Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows
Cash paid for interest	$ 765,510	$ 793,506	$ 878,772
Cash received for interest	30,041	6,043	9,855
Cash paid for income taxes	19,485	18,683	29,961
Cash paid for income taxes to DISH Network	245,028	302,329	408,265
Capitalized interest	440	$ 1,071	$ 481
Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction with EchoStar:
Satellite and Spectrum Transaction, deferred taxes	$ 29,075