v2.4.0.8

Commitments and Contingencies (Details 2) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Commitments and Contingencies
Total rent expense	$ 22.6	$ 23.4	$ 16.9
Satellite-related expenses	$ 181.2	$ 161.6	$ 109.7

X

- Definition

Represents the amount of satellite-related expenses incurred during the period.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	sats_SatelliteRelatedExpense
Namespace Prefix:	sats_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Amount of rent expense incurred for leased assets, including but not limited to, furniture and equipment, that is not directly or indirectly associated with the manufacture, sale or creation of a product or product line.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_LeaseAndRentalExpense
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration