Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of quarterly results of operations Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Other Intangible Assets Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Cost basis Equity Securities Without Readily Determinable Fair Value, Gross Equity Securities Without Readily Determinable Fair Value, Gross Discount Equity Securities Without Readily Determinable Fair Value, Discount Equity Securities Without Readily Determinable Fair Value, Discount Total other debt investments, net Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value, Amount 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 Share-based Payment Arrangement [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 Accounting Policies [Abstract] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Services and other revenue Services And Other Revenue [Member] Services And Other Revenue [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Adoption of ASC 842 Increase (Decrease) Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 And 2016-01 Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 And 2016-01 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 And [Member] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 [Member] Calculated Under Revenue Guidance In Effect Before Topic 606 And Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 Calculated Under Revenue Guidance In Effect Before Topic 606 And Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member] Calculated Under Revenue Guidance In Effect Before Topic 606 And Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 New accounting pronouncement disclosures New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Balance sheet data: Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Other current assets Other Assets, Current Operating lease right-of-use assets Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Other non-current assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Operating lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Accumulated earnings (losses) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Revenues [Abstract] Revenues [Abstract] Total revenue Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Costs and expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of sales - services and other (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) Cost of Goods and Services Sold Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized Interest Expense Gains (losses) on investments, net Gain (Loss) on Investments Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Total other income (expense), net Total Nonoperating Income (Expense), Interest And Debt Expense, and Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments Represents, in the aggregate, total other income (expense), including but not limited to: income or (expense) from ancillary business-related activities; interest and debt related expenses associated with nonoperating financing activities of the entity; and the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied, which includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax benefit (provision), net Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to EchoStar Corporation common stock Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Earnings (losses) per share - Class A and B common stock: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Total basic earnings (loss) per share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Total diluted earnings (loss) per share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Net income (loss) Other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Reclassification Adjustment of Noncredit Portion Included in Net Income, Availabe-for-sale Securities, before Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, after Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to EchoStar Corporation Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Licensing Agreements Licensing Agreements [Member] 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] Contractual Rights Contractual Rights [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Additions Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Gross, Additions Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Gross, Additions Amortization period Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Additions Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Impairment of long-lived assets Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Impairment of long-lived assets, regulatory authorization Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, Regulatory Authorization Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, Regulatory Authorization Impairment of long-lived assets, other Other Asset Impairment Charges Impairment of long-lived assets, foreign currency translation adjustment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, Currency Translation Adjustment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, Currency Translation Adjustment Indefinite-lived intangible assets acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Payments to acquire intangible assets Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Indefinite-lived intangible assets Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Share-based Payment Arrangement, Noncash Expense [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Award Type [Domain] Employee And Non Employee Stock Option Employee And Non Employee 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. Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Black-Scholes option valuation model assumptions Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Volatility factor Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected term of options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Weighted-average grant-date fair value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Long-Lived Tangible Asset [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Long-Lived Tangible Asset [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] QuetzSat-1 QuetzSat-1 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellite QuetzSat-1. Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Telesat Canada Telesat Canada [Member] Represents details pertaining to Telesat Canada. S E S Latin America S E S Latin America [Member] Represents the details pertaining to SES Latin America S.A. Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] TiVo vs Dish Network And Echostar Corporation TiVo vs Dish Network And Echostar Corporation [Member] Represents information pertaining to legal proceedings of TiVo vs. Dish Network and Echostar Corporation. Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Sling TV Holding Sling TV Holding [Member] Sling TV Holding [Member] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] EchoStar Corporation Parent Company [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] DISH Network D I S H Network [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Dish Network. NagraStar Nagra Star L L C [Member] Represents the equity method investee of the entity. SmarDTV SA SmarDTV SA [Member] Represents the information pertains to equity method investee SmarDTV SA. Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] BSS Business BSS Business [Member] BSS Business [Member] EchoStar Technologies segment EchoStar Technologies Business [Member] Represents EchoStar Technologies Business, a business segment of the entity which designs, develops and distributes digital set-top boxes and related products and technology and also provides digital broadcast operations. Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Axis] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Axis] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Domain] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Domain] D I S H Online. Com Services Agreement D I S H Online. Com Services Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the DISHOnline.com Services Agreement. TeleSat Transponder Agreement TeleSat Transponder Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to agreement with TeleSat Canada to lease satellite capacity from TeleSat Canada Share Exchange Agreement Share Exchange Agreement [Member] Share Exchange Agreement [Member] DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement. Satellite Services Agreement Satellite Services Agreement [Member] Satellite Service Agreements [Member] Satellite Capacity Lease Agreement Satellite Capacity Lease Agreement [Member] Satellite Capacity Lease Agreement [Member] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Agreement term Related Party Transactions Agreement, Term Related party transactions agreement term. Number of DBS transponders available to receive services Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Available Related party transactions, number of DBS transponders available. Net income (loss) from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Nonvoting ownership percentage 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. Income Statement Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract] Cost of services and other Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs of Goods Sold Selling, general and administrative expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, General and Administrative Expense Research and development expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Research and Development Expense Amount of research and development expense attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Depreciation and amortization Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Depreciation and Amortization Total costs and expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs And Expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs And Expenses Operating income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Expense Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Amount of income (loss) from equity method investments attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Other, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Income (Expense) Amount of other income (expense) attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Total other income (expense), net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income from discontinued operations before income taxes Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income tax benefit (provision), net Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Net income (loss) from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance Sheet Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Classified Balance Sheet Disclosures [Abstract] Prepaids and deposits Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Prepaid and Other Assets, Current Current assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current Property and equipment, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Noncurrent Regulatory authorizations, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets, Noncurrent Other non-current assets, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets, Noncurrent Non-current assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Noncurrent Total assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets Current portion of finance lease obligations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Finance Lease Obligation, Current Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Finance Lease Obligation, Current Accrued interest Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Interest, Current Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Interest, Current Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Liabilities, Current Current liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current Finance lease obligations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Finance Lease Obligation, Noncurrent Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Finance Lease Obligation, Noncurrent Deferred tax liabilities, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Deferred Tax Liabilities Other non-current liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Non-current liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities Cash Flow Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Expenditures for property and equipment Capital Expenditure, Discontinued Operations Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Financing cash flows from finance leases Finance Lease, Principal Payments Repayments of Other Debt Repayments of Other Debt Ownership interest acquired by related party (as a percent) Business Combination, Ownership Percentage Acquired by Related Party Business combination, ownership percentage acquired by related party. Percentage of 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. Litigation settlement, amount awarded to other party Litigation Settlement, Amount Awarded to Other Party Initial settlement amount paid Litigation Settlement, Initial Payment Litigation settlement initial payment. Litigation settlement amount paid in six month installments 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 payments Loss Contingency, Estimated Percentage of Annual Payments, Payable by Entity Loss contingency estimated percentage of annual payments payable by entity. Equity interest, percentage in joint venture Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage 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 receiving services Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Receiving Services Related party transactions number of DBS transponders receiving services. Number of DBS transponders receiving services sublease Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Receiving Services Sublease Related party transactions number of DBS transponders receiving sublease services. 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] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Total cash and cash equivalents, included restricted amounts, beginning of period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Accumulated Earnings (Losses) Retained Earnings [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASU 2016-09 Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 [Member] Employee Stock Options Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] Non-Employee Stock Option Non-Employee Stock Option [Member] An arrangement whereby a non-employee is entitled to receive in the future, subject to vesting and other restrictions, a number of shares in the entity at a specified price, as defined in the agreement. Although there are variations, normally, after vesting, when an option is exercised, the non-employee-holder pays the strike value in cash to the issuing entity and receives equity shares. The equity shares can be sold into the market for cash at the current market price without restriction. Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Class A common stock Common Class A [Member] Shares outstanding under stock incentive plans (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Maximum expiration term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Number of common stock available for future grant under stock incentive plans (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Nonvested options forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares Tax benefits from stock options exercised Tax Benefits From Stock Options Exercised Tax benefits realized from the exercise of stock options resulting in reductions in the entity's income taxes. Options exercised in period intrinsic value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Tax benefit from compensation expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense, Tax Benefit Unrecognized compensation expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Amount Future forfeiture rate (as a percent) 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. Period for recognition of compensation cost Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Deferred tax asset, stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Other Investments Cost and Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block] Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Revenue Recognition Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Dish Mexico Dish Mexico [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Dish Mexico. Aggregate Aggregate Equity Method Investments [Member] Aggregate Equity Method Investments [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Current assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets Non-current assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets Total assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets Current liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities Non-current liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities Total liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities Income statement data: Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Operating income (loss) Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Income (loss) before income taxes Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Before Tax Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Before Tax Net income (loss) Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Net income (loss) attributable to EchoStar Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] SPACEWAY 3 (1) SPACEWAY 3 [Member] SPACEWAY 3 [Member] EchoStar XVII EchoStar XVII [Member] EchoStar XVII [Member] EchoStar XIX EchoStar XIX [Member] EchoStar XIX [Member] Al Yah 3 Al Yah 3 [Member] Al Yah 3 [Member] EchoStar IX (3) EchoStar IX [Member] EchoStar IX [Member] EchoStar XXI EchoStar XXI [Member] EchoStar XXI [Member] Eutelsat 65 West A Eutelsat 65 West A [Member] Eutelsat 65 West A [Member] Telesat T19V Telesat 19V satellite [Member] Telesat 19V satellite [Member] EchoStar 105/SES-11 EchoStar 105/SES-11 [Member] EchoStar 105/SES-11 satelite [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Depreciable life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Regulatory authorization Use Rights [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Yahsat Yahsat [Member] Yahsat [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Assets: Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other Property and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Regulatory authorization Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Goodwill Goodwill Other long-term assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Total assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Liabilities: Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities [Abstract] Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Other current liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other Total liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Total purchase price Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Investments [Abstract] Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] Corporate bonds Corporate Bond Securities, Excluding Fair Value Option [Member] Corporate Bond Securities, Excluding Fair Value Option [Member] Corporate bonds Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Other debt securities Other Debt Obligations [Member] Total available-for-sale debt securities Debt Securities, Excluding Fair Value Option [Member] Debt Securities, Excluding Fair Value Option [Member] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-Sale Securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Amortized cost Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Amortized Cost Unrealized Gains Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Losses Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Estimated Fair Value Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Hughes Hughes Business Segment [Member] Represents Hughes segment which provides equipment and services to the broadband communications marketplace. ESS EchoStar Satellite Services Business [Member] Represents Echo Star Satellite Services Business, a business segment of the entity which uses ten owned and leased in-orbit satellites and related FCC licenses to lease capacity on a full-time and occasional-use basis primarily to DISH Network. Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating segments Operating Segments [Member] Corporate and Other Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Services Service [Member] Lease revenue Services, Lease [Member] Services, Lease [Member] Total equipment revenue Product [Member] Equipment Equipment Product [Member] Equipment Product Design, development and construction services Services, Design, Development And Construction [Member] Services, Design, Development And Construction [Member] Lease revenue Product, Lease [Member] Equipment Lease [Member] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] North America North America [Member] South and Central America South And Central America [Member] South And Central America [Member] All other All Other Geographic Segments [Member] Represents information pertaining to other geographical segments of the entity. Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Secured Notes: Secured Debt [Member] Senior Unsecured Notes: Unsecured Debt [Member] 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 Unsecured Notes due 2021 Senior Unsecured Notes 7.625 Percent Due2021 [Member] Represents detail pertaining to 7 5/8 percent senior unsecured notes due in 2021. 5 1/4% Senior Secured Notes due 2026 Senior Secured Notes 5.250 Percent Due 2026 [Member] 5.250% Senior Secured Notes Due 2026 [Member] 6 5/8% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2026 Senior Unsecured Notes 6.625 Percent Due 2026 [Member] 6.625% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2026 [Member] Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation (HSSC) Subsidiaries [Member] Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Debt Instrument, Annual Potential Redemption As A Percent Of Amount Outstanding Debt Instrument, Annual Potential Redemption As A Percent Of Amount Outstanding Debt Instrument, Annual Potential Redemption As A Percent Of Amount Outstanding Principal amount of debt issuance Debt Instrument, Face Amount Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Issue price as percent of principal Debt Instrument Issue Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Long term debt issue price as percentage of principal amount. Debt repurchase amount Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount Loss repurchase of debt Gain (Loss) on Repurchase of Debt Instrument Purchase price due to change of control, as percentage of aggregate principal amount 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. Percent of debt holders required to call debt Debt Instrument, Percent Of Debt Holders Required To Call Debt Debt Instrument, Percent Of Debt Holders Required To Call Debt Equity in losses (earnings) of unconsolidated affiliates, net Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs Inventory, Net [Abstract] Inventory Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Capitalized Contract Cost [Axis] Capitalized Contract Cost [Axis] Capitalized Contract Cost [Domain] Capitalized Contract Cost [Domain] Contract Acquisition Costs Contract Acquisition Costs [Member] Contract Acquisition Costs [Member] Contract Fulfillment Costs Contract Fulfillment Costs [Member] Contract Fulfillment Costs [Member] Related party transactions Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Other current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network Accounts Receivable, Related Parties Inventory Inventory, Net Prepaids and deposits Prepaid Expense, Current Other Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Current Total other current assets Other non-current assets, net: Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Other receivables - DISH Network Other Receivables, Related Parties Other Receivables, Related Parties Restricted marketable investment securities Restricted Cash and Investments Restricted cash Restricted Cash, Noncurrent Deferred tax assets, net Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Capitalized software, net Capitalized Computer Software, Net Contract acquisition costs Capitalized Contract Cost, Net Other Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Noncurrent Total other non-current assets, net Accrued expenses and other current liabilities: Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Trade accounts payable - DISH Network Accounts Payable, Related Parties Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Accrued compensation Employee-related Liabilities, Current Accrued taxes Taxes Payable, Current Operating Operating Lease, Liability, Current Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Miscellaneous, Current Other Accrued Liabilities, Miscellaneous, Current Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities Leases [Abstract] Right-of-use assets: Assets and Liabilities, Lessee [Abstract] Operating Finance Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Total right-of-use assets Lease, Right-Of-Use Asset Lease, Right-Of-Use Asset Lease liabilities: Lease Liabilities [Abstract] Lease Liabilities [Abstract] Current: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Finance Finance Lease, Liability, Current Total current Lease, Liability, Current Lease, Liability, Current Non-current: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Operating Finance Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Total non-current Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Total lease liabilities Lease, Liability Lease, Liability Finance lease accumulated amortization Finance Lease, Right-Of-Use Asset, Accumulated Amortization Finance Lease, Right-Of-Use Asset, Accumulated Amortization Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Class B common stock Common Class B [Member] Class C common stock Common Class C [Member] Class D common stock Common Class D [Member] Represents the Class D common stock. Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Marketable investment securities Marketable Securities, Current Trade accounts receivable and contract assets, net Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Current assets of discontinued operations Total current assets Assets, Current Non-current assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Property and equipment, net Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, after Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, after Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Regulatory authorizations, net Other Intangible Assets, Net Other intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Other investments, net Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Non-current assets of discontinued operations Total non-current assets Assets, Noncurrent Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Trade accounts payable Accounts Payable, Trade, Current Current portion of long-term debt and finance lease obligations Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation, Current Contract liabilities Contract with Customer, Liability, Current Current liabilities of discontinued operations Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Non-current liabilities: Long-term debt and finance lease obligations, net of current portion Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation Deferred tax liabilities, net Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Deferred tax liabilities, net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities and Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Non-current liabilities of discontinued operations Total non-current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders’ equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Preferred stock Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury stock, at cost Treasury Stock, Value Total EchoStar Corporation stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Non-controlling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Cost (Reversal of Cost) [Abstract] Employee Stock Purchase Plan Employee Stock [Member] Employee benefit plans Number of shares authorized for issue Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Required service period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Requisite Service Period Maximum allowed purchase under the ESPP Employee Stock Purchase Plan Maximum Fair Value of Common Stock Permitted to be Purchased Per Annum Employee Stock Purchase Plan maximum fair value of common stock permitted to be purchased per annum. Purchase price as percentage of closing market price on the last business day of each calendar quarter under ESPP Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent Number of shares of common stock purchased under ESPP Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Customer Relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Satellite payload Operating and Broadcast Rights [Member] Satellites Satellites [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity. Total other property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member] Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Table] Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Table] 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 Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items] Total stock-based compensation Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Defined Contribution Plan [Table] Defined Contribution Plan [Table] Retirement Plan Name [Axis] Retirement Plan Name [Axis] Retirement Plan Name [Domain] Retirement Plan Name [Domain] EchoStar 401(k) Plan Defined Contribution Plan Echo Star401 K Plan [Member] Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar 401(k) Plan. Employee benefit plans Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Maximum contribution limit Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent Employer matching contribution as a percentage of voluntary employee contributions under 401(k) plan (as a percent) Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Percentage of eligible compensation, matched 50% by employer Defined Contribution Plan Employer Match Employee Contribution Level Two Represents the second level of employee contributions (percentage of compensation) which are matched by the employer. Percentage of eligible compensation, matched 100% by employer Defined Contribution Plan Employer Match Employee Contribution Level One Represents the first level of employee contributions (percentage of compensation) which are matched by the employer. Employer maximum annual contribution per employee under 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Amount Vesting percentage of matching contributions to eligible employees per year Defined Contribution Plan, Employers Matching Contribution, Annual Vesting Percentage Vesting percentage of matching contributions to eligible employees after specified period of service Defined Contribution Plan Employers Matching Contribution Annual Vesting Percentage after Specified Period of Service Percentage of employer's matching contributions to a defined contribution plan that vests in a given year after a specified period of service. Eligibility for employer matching contributions, period of service Defined Contribution Plan Eligible Period of Service for Matching Contribution The period of service required for eligibility for matching contributions by the employer. Matching contributions made by the company during the year Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Discretionary contributions, net of forfeitures, fair value, under 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount Discretionary contributions, shares, under 401(k) plan (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Benefit Plan Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Common Stock Repurchase Program Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Amount of shares authorized for repurchase Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Number of common stock shares repurchased (in shares) Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Average price per share of shares repurchased (in dollars per share) Stock Repurchased During Period, Price Per Share Stock Repurchased During Period, Price Per Share Shares repurchased amount Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Domain] Scenario [Domain] Forecast [Member] Forecast [Member] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transactions, Lessee, Operating Lease, Real Estate Related Party Transactions, Lessee, Operating Lease, Real Estate [Member] Lease arrangements of real estate properties from related party to reporting entity. Related Party Transactions, Lessor, Operating Lease, Real Estate Related Party Transactions, Lessor, Operating Lease, Real Estate [Member] Lease arrangements of real estate properties from reporting entity to related party. Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc. 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. Patent Cross-License Agreements Patent Cross License Agreements [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Patent Cross-License Agreements. Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction Satellite And Tracking Stock Transaction [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction. 103 Spectrum Development Agreement 103 Spectrum Development Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to the 103 Spectrum Development Agreement. TT&C Agreement TT&C Agreement [Member] TT&C Agreement [Member] 100 Inverness Lease Agreement 100 Inverness Lease Agreement [Member] Represent the details pertaining to 100 Inverness Lease Agreement. Meridian Lease Agreement Meridian Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Meridian Lease Agreement. Cheyenne Lease Agreement Cheyenne Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Cheyenne Lease Agreement. TerreStar Agreement TerreStar Agreement [Member] TerreStar Agreement [Member] Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement. DBSD North America Agreement D B S D North America Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America Agreement. Hughes Equipment And Service Agreement Hughes Equipment And Service Agreement [Member] Hughes Equipment And Service Agreement [Member] Amended and Restated Professional Services Agreement Amended and Restated Professional Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Amended and Restated Professional Services Agreement. American Fork Occupancy License Agreement American Fork Occupancy License Agreement [Member] American Fork Occupancy License Agreement [Member] Collocation and Antenna Space Agreements Collocation and Antenna Space Agreements [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Collocation and Antenna Space Agreements. Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement. Maximum aggregate payments required under cross license agreements Aggregate Payment under Agreement Less than Maximum aggregate payments required under cross license agreements. Percentage of economic interest held Related Party Transactions Percentage of Economic Interest Held Represents the percentage of economic interest held an entity. 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. Minimum termination notice period Related Party Transactions Agreement Termination Required Notice Period from Related Party, Minimum Related party transactions agreement termination required notice period from related party minimum. Automatic renewal period Related Party Transactions Agreement, Automatic Renewal Period Related party transactions agreement automatic renewal period. 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. Stock conversion, numerator (in shares) Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued And Issuable, Entity Shares Issued Per Acquiree Share Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued And Issuable, Entity Shares Issued Per Acquiree Share Operating lease contract term Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Lessee, Operating Lease, Renewal Term Lessee, Operating Lease, Renewal Term Term of renewal option Related Party Transactions Agreement, Renewal Option, Term Related party transactions agreement renewal option term. Required renewal notice Related Party Transactions Agreement, Renewal Notice Required by Reporting Entity Related Party Transactions Agreement, Renewal Notice Required by Reporting Entity Termination notice required Related Party Transactions Agreement, Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity Related party transactions agreement termination notice required by the reporting entity. Income tax provision (benefit) 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. 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 Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement After Lease Extension Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair value of marketable securities Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Total debt securities Equity securities Equity Securities, FV-NI Total marketable investment securities Marketable Securities Schedule of Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Activity Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Schedule of Operating Lease Revenue Operating Lease, Lease Income [Table Text Block] Schedule of Sales-type Lease Revenue Sales-type Lease, Lease Income [Table Text Block] Schedule of Operating Lease Payments to be Received Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Maturity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Property and Equipment Subject to Operating Leases Property, Plant And Equipment Subject To Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Property, Plant And Equipment Subject To Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [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 Other Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Other Gain (Loss), before Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Other Gain (Loss), before Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Amounts reclassified to net income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, after Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation realized on impairment of long lived assets Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Realized gains on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax Other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities Other-than-temporary Impairment Loss, Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] BSS Transaction BSS Transaction [Member] BSS Transaction [Member] Satellites - owned Satellites, Owned [Member] Satellites, Owned [Member] Satellites, Leased Satellites, Leased [Member] Satellites, Leased [Member] 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 Orbit Length Above Equator Represents the length of satellites in geosynchronous orbit above the equator. Number of satellites utilized under finance lease Finance Lease, Right-Of-Use-Asset, Number Of Units Finance Lease, Right-Of-Use-Asset, Number Of Units Capital leases, accumulated depreciation Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation Fair values of in-orbit incentive obligations Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure Schedule of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Lease cost: Lease, Cost [Abstract] Operating lease cost Operating Lease, Cost Finance lease cost: Finance Lease, Cost1 [Abstract] Finance Lease, Cost1 [Abstract] Amortization of right-of-use assets Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization Interest on lease liabilities Finance Lease, Interest Expense Total finance lease cost Finance Lease, Cost Finance Lease, Cost Short-term lease cost Short-term Lease, Cost Variable lease cost Variable Lease, Cost Total lease cost Lease, Cost Lease term and discount rate: LeaseTermAndDiscountRate [Abstract] Lease Term And Discount Rate [Abstract] Weighted average remaining lease term: Lessee, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term [Abstract] Lessee, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term [Abstract] Finance leases Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Operating leases Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Weighted average discount rate: Lessee, Weighted Average Discount Rate [Abstract] Lessee, Weighted Average Discount Rate [Abstract] Finance leases Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Operating leases Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Cash Flow, Operating Activities, Lessee [Abstract] Operating cash flows from operating leases Operating Lease, Payments Operating cash flows from finance leases Finance Lease, Interest Payment on Liability Right-of-use asset obtained in exchange for lease liability Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability Nimiq5 [Member] Nimiq5 [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellite Nimiq 15, which is leased from other third parties. Broadband Connectivity Solutions Broadband Connectivity Solutions [Member] Broadband Connectivity Solutions [Member] Deluxe Deluxe Echo Star L L C [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Deluxe /EchoStar LLC. Invidi Technologies Corporation Invidi Technologies Corporation [Member] Invidi Technologies Corporation [Member] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments [Member] Proceeds from equity method investment, distribution Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution Equity Method Investment, other than temporary impairment Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Refunds and other receipts related to property and equipment Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Revenue from related parties Revenue from Related Parties Payments to acquire equity method investments Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Amount sold Cost Method Investment, Amount Sold Amount of the entity's cost method investment which has been sold Cost method investments Cost Method Investments Cost-method investments, realized gains Cost-method Investments, Realized Gains Interest income Investment Income, Interest Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Foreign Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Federal Domestic Tax Authority [Member] State State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Components of income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Provision for taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current benefit (provision), net: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current benefit (provision) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred benefit (provision), net: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred benefit (provision), net Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Actual tax provision reconciliation to the amounts computed by applying statutory federal tax rate to income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount State income taxes, net of federal provision (benefit) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Permanent differences Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount Tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Amount Valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Enactment of Tax Cuts and Job Act of 2017 Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount Rates different than statutory Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings, Amount Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount Total income tax benefit (provision), net Temporary differences, which give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Net operating losses, credit and other carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Tax Credit and Other Carryforwards Deferred tax assets operating loss tax credit and other carryforwards. Unrealized losses on investments, net Deferred Tax Assets, Other Comprehensive Loss Accrued expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Stock-based compensation Other assets Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Other liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Total net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Net operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax credit available to offset future tax liabilities Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount Deferred tax assets related to foreign subsidiaries Deferred Tax Assets, Investment in Subsidiaries Provision for U.S. income taxes or foreign withholding taxes Deferred Tax Liability Not Recognized, Amount of Unrecognized Deferred Tax Liability, Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Tax cuts and jobs act benefit Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Repatriation of foreign earnings, additional amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings, Additional Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings, Additional Amount Reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Balance as of beginning of period Unrecognized Tax Benefits Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Additions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions based on expirations of statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Balance as of end of period Unrecognized tax benefits if recognized, could affect our effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Marketable Investment Securities Investments in Debt and Equity Instruments, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) [Text Block] Long-Term Debt and Finance Lease Obligations Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block] Total Other Intangible Assets [Member] Patents Patents [Member] Trademarks and Licenses Trademarks [Member] Total Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Write-off Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived Balance at the end of the period Carrying amount: 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 Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Write-off Balance at the end of the period Weighted average useful life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Geographic Information Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Long-lived assets Long-Lived Assets Equity Securities Equity Securities [Member] Fair value of investments Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Gain on investment Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments Debt securities with contractual maturities of one year or less Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, Rolling within One Year, 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. Equity securities available for sale Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities, Current Equity trading securities Trading Securities, Equity Available-for-sale equity securities cost Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale equity securities unrealized gain Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Available-for-sale equity securities unrealized loss Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Other than temporary impairment losses recognized in earnings Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net Gains (losses) related to trading securities Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Equity securities realized gain (loss) Equity Securities, FV-NI, Realized Gain (Loss) Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities Proceeds from Sale of Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Realized gains (losses) from the sales of available-for-sale securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Realized Gain (Loss) 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. Impairment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Gross, Impairment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Gross, Impairment 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. Impairment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization, Impairment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization, Impairment Amortization expense 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 beginning of the period Impairment 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 lived Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Additions Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Period Increase (Decrease) Impairment Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Currency Translation Adjustment Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments Balance at the end of the period Total 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 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. Impairment Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) 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 AsiaSat AsiaSat [Member] AsiaSat [Member] Maxar Technologies Inc. Maxar Technologies Inc. [Member] Maxar Technologies Inc. [Member] Global IP Revenue Global IP Revenue [Member] Global IP Revenue [Member] TerreStar Solutions, Inc. TerreStar Solutions, Inc. [Member] Information pertaining to TerreStar Solutions, Inc. [Member] Hughes Systique Hughes Systique Corporation [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Hughes Systique Corporation. Expense recorded for services provided Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Aggregate costs payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Related Parties Investment nonvoting interest ownership percentage(at least) Cost Method Investment Nonvoting Interest Ownership Percentage The percentage of non-voting ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee accounted for under the cost method of accounting. Ownership interest in related party (as a percent) Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage Ownership interest percentage by related party Percentage Ownership in Variable Interest Entity by Other Related Parties Percentage ownership in variable interest entity by other related parties. Schedule of exercise prices for stock options outstanding and exercisable Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Schedule of stock option activity Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of allocated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for all employees Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Table Text Block] Schedule of assumptions of Black-Scholes option valuation model Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block] Unamortized debt issuance costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs [Member] Unamortized debt issuance costs Effective Interest Rate 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 Subtotal Long-term Debt Finance lease obligations Finance Lease, Liability Finance lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Total debt and finance lease obligations Debt and Lease Obligation Less: Current portion Long-term debt and finance lease obligations, net of current portion Schedule of carrying amounts and fair values of debt Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Non-cash net assets received in exchange for divestiture Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received Receivables from related party Expenses from transaction with related party Ownership percentage in equity method investment (at least) Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Table] Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Table] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Exercise Price Range [Domain] Exercise Price Range [Domain] Range of Exercise Prices $0.00 - $20.00 Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars 0.00 To 20.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 0.00 dollars to 20.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $20.01 - $25.00 Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars20.01 To25.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 20.01 dollars to 25.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $25.01 - $30.00 Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars25.01 To30.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 25.01 dollars to 30.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $30.01 - $35.00 Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars30.01 To35.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 30.01 dollars to 35.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $35.01 - $40.00 Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars35.01 To40.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 35.01 dollars to 40.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $40.01 to $45.00 Range of Exercise Prices From Dollars 40.01 to 45.00 [Member] Represents the range of Exercise Prices From 40.01 dollars to 45.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $45.01 to $50.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 45.01 to 50.00 [Member] Represents the range of Exercise Prices from 45.01 dollars to 50.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $50.01 and above Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars 50.01 To 55.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 50.01 dollars to 55.00 dollars. Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars 55.01 To 60.00 Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars 55.01 To 60.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 55.01 dollars to 60.00 dollars. Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars 60.01 And Above Range Of Exercise Prices From Dollars 60.01 And Above [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 60.01 dollars and above. Exercise prices for stock options outstanding and exercisable: Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Exercise prices, outstanding stock option awards, low end of range (in dollars per share) Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Exercise prices, outstanding stock option awards, high end of range (in dollars per share) Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Number of stock options outstanding (in shares) Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Shares Outstanding Options outstanding, Weighted-average remaining contractual term Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Options outstanding, Weighted-average exercise price (in dollars per share) Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Number of stock options exercisable (in shares) Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Shares Exercisable Options exercisable, Weighted-average remaining contractual life Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Options exercisable, Weighted-average exercise price (in dollars per share) Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Related Party Transactions - Dish Network Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Operating Leases Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] 2020 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2021 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2022 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2023 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2024 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five After 2024 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total future minimum lease payments Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less: Interest Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Total lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability Finance Leases Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] 2020 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2021 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2022 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2023 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2024 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five After 2024 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total future minimum lease payments Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due Less: Interest Finance Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Total lease liabilities Total Lease, Payments Due [Abstract] Lease, Payments Due [Abstract] 2020 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2021 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2022 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2023 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2024 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five After 2024 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due After Year Five Lease, Liability, Payments, Due After Year Five Total future minimum lease payments Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less: Interest Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Regulatory Authorizations Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan Property and equipment financed under capital lease obligations Lease Obligation 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. Capitalized in-orbit incentive obligations Liabilities Assumed Non-cash net assets exchanged for Tracking Stock (Note 5) Noncash Or Part Noncash Transaction, Net Assets Exchange, Preferred Stock Repurchase Amount represent noncash assets transferred in exchange for repurchase of preferred stock Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Treasury Stock, at cost Treasury Stock [Member] Non-controlling Interest in HSS Tracking Stock Non-Controlling Interest In HSS Tracking Stock [Member] Non-Controlling Interest In HSS Tracking Stock [Member] Non-controlling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Cumulative effect of accounting changes Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Adjusted opening balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Adjusted Balance Exercise of stock options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Employee benefits Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock-based compensation APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition Reacquisition and retirement of Tracking Stock pursuant to the Share Exchange Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Purchase of non-controlling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests Net assets distributed pursuant to the BSS Transaction Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital, Effect Of Discontinued Operations Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital, Effect Of Discontinued Operations Issuance of equity and contribution of assets pursuant to the Yahsat JV formation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Excluding Other Equity Components Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Excluding Other Equity Components Treasury share repurchase Other, net Stockholders' Equity, Other Ending balance Equity method investments Equity Method Investments Other equity investments Other Long-term Investments Other debt investments, net Debt Securities, Noncurrent Total other investments, net Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Customer premises equipment Assets Leased To Others, Customer Premises Equipment [Member] Assets Leased To Others, Customer Premises Equipment [Member] Satellites Assets Leased To Others, Satellites [Member] Assets Leased To Others, Satellites [Member] Real estate Assets Leased To Others, Real Estate [Member] Assets Leased To Others, Real Estate [Member] Assets leased to others Assets Leased to Others [Member] Cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated Depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property and equipment, net Depreciation Expense Depreciation Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and Amortization, Nonproduction, Including Discontinued Operations For the entity and the disposal group, the current period expense charged against earnings on long-lived, physical assets not used in production, and which are not intended for resale, to allocate or recognize the cost of such assets over their useful lives; or to record the reduction in book value of an intangible asset over the benefit period of such asset; or to reflect consumption during the period of an asset that is not used in production. Losses (gains) on investments, net Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) Equity in losses (earnings) of unconsolidated affiliates, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Including Discontinued Operations For the entity and the disposal group, this item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Foreign currency transaction losses (gains), net Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Deferred tax provision (benefit), net Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Including Discontinued Operations Amount of deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations and discontinued operations. Stock-based compensation Share-based Payment Arrangement, Noncash Expense Amortization of debt issuance costs Dividends received from unconsolidated affiliates Equity Method Investment Dividends Or Distributions, Including Discontinued Operations For the entity and disposal group, the item represents the amount of distribution received from equity method investee for return on investment, classified as operating activities. Excludes distribution for return of investment, classified as investing activities. Proceeds from sale of trading securities Proceeds from (Payments for) Trading Securities, Short-term Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Trade accounts receivable and contract assets, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets Trade accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade Contract liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Contract with Customer, Liability Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities Changes in non-current assets and non-current 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 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 Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Investments in unconsolidated affiliates Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Sale of investment in unconsolidated affiliates Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments Dividend received from unconsolidated affiliate Purchase of other investments Payments for Purchase of Other Assets Expenditures for property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Refunds and other receipts related to property and equipment Refunds and other receipts related to property and equipment The cash inflow associated with the refunds and other receipts related to property and equipment. Expenditures for externally marketed software Payments to Develop Software Purchases of regulatory authorizations Net cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Repurchase and maturity of the 2019 Senior Secured Notes Repayments of Senior Debt Repayment of other long-term debt and finance lease obligations Repayments of Debt and Lease Obligation Payment of in-orbit incentive obligations Net proceeds from Class A common stock options exercised Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Net proceeds from Class A common stock issued under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan Proceeds, Issuance of Shares, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Excluding Option Exercised Treasury share purchase Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Purchase of non-controlling interest Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted amounts, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted amounts, end of period Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest) Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Related Party Transactions - Other Cost of sales Cost of Sales [Member] Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense Sales-type lease revenue: Sales-type Lease, Lease Income [Abstract] Revenue at lease commencement Sales-type Lease, Revenue Interest income Sales-type Lease, Interest Income Total sales-type lease revenue Sales-type Lease, Lease Income Operating lease revenue Operating Lease, Lease Income Total lease revenue Lease Income Sales-type lease receivable Sales-type Lease, Lease Receivable Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies [Table] Summarization of the disclosures for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Other Intangible Assets Computer Software, Intangible Asset Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member] Accounting Policies [Line Items] Accounting Policies [Line Items] Accumulated earnings (losses) 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. Useful life Software useful life Software Useful Life Useful life of software that is either acquired, internally developed, or modified to meet the entity's needs. Summary of contractual obligations Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Table Text Block] Less: Restricted marketable investment securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Restricted Transaction cost Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs Currency translation Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Other comprehensive income, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent, Parenthetical Disclosures [Abstract] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Unrealized Gain (Loss) On Available-For-Sale Securities AOCI, Accumulated Gain (Loss), Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Parent [Member] Other AOCI Attributable To Parent, Other [Member] AOCI Attributable To Parent, Other [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Components Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward] Cumulative effect of accounting changes Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified to net income (loss) Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Other comprehensive loss Unrecognized foreign currency translation tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Foreign Currency Translation Satellites - acquired under finance leases Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Satellites [Member] Construction in Progress, Satellites [Member] Total satellites Land Land [Member] Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Furniture Fixtures Equipment And Other [Member] Represents furniture, fixtures, equipment and other property, plant and equipment owned by the entity. Customer rental equipment Customer Rental Equipment [Member] Represents information pertaining to customer rental equipment. Construction in Progress Construction in Progress [Member] Depreciation Property and equipment, gross Satellites - acquired under finance leases Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, before Accumulated Amortization Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, before Accumulated Amortization Property and equipment, gross Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, before Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, before Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Accumulated depreciation Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Accumulated depreciation Property and equipment, net Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward] Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward] Balance at Beginning of Year Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Bad Debt Expense Accounts Receivable, Credit Loss Expense (Reversal) Deductions Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Period Increase (Decrease) Balance at End of Year Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Restrictions on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cost of Sales and Research and Development Costs Schedule of Cost of Sales and Research and Development Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cost of Sales and Research and Development Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Supplemental Financial Information Schedule of Other Assets and Other Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Schedule of Other Significant Noncash Transactions [Table Text Block] Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation [Policy Text Block] Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation policy. Reclassification Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue from Contract with Customer [Policy Text Block] Cost of Sales - Services and Other Cost of Goods and Service [Policy Text Block] Stock-based Compensation Expense Share-based Payment Arrangement [Policy Text Block] Advertising Costs Advertising Cost [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment of Long-lived Assets Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lessee Accounting Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Investment Securities Marketable Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Regulatory Authorizations Intangible Assets Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Policy [Text Block] Represents the disclosure of accounting policy for finite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets. Other Investments Equity and Cost Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Externally Marketed Software 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. Debt Issuance Costs Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Organization and Business Activities Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Amounts Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2020 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Next Twelve Months 2021 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Two Years 2022 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Three Years 2023 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Four Years 2024 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Five Years After 2024 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Thereafter Total lease payments Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received Depreciation and amortization expense: Depreciation [Abstract] Amortization expense Capital Leases, Income Statement, Amortization Expense Total depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Stock option activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Total options outstanding, beginning of period (in shares) Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited and canceled (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Total options outstanding, end of period (in shares) Exercisable at end of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Disclosures Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward] Total options outstanding, beginning of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited and canceled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Total options outstanding, end of period (in dollars per share) Exercisable at end of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Schedule of estimated future amortization of intangible assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Related Tax Effects Other Comprehensive Income, Noncontrolling Interest [Text Block] Revenue recognized Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized Unamortized contract acquisition costs Capitalized Contract Cost, Gross Capitalized contract cost amortization Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Remaining performance obligation Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount Expected percent recognized in next twelve months Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Recognition In Next Rolling Twelve Months, Percentage Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Recognition In Next Rolling Twelve Months, Percentage 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. Net income (loss) attributable to EchoStar Corporation common stock: Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Net income (loss) from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Weighted-average common shares outstanding: 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 (losses) per share: Basic: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Continuing operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Total basic earnings (loss) per share (in dollars per share) Diluted: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Continuing operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Discontinued operation (in dollars per share) Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Total diluted earnings (loss) per share (in dollars per share) 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2024 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Schedule of components of income (loss) before income taxes Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of components of the benefit (provision) for income taxes Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of income tax rate reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Total inventory Satellite-related expenses Satellite Related Expense Represents the amount of satellite-related expenses incurred during the period. Schedule of revenue, EBITDA, and capital expenditures by operating segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of reconciliation of EBITDA to reported income (loss) before income taxes Schedule of Reconciliation of EBITDA to Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations before Income Taxes [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of information which reconciles EBITDA to reported income or loss from continuing operations before income taxes. Summary of total long-lived assets and revenue attributed to the North American and other foreign locations Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Number of business segments Number of Reportable Segments BSS Corp. BSS Corp. [Member] BSS Corp. [Member] Principal Business Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Payment Arrangement [Text Block] Cover page. Document Information [Table] Document Information [Table] Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Document Type Document Type Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Annual Report Document Annual Report Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Transition Report Document Transition Report Entity File Number Entity File Number Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Entity Address, Postal Zip Code City Area Code City Area Code Local Phone Number Local Phone Number Title of 12(b) Security Title of 12(b) Security Security Exchange Name Security Exchange Name Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Documents Incorporated by Reference Documents Incorporated by Reference [Text Block] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Sales and services Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Leasing Lease Receivable [Member] Lease Receivable [Member] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Trade accounts receivable and contract assets, net: Accounts Receivable Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Total trade accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Contract assets Contract with Customer, Asset, before Allowance for Credit Loss Allowance for doubtful accounts Total trade accounts receivable and contract assets, net Contract liabilities: Contract with Customer, Liability [Abstract] Current Non-current Contract with Customer, Liability, Noncurrent Total contract liabilities Contract with Customer, Liability Schedule of inventory Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Investments Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Table Text Block] Schedule of Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available for Sale Securities Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value Measurements Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Supplemental Financial Information Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block] Contractual Obligations [Table] Other Commitments [Table] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Domain] Operating Activities [Domain] Continuing Operations Continuing Operations [Member] Contractual Obligations, Type [Axis] Contractual Obligations, Type [Axis] Information pertaining to the future maturities of contractual obligations of the entity. Contractual Obligations, Type [Domain] Contractual Obligations Type [Domain] Represents the type of contractual obligations, such as long-term borrowings, capital lease obligations, interest expense on long-term debt and capital lease obligations, satellite-related obligations, operating lease obligations, purchase and other obligations. Long-term debt Long-term Debt [Member] Interest on long-term debt and capital lease obligations Satellite-related obligations Satellite Related Obligation [Member] Represents the information relating to satellite-related obligations of the entity. Contractual Obligations [Line Items] Other Commitments [Line Items] 2020 Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Fiscal Year 2021 Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year 2022 Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year 2023 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year 2024 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year Thereafter Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year Total Contractual Obligation Weighted-average Weighted Average [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other noncurrent assets, net Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Capitalized software development costs for software sold to customers Capitalized Software Development Costs for Software Sold to Customers Capitalized computer software costs Capitalized Computer Software, Additions Capitalized computer software, amortization Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization Advertising expense Advertising Expense 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 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 Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Stockholders Equity (Deficit) Class of Stock [Line Items] Votes per share Number of Votes Per Share of Common Stock Represents the number of votes per share of common stock owned. Votes per share in event of change of control Common Stock Voting Rights in Event of Change of Control Represents the number of votes per share in the event of change of control. Number of shares of Class A common stock into which each share of common stock is convertible (in shares) Common Stock Convertible into Number of Shares of Class A Common Stock Common stock convertible into number of shares of Class A common stock. Schedule of Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Satellites Schedule of Satellites [Table Text Block] Schedule of satellites. Schedule of related party transactions Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Depreciation and amortization Total costs and expenses Operating income (loss) Other income (expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest income Investment Income, Net Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized Foreign currency transaction gains (losses), net Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income tax benefit (provision), net Net income (loss) from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) from discontinued operations Net income (loss) Less: Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax Net income (loss) attributable to EchoStar Corporation Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Less: Net income (loss) attributable to Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Preferred Tracking Stock Represents the amount of net income (loss) attributable to preferred tracking stock. Basic earnings (loss) from continuing operations per share (in dollars per share) Diluted earnings (loss) from continuing operations per share (in dollars per share) Hughes segment EchoStar Satellite Services segment Corporate and Other Corporate and Other [Member] Intersegment Elimination Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Total revenue 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. Depreciation and amortization Schedule of Lease Assets and Liabilities Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Table Text Block] Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Table Text Block] Schedule of Lease Cost, Weighted Average Term, Discount Rates and Cash Flows Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Schedule of Operating Lease Liability Maturity Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Financing Lease Liability Maturity Finance Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Additional License Fee Additional License Fee [Member] Additional License Fee [Member] Penalties Penalties [Member] Penalties [Member] Interest and Interest on Penalties Interest and Interest on Penalties [Member] Interest and Interest on Penalties [Member] Elbit Elbit [Member] Elbit [Member] License Fee Dispute License Fee Dispute [Member] License Fee Dispute [Member] Hughes Network Systems Hughes Network Systems [Member] Hughes Network Systems [Member] Commitment and Contingencies Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Damages awarded Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value Attorney's fees sought Loss Contingency, Attorney's Fees Sought, Value The value (monetary amount) of the attorney's fees the plaintiff seeks in the legal matter. Estimated Litigation Liability Estimated Litigation Liability Total written assessments Total Written Assessments Total Written Assessments Loss contingency accrual Loss Contingency Accrual Business Combinations Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Estimated future amortization of intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Total Finite Lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense Future Total Represents the total future estimated amortization expense for intangible assets. Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Schedule of Other investments, net Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Operating expenses - DISH Network Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Net income (loss) attributable to EchoStar Corporation common stock Lessee Accounting Lessee, Operating Leases [Text Block] Lessee Accounting Lessee, Finance Leases [Text Block]