DBSD North America Inc [Member] Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America, a legal entity. DBSD North America (ICO) Asset Purchase Agreement TerreStar [Member] Represents the asset purchase agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of TerreStar Networks, Inc. and its subsidiaries. TerreStar Networks, Inc. ("TerreStar") Schedule of marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities Investment [Table Text Block] Sprint Settlement Agreement [Member] Sprint Settlement Agreement Represents details pertaining to Sprint Settlement Agreement entered into by the entity. Long-term Performance-based Plans [Member] Represents details pertaining to 3 percent Convertible Subordinated Note due in 2011. Long-Term Performance Based Plans Strategic Marketable Investment Securities [Member] Investments in debt or equity securities of public companies that are highly speculative and have experienced and continue to experience volatility. Current marketable investment securities - strategic Auction Rate Securities and Mortgage Backed Securities Noncurrent [Member] Represents details pertaining to auction rate securities and mortgage-backed securities. ARS and MBS, noncurrent Award Type [Axis] Auction Rate Securities Fair Value Election [Member] ARS fair value election Represents details pertaining to auction rate securities accounted for under the fair value method. Other Debt Securities Nonrestricted and Restricted [Member] Investments in debt securities other than variable rate demand obligations, auction-rate securities, or mortgage backed securities. Includes investments that are restricted and those that are not restricted. Other (including restricted) Convertible Senior Secured Notes 7.5 Percent Due 2009 [Member] 7.5% Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2009 Represents details pertaining to 7 .5% convertible senior secured notes, which are due in 2009. DISH Network [Member] Represents details pertaining to Dish Network, a segment of the entity. DISH Network Amendment Description Blockbuster Blockbuster [Member] Represents details pertaining to Blockbuster, a segment of entity. Amendment Flag Wireless Spectrum [Member] Wireless Spectrum Represents details pertaining to Wireless Spectrum, a segment of entity. DBS Satellites [Member] Represents details pertaining to DBS satellites assets owned by the entity. DBS Satellites Building Furniture Fixtures Other Equipment [Member] Represents buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other property plant and equipment owned by the entity. Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Echo Star G1 [Member] EchoStar G1 Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar G1. Echo Star T1 [Member] EchoStar T1 Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar T1. Echo Star XI [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XI. EchoStar XI Echo Star XIV [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellite assets under construction, leased from EchoStar, EchoStar XVI. EchoStar XIV Echo Star I [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar I. EchoStar I Echo Star V [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar V. 148 degree orbital location Wireless Spectrum Property, Plant and Equipment Capitalized interest Balance [Member] Wireless spectrum capitalized interest balance Represents details pertaining to wireless spectrum capitalized interest. Echo Star VI [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star VI, which are accounted for as operating leases. EchoStar VI Senior Notes 7 Percent Due 2013 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 % senior notes, which are due in 2013. 7 % Senior Notes due 2013 Senior Notes 6.625 Percent Due 2014 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6 5/8% senior notes, which are due in 2014. 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2014 Senior Notes 7.750 Percent Due 2015 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 3/4% senior notes, which are due in 2015. 7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2015 7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016 Senior Notes 7.125 Percent Due 2016 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 1/8% senior notes, which are due in 2016. 7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019 Senior Notes 7.875 Percent Due 2019 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 7/8% senior notes, which are due in 2019. Current Fiscal Year End Date Senior Notes 6.750 Percent Due 2021 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6 3/4% senior notes, which are due in 2021. 6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021 Mortgage and Other Notes Payable [Member] Represents details pertaining to mortgages and other notes payable. Mortgages and other notes payable Wireless Spectrum Assets Represents the details pertaining to assets of Wireless Spectrum, a segment of entity. Wireless Spectrum Assets [Member] Document and Entity Information TerreStar Transaction (Note 8) Transaction in Process Transaction in process. Less than 12 Months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, from Related Parties, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - EchoStar A valuation allowance for trade receivables due to a related party entity (within one year or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that are expected to be uncollectible. Equipment and Merchandise Sales Rental and Other Revenue Equipment and merchandise sales, rental and other revenue This element represents the income generated from equipment and merchandise sales. It also includes rentals and other revenues during the reporting period. Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar Equipment Sales Services and Other Revenue Related Party This element represents the income generated from equipment sales to the related party. It also includes services and other revenues generated from the related party during the reporting period. Transitional services and other revenue - Echostar. Transitional Services and Other Revenue Related Party Services and other revenue - EchoStar Satellite and transmission expenses, related party. Satellite and Transmission Expenses Related Party EchoStar Other Satellite and transmission expenses, other. Satellite and Transmission Expenses Other Document Period End Date Subscriber Acquisition Costs [Abstract] Subscriber acquisition costs: This element represents the cost related to subscriber promotion and subsidies from related party. Subscriber Promotions Subsidies Related Party Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar Set-top boxes and other equipment included in "Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - Echostar" This element represents the cost related to subscriber promotion and subsidies during the reporting period. Other Subscriber Promotions Subsidies Other subscriber promotion subsidies The aggregate total of expenses of managing and administering the affairs of the entity from related party, which are not directly or indirectly associated with the manufacture, sale or creation of a product or product line. General and Administrative Expenses Related Party General and administrative expenses - EchoStar Income (Loss) before Income Tax Income (loss) before income taxes Income (loss) before income taxes. Change in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities. Change in Long-Term Deferred Revenue Distribution and Carriage Payments and Other Long-Term Liabilities Change in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue and Other Deferred revenue and other Increase (decrease) in deferred revenue and other. Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Litigation Liabilities Litigation expense accrual (Note 16) (Increase) decrease in accrued litigation liabilities. Increase (Decrease) in Litigation Settlements Litigation settlement payments (Note 16) The increase (decrease) during the period in the carrying amount of litigation settlement. Entity [Domain] Total Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses Payments under Indefinite-Lived License Agreement FCC authorizations Payments to acquire non-depleting intangible assets (primarily FCC spectrum). Launch service assigned from related party. Launch Service Assigned from Related Party Launch service assigned from EchoStar (Note 20) Launch service assigned from EchoStar (Note 20) Payments for Acquisition Settlement Agreement Sprint Settlement Agreement (Note 10) Payments for acquisition settlement agreement. Net payment for agreement settlement 12 Months or More Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses Distribution of Cash and Cash Equivalents in Connection with Spin-off Distribution of cash and cash equivalents to EchoStar in connection with the Spin-off Distribution of cash and cash equivalents in connection with the Spin off. Vendor Financing This element represents vendor financing during the reporting period. Vendor financing Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation [Policy Text Block] Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation policy. Long-term Deferred Revenue Distribution and Carriage Payments [Policy Text Block] Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments policy. Long-Term Deferred Revenue, Distribution and Carriage Payments Sales Tax [Policy Text Block] Sales tax policy. Sales Taxes Subscriber Related Expenses [Policy Text Block] Represents disclosure of variable subscriber expenses. Subscriber-Related Expenses Subscriber Acquisition Costs [Policy Text Block] Subscriber acquisition costs policy. Subscriber Acquisition Costs Schedule of dilutive securities not included in the diluted EPS calculation Schedule of Dilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Schedule of dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share. DENMARK Denmark Schedule of Depreciation and Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of depreciation and amortization expense Schedule of depreciation and amortization expense. Schedule of Construction in Progress [Table Text Block] Schedule of Construction in progress Schedule of construction in progress. Schedule of Satellites [Table Text Block] Schedule of Satellites Schedule of satellites. Schedule of Interest on Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of interest on long-term debt Schedule of interest on long-term debt. Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains Unrealized Gains Schedule of Other Long-Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of other long term debt and capital lease obligations Schedule of other long-term debt and capital lease obligations. Long-term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member] Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the "2005 LTIP"). LTIP 2005 Patent Infringement and Brach of Agreement [Member] Patent infringement or breach of agreement Represents details pertaining to patent infringements or breach of agreement. Long-term Incentive Plan 2008 [Member] Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the "2008 LTIP"). LTIP 2008 and Other Performance Awards Schedule of stock awards outstanding Stock awards outstanding by company and award. Stock Awards Outstanding by Company and Award [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Realized Tax Benefits from Stock Awards Exercised [Table Text Block] Schedule of realized tax benefits from stock awards exercised Schedule of share based compensation realized tax benefits from stock awards exercised. Schedule of Aggregate Intrinsic Value of Stock Options Outstanding and Exercisable [Table Text Block] Schedule of aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding and exercisable. Schedule of aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding and exercisable Schedule of Unrecognized Noncash Stock-based Compensation [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrecognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense Schedule of unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation. Schedule of Noncash Stock-based Compensation Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of non-cash, stock-based compensation expense recognized Schedule of non-cash stock-based compensation expense. Schedule of nonvested performance based plans. Schedule of Nonvested Performance-based Plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of awards outstanding pursuant to performance-based stock incentive plans Schedule of Unrecognized Noncash Stock-based Compensation Expense under the 2008 LTIP and Other Performance Awards [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrecognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense under the 2008 LTIP and other performance awards Schedule of unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense under the 2008 LTIP and other performance awards. Schedule of revenue and net income (loss) by segment. Schedule of Revenue and Net Income (Loss) by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of revenue and net income (loss) Accounting Standards Update 2010-11 [Member] ASU 2010-11 Schedule of Purchases from Related Party [Table Text Block] Schedule of dollar value of set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from EchoStar and purchases included in "Cost of sales- subscriber promotion subsidies- EchoStar" Schedule of purchases from related party. Gamma Acquisition LLC [Member] Represents a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. Gamma Acquisition L.L.C. ("Gamma") Commitment to Acquire Ownership Percentage Commitment to acquire percentage ownership interest Commitment to acquire ownership percentage. UNITED KINGDOM United Kingdom Payments to Acquire Wireless Spectrum Assets Payments to acquire wireless spectrum assets. Payments to acquire wireless spectrum assets Number of Subscribers Number of DISH Network subscribers Number of subscribers. Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share amount. Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share Dilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Available-for-sale Securities Gross Realized Gain (Loss) before Tax Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss), before tax amount Represents the gross unrealized gain or loss on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss). Available-for-sale Securities Gross Realized Gain (Loss) during Period Tax Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss), tax (expense) benefit Tax effect on unrealized gain or loss on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss). Marketable Investment Securities Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents and Other Investment Securities Total marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents and other investment securities Marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalent and other investment securities. Inventory rental. Inventory Rental Rental library Inventory Merchandise Merchandise Inventory merchandise. Implementation Agreement Implementation Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Implementation Agreement entered into by the entity. Investment Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Investment Agreement entered into by the entity. Investment Agreement Restructuring Support Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Restructuring Support Agreement entered into by the entity. Restructuring Support Agreement Other Equity Securities [Member] Represents details pertaining to other equity securities. Other Settlement Period of Security Settlement period Settlement period of security. Advances to Affiliate, Maximum Capacity Maximum agreed advances to affiliates Represents the maximum amount that can be advanced to affiliates. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Number of Embedded Credit Derivative, Qualified for Exemption Number of embedded credit derivative qualified for exemption Number of embedded credit derivatives qualified for exemption. Cumulative effect adjustment application of fair value option net of tax losses. Unrealized loss on marketable security Cumulative Effect Adjustment Application of Fair Value Option, Net of Tax Losses Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Assets, rights and support purchased from affiliate portion creditable against payable to affiliate. Portion creditable against any amounts payable to affiliate or any successor per agreement Assets and Right Purchased from Affiliate Portion Creditable Against Payable to Affiliate Entity Voluntary Filers Number of Embedded Derivatives Qualifying for Exemption Number of embedded derivatives qualifying for exemption Number of embedded derivatives qualifying for exemption. Entity Current Reporting Status Fair Value Option Changes in Fair Value Gain (Loss) Recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss recorded in AOCI, net of tax Fair value option changes in fair value gain (loss) recorded in AOCI. Entity Filer Category Credit Facility [Member] Represents details pertaining to the credit facility. Credit facility Entity Public Float Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero Noncurrent Marketable Securities Debt securities Noncurrent marketable securities. Entity Registrant Name Marketable Debt and Equity Securities Marketable debt and equity securities. Debt and equity security Total marketable investment securities (including DBSD North America) Entity Central Index Key Other Investment Securities Less certain other investment securities Other investment securities. Debt and equity security Marketable and other debt and equity securities. Marketable and Other Debt and Equity Securities Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value Election Net realized and unrealized gains losses included in earnings - fair value election This element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from election of fair value measurement for assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings (a separate component of shareholders' equity). Gain (Loss) on Conversion of Marketable Securities Marketable investment securities - gains (losses) on conversion of DBSD North America Represents the gains (losses) realized during the period from conversion of marketable securities. Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other Other Other nonoperating income expense other. Other Investment Securities, Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Investments and Other than Temporary Impairments Other investment securities unrealized gain loss on fair value investments and other than temporary impairments. Other investment securities - unrealized gains (losses) on fair value investments and other-than-temporary impairments Schedule of Inventory [Table] Represents detailed information about the type of inventory. Inventory Inventory [Line Items] Inventory used Work in Process Net of Reserves Work-in-process Inventory used, work in process, net of reserves. Inventory New Work in Process Net of Reserves Work-in-process - new Inventory new, work in process, net of reserves. Increase (Decrease) in Inventories, Including Noncash and Cash, Changes The increase (decrease) in inventories, including both non-cash flow and cash flow related changes. Increase in inventory balance Depreciation and Amortization [Line Items] Depreciation and amortization expense Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit Utilized by Reporting Entity Number of satellites utilized in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity. Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit Utilized by Reporting Entity Owned Owned Satellites Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity owned. Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit Utilized by Reporting Entity, under Operating Leases Number of satellites utilized under operating lease Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity under operating leases. Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit Utilized by Reporting Entity, under Capital Leases Number of satellites utilized under capital lease Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity under capital leases. S Band [Member] S-band satellites Represents the details of Sband satellites added as a result of DBSD transaction and Terrestar transaction. Leased Satellites [Member] Represents details pertaining to leased satellites. EchoStar VIII. Echo Star VII [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VII. EchoStar VII Echo Star X [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar X. EchoStar X Echo Star XV [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XV. EchoStar XV Document Fiscal Year Focus Echo Star VIII [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star VIII, which are accounted for as operating leases. EchoStar VIII Document Fiscal Period Focus Echo Star IX [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star IX, which are accounted for as operating leases. EchoStar IX Echo Star XII [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star XII, which are accounted for as operating leases. EchoStar XII Nimiq 5 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star XII, which are accounted for as operating leases. Nimiq 5 Ani kF 3 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from other third party, Anik F3, which are accounted for as capital leases. Anik F3 Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from other third party, Ciel II, which are accounted for as capital leases. Ciel II Ciel II [Member] Assets under Construction Quetz Sat1 [Member] Represents details pertaining to the QuetzSat-1 satellite under construction. Satellite Under Construction - QuetzSat-1 Assets under Construction Echo Star XVI [Member] Represents details pertaining to the EchoStar XVI satellite under construction. Satellite Under Construction - EchoStar XVI Lease by Type [Axis] Represents the type of lease entered into by the entity. Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Trade accounts payable - EchoStar Amounts payable to NagraStar Lease by Type [Domain] Represents the category of lease. Operating Lease [Member] Represents the information pertaining to operating lease. Leased from EchoStar: Capital Lease [Member] Represents the information pertaining to capital lease. Leased from Other Third Party Legal Entity [Axis] Number of Other Satellites Relocated in Event of Failure or Loss of Any Satellite Number of other satellites to be relocated in the event of failure or loss of any satellite Number of other satellites relocated in event of failure or loss of any satellite. Document Type Number of Satellites Added Number of satellites added Number of satellites added to S Band utilized by reporting entity. Number of Satellites in Orbit Number of satellites in-orbit Represents the number of satellites in orbit. Number of Satellites under Construction Number of satellites under construction Represents the number of satellites under construction. Number of Amplifier Loss in Reporting Period Loss of Travelling wave tube amplifiers("TWTAs") Represents the number of satellites experienced the loss of travelling wave tube amplifiers. Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Trade accounts receivable - other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $14,959 and $12,350, respectively Total Number of Amplifier Loss Total number of TWTAs lost Represents the total number of satellites experienced the loss of travelling wave tube amplifiers. Operating Leased Assets, Term Lease Term Operating leased assets term. Transponder service agreement period Capital Leased Assets, Term Lease Term Capital leased assets term. Watts Per Channel Option One Watts per channel, option one Watts per channel option one. Number of DBS transponders, option one Number of Transponders Option One Number of transponders option one. Watts Per Channel Option Two Watts per channel option two. Watts per channel, option two Number of Transponders Available Option Two Number of transponders available option two. Number of DBS transponders available, option two Purchase of certain assets, rights and support from affiliate Assets, rights and support purchased from affiliate. Assets Rights and Support Purchased from Affiliate Portion Paid of Assets, Rights and Support Purchased from Affiliate Portion of purchased assets, rights and support from affiliate which is paid Portion paid of assets rights and support purchased from affiliate. Business acquisition purchase price allocation current assets excluding cash. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current Assets Excluding Cash Current assets Senior Notes 6.375 Percent Due 2011 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6 3/8% senior notes, which are due in 2011. 6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2011 Senior Notes 4.625 Percent Due 2017 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 4 5/8% senior notes, which are due in 2017. 4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017 Senior Notes 5.875 Percent Due 2022 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 5 7/8% senior notes, which are due in 2022. 5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2022 Stock Option Adjustment [Member] 2012 stock option adjustment Represents details pertaining to 2012 stock option adjustment. Other Employee Performance Awards [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Employee Performance Stock Awards of the entity. Other Employee Performance Awards Share-based Compensation, Arrangement by Share-based Payment, Award Plan Modification Number of Options Affected Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award plan modification number of options affected. Number of stock options subject to an exercise price change in connection with the Stock Option Adjustment (in shares) Reduction in Exercise Price Due to Dividend Declaration Reduction in exercise price due to dividend declaration (in dollars per share) Reduction in exercise price due to dividend declaration. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Right to Receive Award Upon Holding One Unit of Award Stock option converted into new stock options (in shares) Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, right to receive award upon holding one unit of award. Multiplication Factor for Conversion of Original Stock Option to Adjusted Stock Option Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to adjusted stock option. Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to adjusted stock option A New Stock Option for a Portion of Original Stock Option Portion of the number of shares that were exercisable under the original option needed to receive a new stock option A new stock option for a portion of original stock option. Multiplication Factor for Conversion of Original Stock Option to New Stock Option Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to new stock option Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to new stock option Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments, Other than Options, Nonvested Right to Receive Award, Upon Holding One Unit of Award One Echostar restricted stock unit converted into new Dish Network restricted stock units (in shares) Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options nonvested right to receive award upon holding one unit of award. Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Disclosures Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Remaining Portion to Meet Vesting Condition Remaining portion to meet vesting condition (as a percent) Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award remaining portion to meet vesting condition Accounts Payable, Current Trade accounts payable - other Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award portion meeting vesting condition. Portion meeting vesting condition (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Portion Meeting Vesting Condition MEXICO Mexico Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated future forfeiture rate. 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, Probability of Achieving Performance Goals Probability of achieving performance goals (as a percent) Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award probability of achieving performance goals. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options Outstanding Intrinsic Value [Abstract] Aggregate intrinsic value Share-based Compensation Award Terms [Abstract] 2005 LTIP Terms Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Percentage Awards Vested Per Year During First Four Years Percentage awards vesting per annum during first four years Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award, percentage awards vested per year during first four years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Percentage Awards Vested Per Year after First Four Years Percentage awards vesting per annum after first four years Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award, percentage awards vested per year after first four years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Compensation Costs [Abstract] Share-based expenses Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense on vested portion. Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense on vested portion Unrecognized Noncash Stock-based Compensation Expense on Vested Portion Total unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense. Unrecognized compensation expense relating to long-term performance based incentive awards Total Unrecognized Non-cash, Stock-based Compensation Expense Unrecognized Compensation Expense on Vested Portion of LTIP Award Unrecognized compensation expense relating to vested long-term performance based incentive awards Unrecognized compensation expense on vested portion of LTIP award. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost [Abstract] Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost for Remainder of Fiscal Year Remaining expense estimated to be recognized during 2012 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost for remainder of fiscal year. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost Total estimated expense remaining over the term of plan Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Estimated Compensation Cost for Next Fiscal Year Expense estimated to be recognized during 2012 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated compensation cost for next of fiscal year. Estimated contingent expense subsequent to 2012 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost after current fiscal year. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost after Current Fiscal Year Recognized Non-cash Stock-based Compensation Expense [Abstract] Recognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense Threshold for Reduction In Exercise Price, Due to Dividend Declaration Threshold for reduction in exercise price due to dividend declaration (in dollars per share) Represents the threshold for reduction in exercise price due to dividend declaration. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Decrease in Exercise Price Due to Dividend Distribution Decrease in exercise price due to stock option adjustment (in dollars per share) Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award decrease in exercise price due to dividend distribution. Share-based Compensation Expense Stock Option Adjustment Additional non-cash stock-based compensation cost in connection with Stock Option Adjustment Share based compensation expense stock option adjustment. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Original Award Issuer [Axis] Pertinent data describing and reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by an entity prior to the spinoff. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Original Award Issuer [Domain] Details reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by an entity prior to the spinoff. Entity Stock Awards [Member] Represents details pertaining to the entity's stock awards. DISH Network Awards Related Party Awards [Member] Represents details pertaining to the related party stock awards. EchoStar Awards Non-Performance Based Stock Awards Non Performance-based Stock Awards [Member] Represents details pertaining to the non-performance based awards of the entity. Pertinent data describing and reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by an entity prior to the spinoff. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Holder [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Holder [Domain] Details pertinent to an equity-based compensation award held by employees. Represents the stock awards held by employees of the entity. Held by DISH Network employees Held by Employees of Entity [Member] Held by Employees of Related Party [Member] Represents the stock awards held by employees of the related party. Held by EchoStar employees Significant Acquisitions and Disposals Acquisition Costs or Sale Proceeds Receivable or Payable Cash purchase price payable Significant acquisitions and disposals, acquisition costs or sale proceeds, receivable or payable. Satellite Lease Guarantees [Member] Satellite lease guarantees. Satellite lease guarantees Satellite Transponder Guarantees [Member] Satellite transponder guarantees. Satellite transponder guarantees Affiliation Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Affiliation agreements. ESPN-Affiliation agreements Technology Development Licensing [Member] Represents details pertaining to Technology Development Licensing. Technology Development Licensing Tivo Inc [Member] Represents details pertaining to Tivo Inc. Tivo Inc Voom HD Holdings [Member] Represents details pertaining to Voom HD Holdings. Voom HD Holdings Copyright Action [Member] Represents the details pertaining to copyright actions. Disney Copyright Action Patent Infringement [Member] Represents details pertaining to patent infringements. Katz Communications-Patent infringement Retailer Class [Member] Represents details pertaining to retailer class. Retailer Class Actions Loss Contingency Court Ruling Loss contingency court ruling. Court ruling Loss Contingency Terms [Abstract] Loss contingency terms Number of Reexamination Petitions Pending before Patent and Trademark Office Number of reexamination petitions pending before patent and trademark office Number of reexamination petitions pending before patent and trademark office. Number of Patents Suit Alleges Infringement of Number of patents suit alleges infringement of. Number of patents the suit alleges infringement of Number of Motions Seeking Discovery Sanctions Number of motions seeking discovery sanctions. Number of motions seeking discovery sanctions Number of Patents Remain in Lawsuit Represents number of patents remaining in the lawsuit after transfer and consolidation of the case for pretrial purposes in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. Number of patents remain in the lawsuit Loss Contingency, Number of Set-top Boxes Not Disabled Number of set-top boxes not required to be disabled Loss contingency, number of set-top boxes not disabled Year of Anniversary Celebration Violating Copyright Year of anniversary celebrations in which violation of Disney's copyright is alleged Year of anniversary celebration violating copyright. Loss Contingency Counter Claim Additional Claim Amount Additional claim Represents the additional counter claim by the defendant. Aggregate Maximum Value of Monthly Incentive Payments Aggregate maximum value of all monthly incentive payments Aggregate maximum value of monthly incentive payments. Loss Contingency Disablement Provision Disablement provision contempt sanction amount Loss contingency disablement provision. Litigation Settlement Initial Payment Initial settlement amount paid Litigation settlement initial payment. Litigation Settlement Total Amount to be Paid Through Six Annual Installments, Gross Litigation settlement total amount to be paid through six annual installments, gross. Aggregate of six annual installment amounts between 2012 and 2017, gross Litigation Settlement Total Amount to be Paid Through Six Annual Installments, Net of Contribution from related party Litigation settlement total amount to be paid through six annual installments, net of contribution from related party. Aggregate of six annual installment amounts between 2012 and 2017, net of contribution from related party Loss Contingency Estimated Percentage of Annual Payments Payable by Entity Estimated percentage of annual payments payable by entity Loss contingency estimated percentage of annual payments payable by entity. Loss Contingency Litigation Settlement Reversal of Litigation Accrual Reversal of litigation accrual Loss contingency litigation settlement reversal of litigation accrual. Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Claims Paid Prepayment Portion of litigation payment related to future period prepayments Liability for unpaid claims and claims adjustment expense claims paid prepayment. Litigation Settlement Remaining Payments Dish Network's share of remaining litigation payments Litigation settlement remaining payments. Litigation settlement gross amount related to future periods. Litigation settlement gross amount related to future periods Litigation Settlement, Gross Amount Related to Future Periods Reduction in Litigation Expense Represents the reduction in litigation expense. Reduction in litigation expense Litigation Settlement, Intellectual Property Liability Contribution from Related Party Litigation settlement intellectual property liability contribution from related party Litigation settlement intellectual property liability contribution from related party. Mexico and Denmark [Member] Mexico and Denmark Represents information pertaining to the entity's transactions with customers in Mexico and Denmark. All Other Geographic Segments [Member] Other Represents the information pertaining to all other geographical segments of the entity. Inverness Lease Agreement [Member] Inverness Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to Inverness Lease Agreement. Remanufactured Receiver Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Remanufactured Receiver Agreement. Remanufactured Receiver Agreement Professional Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Professional Services Agreement. Professional Services Agreement Management Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Management Services Agreement. Management Services Agreement Real Estate Lease Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Real Estate Lease Agreement. Real Estate Lease Agreement Broadcast Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement. Broadcast Agreement Certain Sports Related Programming Broadcast Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement for certain sports related programming. Certain Sports Related Programming Broadcast Agreement Echo Star XVI [Member] Represents details pertaining to EchoStar XVI. EchoStar XVI Nimiq 5 Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Nimiq 5 Agreement. Nimiq 5 Agreement DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement. DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement Quetz Sat 1 Lease Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement. QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement Quetz Sat 1 Transponder Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement. QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement Telemetry Tracking and Control Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to TT and C Agreement. TT and C Agreement DBSD North America Agreement [Member] DBSD North America Agreement Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America Agreement. Rural Utilities Service Implementation Agreement [Member] Rural Utilities Service Implementation Agreement Represents details pertaining to Rural Utilities Service Implementation Agreement. Receiver Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Receiver Agreement. Receiver Agreement Product Support Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Product Support Agreement. Product Support Agreement Commercial Agreement [Member] Commercial Agreement Represents details pertaining to Commercial Agreement. Santa Fe Lease Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Santa Fe Lease Agreement. Santa Fe Lease Agreement United States UNITED STATES Gilbert Lease Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Gilbert Lease Agreement. Gilbert Lease Agreement DISH on line. Com Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DISHOnline.com Services Agreement. DISH Online.com Services Agreement DISH Remote Access Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DISH Remote Access Services Agreement. DISH Remote Access Services Agreement Sling Service Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Sling Service Services Agreement. Sling Service Services Agreement Move Networks Services Agreement [Member] Move Networks Services Agreement Represents details pertaining to Move Networks Services Agreement. Echo Star XV Launch Service [Member] Represents details pertaining to EchoStar XV Launch Service. EchoStar XV Launch Service Weather Related Programming Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Weather Related Programming Agreement. Weather Related Programming Agreement Acquisition of South.Com LLC Purchase Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the acquisition of South.com, L.L.C. Acquisition of South.com, L.L.C International Programming Rights Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the International Programming Rights Agreement. International Programming Rights Agreement Patent Cross-License Agreements [Member] Patent Cross-License Agreements Represents details pertaining to Patent Cross-License Agreements. Tax Sharing Agreement [Member] Tax Sharing Agreement Represents details pertaining to tax sharing Agreement. Meridian Lease Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Meridian Lease Agreement. Meridian Lease Agreement Echo Star [Member] It represents the entity in which the director owns majority voting interests. EchoStar El Paso Lease Agreement [Member] El Paso Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to El Paso Lease Agreement. Blockbuster Inc [Member] Represents details pertaining to Blockbuster, Inc. Blockbuster, Inc. Nagra Star LLC [Member] It represents the equity method investee of the entity. NagraStar Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement. Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement TiVovs Dish Network and Echostar Corporation [Member] TiVo vs Dish Network and EchoStar Corporation Represents information pertaining to legal proceedings of TiVo vs Dish Network and Echostar Corporation. Related Party Transactions Agreement Termination Required Notice Period from Related Party Minimum Related party transactions agreement termination required notice period from related party minimum. Minimum required notice period for termination of agreement by related party Related Party Transactions Required Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Required notice period for termination of agreement Represents the required notice period for termination of an agreement. Related Party Transactions Agreement Automatic Renewal Period Related party transactions agreement automatic renewal period. Automatic renewal period Related Party Transactions Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of agreement. Minimum notice period for termination of agreement Related Party Transactions Agreement Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity Related party transactions agreement termination notice required by reporting entity. Required notice period for termination by the reporting entity Agreement term Related party transactions agreement term. Related Party Transactions Agreement Term Related Party Transactions Agreement Term from Commencement of Service Date Agreement term from commencement of service date Related party transactions agreement term from commencement of service date. Related Party Transactions Agreement Maximum Number of Three Year Renewal Options Number of successive three year renewal options Related party transactions agreement maximum number of three year renewal options. Related Party Transactions Number of DBS Transponders Available Related party transactions number of DBS transponders available. Number of DBS transponders available to receive services Related Party Transactions Number of DBS Transponders Expected to Receive Services Related party transactions number of DBS transponders expected to receive services. Number of DBS transponders expected to receive services Related Party Transactions Number of DBS Transponders Used Number of DBS transponders currently used Related party transactions number of DBS transponders used. Set-top Boxes and Other Equipment Purchased from Related Party Set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from related party Set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from EchoStar Term of renewal option Related party transactions agreement renewal option term. Related Party Transactions Agreement Renewal Option Term Related Party Transactions Agreement Maximum, Number of One Year Renewal Options Number of successive one year renewal options Related party transactions agreement maximum number of one year renewal options. Related Party Transaction Expenses from Transactions with Related Party, Less Than Related party transaction expenses from transactions with related party, less than. Related party transaction expenses from transactions with related party, less than Accrued programming Accrued Liabilities, Current Accrued programming Related Party Transaction Aggregate Payments to Third Party by Related Parties under Extension Option Payments to third party by related party under extension option Related party transaction aggregate payments to third party by related parties under extension option. Related Party Transaction Expenses Capitalized from Transactions with Related Party Capitalized expenses Capitalized expenses resulting from transactions (excluding transactions that are eliminated in consolidated or combined financial statements) with related party. Contribution from Related Party for Initial Settlement Contribution from related party for initial settlement Contribution from related party Litigation Settlement Number of Annual Installments Litigation settlement number of annual installments Litigation settlement number of annual installments. Loss Contingency Settlement Agreement Consideration Percentage to be Made by Related Party Represents the percentage of litigation settlement amount to be made by related party. Percentage of litigation settlement amount to be made by related party Related Party Transactions Agreement Term, Maximum Related party transactions agreement term maximum. Agreement term, maximum 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 Related Party Transactions Fair Value of Rights Fair value of rights assigned Related party transactions fair value of rights. Related Party Transactions Recorded Value of Rights Recorded value of rights assigned Related party transactions recorded value of rights. Related Party Transactions Rights Excess Amount Paid Excess of paid amount over recorded amount of rights assigned Related party transactions rights excess amount paid. Investment Securities Fair Value Election Investment securities - fair value election (Note 5) Investment securities fair value election. Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings - fair value election Issuance of Class Common Stock [Abstract] Issuance of Class A common stock: Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection Purchase of Launch Service Capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with launch service, net of tax of $5,280 (Note 20) Capital distribution to the related party in connection with launch service, net of tax. Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection Purchase of Strategic Investments Capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax of $2,895 (Note 20) Capital distribution to the related party in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax. Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection with Spin-off Capital distribution to EchoStar in connection with the Spin-off Capital distribution to the related party in connection with the Spin-off. Tax on Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection Purchase of Launch Service Tax on capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with launch service Tax on capital distribution to the related party in connection with the purchase of launch service. Tax on Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection Purchase of Strategic Investments Tax on capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with purchases of strategic investments Tax on capital distribution to the related party in connection with the purchases of strategic investments. Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes Furniture Fixtures Equipment and Other [Member] Represents the information pertaining to furniture, fixtures, equipment and other. Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Construction in Progress by Type [Axis] Construction in progress by type. Construction in Progress by Type [Domain] Construction in progress by type. Satellite Construction [Member] Satellite construction costs, including certain amounts prepaid under satellite service agreements and launch costs. Progress amounts for satellite construction costs, including certain amounts prepaid under satellite service agreements and launch costs Business Acquisition Winning Bid in Bankruptcy Court Auction Value of winning bid in bankruptcy court auction Business acquisition winning bid in bankruptcy court auction. Business Acquisition Cost of Acquired Entity Purchase Price Before Refund from Escrow Purchase price before refund from escrow Business acquisition cost of acquired entity purchase price before refund from escrow. Business Acquisition Escrow for Potential Contingencies Escrow for certain potential contingencies Business acquisition escrow for potential contingencies. Business Acquisition Cost of Acquired Entity Refund from Escrow Refund from escrow Business acquisition cost of acquired entity refund from escrow. Represents the revenue contributed by the acquiree entity from acquisition date. Business Acquisition, Post Acquisition Revenue Reported by Acquired Entity Revenue contributed by the acquiree entity from acquisition date Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments, balance at beginning of period, net Foreign currency translation adjustments, balance at end of period, net Business Acquisition, Post Acquisition, Net Income Reported by Acquired Entity Net income contributed by the acquiree entity from acquisition date Represents the net income contributed by the acquiree entity from acquisition date. Business Acquisition, Number of Stores Operated by Acquiree Entity Number of retail stores operated by the acquiree entity Represents the number of retail stores operated by the acquiree entity. Business Acquisition, Number of Stores Operated by Acquiree Entity Expected to be Closed Number of retail stores operated by the acquiree entity, expected to be closed during first quarter of 2012 Represents the number of retail stores operated by the acquiree entity, expected to be closed. Business Acquisition, Minimum Number of Retail Store Leases with Early Termination Rights Minimum retail store leases with early termination rights Represents the minimum number of retail store leases, acquired in a business combination, with early termination rights. Note Payable 8.00 Percent for Echo Star VII Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 13 Years from Launch [Member] Represents details pertaining to 8% note payable for EchoStar VII satellite vendor financing, payable over 13 years from launch. 8% note payable for EchoStar VII satellite vendor financing, payable over 13 years from launch Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star X Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar X satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. 6% note payable for EchoStar X satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star XI Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar XI satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. 6% note payable for EchoStar XI satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star XIV Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar XIV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. 6% note payable for EchoStar XIV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star XV Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar XV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. 6% note payable for EchoStar XV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch Mortgages and Other Unsecured Notes Payable [Member] Represents details pertaining to mortgages and other unsecured notes payable due in installments through 2017 with interest rates ranging from approximately 2% to 13%. Mortgages and other unsecured notes payable due in installments through 2017 with interest rates ranging from approximately 2% to 13% Total Other debt and capital lease obligations. Other Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Less current portion Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations current. Other Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Current Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations net of current portion. Other Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Net of Current Portion Debt Instrument Term Term of debt instrument Debt instrument term. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Capital Leased Assets [Axis] Represents the information categorized by the capital leased assets. Represents the information related to the capital leased assets. Capital Leased Assets [Domain] Fss Satellite Ani kF 3 [Member] Represents Anki F3, an FSS satellite. FSS Satellite Anik F3 Canadi and bs Satellite Ciel II [Member] Represents Ciel II, a Canadian DBS satellite. Canadian DBS Satellite Ciel II Ku-band capacity leased (as a percent) Percentage of Ku-band capacity leased. Percentage of Ku Band Capacity Leased Term of capital lease Capital lease term. Capital Lease Term Satellite capacity leased (as a percent) Percentage of satellite capacity leased. Percentage of Satellite Capacity Leased Initial Term of capital lease Capital lease initial term. Capital Lease Initial Term Less: Amount representing lease of the orbital location and estimated executory costs (primarily insurance and maintenance) including profit thereon, included in total minimum lease payments Capital leases future minimum payments executory costs and orbital location lease. Capital Leases Future, Minimum Payments executory Costs and Orbital Location Lease DISH DBS Corporation [Member] Represents a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. DISH DBS Corporation ("DDBS") Long-term Debt Redemption Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Percentage of principal amount at which the entity may redeem some or all of the notes at any time (as a percent) Long term debt redemption price as percentage of principal amount. Debt Repurchase Price Percentage in Event of Change of Control Percentage of principal amount at which notes may be required to be repurchased in event of change of control (as a percent) Debt repurchase price percentage in event of change of control. Long term debt issue price as percentage of principal amount. Debt instrument issuance as a percentage of the face amount Long-term Debt Issue Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated net unrealized gains (losses) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Long-term Debt Redemption with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes with net proceeds of certain equity offerings or capital contributions Long term debt redemption with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount. Long-term Debt Redemption Prior to June 15 2015 Price with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Redemption price as a percentage of principal amount with the net cash proceeds of equity offerings or capital contributions before June15, 2014 Long term debt redemption prior to June 15 2015 price with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated net unrealized gains, net of tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Unrealized / Recognized Gains (Losses), balance at beginning of period, net Unrealized / Recognized Gains (Losses), balance at end of period, net Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes redeemable before May 31, 2011 with net cash proceeds of certain equity offerings or capital contributions Long term debt redemption prior to May 31, 2011 with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount. Long-term Debt Redemption Prior to 31 May 2011 with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Debt Instrument, Redemption Period [Axis] The periods over which the redemption price is in effect. Debt Instrument, Redemption Period [Domain] The period over which the redemption price is in effect. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at beginning of period, net Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at end of period, net Redemption Prior to September 1, 2012 Debt Instrument, Redemption Period Prior to September 2012 [Member] The period prior to September 1, 2012. Redemption Prior to June 15, 2014 Debt Instrument, Redemption Period Prior to June 2014 [Member] The period prior to June 15, 2014. Debt Instrument, Redemption Period Prior to July 2015 [Member] The period prior to July 15, 2015. Redemption Prior to July 15, 2015 Foreign Tax Credits and Net Operating Loss Carry Forwards Tax benefits related to foreign tax credits and net operating loss carryforwards Foreign tax credits and net operating loss carryforwards. Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Tax Credit and Other Carryforwards NOL, credit and other carryforwards Deferred tax assets operating loss tax credit and other carryforwards. Deferred Tax Assets Unrealized Losses on Investments Deferred tax assets unrealized losses on investments. Unrealized losses on investments Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax asset after valuation allowance Deferred tax assets net of valuation allowance. Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Long-term Liabilities The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects arising from unrealized gain on items included in other long-term liabilities which will increase future taxable income when such gain is realized. Other long-term liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, State Taxes, Net of Federal Effect State taxes net of federal effect The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects attributable to differences between the methods used to account for state taxes net of federal effect, for tax purposes and under generally accepted accounting principles which will increase future taxable income when such differences reverse. Common Stock Convertible into Number of Shares of Class A Common Stock Number of shares of Class A common stock into which each share of common stock is convertible Common stock convertible into number of shares of Class A common stock. Acquired intangible assets, average finite useful life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Common Stock Voting Rights in Event of Change of Control Votes per share in the event of change of control Common stock voting rights in event of change of control. Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Abstract] Employee Stock Purchase Plan Number of shares authorized to be issued under Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Number of Shares Authorized Employee Stock Purchase Plan number of shares authorized. Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Number of Shares Available for Grant Employee Stock Purchase Plan number of shares available for grant. Number of shares that remain available for issuance under ESPP Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Minimum Requisite Service Period Minimum number of calendar quarters to be employed for full-time employees to be eligible to participate in the ESPP Employee Stock Purchase Plan minimum requisite service period. Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Maximum Fair Value of Common Stock, Permitted to be Purchased Per Annum Maximum fair value of capital stock permitted to be purchased by employees in any one year under ESPP Employee Stock Purchase Plan maximum fair value of common stock permitted to be purchased per annum. Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Purchase Price as Percentage of Closing Market Price Purchase price as percentage of closing market price on the last business day of each calendar quarter under ESPP Employee Stock Purchase Plan purchase price as percentage of closing market price. Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution as Percentage of Employee Voluntary Contribution Employer matching contribution as a percentage of voluntary employee contributions under 401(k) plan Defined contribution plan employer matching contribution as percentage of employee voluntary contribution. Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee Employer maximum annual contribution per employee under 401(k) plan Defined contribution plan employer maximum annual contribution per employee. Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized [Abstract] Expense recognized related to 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan, matching Contribution, Net of Forfeiture Matching contributions, net of forfeitures, under 401(k) plan Defined contribution plan matching contribution net of forfeitures. Defined Contribution Plan, Discretionary Stock Contribution Net of Forfeiture Discretionary stock contributions, net of forfeitures, under 401(k) plan Defined contribution plan discretionary stock contribution net of forfeiture. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 00.00 to 10.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 0.00 dollars to10.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $00.00 - $10.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 10.01 to 15.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 10.01 dollars to15.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $10.01 - $15.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 15.01 to 20.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 15.01 dollars to 20.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $15.01 - $20.00 Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Additional paid-in capital Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 20.01 to 25.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 20.01 dollars to 25.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $20.01 - $25.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 25.01 to 30.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 25.01 dollars to 30.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $25.01 - $30.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 30.01 to 35.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 30.01 dollars to 35.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $30.01 - $35.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 35.01 to 40.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 35.01 dollars to 40.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $35.01 - $40.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 00.00 to 40.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 00.00 dollars to 40.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $00.00 - $40.00 Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Table Text Block] Summary of activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts Schedule of valuation and qualifying accounts. Schedule of future maturities of long-term debt, capital lease and contractual obligations Schedule of future maturities of contractual obligations. Schedule of Future Maturities of Contractual Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Commitments [Table] Represents the details of commitments of the entity as at the reporting date. Contractual Obligations, Type [Axis] Information pertaining to the future maturities of contractual obligations of the entity. Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital 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. Satellite Related Obligation [Member] Represents the information relating to satellite-related obligations of the entity. Satellite-related obligations Schedule of Commitments [Line Items] Commitments Programming Contracts Term Term of programming contracts Programming contracts term. Number of Satellites Agreed to Lease under Construction Number of satellites agreed to lease under construction Number of satellites agreed to lease under construction. Expected Future Payment of Acquisition Cost Expected future payment of acquisition cost Expected future payment of acquisition cost. Contractual Obligations, Repayments [Abstract] Aggregate commitment under new leases Contractual Obligations, Repayments Remainder of Fiscal Year 2011 Contractual obligations repayments remainder of fiscal year. Contractual Obligations, Repayments after Fourth Full Fiscal Year Thereafter Contractual obligations repayments after fourth full fiscal year. Capital Leases Future Minimum Payments Due Current Fiscal Year Aggregate commitment under new leases to be paid in 2011 Represents the contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization, due within the current fiscal year. Long-term Purchase Commitment [Member] Represents the information pertaining to purchases obligations of the entity. Purchase Obligations Schedule of Future Maturities of Contractual Obligations [Table] Tabular disclosure of the aggregate amount of maturities of long-term borrowings including capital lease obligations for each of the five years and thereafter following the date of the latest balance sheet date presented. Contractual Obligations [Line Items] Commitment and Contingencies Contractual Obligation Due Remainder of Fiscal Year 2012 Amount of required minimum rental payments maturing in the remainder of the fiscal year following the latest fiscal year ended for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year. North America [Member] Represents the information about the North American location of the entity. North America All Other Geographical Segment [Member] Represents the information pertaining to all geographical segments of the entity other than North America. All other. Launch Service Assigned from Related Party Noncash Launch service assigned from related party, non-cash. Launch service assigned from EchoStar (Note 20) Bonus depreciation deduction as percentage of qualified capital expenditures. Bonus Depreciation Deduction as Percentage of Qualified Capital Expenditures Bonus depreciation deduction as a percentage of qualified capital expenditures Decrease in Income Taxes Paid Decrease in cash paid for income taxes Represents the amount of decrease in cash outflow for income taxes paid, as compared to the previous year. Expected Bonus Deduction in Depreciation as Percentage of Qualified Capital Expenditures Expected bonus depreciation deduction as a percentage of qualified capital expenditures in 2012 Expected bonus deduction in depreciation as percentage of qualified capital expenditures. 700 MHz Wireless Licenses Seven Hundred MHz Wireless, Licenses [Text Block] The entire disclosure for all or part of the information related to intangible assets. 700 MHz Wireless Licenses Accounting Policies [Table] Summarization of the disclosures for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Accounting Policies [Line Items] Accounting policy disclosures Original Maturity Period Original maturity period. Original maturity period at the time of purchase by the entity for liquid investments classified as cash equivalents Useful Life of Rental Library Product The useful life of the rental library product. Useful life of rental library product Business Combination [Abstract] Business Combinations Long-term Deferred Revenue Distribution and Carriage Payments [Abstract] Long-Term Deferred Revenue, Distribution and Carriage Payments Deferred Upfront Payments Amortization Period Deferred upfront payments amortization period. Deferred upfront payment, amortization period Deferred subscriber fees deferral period. Period of deferral for the portion of subscriber fees that are deferred Deferred Subscriber Fees Deferral Period Deferred Subscriber Fees Amortization Period Period of amortization for the portion of subscriber fees that are deferred The amortization period for the portion of subscriber fees that are deferred. Length of time an investment has been in a continuous loss position in which the decline in value is considered as temporary Length of Time Investment Been in Continuous Loss Position Considered Temporary Length of time investment been in continuous loss position considered temporary. Length of Time Investment, Been in Continuous Loss Position Evaluated on Case by Case Basis The length of time an investment has been in a continuous loss position in which the decline in value would be evaluated on a case by case basis to determine if the decline in value is other-than-temporary Length of time investment been in continuous loss position evaluated on case by case basis. Length of Time Investment, Been in Continuous Loss Position to be Considered as Other than Temporary Length of time an investment has been in a continuous loss position in which the decline in value is considered other-than-temporary Length of time investment been in continuous loss position to be considered as other than temporary.