Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Table Text Block] Construction in progress. Summary of orbiting satellites Summary of Orbiting Satellites [Table Text Block] Summary of orbiting satellites. Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] 8.75% Senior Notes due 2015 [Member] Eight Point Seven Five Percent Senior Notes Two Thousand Fifteen [Member] Eight point seven five percent senior notes two thousand fifteen. 9.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2015 [Member] Nine Point Seven Five Percent Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Fifteen [Member] Nine point seven five percent senior notes due two thousand fifteen. 13% Senior Notes due 2013 [Member] Thirteen Percent Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Thirteen [Member] Thirteen percent senior notes due two thousand thirteen. 7% Exchangeable Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 [Member] Seven Percent Exchangeable Senior Subordinated Notes Due Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] even percent exchangeable senior subordinated notes due two thousand fourteen. 7.625% Senior Notes due 2018 [Member] Seven Point Six Two Five Percent Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Eighteen [Member] Seven point six two five percent senior notes due two thousand eighteen. 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2011 [Member] Three Point Two Five Percent Convertible Notes Due Two Thousand Eleven [Member] Three point two five percent convertible notes due two thousand eleven. 11.25% Senior Secured Notes due 2013 [Member] Eleven Point Two Five Percent Senior Secured Notes Due Two Thousand Thirteen [Member] Eleven point two five percent senior secured notes due two thousand thirteen. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] Conversion price per share (in dollars per share) Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt carrying value Long-term Debt, Gross Less: discounts Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Other debt: Other Long-term Debt [Abstract] Capital leases Capital Lease Obligations Total debt Long-term Debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Total long-term Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Related party long-term debt Long-term Related Party Debt Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all related party long-term debt, which is debt initially having maturities due after one year from the balance sheet date or beyond the operating cycle, if longer, but excluding the portions thereof scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer plus capital lease obligations due to be paid more than one year after the balance sheet date. Total long-term, excluding related party Long-term Debt Excluding Related Party Debt Long term debt excluding related party debt. Subscriber Revenue [Abstract] Subscriber Revenue. Subscriber Revenue Subscriber Revenue [Table Text Block] Subscriber Revenue. Income Statement [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Revenue: Revenues [Abstract] Subscriber revenue Subscription Revenue Advertising revenue, net of agency fees Advertising Revenue Equipment revenue Equipment Revenue Revenue and royalties from the sale of radios, components and accessories. Other revenue Other Revenue, Net Total revenue Revenue, Net Operating expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of services: Cost of Goods and Services Sold [Abstract] Revenue share and royalties Revenue Share and Royalties Distribution and content provider revenue share, residuals and broadcast and web streaming royalties. Programming and content Programming and Content Costs to acquire, create and produce content and on-air talent costs. Customer service and billing Customer Service and Billing Customer service and billing expenses include costs associated with the operation of our customer service centers and subscriber management systems as well as bad debt expense. Satellite and transmission Satellite and Transmission Costs associated with the operation and maintenance of our satellites; satellite telemetry, tracking and control system; terrestrial repeater network; satellite uplink facility; and broadcast studios. Cost of equipment Cost of Goods Sold Subscriber acquisition costs Subscriber Acquisition Costs Hardware subsidies paid to radio manufacturers, distributors and automakers, including subsidies paid to automakers who include a radio and a prepaid subscription to our service in the sale or lease price of a new vehicle; subsidies paid for chip sets and certain other components used in manufacturing radios; commissions paid to retailers and automakers as incentives to purchase, install and activate radios; product warranty obligations; provisions for inventory allowance; and compensation costs associated with stock-based awards granted in connection with certain distribution agreements. Sales and marketing Selling and Marketing Expense Engineering, design and development Technology Services Costs General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Total operating expenses Costs and Expenses Income from operations Operating Income (Loss) Other income (expense): Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized Interest Expense Loss on extinguishment of debt and credit facilities, net Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Interest and investment loss Interest and Investment Income Loss Interest and Investment income (loss). Other (loss) income Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other expense Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income before income taxes Income Loss before Income Taxes Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes. Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Net income per common share: Basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted average common shares outstanding: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Subscriber Revenue Subscriber Revenue Disclosure [Text Block] Description of subscription fees, revenue derived from our agreements with daily rental fleet operators, non-refundable activation and other fees and the effect of rebates. Common stock equivalents (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Number of satellite radio systems (in line) Number of Satellite Radio Systems Number of Satellite radio systems. Length of prepaid subscriptions, term (in years) Length of Prepaid Subscriptions, term Length of Prepaid Subscriptions, term Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Non-cash interest expense, net of amortization of premium Paid-in-Kind Interest Provision for doubtful accounts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Amortization of deferred income related to equity method investment Recognition of Deferred Revenue Loss on extinguishment of debt and credit facilities, net Loss on unconsolidated entity investments, net Loss on equity investments Loss on equity investments. Loss on disposal of assets Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Share-based payment expense Share-Based Payment Expense to Employees and Non Employees Share-Based Payment Expense to Employees and Non Employees Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other non-cash purchase price adjustments Other Non Cash Purchase Price Adjustments Other non-cash purchase price adjustments Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Receivables from distributors Increase (Decrease) in Other Receivables Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Related party assets Increase Decrease in Due from Related Party The aggregate net change during the reporting period in the amount due from the following types of related parties: a parent company and its subsidiaries; subsidiaries of a common parent; an entity and trust for the benefit of employees, such as pension and profit-sharing trusts that are managed by or under the trusteeship of the entity's management; an entity and its principal owners, management, or member of their immediate families, affiliates, or other parties with the ability to exert significant influence. Prepaid expenses and other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Other long-term assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable and accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accrued interest Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net Deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Related party liabilities Increase Decrease in Due to Related Party The net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of obligations to be paid to the following types of related parties: a parent company and its subsidiaries; subsidiaries of a common parent; an entity and trust for the benefit of employees, such as pension and profit-sharing trusts that are managed by or under the trusteeship of the entities' management; an entity and its principal owners, management, or member of their immediate families, affiliates, or other parties with the ability to exert significant influence. Other long-term liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Additions to property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Payment of premiums on redemption of debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Other Long-term Debt Repayment of long-term borrowings Repayments of Long-term Debt Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net decrease cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental Disclosure of Cash and Non-Cash Flow Information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid during the period for: Interest Paid [Abstract] Interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Non-cash financing activities: Other Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract] Common stock issuance upon exercise of warrants Common Stock Issuance upon Exercise of Warrants Common stock issuance upon exercise of warrants. Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Liberty Media [Member] Liberty Media [Member] Liberty Party. SIRIUS XM Canada [Member] Sirius XM Canada [Member] SIRIUS XM Canada. SIRIUS Canada [Member] Sirius Canada [Member] Sirius Canada. XM Canada [Member] XM Canada [Member] XM Canada. Series B Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Preferred Stock [Member] 8% Convertible Unsecured Subordinated Debentures [Member] Eight Percent Convertible Unsecured Subordinated Debentures [Member] Eight Percent Convertible Unsecured Subordinated Debentures. Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transactions (Textual) [Abstract] Related Party Transactions (Textual) [Abstract] Related party transactions. Issuance of Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, liquidation preference (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Number of shares of common stock into which Series B Preferred Stock is convertible (in shares) Number of Shares of Common Stock into which Preferred Stock is Convertible Number of shares of common stock into which Series B Preferred Stock is convertible. Accrued interest with Liberty Media to related party current liabilities Interest Payable, Current Interest expense Class A shares received from Sirius XM Canada (in shares) Equity Method Investment Approximate Number of Shares Equity method investment approximate number of shares. Economic interest related parties Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Voting interest Equity Method Investment Voting Interest Equity method investment voting interest. Non interest bearing note issued by CSR Non Interest Bearing Notes Received in Exchange of Preferred Stock Non interest bearing notes received in exchange of preferred stock. Face value of 8% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures (in CAD) Eight Percent Convertible Unsecured Subordinated Debentures Eight percent convertible unsecured subordinated debentures. Interest rate on instrument Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Carrying values of the host contract Carrying Values of Host Contract Carrying values of host contract. Carrying values of embedded derivative related to investment in debentures Carrying values of embedded derivative related to investment in debentures Carrying values of embedded derivative related to investment in debentures. Investment Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investment Goodwill and Intangible Assets Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Amounts due for chip sets and other services Due From Related Parties Chip Sets and Other Services Due from related parties chip sets and other services. Deferred programming costs and accrued interest attributable to Related party Deferred Programming Costs and Accrued Interest Related Deferred programming costs and accrued interest related. Deferred programming costs and accrued interest due from related parties reported as Related party long-term assets Deferred Programming Costs And Accrued Interest Due From Related Party Reported As Related Party Long Term Assets Deferred programming costs and accrued interest due from related parties reported as Related party long-term assets. Other related party current liability Other Related Party Current Liability Other related party current liability The Company's share or related party net income (loss) Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Amortization expense related to equity method intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Royalty percentage of gross revenue minimum Royalty Percentage in Gross Revenue Minimum Royalty percentage in gross revenue minimum. Royalty percentage of gross revenue maximum Royalty Percentage in Gross Revenue Maximum Royalty percentage in gross revenue maximum. Costs that have been or will be reimbursed by Sirius Canada Costs that have been reimbursed Costs that have been reimbursed Payment received from related party in excess of carrying value Payment Received from Related Party in Excess of Carrying Value Payment received from related party in excess of carrying value. Initial agreement period with XM Canada Initial agreement period Initial agreement period with XM Canada. Number of additional years XM Canada has to extend the agreements under unilateral option Number of additional years to extend the agreements under unilateral option Number of additional years to extend the agreements under unilateral option. Term of Obligation of XM Canada for the rights to broadcast and market the National Hockey League Term of Obligation of related party towards company for the rights to broadcast and market Term of obligation of related party towards company for the rights to broadcast and market. Royalty for all subscriber fees earned by related party Royalty for All Subscriber Fees Earned by Related Party Royalty for all subscriber fees earned by related party. Obligation of XM Canada to pay us for the rights to broadcast and market National Hockey League games Obligation of related party towards company for the rights to broadcast and market Obligation of related party towards company for the rights to broadcast and market. Estimated fair value of deferred revenue from XM Canada Estimated Fair Value of Deferred Revenue from Related Party Estimated fair value of deferred revenue from related party. Carrying value of deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Credit facility extended to XM Canada (in CAD) Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Amount received as settlement for the standby credit facility Amount Received as Settlement for the Standby Credit Facility Amount received as settlement for the standby credit facility. Valuation allowance related to absorption of our share of net loss from our investment in XM Canada Valuation Allowance on Credit Facility Valuation allowance on credit facility. Earnings per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Repayment of Debt [Member] Repayment of Debt [Member] Thirteen Percent Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Thirteen [Member] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] FM-5, XM-5, XM-4 and XM-3 [Member] FM Five XM Five XM Four and XM Three [Member] FM-5, XM-5, XM-4 and XM-3. Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments and Contingencies (Textual) [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies (Textual) [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies. Principal balance repaid Debt Instrument, Decrease, Repayments Number of days in the event within which certain new products are not shipped by a distributor to a customer Agreement to Repurchase of Certain Products Shipped to Distributor from Date of Shipment Agreement to repurchase of certain products shipped to distributor from date of shipment. Accrual related to contingent performance payments for XM-3 and XM-4 Accrued Amount Related to Contingent in Orbit Performance Payments for Satellites Accrual related to contingent in-orbit performance payments for XM-3 and XM-4. Operating performance over design life Satellite Expected Operating Performance over Design Life Satellite expected operating performance over design life. Additional payments required if XM-4 continues to operate above baseline specifications Additional Expenses if Subsidiaries Four Continues to Operative Above Base Line Specifications Additional payments required if XM-4 continues to operate above baseline specifications during the five years beyond the satellite's fifteen-year design life. Period beyond expected operating performance of design life for XM-4 Period Beyond Expected Operating Performance of Design Life Period beyond expected operating performance of design life. Accrual related to contingent performance for FM-5 Accrual Related to Contingent Performance for Satellite Five Accrual related to contingent performance payments for FM-5. Accrual related to contingent performance for XM-5 Accrual Related to Contingent Performance for Subsidiaries Five Accrual related to contingent performance payments for XM-5. Operating lease term, minimum (in years) Operating Lease Term, Minimum Operating Lease Term, Minimum Operating lease term, maximum (in years) Operating Lease Term, Maximum Operating Lease Term, Maximum Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Fair value of options granted to employees Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Stock options activity under share-based payment plans Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of nonvested restricted stock and restricted stock unit activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] FCC Licenses [Member] FCC Licenses [Member] FCC Licenses [Member] Licensing Agreements [Member] Licensing Agreements [Member] Trademarks [Member] Trademarks [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Subscriber relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Proprietary software [Member] Patented Technology [Member] Developed technology [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Leasehold interests [Member] Lease Agreements [Member] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items] Summary of indefinite life intangible assets Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Gross carrying value Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Gross Excluding Goodwill Indefinite lived intangible assets gross excluding goodwill. Net carrying value Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Summary of definite life intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Abstract] Weighted average useful lives (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life Gross carrying value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net carrying value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Total intangible assets, Gross carrying value Intangible Assets Gross Excluding Goodwill Intangible assets gross excluding goodwill. Total intangible assets, Net carrying value Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Earnings per Share anti diluted Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract] Effect of assumed conversions Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share Net income and assumed conversions Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Average common shares outstanding-basic (in shares) Dilutive effect of equity instruments (in shares) Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Average common shares outstanding-diluted (in shares) Net income per common share Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Series A Convertible Preferred Stock Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series B-1 Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Undesignated preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Summary of Related party long term debt Summary of Related party long term debt [Abstract] Summary of related party long term debt. Total principal debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount Less: discounts Related party long-term debt Summary of Related Party Balances Summary of Related Party Transaction [Table Text Block] Summary of related party transaction. Summary of Related Party Long Term Debt Summary of Related Party Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Summary of related party long term debt. Revenue from Related Party Transactions Revenue from Related Party [Table Text Block] Revenue from related party. Revenue from SIRIUS XM Canada Revenue from Related Party Other [Abstract] Revenue from SIRIUS XM Canada. Royalty income Royalty Revenue Amortization of Sirius XM Canada deferred Income Deferred Revenue, Revenue Recognized Licensing fee revenue Licenses Revenue Advertising reimbursements Advertising Reimbursements Advertising reimbursements. Total revenue from related party Related Party Transaction, Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] SIRIUS FM-1 satellite [Member] Sirius Fm One Satellite [Member] SIRIUS FM-1 satellite. SIRIUS FM-2 satellite [Member] Sirius Fm Two Satellite [Member] SIRIUS FM-2 satellite. SIRIUS FM-3 satellite [Member] Sirius Fm Three satellite [Member] SIRIUS FM-3 satellite. SIRIUS FM-5 satellite [Member] Sirius Fm Five satellite [Member] SIRIUS FM-5 satellite. XM-1 satellite [Member] XM One satellite [Member] XM-1 satellite. XM-2 satellite [Member] XM Two satellite [Member] XM-2 satellite. XM-3 satellite [Member] XM Three Satellite [Member] XM-3 satellite. XM-4 satellite [Member] XM Four satellite [Member] XM-4 satellite. XM-5 satellite [Member] XM Five satellite [Member] XM-5 satellite. Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Summary of orbiting satellites Summary of Orbiting Satellites [Abstract] Summary of orbiting satellites. Orbiting satellites, year delivered Orbiting Satellites, Year Delivered Orbiting satellites, year delivered Orbiting satellites, estimated end of depreciable life Orbiting Satellites, Estimated End of Depreciable Life Orbiting satellites, estimated end of depreciable life. Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Secured Notes Secured Notes [Member] Secured notes. 2.5% Convertible Notes due 2009 Two Point Five Percent Convertible Notes Due Two Thousand Nine [Member] Two Point Five Percent Convertible Notes Due 2009. Stated Interest Summary of intangible assets Summary of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Summary of Intangible Assets. Years in which each of our licenses expires Years in which Licenses Expires [Table Text Block] Years in which licenses expires. Expected amortization expense for each of the fiscal years Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventory, net Inventory, Net [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods Allowance for obsolescence Inventory Valuation Reserves Total inventory, net Inventory, Net Impairment loss for goodwill Goodwill, Impairment Loss Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Balances Related Party Transaction [Abstract] Related party transaction. Related party current assets Due from Related Parties, Current Related party long-term assets Due from Related Parties, Noncurrent Related party current liabilities Due to Related Parties, Current Related party long-term liabilities Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Accounting Policies [Abstract] Total debt Fair value approximated Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustment, tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax Receivables [Abstract] Accounts Receivable, net Financing Receivables [Text Block] Interest Costs Disclosure [Abstract] Interest costs. Interest Costs Interest Costs [Table Text Block] Interest Costs. Schedule of Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] SIRIUS FM 4 satellite [Member] Sirius Fm Four Satellite [Member] Sirius Fm Four Satellite. SIRIUS FM-6 satellite [Member] Sirius Fm Six Satellite [Member] SIRIUS FM-6 satellite. Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items] Years in which licenses expires Years in Which Licenses Expires [Abstract] Years in which licenses expires. Year in which our FCC license expires FCC License Expiration Years FCC license expiration years. Intangible Assets (Textual) [Abstract] Intangible Assets (Textual) [Abstract] Intangible Assets. Expected FCC license expiration term (in years) Expected FCC License Expiration Term from Date of Launch Expected FCC License Expiration Term from Date of Launch Interest Costs Interest Costs Disclosure [Text Block] Description of interest costs incurred. Inventory, net Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Principal balance repaid inclusive of accrued interest Fair value of options granted to employees Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected life of options - years (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Expected stock price volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Manufacturing Company [Axis] Manufacturing Company [Axis] Manufacturing Company [Axis] Manufacturing Company [Domain] Manufacturing Company [Domain] Boeing Satellite Systems International [Member] Boeing Satellite Systems International [Member] Boeing Satellite Systems International [Member] Space Systems/Loral [Member] Space Systems Loral [Member] Space Systems Loral [Member] Sirius system [Member] Sirius system [Member] Sirius system [Member] XM system [Member] XM system [Member] XM system [Member] Property and equipment (Textual) [Abstract] Property and Equipment (Textual) [Abstract] Property and equipment. Depreciation and amortization expense on property and equipment Depreciation Number of owned satellites (in satellites) Number of Owned Satellites Number of owned satellites. Capitalized expenditures, including interest Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Goodwill Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Interest Cost Interest Cost [Abstract] Interest Cost. Interest costs charged to expense Interest costs capitalized Interest Costs, Capitalized During Period Total interest costs incurred Interest Costs Incurred Interest Costs (Textual) [Abstract] Interest Costs (Textual) [Abstract] Interest costs. Non cash interest expense included in interest costs Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Employees and Members of the Board of Directors [Member] Employees and Members of the Board of Directors [Member] Employees and Members of the Board of Directors [Member] Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Sirius XM Savings Plan [Member] Sirius XM Plan [Member] Sirius XM Plan. Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member] Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member] Restricted stock and restricted stock units RSU. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units RSU and Stock Options [Member] Restricted Stock Units RSU and Stock Options [Member] Restricted stock units RSU and stock options. Profit Sharing [Member] Profit Sharing [Member] Profit Sharing. Third Parties [Member] Third Parties [Member] Third parties. Benefits Plans (Textual) [Abstract] Benefits Plans (Textual) [Abstract] Benefits Plans. Share-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Stock-based awards expiration term (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award expire term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award expire term Common stock available for future grants (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Number of other share-based benefit plans (in plans) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of share-based benefit plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of share-based benefit plans Granted, options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Total Intrinsic value of stock options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock units granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Total intrinsic value of restricted stock and restricted stock units that vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Vested in Period Intrinsic Values The intrinsic value of equity-based payment equity instruments, excluding stock or unit options, granted during the reporting period as calculated by applying the disclosed option pricing methodology. Total unrecognized compensation costs related to unvested share based payment awards for restricted stock units, net of estimated forfeitures Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted average expected period for recognition of compensation expenses (in years) Weighted Average Expected Period for Recognition of Compensation Expenses Weighted average expected period for recognition of compensation expenses. Minimum of employee contributions of pre-tax eligible earnings to Company 401(k) Savings Plan Employees Contribution of Their Pretax Earnings to Subsidiary Plan Minimum Employees contribution of their pretax earnings to subsidiary plan minimum. Maximum of employee contributions of pre-tax eligible earnings to Company 401(k) Savings Plan Employees Contribution of Their Pretax Earnings to Subsidiary Plan Maximum Employees contribution of their pretax earnings to subsidiary plan maximum. Percentage limit of an employee's pre-tax salary the Company will match in the form fo shares of common stock Employee Voluntary Contributions to be Matched in the Form of Common Shares Employee voluntary contributions to be matched in the form of common shares. Vesting percentage of Employer contributions for each year of employment Vesting Percentage of Employer Contributions for Each Year of Employment Vesting percentage of Employer contributions for each year of employment. Defined Contribution Plan, Fully vested period (in years) Defined Contribution Plan, Fully vested period Defined Contribution Plan, Fully vested period Debt (Textual) [Abstract] Debt (Textual) [Abstract] Debt. Aggregate principal amount issued Due date of interest on note Due Date of Interest on Note Due date of interest on note. Maturity date of notes Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Proceeds from issuance of debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Debt discount Aggregate loss on extinguishment of notes Number of Shares for each $1000 principal amount on conversion (in shares) Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt instrument convertible principal amount Debt Instrument Convertible Principal Amount Debt instrument convertible principal amount. Minimum purchase price for 3.25% Notes in 2011 Minimum Price for Purchase of Note Minimum price for purchase of note. Maximum purchase price for 3.25% Notes in 2011 Maximum Price for Purchase of Note Maximum price for purchase of note. Maximum consolidated leverage Maximum consolidated leverage Our debt generally requires compliance with certain covenants that restrict our ability to, among other things, (i) incur additional indebtedness unless our consolidated leverage would be no greater than 6.0 times the consolidated operating cash flow after the incurrence of the indebtedness Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation [Policy Text Block] Basis of presentation policy text block. Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements Recent Accounting Pronouncements [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements. Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Deficit Accumulated Deficit [Member] Accumulated Deficit. Beginning Balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Beginning Balance (in shares) Shares, Issued Comprehensive income, net of tax Issuance of common stock to employees and employee benefit plans, net of forfeitures Issuance of Common Stock to Employees and Employee Benefit Plans Net of Forfeitures Issuance of common stock to employees and employee benefit plans, net of forfeitures. Issuance of common stock to employees and employee benefit plans, net of forfeitures (in shares) Issuance of Common Stock to Employees and Employee Benefit Plans, Net of Forfeitures, Shares Issuance of common stock to employees and employee benefit plans, net of forfeitures, Shares. Share-based payment expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Ending Balance Ending Balance (in shares) Summary of inventory, net Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Expected amortization expense for each of the fiscal years Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] 2012 Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2013 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2014 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2015 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2016 Future Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Future Amortization Expense, after Year Five Total definite life intangibles assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense Satellite system [Member] Satellite system [Member] Satellite system. Terrestrial repeater network [Member] Terrestrial repeater network [Member] Terrestrial repeater network. Other [Member] Construction in progress other [Member] Construction in progress other. Construction in progress Construction in progress [Abstract] Construction in progress. Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Subscriber Revenue Subscriber Revenues [Abstract] Subscriber Revenues. Subscription fees Subscription Fees Subscription fees. Activation fees Activation Fees Activation fees. Total subscriber revenue Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Summary of nonvested restricted stock and restricted stock unit activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Nonvested, Awards, Beginning Balance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted, Awards (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) Vested restricted stock, Awards (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested restricted stock, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited, Awards (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Option Forfeited in Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than option forfeited in period weighted average grant date fair value. Nonvested, Awards, Ending Balance (in shares) Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending Balance (in dollars per share) Purchase price related to merger Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets Not Amortizable Impairment loss related to indefinite-lived intangibles Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets (Additional Textual) [Abstract] Intangible Assets (Additional Textual) [Abstract] Intangible assets. Amortization expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Investments Restricted Cash and Investments Disclosure [Text Block] This item includes equity method investments, convertible unsecured subordinated debentures, auction rate certificates, and restricted cash and investments (deposits placed into escrow for the benefit of third parties) held by the Company. Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Billing Status, Type [Axis] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Billing Status, Type [Axis] Receivables Billing Status [Domain] Receivables Billing Status [Domain] Billed Revenues [Member] Billed Revenues [Member] Unbilled Revenues [Member] Unbilled Revenues [Member] Receivables from distributors Receivables from Distributors [Abstract] Receivables from distributors. Total Receivables from Distributors Amounts due from OEMs and other distributors. Revenue from XM Canada Revenue from Related Party Two [Abstract] Revenue from XM Canada. Amortization of XM Canada deferred Income Subscriber and activation fee royalties Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information. Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Satellite system Satellite System Satellite system. Terrestrial repeater network Terrestrial Repeater Network Terrestrial repeater network. Leasehold improvements Leasehold Improvements, Gross Broadcast studio equipment Broadcast Studio Equipment Broadcast studio equipment. Capitalized software and hardware Capitalized Computer Software, Gross Satellite telemetry, tracking and control facilities Satellite Telemetry Tracking and Control Facilities Satellite telemetry tracking and control facilities. Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Furniture, Fixtures Equipment and Other Furniture, fixtures equipment and other. Land Land Building Buildings and Improvements, Gross Total property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Intangible Assets Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Business Nature of Operations [Text Block] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Stock options activity under share based payment plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding Shares, Beginning (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted, Shares (in shares) Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Option Grants in Period Weighted Average Exercise Price Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award option grants in period weighted average exercise price. Exercised, Shares (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Option Exercises in Period Weighted Average Exercise Price Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award option exercises in period weighted average exercise price. Forfeited, cancelled or expired, Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Forfeited, cancelled or expired, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding Shares, Ending (in shares) Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Ending (in dollars per share) Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term, Ending (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Exercisable Shares, Ending (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Option Exercisable Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award option exercisable weighted average remaining contractual term. Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Option Exercisable Intrinsic Value Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award option exercisable intrinsic value. Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table] Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table] Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Long-term debt obligations [Member] Long-term debt obligations [Member] Long term debt obligations. Cash interest payments [Member] Cash interest payments [Member] Cash interest payments. Satellite and transmission [Member] Satellite and transmission [Member] Satellite and transmission. Programming and content [Member] Programming and content [Member] Programming and content. Marketing and distribution [Member] Marketing and distribution [Member] Marketing and distribution. Satellite incentive payments [Member] Satellite incentive payments [Member] Satellite incentive payments. Operating lease obligations [Member] Operating lease obligations [Member] Operating lease obligations. Others [Member] Others [Member] Others. Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items] Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items] Expected contractual cash commitments Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Payment Schedule [Abstract] 2012 Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due within One Year 2013 Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due in Second Year 2014 Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due in Third Year 2015 Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due in Fourth Year 2016 Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due in Fifth Year Thereafter Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due after Fifth Year Total Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Reserve for Uncertain Taxes Reserve for Uncertain Taxes Reserve for uncertain taxes. Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net [Abstract] Gross accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Total accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts Receivable, net Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Receivables from distributors Receivables from Distributors [Table Text Block] Receivables from distributors. Expected contractual cash commitments Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Additional Stockholder's Equity (Textual) [Abstract] Additional Stockholders Equity (Textual) [Abstract] Additional Stockholder's Equity. Common stock reserved for issuance (in shares) Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Number of common shares exchanged under share lending agreements (in shares) Number of Common Shares Exchanged under Share Lending Agreements Number of common shares exchanged under share lending agreements. Exchange fee per common share for loaned shares (in dollars per share) Exchange Fee Per Common Share Exchange fee per common share. Number of share common shares returned on common stock borrowed (in shares) Number of Share Common Shares Returned on Common Stock Borrowed Number of share common shares returned on common stock borrowed. Amortization of costs related to share-lending arrangement and other issuance costs Amortization of Costs Related to Share Lending Arrangement and Other Issuance Costs Amortization of costs related to share-lending arrangement and other issuance costs. Unamortized, debt issuance costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Unamortized, debt issuance costs recorded in deferred financing fees, net Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs Recorded in Deferred Financing Fees Net Unamortized, debt issuance costs recorded in deferred financing fees, net. Unamortized, debt issuance costs recorded in long-term related party assets Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs Recorded in Long Term Related Party Assets Unamortized, debt issuance costs recorded in long-term related party assets. Service Agreement, Contract term with sports programming provider Service Agreement, Contract term with sports programming provider Service Agreement, Contract term with sports programming provider Common stock delivered under seven agreement with programming provider (in shares) Common Stock Delivered under Agreement with Programming Provider Common stock delivered under agreement with programming provider. Value of common stock delivered under agreement with sports programming provider Value of Common Stock Delivered under Agreement with Programming Provider Value of common stock delivered under agreement with programming provider. Share-based payment expense related to seven year agreement with sports programming provider Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Expense The rate Series B Preferred Stock is convertible into shares of our common stock (in shares) Number of Common Shares to be Issued for Each Share Number of common shares to be issued for each shares. Percentage of shares Liberty Media would own of our common stock after conversion of Series B Preferred Stock Percent of ommon stock outstanding after conversion Percent of ommon stock outstanding after conversion Number of outstanding warrants to acquire common stock (in shares) Warrants to Acquire Common Stock Warrants to acquire common stock. Average exercise price of warrant (in dollars per share) Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights Warrants issuance related expense Warrants Issuance Related Expense Warrants issuance related expense. Warrants exercised to purchase common stock (in shares) Warrants Exercised to Purchase Common Stock Warrants exercised to purchase common stock. Issuance of shares of common stock resulting from the exercise of warrants based on the exercise price (in shares) Issuance of Common Stock Upon Exercise of Warrants Issuance of Common Stock Upon Exercise of Warrants Investments (Textual) [Abstract] Investments (Textual) [Abstract] Investments. Long-term restricted investments Restricted Investments, Noncurrent Revenue from SIRIUS Canada Revenue from Related Party One [Abstract] Revenue from SIRIUS Canada. Dividend income Dividend Income, Operating Total revenue from related party ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable, net Receivables from distributors Inventory, net Prepaid expenses Prepaid Expense, Current Deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property and equipment, net Deferred financing fees, net Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Intangible assets, net Goodwill Goodwill Other long-term assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable and accrued expenses Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Accrued interest Current portion of deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Current portion of deferred credit on executory contracts Other Deferred Credits, Current Current maturities of long-term debt Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Deferred revenue Deferred credit on executory contracts Other Deferred Credits, Noncurrent Long-term debt Long-term related party debt Deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 16) Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Convertible preferred stock Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, par value $0.001; 9,000,000,000 shares authorized at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011; 3,788,755,725 and 3,753,201,929 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total stockholders' equity Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Benefits Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]