Contracts-in-Process and Long-Term Receivables (Receivable Balances Related to Satellite Orbital Incentive Payments, Deferred Billings and Telesat Consulting Services Fee) (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	$ 364,114	$ 377,525
Less: current portion included in contracts-in-process	(15,838)	(14,837)
Long-term receivables	348,276	362,688
Long-term receivables classified as assets held for sale	(348,276)
Long-term receivables, as reported		362,688
Orbitals Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process	364,114	354,852
Deferred Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process		1,973
Telesat Consulting Services Receivable [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing receivables excluding unbilled contracts in process		$ 20,700