Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (6,386)	$ (7,102)	$ (11,782)	$ (17,165)
Other comprehensive income (loss) - foreign currency translation adjustments	297	(822)	(218)	(402)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	297	(822)	(218)	(402)
Comprehensive loss	(6,089)	(7,924)	(12,000)	(17,567)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(25)	(113)	(110)	(138)
Comprehensive loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	$ (6,114)	$ (8,037)	$ (12,110)	$ (17,705)