Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Related Party Transaction, Due from (to) Related Party [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] EchoStar Technologies Business EchoStar Technologies Business [Member] Represents EchoStar Technologies Business, a business segment of the entity which designs, develops and distributes digital set-top boxes and related products and technology and also provides digital broadcast operations. Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] Hughes Retail Group Hughes Retail Group [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Hughes Retail Group Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] 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. 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. Telesat Canada Telesat Canada [Member] Represents details pertaining to Telesat Canada. SES Latin America S E S Latin America [Member] Represents the details pertaining to SES Latin America S.A. Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Share Exchange Agreement Share Exchange Agreement [Member] Share Exchange Agreement [Member] 2012 Receiver Agreement Receiver Agreement2012 [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the 2012 Receiver Agreement. Broadcast Agreement Broadcast Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement. Broadcast Agreement for Certain Sports Related Programming Broadcast Agreement For Certain Sports Related Programming [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement for certain sports related programming. RUS Implementation Agreement RUS Service Implementation Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to RUS Service Implementation Agreement. Echo Star V I I Echo Star V I I [Member] Represents information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VII. EchoStar XVI Echo Star X V I [Member] Represents the details pertaining to EchoStar XVI. TeleSat Transponder Agreement TeleSat Transponder Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the TeleSat Transponder Agreement. DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement. QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement QuetzSat1 Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the QuetzSat-1 Agreement. QuetzSat-1 Transponder Quetz Sat1 Transponder Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement. Service agreement to lease certain satellite capacity DISH 103 Service Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to the DISH 103 Service Agreement. Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction Satellite And Tracking Stock Transaction [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction. TT&C Agreement Telemetry Tracking And Control Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the TT and C Agreement. 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. Santa Fe Lease Agreement Santa Fe Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Santa Fe Lease Agreement. El Paso Lease Agreement El Paso Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the El Paso lease agreement entered into with DISH Network. 90 Inverness Lease Agreement 90 Inverness Lease Agreement [Member] Represent the details pertaining to 90 Inverness Lease Agreement. Cheyenne Lease Agreement Cheyenne Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Cheyenne Lease Agreement. Gilbert Lease Agreement Gilbert Lease Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Gilbert Lease Agreement. DISHOnline.com Services Agreement D I S H Online. Com Services Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the DISHOnline.com Services Agreement. DISH Remote Access Services Agreement D I S H Remote Access Services Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the DISH Remote Access Services Agreement. SlingService Services Agreement Sling Service Services Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Sling Service Services Agreement. 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. Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement [Member] Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement. Set-Top Box Application Development Agreement Set Top Box Application Development Agreement [Member] Represent the details pertaining to the Set-Top Box Application Development Agreement. DBSD North America Agreement D B S D North America Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America Agreement. Remanufactured Receiver Agreement Remanufactured Receiver and Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Remanufactured Receiver and Services Agreement. Amended and Restated Professional Services Agreement Amended and Restated Professional Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Amended and Restated Professional Services Agreement. Collocation and Antenna Space Agreements [Member] Collocation and Antenna Space Agreements [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Collocation and Antenna Space Agreements. Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Ciel Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc. EchoStar and HSSC Echo Star And Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation [Member] Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar and Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation. Sling TV Holding Corporate Joint Venture [Member] Related party transactions Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Percentage of economic interest held Related Party Transactions Percentage of Economic Interest Held Represents the percentage of economic interest held an entity. Minimum required notice period for termination of agreement by related party Related Party Transactions Agreement Termination Required Notice Period from Related Party, Minimum Related party transactions agreement termination required notice period from related party minimum. Agreement term Related Party Transactions Agreement, Term Related party transactions agreement term. Grants receivable Related Party Transactions, Grants Receivable by Related Party Related party transactions, grants receivable by related party. Required minimum notice for termination of agreement Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of agreement. Agreement term from commencement of service date Related Party Transactions Agreement Term from Commencement of Service Date Related party transactions agreement term from commencement of service date. Reduction in term of first renewal option Renewal Option, Reduction in Years Renewal Option, Reduction in Years Term of renewal option Related Party Transactions Agreement, Renewal Option, Term Related party transactions agreement renewal option term. Additional term of renewal option Related Party Transactions, Agreement Renewal Option Additional Term Represents the additional term of renewal option. Number of DBS transponders available to receive services Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Available Related party transactions, number of DBS transponders available. Number of DBS transponders expected to receive services Related Party Transactions Number of DBS Transponders Expected to Receive Services Per Agreement Related party transactions number of DBS transponders expected to receive services per agreement. Number of DBS transponders currently receiving services Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Receiving Services Related party transactions number of DBS transponders receiving services. Number of DBS transponders currently receiving services subleased back from related party Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Receiving Services Sublease Related party transactions number of DBS transponders receiving sublease services. Number of owned satellites transferred Related Party Transactions Number of Owned Satellites Transferred Represents the number of owned satellites transferred. Proceeds from issuance of Tracking Stock Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Required minimum notice for termination or agreement if month-to-month Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement After Lease Extension Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement After Lease Extension Automatic renewal period Related Party Transactions Agreement, Automatic Renewal Period Related party transactions agreement automatic renewal period. Ownership interest acquired by related party Business Combination, Ownership Percentage Acquired by Related Party Business combination, ownership percentage acquired by related party. Receivables from related party Accounts Receivable, Related Parties Equity interest in joint venture Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Non-voting interest in joint venture Equity Method Investment Nonvoting Ownership Percentage The percentage of non-voting ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Voting interests acquired by related party Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired by Related Party Represents the percentage of voting equity interests acquired by the related party. Required minimum notice for termination of individual service Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Specific Service Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of specific service. Number of successive three year renewal options Related Party Transactions Agreement Maximum Number of Three Year Renewal Options Related party transactions agreement maximum number of three year renewal options. Number of successive one year renewal options Related Party Transactions Agreement, Maximum Number of One Year Renewal Options Related party transactions agreement maximum number of one year renewal options. Related Party Transactions Agreement, Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity Related Party Transactions Agreement, Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity Related party transactions agreement termination notice required by the reporting entity. Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Number of business segments Number of Reportable Segments Echostar Corporation Parent Company [Member] Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation (HSSC) Subsidiaries [Member] Principal Business Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue: Revenues [Abstract] Services and other revenue - DISH Network Services and Other Revenue, Related Party Services and other revenue - Related Party. Services and other revenue - other Sales Revenue, Services, Net Equipment revenue - DISH Network Equipment Revenue, Related Party Equipment revenue related party. Equipment revenue - other Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Total revenue Revenue, Net Costs and Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of sales - services and other (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) Cost of Services Cost of sales - equipment (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) Cost of Goods Sold Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Other Income (Expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest income Investment Income, Net Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized Interest Expense Gains on investments, net Gain (Loss) on Investments, Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other expense, net Total Nonoperating Income (Expense), Interest And Debt Expense, and Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments Represents, in the aggregate, total other income (expense), including but not limited to: income or (expense) from ancillary business-related activities; interest and debt related expenses associated with nonoperating financing activities of the entity; and the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied, which includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Income from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax benefit (provision) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in HSS Tracking Stock Net Income Loss Attributable To Subsidiary Preferred Tracking Stock Noncontrolling Interest Represents the amount of net income (loss) attributable to subsidiary preferred tracking stock noncontrolling interest. Less: Net income attributable to other noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Other Noncontrolling Interest Represents the amount of net income (loss) attributable to other noncontrolling interest. Net income attributable to EchoStar Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Less: Net 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. Net income attributable to EchoStar common stock Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Net income from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] 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 per share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Continuing operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Total diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies [Table] Summarization of the disclosures for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. 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 Notes7.625 Percent Due2021 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 5/8 percent senior notes, which are 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] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Accumulated Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Cost of Sales Cost of Sales [Member] Research and Development Expense Research and Development Expense [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum Maximum [Member] Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 [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] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Accounting Policies [Line Items] Fair value measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Amount of transfers between levels within the fair value hierarchy Fair Value Measurement Asset and Liability Transfers Between Levels Represents the amount of transfers between the levels of fair value hierarchy that have taken place during the period. Orbital incentive obligations Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Research and Development Research and Development Expense [Abstract] Capitalized Software Costs Capitalized Computer Software, Net [Abstract] Software useful life Software Useful Life Useful life of software that is either acquired, internally developed, or modified to meet the entity's needs. Net carrying amount of externally marketed software Capitalized Computer Software, Net Externally marketed software under development and not yet placed in service Capitalized Software Development Costs for Software Sold to Customers Expenditures for externally marketed software Payments to Develop Software Amortization expense relating to the development of externally marketed software Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] Cumulative effect of adoption of ASU 2016-09 as of January 1, 2017 Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Satellites Satellites [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity. Property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] 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 capital lease Capital Leased Assets, Number of Units Number of satellites utilized under operating lease Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Number of Units Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Class A common stock Common Class A [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] Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable (in dollars) Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - DISH Network (in dollars) Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable from Related Parties, Current Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable from Related Parties Current. Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation (in dollars) Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Preferred Stock Preferred Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock Common Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Other comprehensive income, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent, Parenthetical Disclosures [Abstract] Tax effects on foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax Tax effects on unrealized gains or losses on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax Cumulative foreign currency translation losses Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Foreign Currency Translation Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Foreign Currency Translation Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Recognition of realized gains on available-for-sale securities in net income Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Recognition of other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities in net income Accumulated Other-than-Temporary Impairment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Components Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities Total reclassifications, net of tax and noncontrolling interests Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income tax expense Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Net income attributable to EchoStar Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Net income attributable to EchoStar Less: Net loss attributable to EchoStar Tracking Stock Dilutive impact of stock awards outstanding (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted (in shares) Total basic earnings per share (in dollars per share) Total diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share) Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Investments [Abstract] Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Corporate bonds Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Other (including restricted) Other Debt Obligations [Member] Equity securities - strategic Equity Securities [Member] Available-for-sale securities: Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-For-Sale Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Current Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities, Current Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill, Regulatory Authorizations and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Inventory, Net [Abstract] Inventory Inventory 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] Breach of fiduciary duties Breach Of Fiduciary Duties [Member] Represents details pertaining to breach of fiduciary duties. Commitment and Contingencies Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Stock option grants attempted (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Options, Attempted Grants in Period Gross Gross number of share options (or share units) which the entity attempted to grant during the period. Stock option grants (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Stock options outstanding (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Schedule of Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted [Table] The table contains disclosure pertaining to an entity's basic and diluted earnings per share. Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted [Line Items] Schedule of inventory Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Marketable investment securities, at fair value Marketable Securities, Current Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $11,371 and $12,956, respectively Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Inventory Inventory, Net Prepaids and deposits Prepaid Expense and Deposits Assets, Current Represents the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. It also represents the carrying value of amounts transferred to third parties for security purposes that are expected to be returned or applied towards payment within one year or during the operating cycle, if shorter. Other current assets Other Assets, Current Current assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Noncurrent Assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Restricted cash and marketable investment securities Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $2,724,049 and $2,598,492, respectively Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Regulatory authorizations, net Other Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill Goodwill Other intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Investments in unconsolidated entities Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Other receivable - DISH Network Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Noncurrent Other noncurrent assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Noncurrent assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Noncurrent Total noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Trade accounts payable Accounts Payable, Trade, Current Trade accounts payable - DISH Network Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Deferred revenue and prepayments Deferred Revenue and Credits, Current Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Accrued compensation Employee-related Liabilities, Current Accrued expenses and other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Current liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Noncurrent Liabilities: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of unamortized debt issuance costs Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Deferred tax liabilities, net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities and Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Noncurrent liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Noncurrent Total noncurrent liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies (Note 14) 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 loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, at cost Treasury Stock, Value Total EchoStar stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest in HSS Tracking Stock Preferred Tracking Stock Noncontrolling Interest Represents the amount of stockholders' equity attributable to preferred tracking stock noncontrolling interest. Other noncontrolling interests Other Noncontrolling Interests Total stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Receivables [Abstract] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Trade accounts receivable Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Contracts in process, net Accounts Receivable Contracts In Process [Member] Amounts due from customers or clients for contracts in process. Trade Accounts Receivable Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Total trade accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network Total trade accounts receivable, net Receivables, Net, Current Progress billings offset against contracts in process Billed Contracts Receivable Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] Schedule of carrying amounts and fair values of the entity's debt Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Caltech California Institute Of Technology [Member] Represents information pertaining to the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Patent Cross-License Agreements Patent Cross License Agreements [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the Patent Cross-License Agreements. Orange New Jersey [Member] Orange New Jersey [Member] Orange New Jersey [Member] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] TiVo vs. Dish Network and Echostar Corporation Ti Vovs Dish Network And Echostar Corporation [Member] Represents information pertaining to legal proceedings of TiVo vs. Dish Network and Echostar Corporation. Settlement amount Litigation Settlement, Amount Initial settlement amount paid Litigation Settlement, Initial Payment Litigation settlement initial payment. Aggregate of six annual installment amounts between 2012 and 2017 Litigation Settlement, Total Amount to be Paid Through Six Annual Installments Litigation settlement total amount to be paid through six annual installments. Litigation settlement, number of annual installments Litigation Settlement, Number of Annual Installments Litigation settlement number of annual installments. Portion of the $300 million initial settlement agreement payment paid by EchoStar Loss Contingency, Contribution Towards Settlement Agreement Loss contingency contribution towards settlement agreement. Estimated percentage of annual future payments payable by EchoStar Loss Contingency, Estimated Percentage of Annual Payments, Payable by Entity Loss contingency estimated percentage of annual payments payable by entity. Maximum aggregate payments required under cross license agreements Aggregate Payment under Agreement Less than Maximum aggregate payments required under cross license agreements. Maximum additional aggregate payments required under cross license agreements if options are exercised Aggregate Additional Payment if Option to Extend Agreements is Exercised Less than Maximum additional aggregate payments required under cross license agreements if options are exercised. Number of subsidiaries against which lawsuit was filed Number of Subsidiaries Against which Lawsuit Filed Number of subsidiaries against which lawsuit filed. Number of Real Estate Properties Number of Real Estate Parcels Sold Number of Real Estate Parcels Sold Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Tabular disclosure of intangible assets, excluding goodwill, in total and by major class. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of the entity. Hughes Business Hughes Business Segment [Member] Represents Hughes segment which provides equipment and services to the broadband communications marketplace. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite lives Finite Lived Regulatory Authorizations [Member] Represents information pertaining to the definite lived regulatory authorizations. Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite Lives Indefinite Lived Regulatory Authorizations [Member] Information pertaining to indefinite lived regulatory authorizations. Regulatory authorizations and intangible assets Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Gross [RollForward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Balance at the beginning of the period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Currency Translation Adjustment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Gross Currency Translation Adjustment Amount of increase (decrease) to gross assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life for foreign currency translation adjustments. Balance at the end of the period Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization [RollForward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Balance at the beginning of the period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Additions Amortization Currency Translation Adjustment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Amortization Translation Adjustments Amount of amortization of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life for foreign currency translation adjustments. Balance at the end of the period Net Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Additions Intangible Assets, Net of Accumulated Amortization, Additions Amount of increase (decrease) in finite lived intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, that is from additions, Currency Translation Adjustment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Currency Translation Adjustment, Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Currency Translation Adjustment, Net Balance at the end of the period Indefinite lives Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Balance at the end of the period Total regulatory authorizations, net Other Intangible Assets Net [RollForward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Balance at the beginning of the period Additions Other Intangible Assets, Additions Amount of increase (decrease) of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life and having a projected indefinite period of benefit, from additions. Currency Translation Adjustment Other Intangible Assets Net Translation Adjustments Amount of increase (decrease) of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life and having a projected indefinite period of benefit, from foreign currency translation adjustments. Balance at the end of the period Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Furniture Fixtures Equipment And Other [Member] Represents furniture, fixtures, equipment and other property, plant and equipment owned by the entity. Customer rental equipment Customer Rental Equipment [Member] Represents information pertaining to customer rental equipment. Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Depreciation expense Depreciation [Abstract] Total depreciation expense Depreciation Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of regulatory authorizations with finite and indefinite useful lives Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of amortizable intangibles assets, in total and by major class, including the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization. It also discloses the carrying value of intangible assets not subject to amortization, excluding goodwill, in total and by major class. Schedule of other intangible assets subject to amortization Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block] Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract] Debt securities with contractual maturities of one year or less Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Rolling Twelve Months, Fair Value Debt securities with contractual maturities exceeding one year Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities After Next Rolling Twelve Months Fair Value Amount of available-for-sale debt securities at fair value maturing after the next rolling twelve months following the latest balance sheet presented. Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair value measurements on recurring basis Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair value of marketable securities Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair value of investments Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Cash equivalents (including restricted) Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Debt securities Equity securities - strategic Marketable Securities, Equity Securities, Current Total Marketable Securities Investment Securities Investments in Debt and Equity Instruments, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) [Text Block] Schedule of revenue, EBITDA, and capital expenditures by operating segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of reconciliation of EBITDA to reported income from continuing operations 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. Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Invidi Technologies Corporation [Member] Invidi Technologies Corporation [Member] Invidi Technologies Corporation [Member] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Cost Method Investments Cost Method Investments Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments Investments in unconsolidated entities Dividends received from unconsolidated entity Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Cost-method Investments, Realized Gains Cost-method Investments, Realized Gains Sale of investment in unconsolidated entity Payments for (Proceeds from) Investments Hughes Communications, Inc. Hughes Communications, Inc. [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hughes Communications, Inc. Hughes Systique Corporation Hughes Systique Corporation [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Hughes Systique Corporation. NagraStar Nagra Star L L C [Member] Represents the equity method investee of the entity. Dish Mexico Dish Mexico [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Dish Mexico. Deluxe/EchoStar LLC Deluxe Echo Star L L C [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Deluxe /EchoStar LLC. SmarDTV SA SmarDTV SA [Member] Represents the information pertains to equity method investee SmarDTV SA. AsiaSat [Member] AsiaSat [Member] AsiaSat [Member] Amount agreed to be funded under term loan facility Related Party Transaction Amount Agreed to be Funded under Term Loan Facility Represents the amount agreed to be funded under the term loan facility. Interest rate Related Party Transaction, Rate Repayment of loan Repayments of Related Party Debt Remaining balance of loan Notes Payable, Related Parties Ownership interest in related party Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage Ownership percentage by related party Percentage Ownership in Variable Interest Entity by Other Related Parties Percentage ownership in variable interest entity by other related parties. Amount payable to related party Revenue recognized from related party Revenue from Related Parties Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation 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. 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. Gain and impairment on investments, net Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) Stock-based compensation Shared-Based Compensation, Including Discontinued Operations The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration for the entity and the disposal group. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Deferred tax provision Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Changes in noncurrent assets and noncurrent liabilities, net Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Assets and Liabilities, Net Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Net cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Purchases of marketable investment securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities Expenditures for property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Refunds and other receipts related to capital expenditures Refunds and other receipts related to capital expenditures The cash inflow associated with the refunds and other receipts related to capital expenditures. Changes in restricted cash and marketable investment securities Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash and Investments Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Repayment of debt and capital lease obligations Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease 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 from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Excluding Stock Options Cash exchanged for Tracking Stock Payments for Repurchase of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock 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, Continuing Operations Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value, Including Discontinued Operations Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest) Interest Paid Capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan Property and equipment financed under capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Increase (decrease) in capital expenditures included in accounts payable, net Increase (Decrease) In Capital Expenditures Incurred But Not Yet Paid The increase (decrease) during the reporting period of future cash outflow to pay for purchases of fixed assets that have occurred. Capitalized in-orbit incentive obligations Liabilities Assumed Noncash net assets exchanged for Tracking Stock Noncash Or Part Noncash Transaction, Net Assets Exchange, Preferred Stock Repurchase Amount represent noncash assets transferred in exchange for repurchase of preferred stock Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Stock awards Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Anti-dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] EchoStar Satellite Services Business EchoStar Satellite Services Business [Member] Represents Echo Star Satellite Services Business, a business segment of the entity which uses ten owned and leased in-orbit satellites and related FCC licenses to lease capacity on a full-time and occasional-use basis primarily to DISH Network. Corporate and Other All Other Segments And Eliminations [Member] Represents information pertaining to segments not specifically identified and intersegment eliminations. Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Intersegment Elimination Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Operating segments Operating Segments [Member] Corporate and Other Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] 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. Interest income and expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Net Depreciation and amortization Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest in HSS Tracking Stock and other noncontrolling interests Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Capitalized Software Costs Capitalized Software [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for costs incurred when both (1) the software is acquired, internally developed, or modified solely to meet the entity's internal needs, and (2) during the software's development or modification, no substantive plan exists or is being developed to market the software externally. This policy also may address the entity's amortization policy for its capitalized computer software costs and how it evaluates such capitalized costs for impairment. New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Stock Options Employee And Non Employee Director Stock Option [Member] Contract that gives the holder the right, but not the obligation, either to purchase or to sell a certain number of shares of stock at a predetermined price for a specified period of time. Non-Performance Based Stock Awards Non Performance Based Stock Awards [Member] Represents details pertaining to the non-performance based awards of the entity. Research and development expenses Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items] Stock options and other incentive awards granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Allocated share-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Stock-Based Compensation Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Aggregate Disclosures [Abstract] Unrecognized stock-based compensation cost, net of estimated forfeiture Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] Progress amounts for satellite construction, including prepayments under capital leases and launch services costs Progress Amounts For Satellite Construction Including Prepayments Under Capital Leases And Launch Costs [Member] Represents information pertaining to Progress amounts for satellite construction including prepayments under capital leases and launch costs. Satellite related equipment Satellite Related Equipment [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Satellite related equipment. Other Construction In Progress Other [Member] Represents the information pertaining to other constructions in process. Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Commitments [Domain] Satellite-related obligations Satellite Related Obligation [Member] Represents the information relating to satellite-related obligations of the entity. Other Commitments [Line Items] Other Commitments [Line Items] Satellite-related obligations Contractual Obligation Document and Entity Information Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Related Tax Effects Other Comprehensive Income, Noncontrolling Interest [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Class A and B Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Hughes Retail Preferred Tracking Stock Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Noncontrolling Interest in HSS Tracking Stock Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Other Noncontrolling Interests Other Noncontrolling Interests [Member] ss Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 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 Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Cumulative effect of adoption of ASU 2016-09 as of January 1, 2017 Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax Reacquisition and retirement of Tracking Stock pursuant to Share Exchange Agreement Stockholders' Equity, Other R&D tax credits utilized by DISH Network Charge Recorded in Additional Paid in Capital Related Tax Credit Utilized Represents information about charge recorded in additional paid in capital related utilized tax credit. Other, net Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Net income Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized losses and impairment on available-for-sale securities, net and other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gains Losses on Available-for-sale Securities, And Other Adjustments, Net of Tax Represents the sum of the unrealized holding gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, the reclassification adjustment impact on the statement of operations, and other adjustments. Schedule of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Total inventory Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Technology-based Developed Technology Rights [Member] Trademark portfolio Trademarks [Member] Other intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Weighted Average Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Cost Accumulated Amortization Carrying Amount Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Trade Accounts Receivable Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of trade accounts receivable Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract] Less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value 12 months or more Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Total Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract] Less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss 12 months or more Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Total Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Sales of Available-For-Sale Securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Gains from sales of available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities Organization and Business Activities Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of available-for-sale securities in continuous unrealized loss position by length of time and their fair value Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value measurements Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of investments in unconsolidated entities Investments in and Advances to Affiliates, Schedule of Investments [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities and other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax Recognition of realized gains on available-for-sale securities in net income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax Recognition of other-than-temporary impairment loss on available-for-sale securities in net income 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, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in HSS Tracking Stock Comprehensive Income Net of Tax Attributable To Preferred Tracking Stock Represents the amount of comprehensive income (loss) attributable to preferred tracking stock. Less: Comprehensive income attributable to other noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income Net of Tax Attributable to Other Noncontrolling Interest Represents the amount of comprehensive income (loss) attributable to other noncontrolling interest. Comprehensive income attributable to EchoStar Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Strategic equity securities Other Gains on investments, net Gain (Loss) on Investments [Member] Marketable investment securities—current, at fair value: Investments and Cash [Abstract] Marketable investment securities, at fair value Available-for-sale Securities, Current Marketable investment securities, at fair value Total marketable investment securities - current Restricted marketable investment securities Marketable Securities, Restricted, Noncurrent Restricted cash and cash equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Dividend income from strategic equity securities Investment Income, Dividend Gains related to trading securities Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Fair values of trading securities Trading Securities, Equity Schedule of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of construction in progress Schedule of Construction in Progress [Table Text Block] Schedule of construction in progress. Schedule of allocated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for all employees Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Land Land [Member] Satellites - owned Satellites acquired under capital leases Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Total property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Property and equipment, net Depreciable Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Discontinued Operations [Member] 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] Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract] Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract] Equipment, services and other revenue - DISH Network Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue, Related Party Amount of revenue from related party attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Equipment, services and other revenue - other Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue, Other Amount of other revenue attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Total revenue Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Cost of equipment, 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, Operating Expense Operating income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Expense Equity in 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 income (expense), net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Nonoperating Income (Loss) Amount of nonoperating income (loss) attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Income from discontinued operations before income taxes Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income tax provision Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Net income from discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Balance Sheet Disclosures [Abstract] Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Balance Sheet Disclosures [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Cash and Cash Equivalents Trade accounts receivable, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts, Notes and Loans Receivable, Net Trade accounts receivable - DISH Network Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Amount classified as receivables arising from transactions with related parties attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of. Inventory Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Inventory, Current Prepaids and deposits Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Prepaid and Other Assets, Current Current assets of discontinued operations Property and equipment, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Noncurrent Goodwill Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill, Noncurrent Other intangible assets, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets, Noncurrent Investments in unconsolidated entities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Investments In Affiliates And Joint Ventures Amount classified as equity and or cost method investments attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of after one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Other noncurrent assets, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets, Noncurrent Noncurrent assets of discontinued operations Total assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets Trade accounts payable Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable, Current Trade accounts payable - DISH Network Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Amount classified as accounts payable arising from transactions with related parties attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Current portion of capital lease obligations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Capital Lease Obligations, Current Amount classified as capital lease obligations attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Deferred revenue and prepayments Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Deferred Revenue, Current Accrued compensation Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Employee Related Liabilities, Current Amount classified as employee related liabilities attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Accrued royalties Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Royalties, Current Amount classified as accrued royalties attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Accrued expenses and other Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Liabilities, Current Current liabilities of discontinued operations Capital lease obligations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Capital Lease Obligation, Noncurrent Amount classified as capital lease obligations attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of beyond one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Deferred tax liabilities, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Noncurrent liabilities of discontinued operations Total liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities Discontinued Operation, Alternative Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Discontinued Operation, Alternative Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Expenditures for property and equipment of our discontinued operations Capital Expenditure, Discontinued Operations Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Other Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Unamortized debt issuance costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs [Member] Unamortized debt issuance costs Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt Instrument [Line Items] 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 Carrying amount Long-term Debt Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Total debt and capital lease obligations Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Less: Current portion Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of unamortized debt issuance costs