Goodwill, Regulatory Authorizations and Other Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Goodwill associated with various acquisitions
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 533,018	$ 6,457
Troppus acquisition		10,363
Hughes acquisition		516,198
Deferred tax adjustment	(12,025)
Contribution to DISH Digital	(6,457)
Impairment	(6,612)
Balance at the end of the period	507,924	533,018
EchoStar Technologies Business
Goodwill associated with various acquisitions
Balance at the beginning of the period	16,820	6,457
Troppus acquisition		10,363
Contribution to DISH Digital	(6,457)
Impairment	(6,612)
Balance at the end of the period	3,751	16,820
Hughes Business
Goodwill associated with various acquisitions
Balance at the beginning of the period	516,198
Hughes acquisition		516,198
Deferred tax adjustment	(12,025)
Balance at the end of the period	$ 504,173	$ 516,198