Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (3,301)	$ (2,077)
Other comprehensive income (loss) - Foreign currency translation adjustments	196	501
Other comprehensive income	196	501
Comprehensive loss	(3,105)	(1,576)
Less: Comprehensive (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(36)	(6)
Comprehensive loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	$ (3,141)	$ (1,582)