Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012
Depreciation and amortization expense
Amount of interest capitalized	$ 35,290
Depreciation and amortization expense	234,327	208,698
Equipment leased to customers
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation and amortization expense	167,212	152,443
DBS Satellites
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation and amortization expense	33,866	33,837
Number of satellites utilized in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator	13
Owned Satellites	6
Number of satellites utilized under operating lease	5
Number of satellites utilized under capital lease	2
Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation and amortization expense	33,249	22,418
Wireless spectrum capitalized interest
Depreciation and amortization expense
Amount of interest capitalized	$ 35,000	$ 0