Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (64,727)	$ (25,154)	$ (127,518)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes, as appropriate:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(6,967)	(1,974)	(882)
Equity interest in investee’s other comprehensive loss	0	0	(841)
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities	0	0	28
Other changes in other comprehensive income	0	0	26
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes	(6,967)	(1,974)	(1,669)
Comprehensive net loss	(71,694)	(27,128)	(129,187)
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(421)	32	(734)
Comprehensive net loss attributable to ION	$ (72,115)	$ (27,096)	$ (129,921)