet Paid The increase (decrease) during the reporting period of future cash outflow to pay for purchases of fixed assets that have occurred. Reduction of capital lease obligation for AMC-15 and AMC-16 satellites Reduction of Capital Lease Obligations and Associated Gain Value Reduction of Capital Lease Obligations And Associated Gain Value. Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Stock Options Employee And Non Employee Director Stock Option [Member] Contract that gives the holder the right, but not the obligation, either to purchase or to sell a certain number of shares of stock at a predetermined price for a specified period of time. Restricted Stock Units Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Non-Performance Based Stock Awards Non Performance Based Stock Awards [Member] Represents details pertaining to the non-performance based awards of the entity. Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Vesting [Domain] Vesting Based On Performance Vesting Based On Performance [Member] Represents a share based compensation award with vesting based on achievement of performance conditions. Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense [Member] Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items] Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Allocated share-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Stock option activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures [Abstract] Stock options granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Stock-Based Compensation Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Aggregate Disclosures [Abstract] Unrecognized stock-based compensation cost, net of estimated forfeiture Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Segment Reporting [Abstract] Number of business segments Number of Reportable Segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Intersegment Elimination Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Operating segments Operating Segments [Member] All Other and Eliminations Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Hughes Business Hughes Business Segment [Member] Represents Hughes segment which provides equipment and services to the broadband communications marketplace. EchoStar Technologies Business Echo Star Technologies Business [Member] Represents EchoStar Technologies Business, a business segment of the entity which designs, develops and distributes digital set-top boxes and related products and technology and also provides digital broadcast operations. EchoStar Satellite Services Business Echo Star Satellite Services Business [Member] Represents Echo Star Satellite Services Business, a business segment of the entity which uses ten owned and leased in-orbit satellites and related FCC licenses to lease capacity on a full-time and occasional-use basis primarily to DISH Network. All Other and Eliminations All Other Segments And Eliminations [Member] Represents information pertaining to segments not specifically identified and intersegment eliminations. Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Total revenue Revenue, Net EBITDA Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization Represents the amount of earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization. Capital expenditures Capital Expenditures, Net of Refunds and Other Receipts Related to Capital Expenditures The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale, net of refunds and other receipts related to capital expenditures. Interest income and expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Net Depreciation and amortization Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in HSS Tracking Stock and other noncontrolling interests Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Investments [Abstract] Debt securities with contractual maturities of one year or less Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Rolling Twelve Months, Fair Value Debt securities with contractual maturities exceeding one year Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities After Next Rolling Twelve Months Fair Value Amount of available-for-sale debt securities at fair value maturing after the next rolling twelve months following the latest balance sheet presented. DISH Network D I S H Network [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Dish Network. Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Tax Sharing Agreement Tax Sharing Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to the tax sharing agreement. Patent Cross-License Agreements Patent Cross License Agreements [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Patent Cross-License Agreements. Personalized Media Communications, Inc. Personalized Media Communications Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to Personalized Media Communications, Inc. Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] TiVo vs. Dish Network and Echostar Corporation Ti Vovs Dish Network And Echostar Corporation [Member] Represents information pertaining to legal proceedings of TiVo vs. Dish Network and Echostar Corporation. Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities Noncurrent Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] Other noncurrent assets, net Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Federal tax benefits reflected as a deferred tax asset for depreciation and amortization Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment Net amount of the allocated tax attributes receivable Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Noncurrent Settlement amount Litigation Settlement, Amount Initial settlement amount paid Litigation Settlement, Initial Payment Litigation settlement initial payment. Aggregate of six annual installment amounts between 2012 and 2017 Litigation Settlement, Total Amount to be Paid Through Six Annual Installments Litigation settlement total amount to be paid through six annual installments. Litigation settlement, number of annual installments Litigation Settlement, Number of Annual Installments Litigation settlement number of annual installments. Portion of the $300 million initial settlement agreement payment paid by EchoStar Loss Contingency, Contribution Towards Settlement Agreement Loss contingency contribution towards settlement agreement. Estimated percentage of annual future payments payable by EchoStar Loss Contingency, Estimated Percentage of Annual Payments, Payable by Entity Loss contingency estimated percentage of annual payments payable by entity. Maximum aggregate payments required under cross license agreements Aggregate Payment under Agreement Less than Maximum aggregate payments required under cross license agreements. Maximum additional aggregate payments required under cross license agreements if options are exercised 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. One-time payment towards settlement under the agreements Payments for Legal Settlements Document and Entity Information Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Class A common stock Common Class A [Member] Class B common stock Common Class B [Member] Statement line items Statement [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and investments in unconsolidated entities Investment [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrealized gains (losses) on marketable investment securities Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of available-for-sale securities in continuous unrealized loss position by length of time and their fair value Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value measurements Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Stock awards Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Anti-dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Corporate bonds Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Other (including restricted) Other Debt Obligations [Member] Equity securities - strategic Equity Securities [Member] Marketable investment securities: Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Current Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities, Current Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Schedule of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Targeted or Tracking Stock, Stock [Table] Targeted or Tracking Stock, Stock [Table] Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction Satellite And Tracking Stock Transaction [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction. Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] Hughes Retail Group Hughes Retail Group [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Hughes Retail Group Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Preferred Tracking Stock [Member] Represents information pertaining to tracking stock, a type of capital stock that the issuing company intends to reflect or track the economic performance of a particular business component within the company. EchoStar and HSSC Echo Star And Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation [Member] Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar and Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation. Echostar Corporation Parent Company [Member] Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation (HSSC) Subsidiaries [Member] Hughes Retail Group Tracking Stock Targeted or Tracking Stock, Stock [Line Items] Number of owned satellites transferred Related Party Transactions Number of Owned Satellites Transferred Represents the number of owned satellites transferred. Cash received Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Percentage of economic interest held Related Party Transactions Percentage of Economic Interest Held Represents the percentage of economic interest held an entity. Percentage of capital stock held Percentage of Capital Stock Held by Related Party Represents the percentage of capital stock held by related party. Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract] Less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value 12 months or more Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Total Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract] Less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss 12 months or more Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Total Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Sales of Marketable Investment Securities Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Gains from sales of available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Trade accounts receivables Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Contracts in process, net Accounts Receivable Contracts In Process [Member] Amounts due from customers or clients for contracts in process. Trade Accounts Receivable Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Total trade accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network Total trade accounts receivable, net Receivables, Net, Current Progress billings offset against contracts in process Billed Contracts Receivable Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Principal Business Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table] 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 entity. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite lives Finite Lived Regulatory Authorizations [Member] Represents information pertaining to the definite lived regulatory authorizations. Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite Lives Indefinite Lived Regulatory Authorizations [Member] Information pertaining to indefinite lived regulatory authorizations. Regulatory authorizations and intangible assets Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill Goodwill {Abstract] No defnition available. Goodwill Goodwill Cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Gross [RollForward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Balance at the beginning of the period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Currency Translation Adjustment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Gross Currency Translation Adjustment Amount of increase (decrease) to gross assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life for foreign currency translation adjustments. Balance at the end of the period Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization [RollForward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Balance at the beginning of the period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Additions Amortization Currency Translation Adjustment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Amortization Translation Adjustments Amount of amortization of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life for foreign currency translation adjustments. Balance at the end of the period Net Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Additions Intangible Assets, Net of Accumulated Amortization, Additions Amount of increase (decrease) in finite lived intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, that is from additions, Currency Translation Adjustment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Currency Translation Adjustment, Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Currency Translation Adjustment, Net Balance at the end of the period Indefinite lives Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Balance at the end of the period Total regulatory authorizations, net Other Intangible Assets Net [RollForward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Balance at the beginning of the period Other Intangible Assets, Net Additions Other Intangible Assets, Additions Amount of increase (decrease) of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life and having a projected indefinite period of benefit, from additions. Currency Translation Adjustment Other Intangible Assets Net Translation Adjustments Amount of increase (decrease) of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life and having a projected indefinite period of benefit, from foreign currency translation adjustments. Balance at the end of the period Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted [Table] The table contains disclosure pertaining to an entity's basic and diluted earnings per share. Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Telesat Canada Telesat Canada [Member] Represents details pertaining to Telesat Canada. SES Latin America S E S Latin America [Member] Represents the details pertaining to SES Latin America S.A. 2012 Receiver Agreement Receiver Agreement2012 [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the 2012 Receiver Agreement. Broadcast Agreement Broadcast Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement. Broadcast Agreement for Certain Sports Related Programming Broadcast Agreement For Certain Sports Related Programming [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement for certain sports related programming. RUS Implementation Agreement RUS Service Implementation Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to RUS Service Implementation Agreement. Echo Star V I I Echo Star V I I [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VII. EchoStar VIII capacity leased to Dish Network Echo Star V I I I Satellite Capacity Leased To Dish Network [Member] Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar VIII satellite capacity leased to Dish Network. EchoStar XVI Echo Star X V I [Member] Represents the details pertaining to EchoStar XVI. Nimiq 5 Agreement Nimiq5 Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Nimiq 5 Agreement. DISH Telesat Agreement D I S H Telesat Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the DISH Telesat Agreement. QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement Quetz Sat1 Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement. QuetzSat-1 Transponder Quetz Sat1 Transponder Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement. Service agreement to lease certain satellite capacity Satellite Leasing Service Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellite leasing service agreement. TT&C Agreement Telemetry Tracking And Control Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the TT and C Agreement. Inverness Lease Agreement Inverness Lease Agreement [Member] Represent the details pertaining to Inverness Lease Agreement. Meridian Lease Agreement Meridian Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Meridian Lease Agreement. Santa Fe Lease Agreement Santa Fe Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Santa Fe Lease Agreement. Echostar Data Networks Sublease Agreement Echostar Data Networks Sublease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the EchoStar Data Networks Sublease Agreement. Gilbert Lease Agreement Gilbert Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Gilbert Lease Agreement. Cheyenne Lease Agreement Cheyenne Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Cheyenne Lease Agreement. Product Support Agreement Product Support Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Product Support Agreement. DISHOnline.com Services Agreement D I S H Online. Com Services Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the DISHOnline.com Services Agreement. DISH Remote Access Services Agreement D I S H Remote Access Services Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the DISH Remote Access Services Agreement. SlingService Services Agreement Sling Service Services Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Sling Service Services Agreement. Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement. Set-Top Box Application Development Agreement Set Top Box Application Development Agreement [Member] Represent the details pertaining to the Set-Top Box Application Development Agreement. XiP Encryption Agreement Xi P Encryption Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the XiP Encryption Agreement. DBSD North America Agreement D B S D North America Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America Agreement. Remanufactured Receiver Agreement Remanufactured Receiver Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Remanufactured Receiver Agreement. EchoStar XV capacity leased from Dish Network Echo Star X V Satellite Capacity Leased From Dish Network [Member] Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar XV satellite capacity leased from Dish Network. Professional Services Agreement Professional Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Professional Services Agreement. El Paso Lease Agreement El Paso Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the El Paso lease agreement entered into with DISH Network. Ciel Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc. Sling TV Holding Corporate Joint Venture [Member] Minimum required notice period for termination of agreement by related party Related Party Transactions Agreement Termination Required Notice Period from Related Party, Minimum Related party transactions agreement termination required notice period from related party minimum. Additional term of renewal option Related Party Transactions, Agreement Renewal Option Additional Term Represents the additional term of renewal option. Minimum notice period required to extend the agreement term Minimum Period of Notice Required to be Given by Related Party to Extend Term of Agreement Represents the minimum notice period required to be given by the related party to extend the term of the agreement. Agreement term Related Party Transactions Agreement, Term Related party transactions agreement term. Grants receivable Related Party Transactions, Grants Receivable by Related Party Related party transactions, grants receivable by related party. Agreement term from commencement of service date Related Party Transactions Agreement Term from Commencement of Service Date Related party transactions agreement term from commencement of service date. Term of renewal option Related Party Transactions Agreement, Renewal Option, Term Related party transactions agreement renewal option term. Required minimum notice period for termination of agreement by the reporting entity Related Party Transactions Agreement, Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity Related party transactions agreement termination notice required by the reporting entity. Number of DBS transponders available to receive services Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Available Related party transactions, number of DBS transponders available. Number of DBS transponders 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. Number of DBS transponders currently receiving services Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Receiving Services Related party transactions number of DBS transponders receiving services. Number of DBS transponders currently receiving services subleased back from related party Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Receiving Services Sublease Related party transactions number of DBS transponders receiving sublease services. Net proceeds from issuance of Tracking Stock Required minimum notice for termination of agreement Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of agreement. Required minimum notice for termination or agreement if month-to-month Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement After Lease Extension Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement After Lease Extension 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 one year renewal options. Automatic renewal period Related Party Transactions Agreement, Automatic Renewal Period Related party transactions agreement automatic renewal period. Ownership interest acquired by related party Business Combination, Ownership Percentage Acquired by Related Party Business combination, ownership percentage acquired by related party. Non-voting interest in joint venture Equity Method Investment Nonvoting Ownership Percentage The percentage of non-voting ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Voting interests acquired by related party Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired by Related Party Represents the percentage of voting equity interests acquired by the related party. Required minimum notice for termination of individual service Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Specific Service Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of specific service. Number of successive three year renewal options Related Party Transactions Agreement Maximum Number of Three Year Renewal Options Related party transactions agreement maximum number of three year renewal options. Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair value measurements on recurring basis Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair value of marketable securities Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair value of investments Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Cash equivalents (including restricted) Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Debt securities Equity securities - strategic Marketable Securities, Equity Securities, Current Total Marketable Securities Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 6 1/2% Senior Secured Notes due 2019 Senior Secured Notes6.50 Percent Due2019 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6 1/2 percent senior secured notes, which are due in 2019. 7 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 Senior Notes7.625 Percent Due2021 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 5/8 percent senior notes, which are due in 2021. Other Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Unamortized debt issuance costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs [Member] Unamortized debt issuance costs Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt Instrument [Line Items] Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Effective Interest Rates Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Carrying Amount Long-term Debt, Gross Fair Value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Less: Unamortized debt issuance costs Debt Issuance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Total debt and capital lease obligations Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Less: Current portion Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of unamortized debt issuance costs Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Purchase price as a percent of the aggregate principal Debt Instrument Purchase Price, Due to Change of Control as Percentage of Aggregate Principal Amount Represents the purchase price as a percentage of the aggregate principal amount at which the debt instrument may be required to be repurchased in the event of a change of control. Beneficial ownership percentage required to avoid Change of Control Beneficial Ownership Percentage Required To Avoid A Change Of Control Beneficial Ownership Percentage Required To Avoid A Change Of Control Offering period after Change of Control Change Of Control, Offering Period Change Of Control, Offering Period Minimum offering amount per holder in Change of Control Change Of Control, Required Offering Amount Per Holder, Minimum Change Of Control, Required Offering Amount Per Holder, Minimum Integral multiple to add to excess of the minimum offering per holder in Change of Control Change Of Control, Required Offering Amount Per Holder, Amount Of Integral Multiple To Add To Excess Of Minimum Change Of Control, Required Offering Amount Per Holder, Amount Of Integral Multiple To Add To Excess Of Minimum Schedule of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of construction in progress Schedule of Construction in Progress [Table Text Block] Schedule of construction in progress. Schedule of owned and leased satellites under construction Schedule of owned and leased satellites under construction [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for Schedule of owned and leased satellites under construction. Investment Securities Investments in Debt and Equity Instruments, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) [Text Block] Inventory Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Class C common stock Common Class C [Member] Class D common stock Common Class D [Member] Represents the Class D common stock. Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable (in dollars) Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - DISH Network (in dollars) Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable from Related Parties, Current Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable from Related Parties Current. Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation (in dollars) Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Preferred Stock Preferred Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Schedule of allocated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for all employees Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block] Schedule of inventory Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the effect of income (loss) on the entity's basic and diluted earnings per share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Net income attributable to EchoStar Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Net income attributable to EchoStar Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Less: Net loss attributable to EchoStar Tracking Stock Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Preferred Tracking Stock Represents the amount of net income (loss) attributable to preferred tracking stock. Net income attributable to EchoStar common stock Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive impact of stock awards outstanding (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Schedule of regulatory authorizations with finite and indefinite useful lives Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] 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 other intangible assets subject to amortization Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Related Tax Effects Other Comprehensive Income, Noncontrolling Interest [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Satellites Satellites [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity. Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Furniture Fixtures Equipment And Other [Member] Represents furniture, fixtures, equipment and other property, plant and equipment owned by the entity. Customer rental equipment Customer Rental Equipment [Member] Represents information pertaining to customer rental equipment. Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Depreciation expense Depreciation [Abstract] Total depreciation expense Depreciation Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Contract-based Contractual Rights [Member] Technology-based Developed Technology Rights [Member] Trademark portfolio Trademarks [Member] Favorable leases Off-Market Favorable Lease [Member] Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Other intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Weighted Average Useful life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Cost Accumulated Amortization Carrying Amount Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Assets Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Marketable investment securities, at fair value Marketable Securities, Current Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $13,772 and $12,485, respectively Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero Inventory Prepaids and deposits Prepaid Expense and Deposits Assets, Current Represents the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. It also represents the carrying value of amounts transferred to third parties for security purposes that are expected to be returned or applied towards payment within one year or during the operating cycle, if shorter. Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Noncurrent Assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Restricted cash and marketable investment securities Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $3,097,803 and $2,998,074, respectively Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Regulatory authorizations, net Other intangible assets, net Investments in unconsolidated entities Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Other receivable - DISH Network Other noncurrent assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Total noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Trade accounts payable Accounts Payable, Trade, Current Trade accounts payable - DISH Network Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of unamortized debt issuance costs Deferred revenue and prepayments Deferred Revenue and Credits, Current Accrued compensation Employee-related Liabilities, Current Accrued royalties Accrued Royalties, Current Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Accrued expenses and other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Noncurrent Liabilities: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of unamortized debt issuance costs Deferred tax liabilities, net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total noncurrent liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies (Note 14) Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders’ Equity: Preferred Stock Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, at cost Treasury Stock, Value Total EchoStar stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest in HSS Tracking Stock Preferred Tracking Stock Noncontrolling Interest Represents the amount of stockholders' equity attributable to preferred tracking stock noncontrolling interest. Other noncontrolling interests Other Noncontrolling Interests Total stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of revenue, EBITDA, and capital expenditures by operating segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of reconciliation of EBITDA to reported income before income taxes Schedule of Reconciliation of EBITDA to Income (Loss) before Income Taxes [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of information which reconciles EBITDA to reported income or loss before income taxes. Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue: Revenues [Abstract] Equipment revenue - DISH Network Equipment Revenue, Related Party Equipment revenue related party. Equipment revenue - other Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Services and other revenue - DISH Network Services and Other Revenue, Related Party Services and other revenue - Related Party. Services and other revenue - other Sales Revenue, Services, Net Total revenue Costs and Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of sales - equipment (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) Cost of Goods Sold Cost of sales - services and other (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) Cost of Services Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Other Income (Expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest income Investment Income, Net Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized Interest Expense Gains on marketable investment securities, net Equity in losses of unconsolidated affiliates, net Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other expense, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income tax provision, net Net income Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in HSS Tracking Stock Net Income Loss Attributable To Subsidiary Preferred Tracking Stock Noncontrolling Interest Represents the amount of net income (loss) attributable to subsidiary preferred tracking stock noncontrolling interest. Less: Net income attributable to other noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Other Noncontrolling Interest Represents the amount of net income (loss) attributable to other noncontrolling interest. Net income attributable to EchoStar Less: Net loss attributable to Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock (Note 4) Diluted (in shares) Comprehensive Income: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities and other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax Recognition of realized gains on available-for-sale securities in net income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in HSS Tracking Stock Comprehensive Income Net of Tax Attributable To Preferred Tracking Stock Represents the amount of comprehensive income (loss) attributable to preferred tracking stock. Less: Comprehensive income attributable to other noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income Net of Tax Attributable to Other Noncontrolling Interest Represents the amount of comprehensive income (loss) attributable to other noncontrolling interest. Comprehensive income attributable to EchoStar Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Organization and Business Activities Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Land Land [Member] Satellites - owned Satellites acquired under capital leases Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] Total property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Property and equipment, net Depreciable Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Strategic equity securities Other Gains on marketable investment securities, net Gain (Loss) on Investments [Member] Restricted cash and marketable investment securities Restricted Cash And Marketable Investment Securities [Member] Represents information pertaining to restricted cash and marketable investments securities on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Marketable investment securities—current, at fair value: Investments and Cash [Abstract] Marketable investment securities, at fair value Available-for-sale Securities, Current Marketable investment securities, at fair value Total marketable investment securities - current Restricted marketable investment securities Marketable Securities, Restricted, Noncurrent Restricted cash and cash equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Dividend income from strategic equity securities Investment Income, Dividend Unrealized holding gain on common stock in trading securities portfolio Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Fair value of trading securities Trading Securities, Equity Investments in unconsolidated entities—noncurrent: Long-term Investments [Abstract] Cost method Cost Method Investments Equity method Equity Method Investments Total investments in unconsolidated entities-noncurrent Total marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and investments in unconsolidated entities Investments Schedule of related party transactions Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] 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. Length of satellites utilized in geosynchronous orbit above the equator (in miles) Satellites in Geosynchronous OrbitLength Above Equator Represents the length of satellites in geosynchronous orbit above the equator. Number of satellites utilized under capital lease Capital Leased Assets, Number of Units Number of satellites utilized under operating lease Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Number of Units Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies [Table] Summarization of the disclosures for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Cost of Sales Cost of Sales [Member] Research and Development Expense Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASU 2015-03 Accounting Standards Update 2015-03 [Member] Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of unamortized debt issuance costs Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Accounting Policies [Line Items] Fair value measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Amount of transfers between levels within the fair value hierarchy Fair Value Measurement Asset and Liability Transfers Between Levels Represents the amount of transfers between the levels of fair value hierarchy that have taken place during the period. Orbital incentive obligations Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure Research and Development Research and Development Expense [Abstract] Capitalized Software Costs Capitalized Computer Software, Net [Abstract] Software useful life Software Useful Life Useful life of software that is either acquired, internally developed, or modified to meet the entity's needs. Net carrying amount of externally marketed software Capitalized Computer Software, Net Capitalized costs related to development of externally marketed software Capitalized Computer Software, Additions Amortization expense relating to development of externally marketed software Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] Unamortized debt issuance costs Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Progress amounts for satellite construction, including prepayments under capital leases and launch services costs Progress Amounts For Satellite Construction Including Prepayments Under Capital Leases And Launch Costs [Member] Represents information pertaining to Progress amounts for satellite construction including prepayments under capital leases and launch costs. Satellite related equipment Uplinking And Gateway Equipment [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Uplinking and Gateway equipment satellite. Construction in progress: Other Construction In Progress Other [Member] Represents the information pertaining to other constructions in process. Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Goodwill, Regulatory Authorizations and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Commitments [Domain] Satellite-related obligations Satellite Related Obligation [Member] Represents the information relating to satellite-related obligations of the entity. Other Commitments [Line Items] Other Commitments [Line Items] Satellite-related obligations Contractual Obligation Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Components Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Other comprehensive income, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent, Parenthetical Disclosures [Abstract] Tax effects on foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax Tax effects on unrealized gains or losses on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax Cumulative foreign currency translation losses Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Total reclassifications, net of tax and noncontrolling interests Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax 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] Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Targeted or Tracking Stock, Stock Disclosure [Text Block] The entire disclosure for information related to target or tracking stock.