Investments in Affiliates (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Equity in net income of affiliates
Equity in net income of affiliates	$ (11,353)	$ 23,940	$ (4,484)	$ 70,186
Telesat Holdings Inc. [Member]
Equity in net income of affiliates
Equity in net income of affiliates	(8,855)	26,059	(1,475)	74,081
XTAR, LLC [Member]
Equity in net income of affiliates
Equity in net income of affiliates	(2,498)	(2,089)	(3,009)	(3,853)
Other [Member]
Equity in net income of affiliates
Equity in net income of affiliates		$ (30)		$ (42)