Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (5,396)	$ (10,063)
Other comprehensive income - Foreign currency translation adjustments	(515)	420
Other comprehensive income	(515)	420
Comprehensive loss	(5,911)	(9,643)
Less: Comprehensive (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(85)	(25)
Comprehensive loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	$ (5,996)	$ (9,668)