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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting policy disclosures
Costs capitalized under the programs during the period		$ 49,000		$ 90,000
Amortization expense related to the programs		5,000		8,000
Total costs capitalized		96,000		96,000
Deferred taxes		2,217,077		2,217,077		$ 2,019,538
Research and Development
Research and development cost		$ 6,000	$ 9,000	$ 12,000	$ 16,000
Northstar Manager LLC \| Minimum
Variable Interest Entity
Number of years after wireless spectrum license is granted until put right vests				5 years
Northstar Manager LLC \| Maximum
Variable Interest Entity
Number of years after wireless spectrum license is granted until put right vests				6 years
SNR Wireless Management LLC \| Minimum
Variable Interest Entity
Number of years after wireless spectrum license is granted until put right vests				5 years
SNR Wireless Management LLC \| Maximum
Variable Interest Entity
Number of years after wireless spectrum license is granted until put right vests				6 years
Sling TV Holding L.L.C.
Accounting policy disclosures
Nonvoting Interest Prior To Share Exchange	10.00%
Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction \| DISH Investors \| EchoStar
Accounting policy disclosures
Preferred tracking stock issued by related party	6,290,499
Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction \| DISH Investors \| HSSC
Accounting policy disclosures
Preferred tracking stock issued by related party	81.128