Contracts-in-Process and Long-Term Receivables (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Schedule of receipts for long-term receivables
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	$ 391,670	$ 377,525
Less, current portion included in contracts-in-process	(17,124)	(14,837)
Long-term receivables	374,546	362,688
Long-term receivables classified as assets held for sale	(352,235)
Long-term receivables, as reported	22,311	362,688
Long-term receivables, as reported	22,311	362,688
Orbital Receivables [Member]
Schedule of receipts for long-term receivables
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	364,669	354,852
Deferred Receivables [Member]
Schedule of receipts for long-term receivables
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	4,690	1,973
Telesat Consulting Services Receivable [Member]
Schedule of receipts for long-term receivables
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	$ 22,311	$ 20,700