Contracts-In-Process And Long-Term Receivables (Schedule Of Receipts For Long-Term Receivables) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Long Term Receivables Collection Schedule [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	$ 382,882	$ 377,525
Less, current portion included in contracts-in-process	(15,923)	(14,837)
Long-term receivables	366,959	362,688
Orbital Receivables [Member]
Long Term Receivables Collection Schedule [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	353,513	354,852
Deferred Receivables [Member]
Long Term Receivables Collection Schedule [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	8,669	1,973
Telesat Consulting Services Receivable [Member]
Long Term Receivables Collection Schedule [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	$ 20,700	$ 20,700