Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (5,543)	$ (3,869)	$ (19,021)	$ (15,651)
Other comprehensive income (loss) - foreign currency translation adjustments	704	(561)	1,012	(779)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	704	(561)	1,012	(779)
Comprehensive loss	(4,839)	(4,430)	(18,009)	(16,430)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(15)	(133)	(153)	(243)
Comprehensive loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	$ (4,854)	$ (4,563)	$ (18,162)	$ (16,673)