Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (23,226)	$ (12,999)	$ (4,525)
Other comprehensive income (loss) — Foreign currency translation adjustments	84	(529)	(728)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	84	(529)	(728)
Comprehensive loss	(23,142)	(13,528)	(5,253)
Less comprehensive (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(284)	(314)	(248)
Comprehensive loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	$ (23,426)	$ (13,842)	$ (5,501)