Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders - Summary of Net Loss Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	$ (6,419)	$ (7,222)	$ (11,909)	$ (17,308)
Preferred stock dividends on Series A convertible preferred stock		(11)		(11)
Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders	$ (6,419)	$ (7,233)	$ (11,909)	$ (17,319)

The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent.

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