Contracts-In-Process and Long-Term Receivables (Receivable Balances Related To Satellite Orbital Incentive Payments, Deferred Billings And Telesat Consulting Services Fee) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	$ 102,250	$ 377,525
Less: current portion included in contracts-in-process	(34,917)	(14,837)
Long-term receivables	67,333	362,688
Orbitals Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process		354,852
Deferred Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process		1,973
Land Note [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	101,000
Telesat Notes Receivable For Consulting Services [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	$ 1,250	$ 20,700