Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Multi-client data creation
Gross costs of multi-client data creation	$ 689,464	$ 545,836
Less accumulated amortization	(459,149)	(370,068)
Total	$ 230,315	$ 175,768

Capitalized costs directly incurred in acquiring and processing of seismic surveys that are licensed on a nonexclusive basis, net of amortization.

No definition available.

Name:	io_MultiClientDataLibraryNet
Namespace Prefix:	io_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant