Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 4,759	$ 8,903	$ (56)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax - Foreign currency translation adjustments	(437)	(801)	259
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(437)	(801)	259
Comprehensive income	4,322	8,102	203
Less comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(121)	(95)	5
Comprehensive income attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	$ 4,201	$ 8,007	$ 208