Investments in Affiliates (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jan. 01, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Investments in affiliates		$ 94,406		$ 94,406		$ 24,574
Proportionate share of Telesat Holdco other comprehensive income (loss), Before-Tax Amount		$ (6,861)	$ 532	$ (13,450)	$ 9,309
Telesat Canada [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Economic interest in affiliate		62.70%		62.70%
Voting interest in affiliate		32.60%		32.60%
Investments in affiliates		$ 94,406		$ 94,406		24,574
Operating lease right of use asset	$ 19,600
Operating lease liability	$ 20,000
Proportionate share of Telesat Holdco other comprehensive income (loss), Before-Tax Amount				(13,500)
Consulting fees payable in cash				5,000
XTAR, LLC [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Investments in affiliates		$ 0		$ 0		0
Percentage of ownership interest		56.00%		56.00%
Globalstar do Brasil S.A. [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Investments in affiliates		$ 0		$ 0		$ 0
Equity Method Investment Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] | Telesat Canada [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Minimum total leverage ratio		4.50		4.50
Minimum total leverage ratio to incur debt and make payments		4.75		4.75