Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Research and Development
Research and Development Expense		$ 8	$ 10	$ 24	$ 34
Minimum
Property and Equipment
Estimated Useful Life				1 year
Revenue Recognition
Period of deferral for the portion of subscriber fees that are deferred				4 years
Maximum
Property and Equipment
Estimated Useful Life				40 years
Revenue Recognition
Period of deferral for the portion of subscriber fees that are deferred				5 years
Northstar Manager LLC
Variable Interest Entity
Number of years after wireless spectrum license is granted until put right vests				5 years
SNR Wireless Management LLC
Variable Interest Entity
Number of years after wireless spectrum license is granted until put right vests				5 years
Sling TV Holding L.L.C. | EchoStar
Accounting policy disclosures
Nonvoting Interest Prior To Share Exchange				10.00%
Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction | DISH Investors | EchoStar
Accounting policy disclosures
Preferred tracking stock issued by related party	6,290,499
Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction | DISH Investors | HSSC
Accounting policy disclosures
Preferred tracking stock issued by related party	81.128