Globalstar (GSAT) 10-K 23 Feb 18 2017 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Feb. 16, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Entity Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	GSAT
Entity Registrant Name	Globalstar, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1,366,868
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 971
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Voting Common Stock
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		1,262,000,000
Nonvoting Common Stock
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		0

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 41,644	$ 10,230
Restricted cash	63,635	0
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $3,610 and $3,966, respectively	17,113	15,219
Inventory	7,273	8,093
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	6,745	4,588
Total current assets	136,410	38,130
Property and equipment, net	971,119	1,039,719
Restricted cash	0	37,983
Intangible and other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $7,314 and $7,021, respectively	21,736	16,782
Total assets	1,129,265	1,132,614
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	79,215	75,755
Debt restructuring fees	0	20,795
Accounts payable	6,048	7,499
Accrued contract termination charge	21,002	18,451
Accrued expenses	20,754	23,162
Payables to affiliates	225	309
Derivative liabilities	1,326
Deferred revenue	31,747	26,479
Total current liabilities	160,317	172,450
Long-term debt, less current portion	434,651	500,524
Employee benefit obligations	4,389	4,883
Derivative liabilities	226,659	281,171
Deferred revenue	6,052	5,877
Other non-current liabilities	5,973	5,890
Total non-current liabilities	677,724	798,345
Commitments and contingent liabilities (Notes 6 and 7)
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred Stock	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	1,869,339	1,649,315
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(6,939)	(5,378)
Retained deficit	(1,571,302)	(1,482,228)
Total stockholders’ equity	291,224	161,819
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	1,129,265	1,132,614
Series A Preferred Stock
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred Stock	0	0
Common Stock
Stockholders’ equity:
Common Stock	126	97
Nonvoting Common Stock
Stockholders’ equity:
Common Stock	$ 0	$ 13

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounts receivable, allowance	$ 3,610	$ 3,966
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization	$ 7,314	$ 7,021
Preferred stock, par value (USD per share)	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	100,000,000	100,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Series A Preferred Stock
Preferred stock, par value (USD per share)	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	1	1
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Voting Common Stock
Common stock, par value (USD per share)	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	1,500,000,000	1,200,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	1,261,949,123	972,602,824
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	1,261,949,123	972,602,824
Nonvoting Common Stock
Common stock, par value (USD per share)	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	400,000,000	400,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	134,008,656
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	134,008,656

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Revenue:
Service revenues									$ 98,473,000	$ 83,069,000	$ 74,124,000
Subscriber equipment sales									14,187,000	13,792,000	16,366,000
Total revenue	$ 29,427,000	$ 30,458,000	$ 28,123,000	$ 24,652,000	$ 24,395,000	$ 25,544,000	$ 25,086,000	$ 21,836,000	112,660,000	96,861,000	90,490,000
Operating expenses:
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below)									37,022,000	31,908,000	30,615,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales									9,944,000	9,907,000	11,814,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory									843,000	0	0
Marketing, general and administrative									39,099,000	40,982,000	37,418,000
Reduction in the value of long-lived assets	17,000,000								17,040,000	350,000	0
Depreciation, amortization and accretion									77,498,000	77,390,000	77,247,000
Total operating expenses									181,446,000	160,537,000	157,094,000
Loss from operations	(30,281,000)	(10,793,000)	(12,510,000)	(15,202,000)	(16,804,000)	(14,763,000)	(16,411,000)	(15,698,000)	(68,786,000)	(63,676,000)	(66,604,000)
Other income (expense):
Loss on extinguishment of debt									(6,306,000)	0	(2,254,000)
Gain (loss) on equity issuance									2,670,000	2,400,000	(6,663,000)
Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized									(34,771,000)	(35,952,000)	(35,854,000)
Derivative gain (loss)									21,182,000	(41,531,000)	181,860,000
Other									(2,873,000)	(430,000)	3,229,000
Total other income (expense)									(20,098,000)	(75,513,000)	140,318,000
Income (loss) before income taxes									(88,884,000)	(139,189,000)	73,714,000
Income tax expense (benefit)									190,000	(6,543,000)	1,392,000
Net income (loss)	$ (22,585,000)	$ 52,406,000	$ (98,734,000)	$ (20,161,000)	$ (117,221,000)	$ (2,577,000)	$ 14,099,000	$ (26,947,000)	$ (89,074,000)	$ (132,646,000)	$ 72,322,000
Income (loss) per common share:
Basic (USD per share)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.04	$ (0.09)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.11)	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ (0.03)	$ (0.08)	$ (0.12)	$ 0.07
Diluted (USD per share)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.04	$ (0.09)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.11)	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ (0.03)	$ (0.08)	$ (0.12)	$ 0.07
Weighted-average shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	1,251,826	1,169,993	1,128,985	1,113,968	1,086,631	1,080,313	1,049,381	1,041,028	1,166,581	1,064,443	1,020,149
Diluted (in shares)	1,251,826	1,345,905	1,128,985	1,113,968	1,086,631	1,080,313	1,249,672	1,041,028	1,166,581	1,064,443	1,230,394

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (22,585)	$ 52,406	$ (98,734)	$ (20,161)	$ (117,221)	$ (2,577)	$ 14,099	$ (26,947)	$ (89,074)	$ (132,646)	$ 72,322
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment									384	221	787
Net foreign currency translation adjustment									(1,945)	(766)	(2,722)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)									(1,561)	(545)	(1,935)
Total comprehensive income (loss)									$ (90,635)	$ (133,191)	$ 70,387

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Thermo Capital Partners LLC	Terrapin	Other vendor	Conversions of 8.00% Notes, Issued in 2013	Common Stock	Common StockThermo Capital Partners LLC	Common StockTerrapin	Common StockOther vendor	Common StockConversions of 8.00% Notes, Issued in 2013	Additional Paid-In Capital	Additional Paid-In CapitalThermo Capital Partners LLC	Additional Paid-In CapitalTerrapin	Additional Paid-In CapitalOther vendor	Additional Paid-In CapitalConversions of 8.00% Notes, Issued in 2013	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Retained Deficit
Balance, beginning (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014						998,387
Balance, beginning at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 78,916					$ 99					$ 1,503,619					$ (2,898)	$ (1,421,904)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net issuance of restricted stock awards and recognition of stock-based compensation (in shares)						600
Net issuance of restricted stock awards and recognition of stock-based compensation	2,780										2,780
Contribution of services	548										548
Issuance of stock for employee stock option exercises (in shares)						303
Issuance of stock for employee stock option exercises	169										169
Issuance of stock through employee stock purchase plan (in shares)						321
Issuance of stock through employee stock purchase plan	918										918
Common stock issued in connection with conversions of 2013 8.00% Notes (in shares)										10,887
Common stock issued in connection with conversions of 2013 8.00% Notes					$ 27,248					$ 1					$ 27,247
Issuance of stock in connection with contingent consideration (in shares)						174
Issuance of stock in connection with contingent consideration	481										481
Issuance of stock (in shares)								20,403	7,382
Issuance of stock			$ 39,000	$ 16,684				$ 2	$ 1				$ 38,998	$ 16,683
Other comprehensive loss	(1,935)															(1,935)
Net income (loss)	72,322																72,322
Balance, ending (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015						1,038,457
Balance, ending at Dec. 31, 2015	237,131					$ 103					1,591,443					(4,833)	(1,349,582)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net issuance of restricted stock awards and recognition of stock-based compensation (in shares)						3,246
Net issuance of restricted stock awards and recognition of stock-based compensation	4,136										4,136
Contribution of services	548										548
Issuance of stock for employee stock option exercises (in shares)						177
Issuance of stock for employee stock option exercises	97										97
Issuance of stock through employee stock purchase plan (in shares)						723
Issuance of stock through employee stock purchase plan	1,086										1,086
Issuance of stock (in shares)								49,072
Issuance of stock			48,000					$ 5					47,995
Issuance of stock to Thermo from exercise of warrants (in shares)							13,620
Issuance of stock to Thermo from exercise of warrants		$ 2,617					$ 2					$ 2,615
Issuance of stock for legal settlements (in shares)						1,316
Issuance of stock for legal settlement	1,395										1,395
Other comprehensive loss	(545)															(545)
Net income (loss)	(132,646)																(132,646)
Balance, ending (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2016						1,106,611
Balance, ending at Dec. 31, 2016	161,819					$ 110					1,649,315					(5,378)	(1,482,228)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net issuance of restricted stock awards and recognition of stock-based compensation (in shares)						3,088
Net issuance of restricted stock awards and recognition of stock-based compensation	4,041					$ 1					4,040
Contribution of services	548										548
Issuance of stock for employee stock option exercises (in shares)						102
Issuance of stock for employee stock option exercises	71										71
Issuance of stock through employee stock purchase plan (in shares)						775
Issuance of stock through employee stock purchase plan	1,151										1,151
Common stock issued in connection with conversions of 2013 8.00% Notes (in shares)										26,411
Common stock issued in connection with conversions of 2013 8.00% Notes					$ 53,617					$ 3					$ 53,614
Issuance of stock (in shares)						73,365	17,838	8,867
Issuance of stock	114,693	33,000	$ 12,000			$ 7	$ 2	$ 1			114,686	32,998	$ 11,999
Issuance of stock to Thermo from exercise of warrants (in shares)							24,571
Issuance of stock to Thermo from exercise of warrants		$ 245					$ 2					$ 243
Issuance of stock for legal settlements (in shares)						321
Issuance of stock for legal settlement	453										453
Investment in business	221										221
Other comprehensive loss	(1,561)															(1,561)
Net income (loss)	(89,074)																(89,074)
Balance, ending (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2017						1,261,949
Balance, ending at Dec. 31, 2017	$ 291,224					$ 126					$ 1,869,339					$ (6,939)	$ (1,571,302)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STO7

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - (Parenthetical)	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	May 20, 2013
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS $ in Thousands, BRL in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ (89,074)	$ (132,646)	$ 72,322
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization and accretion	77,498	77,390	77,247
Change in fair value of derivative assets and liabilities	(21,182)	41,531	(181,860)
Stock-based compensation expense	5,088	4,858	2,955
Amortization of deferred financing costs	8,096	9,165	9,722
Reduction in the value of long-lived assets and inventory	17,883	350	0
Provision for bad debts	1,256	1,256	3,357
Noncash interest and accretion expense	11,043	11,195	11,103
Loss on extinguishment of debt	6,306	0	2,254
Change in fair value related to equity issuance	(2,670)	(2,400)	6,663
Noncash expense related to legal settlement	0	1,094	0
Reversal of uncertain tax position	0	(6,317)	0
Unrealized foreign currency (gain) loss	2,159	144	(3,597)
Other, net	(260)	1,154	(11)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(2,983)	(2,196)	(3,454)
Inventory	50	4,571	1,118
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(2,504)	(488)	326
Other assets	(699)	(469)	(774)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(1,114)	102	702
Payables to affiliates	(84)	(307)	135
Other non-current liabilities	105	(1,163)	1,332
Deferred revenue	4,943	1,989	2,622
Net cash provided by operating activities	13,857	8,813	2,162
Cash flows used in investing activities:
Second-generation network costs (including interest)	(11,910)	(13,170)	(25,195)
Property and equipment additions	(5,525)	(9,385)	(5,523)
Purchase of intangible assets	(3,796)	(1,996)	(2,520)
Investment in businesses	455	0	(240)
Net cash used in investing activities	(20,776)	(24,551)	(33,478)
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
Principal payments of the Facility Agreement	(75,755)	(32,835)	(6,450)
Proceeds from common stock offering	114,993	0	0
Proceeds from Thermo Common Stock Purchase Agreement	33,000	0	0
Payment of debt restructuring fee	(20,795)	0	0
Payments for debt and equity issuance costs	(654)	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin	12,000	48,000	39,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants	1,001	3,337	726
Net cash provided by financing activities	63,790	18,502	33,276
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	195	55	(1,605)
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	57,066	2,819	355
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period	48,213	45,394	45,039
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period	105,279	48,213	45,394
Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in the statement of cash flows	48,213	45,394	45,039
Cash paid for:
Interest	24,075	21,783	19,683
Income taxes	115	171	445
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash financing and investing activities:
Increase in capitalized accrued interest for second-generation network costs	4,317	3,235	2,247
Increase in accrued second-generation network costs	0	1,616	0
Capitalized accretion of debt discount and amortization of prepaid financing costs	5,089	4,401	3,346
Payments made in convertible notes and common stock	0	0	921
Fair value of common stock issued to vendor for payment of invoices	0	0	16,683
Issuance of common stock for legal settlement	453	1,395	0
Principal amount of debt converted into common stock	15,986	0	6,491
Reduction of debt discount and issuance costs due to note conversions	1,194	0	2,085
Fair value of common stock issued upon conversion of debt	53,614	0	26,669
Reduction in derivative liability due to conversion of debt	32,000	0	20,008
Thermo Capital Partners LLC | Loan Agreement with Thermo
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash financing and investing activities:
Increase of principal amount of Loan Agreement with Thermo	$ 0	$ 0	$ 6,000

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTI

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Business Globalstar, Inc. (“Globalstar” or the “Company”) was formed as a Delaware limited liability company in November 2003 and was converted into a Delaware corporation on March 17, 2006. Globalstar provides Mobile Satellite Services (“MSS”) including voice and data communications services through its global satellite network. Thermo Capital Partners LLC, through its affiliates (collectively, “Thermo”), is the principal owner and largest stockholder of Globalstar. The Company's Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer controls Thermo. Two other members of the Company's Board of Directors are also directors, officers or minority equity owners of various Thermo entities. The Company’s satellite communications business, by providing critical mobile communications to subscribers, serves principally the following markets: recreation and personal; government; public safety and disaster relief; oil and gas; maritime and fishing; natural resources, mining and forestry; construction; utilities; and transportation. Globalstar currently provides the following communications services via satellite which are available only with equipment designed to work on the Globalstar network: • two-way voice communication and data transmissions (“Duplex”) using mobile or fixed devices; and • one-way data transmissions using a mobile or fixed device that transmits its location and other information to a central monitoring station, including certain SPOT and Simplex products. Globalstar provides Duplex, SPOT and Simplex products and services to customers directly and through a variety of independent agents, dealers and resellers, and independent gateway operators (“IGOs”). Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from estimates. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year Consolidated Financial Statements to conform to current year presentation. The Company evaluates estimates on an ongoing basis. Significant estimates include the value of derivative instruments, the allowance for doubtful accounts, the net realizable value of inventory, the useful life and value of property and equipment, the value of stock-based compensation, and income taxes. Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Globalstar and all its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in the consolidation. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. Restricted Cash Restricted cash is comprised of funds held in escrow by the agent for the Company’s senior secured facility agreement (the “Facility Agreement”) to secure the Company’s principal and interest payment obligations related to its Facility Agreement. For the year ended December 31, 2016 , the Company classified restricted cash as a noncurrent asset on its Consolidated Balance Sheet as the funds in the restricted cash account were fixed and to be used to pay the final principal and interest payments due under the Facility Agreement. As of December 31, 2017 , the Company's restricted cash is classified as a current asset on its Consolidated Balance Sheet as these funds are expected to be used to pay principal and interest due under the Facility Agreement during the next twelve months as a result of modified terms in the amendment and restatement of the Facility Agreement in June 2017. Concentration of Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash. Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash consist primarily of highly liquid short-term investments deposited with financial institutions that are of high credit quality. Accounts and Notes Receivable Accounts receivable are uncollateralized, without interest and consist primarily of receivables from the sale of Globalstar services and equipment. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and records specific allowances for bad debts based on factors such as current trends, the length of time the receivables are past due and historical collection experience. Accounts receivable are considered past due in accordance with the contractual terms of the arrangements. Accounts receivable balances that are determined likely to be uncollectible are included in the allowance for doubtful accounts. After attempts to collect a receivable have failed, the receivable is written off against the allowance. The following is a summary of the activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 3,966 $ 5,270 $ 4,788 Provision, net of recoveries 1,256 1,256 2,782 Write-offs and other adjustments (1,612 ) (2,560 ) (2,300 ) Balance at end of period $ 3,610 $ 3,966 $ 5,270 From time to time, the Company enters into notes receivable with certain customers that are included in other current assets. The Company also monitors collection of its notes receivable. During 2015, the Company recorded an additional provision for bad debt of $0.6 million related to a specific note receivable balance. During 2016, the Company recovered approximately $0.5 million related to the specific customer balance previously reserved in 2015. Inventory Inventory consists primarily of purchased products. Inventory is stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is computed using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Inventory write downs are measured as the difference between the cost of inventory and the net realizable value, and are recorded as a cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements. At the point of any inventory write down to net realizable value, a new, lower cost basis for that inventory is established, and any subsequent changes in facts and circumstances do not result in the restoration of the former cost basis or increase in that newly established cost basis. Product sales and returns from the previous 12 months and future demand forecasts are reviewed and excess and obsolete inventory is written off. For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company wrote down the value of inventory by $0.8 million after adjusting for changes in net realizable value for certain products, particularly in international locations, compared to the carrying value of inventory, as well as for a reduction in the value of prepaid inventory due to design changes for products under development. During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, no write down of inventory was required. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company adopted ASU No. 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory . ASU 2015-11 requires that inventory within the scope of the guidance be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. Property and Equipment The Globalstar System includes costs for the design, manufacture, test, and launch of a constellation of low earth orbit satellites (the “Space Component”), and primary and backup control centers and gateways (the “Ground Component”). Property and equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Costs associated with the design, manufacture, test and launch of the Company’s Space and Ground Components are capitalized. Capitalized costs associated with the Company’s Space Component, Ground Component, and other assets are tracked by fixed asset category and are allocated to each asset as it comes into service. When a second-generation satellite was incorporated into the second-generation constellation, the Company began depreciation on the date the satellite was placed into service, which was the point that the satellite reached its orbital altitude, over its estimated depreciable life. The Company capitalizes interest costs associated with the costs of assets in progress, including primarily the construction of its Space and Ground Components. Capitalized interest is added to the cost of the underlying asset and is amortized over the depreciable life of the asset after it is placed into service. As the Company’s construction in progress increases, specifically due to the Company incurring costs related to the second-generation upgrades to its Ground Component, the Company capitalizes more interest, resulting in a lower amount of interest expense recognized under U.S. GAAP. As these upgrades are completed and placed into service, construction in progress will decrease and less interest will be capitalized. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets as follows: Space Component - 15 years from the commencement of service Ground Component - Up to 15 years from commencement of service Software, Facilities & Equipment - 3 to 10 years Buildings - 18 years Leasehold Improvements - Shorter of lease term or the estimated useful lives of the improvements The Company evaluates and revises the estimated depreciable lives assigned to property and equipment based on changes in facts and circumstances. When changes are made to estimated useful lives, the remaining carrying amounts are depreciated prospectively over the remaining useful lives. For assets that are sold or retired, including satellites that are de-orbited and no longer providing services, the estimated cost and accumulated depreciation is removed from property and equipment. The Company assesses the impairment of long-lived assets when indicators of impairment are present. Recoverability of assets is measured by comparing the carrying amounts of the assets to the estimated future undiscounted cash flows, excluding financing costs. If the Company determines that an impairment exists, any related impairment loss is estimated based on fair values. Derivative Instruments The Company enters into financing arrangements that are hybrid instruments that contain embedded derivative features. Derivative instruments are recognized as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets and are measured at fair value with gains or losses recognized in earnings. The Company determines the fair value of derivative instruments based on available market data using appropriate valuation models. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company adopted ASU 2016-06, Derivatives and Hedging: Contingent Put and Call Options in Debt Instruments. ASU 2016-06 clarifies the requirements for assessing whether contingent call (put) options that can accelerate the payment of principal on debt instruments are clearly and closely related to their debt hosts. The Company evaluated its derivative instruments and determined that this standard did not have an impact on the Company's financial statements or related disclosures. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company adopted ASU 2017-11: I. Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments With Down Round Features and II. Replacement of the Indefinite Deferral for Mandatorily Redeemable Financial Instruments of Certain Nonpublic Entities and Certain Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests With a Scope Exception. Part I of this ASU reduces the complexity associated with accounting for certain financial instruments with down round features. Part II of this ASU recharacterizes the indefinite deferral provisions described in Topic 480: Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity. The Company evaluated its debt and related derivative instruments and determined that this standard did not have an impact on the Company's financial statements or related disclosures. Deferred Financing Costs Deferred financing costs are those costs directly incurred in obtaining long-term debt. These costs are amortized as additional interest expense over the term of the corresponding debt, or until the first put option date for the Company’s 8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013 (“2013 8.00% Notes”). Deferred financing costs are recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheets as a reduction in the carrying amount of the related debt liability. The Company classifies deferred financing costs consistent with the classification of the related debt outstanding at the end of the reporting period. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Company had net deferred financing costs of $34.5 million and $45.7 million , respectively. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying amount of accounts receivable and accounts payable is equal to or approximates fair value. The Company believes it is not practicable to determine the fair value of the Facility Agreement. Interest rates and other terms for long-term debt are not readily available and generally involve a variety of factors, including due diligence by the debt holders. For the Company's other debt instruments, which include the Loan Agreement with Thermo and 2013 8.00% Notes, the fair value of debt is calculated using inputs consistent with those used to calculate the fair value of the derivatives embedded in these instruments. Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies The Company is subject to various claims and lawsuits that arise in the ordinary course of business. Estimating liabilities and costs associated with these matters requires judgment and assessment based on professional knowledge and experience of our management and legal counsel. The ultimate resolution of any such exposure may vary from earlier estimates as further facts and circumstances become known. Gain/Loss on Extinguishment of Debt Gain or loss on extinguishment of debt generally is recorded upon an extinguishment of a debt instrument or the conversion of certain of the Company’s convertible notes. Gain or loss on extinguishment of debt is calculated as the difference between the reacquisition price and net carrying amount of the debt and is recorded as an extinguishment gain or loss in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations. Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue Revenue consists primarily of satellite voice and data service revenue and revenue generated from the sale of fixed and mobile devices as well as other products and accessories. The Company also recognizes revenue from certain engineering service contracts as described below. Revenue is recognized when services are rendered, assuming all recognition criteria is met under applicable accounting guidance. Customer payments received in advance of the corresponding service period are recorded as deferred revenue. Upon activation of a Globalstar device, certain customers are charged an activation fee, which is recognized over the term of the expected customer life. Credits granted to customers are expensed or charged against revenue or accounts receivable upon issuance. Estimates related to earned but unbilled service revenue are calculated using current subscriber data, including plan subscriptions and usage between the end of the billing cycle and the end of the period. Subscriber acquisition costs, including dealer and internal sales commissions and certain other costs, are expensed at the time of the related sale, except when related to multiple-element arrangement contracts as discussed below. The Company does not record sales taxes, telecommunication taxes or other governmental fees collected from customers in revenue. Duplex Service Revenue. The Company recognizes revenue for monthly access fees in the period services are rendered. Access fees represent the minimum monthly charge for each line of service based on its associated rate plan. The Company also recognizes revenue for airtime minutes in excess of the monthly access fees in the period such minutes are used. Under certain annual plans where customers prepay for a predetermined amount of minutes, revenue is deferred until the minutes are used or the prepaid time period expires. Unused minutes are accumulated until they expire, usually one year after activation, at which point we recognize revenue for any remaining unused minutes. The Company offers other annual plans whereby the customer is charged an annual fee to access the Company’s system. These fees are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the plan. In some cases, the Company charges a per minute rate whereby it recognizes the revenue when each minute is used. SPOT Service Revenue. The Company sells SPOT services as monthly, annual or multi-year plans and recognizes revenue over the service term, beginning when the service is activated by the customer. Simplex Service Revenue. The Company sells Simplex services as monthly, annual or multi-year plans and recognizes revenue ratably over the service term or as service is used, beginning when the service is activated by the customer. Independent Gateway Operator ("IGO") Service Revenue. The Company owns and operates its satellite constellation and earns a portion of its revenues through the sale of airtime minutes or data on a wholesale basis to IGOs. Revenue from services provided to IGOs is recognized based upon airtime minutes or data packages used by customers of the IGOs and in accordance with contractual fee arrangements. Equipment Revenue. Subscriber equipment revenue represents the sale of fixed and mobile user terminals, SPOT and Simplex products, and accessories. The Company recognizes revenue upon shipment provided title and risk of loss have passed to the customer, persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the fee is fixed and determinable and collection is probable. Other Service Revenue. The Company provides certain engineering services to assist customers in developing new applications related to its system. The revenues associated with these services are generally recorded when the services are rendered, and the expenses are recorded when incurred. Multiple-Element Arrangement Contracts. At times, the Company will sell subscriber equipment through multiple-element arrangement contracts with services. When the Company sells subscriber equipment and services in bundled arrangements and determines that it has separate units of accounting, the Company will allocate the bundled contract price among the various contract deliverables based on each deliverable’s relative fair value. The Company will determine vendor specific objective evidence of fair value by assessing sales prices of subscriber equipment and services when they are sold to customers on a stand-alone basis. Initial direct costs incurred related to these contracts will be deferred to the extent they exceed the profit margin recognized at the time of sale. Stock-Based Compensation The Company recognizes compensation expense in the financial statements for both employee and non-employee share-based awards based on the grant date fair value of those awards. The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate fair values of stock options. Option pricing models, including the Black-Scholes model, require the use of input estimates and assumptions, including expected volatility, term, and risk-free interest rate. The assumptions for expected volatility and expected term most significantly affect the estimated grant-date fair value. The Company's estimate of the forfeiture rate of its share-based awards also impacts the timing of expense recorded over the vesting period of the award. The Company's estimate for pre-vesting forfeitures is recognized over the requisite service periods of the awards on a straight-line basis, which is generally commensurate with the vesting term. See Note 14: Stock Compensation for a description of methods used to determine the Company's assumptions. If the Company determined that another method used to estimate expected volatility or expected life was more reasonable than its current methods, or if another method for calculating these input assumptions was prescribed by authoritative guidance, the estimated fair value calculated for share-based awards could change significantly. Higher volatility and longer expected lives result in increases to share-based compensation determined at the date of grant. During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company adopted ASU No. 2016-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation . The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. Foreign Currency The functional currency of the Company’s foreign consolidated subsidiaries is their local currency, unless the subsidiary operates in a hyperinflationary economy, such as Venezuela. Assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiaries are translated into United States dollars based on exchange rates at the end of the reporting period. Income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates prevailing during the reporting period. For 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , the foreign currency translation adjustments were losses of $1.9 million , $0.8 million and $2.7 million , respectively. Foreign currency transaction gains/losses were a $2.2 million loss, a $0.2 million loss and a $3.7 million gain for 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. These were classified as other income (expense) on the consolidated statement of operations. Effective July 1, 2015 the Company began using the SIMADI exchange rate published by the Central Bank of Venezuela to remeasure its Venezuelan subsidiary's bolivar based transactions and net monetary assets in U.S. dollars. The Company determined, based upon its specific facts and circumstances, that the SIMADI rate (renamed the DICOM rate in March 2016) is the most appropriate rate for financial reporting purposes, instead of the official exchange rate of 6.3 previously used. The Company continues to monitor the significant uncertainty surrounding current Venezuela exchange mechanisms. Included in the foreign currency gain (loss) recorded during the third quarter of 2015 was a $1.9 million loss related to its Venezuelan subsidiary resulting from this change in exchange rate. Asset Retirement Obligation Liabilities arising from legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets are measured at fair value and recorded as a liability. Upon initial recognition of a liability for retirement obligations, the Company records an asset, which is depreciated over the life of the asset to be retired. Accretion of the asset retirement obligation liability and depreciation of the related assets are included in depreciation, amortization and accretion in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. The Company capitalizes, as part of the carrying amount, the estimated costs associated with the eventual retirement of gateways owned by the Company. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Company had accrued approximately $1.5 million and $1.4 million , respectively, for asset retirement obligations. The Company believes this estimate will be sufficient to satisfy the Company’s obligation under leases to remove the gateway equipment and restore the sites to their original condition. Warranty Expense Warranty terms extend from 90 days on equipment accessories to one year for fixed and mobile user terminals. A provision for estimated future warranty costs is recorded as cost of sales when products are shipped. Warranty costs are based on historical trends in warranty charges as a percentage of gross product shipments. The resulting accrual is reviewed regularly and periodically adjusted to reflect changes in warranty cost estimates. Research and Development Expenses Research and development costs were $3.8 million , $2.1 million and $1.9 million for 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. These costs are expensed as incurred as cost of services and primarily include the cost of new product development, chip set design, software development and engineering. Advertising Expenses Advertising costs were $2.1 million , $4.1 million and $3.4 million for 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. These costs are expensed as incurred as marketing, general and administrative expenses. Income Taxes The Company is taxed as a C corporation for U.S. tax purposes. The Company recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis, operating losses and tax credit carryforwards. The Company measures deferred tax assets and liabilities using tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The Company recognizes the effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates in income in the period that includes the enactment date; however, as the Company has full valuation allowance on its deferred tax assets, there is no impact to the consolidated statements of operations and balance sheets. The Company also recognizes valuation allowances to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. In assessing the likelihood of realization, management considers: (i) future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences; (ii) future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards; (iii) taxable income in prior carry-back year(s) if carry-back is permitted under applicable tax law; and (iv) tax planning strategies. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company adopted ASU 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes . ASU No. 2015-17 simplifies the presentation of deferred taxes on the balance sheet by requiring classification of all deferred tax items as noncurrent including valuation allowances by jurisdiction. The implementation of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. Comprehensive Income (Loss) All components of comprehensive income (loss), including the minimum pension liability adjustment and foreign currency translation adjustment, are reported in the financial statements in the period in which they are recognized. Comprehensive income (loss) is defined as the change in equity during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. Earnings (Loss) Per Share The Company is required to present basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share. Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed by dividing income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. For 2017 and 2016, diluted net loss per share of common stock was the same as basic net loss per share of common stock because the effects of potentially dilutive securities were anti-dilutive. Potentially dilutive securities include primarily outstanding stock-based awards, convertible notes, warrants and shares issuable pursuant to the Company's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Intangible and Other Assets The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of the Company's intangible assets subject to amortization consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Weighted Cost Accumulated Amortization Carrying Amount Cost Accumulated Amortization Carrying Amount Developed technology 9 $ 6,108 $ (4,958 ) $ 1,150 $ 6,003 $ (4,740 ) $ 1,263 Customer relationships 8 2,100 (2,100 ) — 2,100 (2,081 ) 19 Regulatory authorizations 7 878 (56 ) 822 — — — Trade name 1 200 (200 ) — 200 (200 ) — $ 9,286 $ (7,314 ) $ 1,972 $ 8,303 $ (7,021 ) $ 1,282 For each of 2017 and 2016 , the Company recorded amortization expense on these intangible assets of $0.3 million . Amortization expense is recorded in operating expenses in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. Estimated annual amortization of intangible assets is approximately $0.3 million for each of 2018 through 2022 and $0.5 million in total thereafter, excluding the effects of any acquisitions, dispositions or write-downs subsequent to December 31, 2017 . In addition, the Company has intangible assets not subject to amortization consisting primarily of costs associated with the efforts related to the Company's petition to the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") to use its licensed MSS spectrum to provide terrestrial wireless services in the United States as well as costs with international regulatory agencies to obtain similar authorizations outside of the United States. The total carrying amount of these costs was $7.9 million and $5.6 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The Company assesses these intangible assets for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. In assessing whether it is more likely than not that such an asset is impaired, the Company assesses relevant events and circumstances that could affect the significant inputs used to determine the fair value of the asset. In November 2016, the Company revised its original proposal to the FCC to request terrestrial use of only its 11.5 MHz of licensed spectrum in the 2.4 GHz band. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company recorded an impairment of $0.4 million related to the portion of its efforts specific to the Company's original proposed rules to use 22 MHz, which includes both its licensed spectrum and the adjacent unlicensed spectrum, to provide terrestrial wireless services. The Company recorded this impairment on its consolidated statements of operations as a reduction in the value of long-lived assets for the year ended December 31, 2016. As previously discussed in Part I: Item 1. Business, the revised proposed rules were adopted in December 2016. The Company assesses the impairment of intangible and other assets when indicators of impairment are present. If the Company determines that an impairment exists, any related loss is estimated based on fair values. Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Updates ("ASU") No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . ASU 2014-09 has been modified multiple times since its initial release. This ASU outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. ASU 2014-09, as amended, becomes effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted and the standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The Company has an internal project team that has evaluated the impact this standard has on its financial statements, accounting systems and related disclosures. The most significant changes to the Company's revenue recognition accounting policies are related to the following: 1) the allocation and timing of revenue recognized between service revenue and subscriber equipment sales, 2) the acceleration of service revenue recognized for breakage during certain customer's prepaid contracts, and 3) the deferment of certain contract acquisition costs and the recognition of these costs over the expected life of a customer's contract. The Company adopted this standard when it became effective on January 1, 2018 using the cumulative effect method of adoption. The Company has determined that this standard will not have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases, which has been modified since its initial release. The main difference between the provisions of ASU No. 2016-02 and previous U.S. GAAP is the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases under previous U.S. GAAP. ASU No. 2016-02 retains a distinction between finance leases and operating leases, and

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT	2. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Globalstar System: Space component First and second-generation satellites in service $ 1,195,426 $ 1,211,090 Prepaid long-lead items — 17,040 Second-generation satellite, on-ground spare 32,481 32,481 Ground component 48,710 48,400 Construction in progress: Space component 3 81 Ground component 227,167 207,127 Next-generation software upgrades 12,414 10,223 Other 2,572 2,299 Total Globalstar System 1,518,773 1,528,741 Internally developed and purchased software 16,132 15,005 Equipment 9,966 9,875 Land and buildings 3,322 3,330 Leasehold improvements 1,969 1,893 Total property and equipment 1,550,162 1,558,844 Accumulated depreciation (579,043 ) (519,125 ) Total property and equipment, net $ 971,119 $ 1,039,719 Amounts in the above table consist primarily of costs incurred related to the construction of the Company’s second-generation constellation and ground upgrades. The ground component of construction in progress represents costs (including capitalized interest) associated primarily with the Company's contracts with Hughes Network Systems, LLC ("Hughes") and Ericsson Inc. (“Ericsson”) to complete second-generation equipment upgrades to the Company's ground infrastructure. The Company expects to begin depreciating these assets in the near future. See Note 6: Commitments for further discussion of these contracts. Amounts included in the Company’s second-generation satellite, on-ground spare balance as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , consist primarily of costs related to a spare second-generation satellite that has not been placed in orbit, but is capable of being included in a future launch. As of December 31, 2017 , this satellite has not been placed into service; therefore, the Company has not started to record depreciation expense. Pursuant to the Amended and Restated Contract for the construction of Globalstar Satellites for the Second Generation Constellation between the Company and Thales Alenia Space France ("Thales"), dated and executed in June 2009 (the "2009 Contract"), the Company paid €12 million in purchase price plus an additional €3.1 million in procurement costs for the prepaid long-lead items ("LLI") to be procured by Thales on the Company's behalf. The LLI were to be used in the construction of the Phase 3 satellites for the Company. The Company believes that it owns the LLI and that title to the LLI transferred to the Company upon payment. Despite historical statements to the contrary, Thales currently disputes the Company's ownership of the LLI and has asserted that the Company released its title to the LLI pursuant to that certain Release Agreement, dated as of June 24, 2012, which is described more fully in Note 7: Contingencies . Thales further asserts that the LLI belong to Thales and that Thales has no obligation to turn over possession of the LLI to the Company. The Company recorded a reduction in the carrying value of long-lived assets of $17.0 million in its consolidated statement of operations during the fourth quarter of 2017 when circumstances changed impacting the fair value that is probable of being recovered from these assets in the construction of Phase 3 satellites. Capitalized Interest and Depreciation Expense The following table summarizes capitalized interest for the periods indicated below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Interest cost eligible to be capitalized $ 51,212 $ 48,095 $ 42,749 Interest cost recorded in interest income (expense), net (33,319 ) (34,108 ) (32,609 ) Net interest capitalized $ 17,893 $ 13,987 $ 10,140 The following table summarizes depreciation expense for the periods indicated below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Depreciation Expense $ 77,197 $ 76,960 $ 76,711

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANC

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS	3. LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS Long-term debt consists of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Principal Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs Carrying Principal Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs Carrying Facility Agreement $ 467,256 $ 34,459 $ 432,797 $ 543,011 $ 45,651 $ 497,360 Loan Agreement with Thermo 106,054 26,333 79,721 93,962 29,615 64,347 8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013 1,348 — 1,348 17,126 2,554 14,572 Total Debt 574,658 60,792 513,866 654,099 77,820 576,279 Less: Current Portion 79,215 — 79,215 75,755 — 75,755 Long-Term Debt $ 495,443 $ 60,792 $ 434,651 $ 578,344 $ 77,820 $ 500,524 The principal amounts shown above include payment of in-kind interest, as applicable. The carrying value is net of deferred financing costs and any discounts to the loan amounts at issuance, including accretion, as further described below. The current portion of long-term debt represents the scheduled principal repayments under the Facility Agreement due within one year of the balance sheet date and the total outstanding balance of the Company's 2013 8.00% Notes (as defined below) as the first put date of the notes is April 1, 2018. The Company believes that the principal payment due in December 2018 under the Facility Agreement will be in excess of its available sources of cash in order to also maintain compliance with the requirement balance in the debt service reserve account. The Company intends to raise funds in sufficient amounts to meet its obligations; however, the source of funds has not yet been fully arranged. Facility Agreement In 2009, the Company entered into the Facility Agreement with a syndicate of bank lenders, including BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Natixis, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (formerly Calyon) and Crédit Industriel et Commercial, as arrangers, and BNP Paribas, as the security agent. The Facility Agreement was amended and restated in July 2013, August 2015 and June 2017. The Facility Agreement is scheduled to mature in December 2022. As of December 31, 2017 , the Facility Agreement was fully drawn. Semi-annual principal repayments began in December 2014. Indebtedness under the facility bears interest at a floating rate of LIBOR plus 3.25% through June 2018, increasing by an additional 0.5% each year thereafter to a maximum rate of LIBOR plus 5.75% . Interest on the Facility Agreement is payable semi-annually in arrears on June 30 and December 31 of each calendar year. Ninety-five percent of the Company's obligations under the Facility Agreement are guaranteed by Bpifrance Assurance Export S.A.S. ("BPIFAE") (formerly COFACE), the French export credit agency. The Company's obligations under the Facility Agreement are guaranteed on a senior secured basis by all of its domestic subsidiaries and are secured by a first priority lien on substantially all of the assets of the Company and its domestic subsidiaries (other than their FCC licenses), including patents and trademarks, 100% of the equity of the Company's domestic subsidiaries and 65% of the equity of certain foreign subsidiaries. The Facility Agreement contains customary events of default and requires that the Company satisfy various financial and non-financial covenants, including the following: • The Company's capital expenditures do not exceed $15.0 million per year; • The Company's expenditures in connection with its spectrum rights must be the lesser of (1) $20.0 million and (2) 20% of the proceeds of the aggregate of any equity the Company raises from January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2019; • The Company maintains at all times a minimum liquidity balance of $4.0 million ; • The Company achieves for each period the following minimum adjusted consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the Facility Agreement) (amounts in thousands): Period Minimum Amount 7/1/18-12/31/18 $ 47,694 1/1/19-6/30/19 $ 45,509 7/1/19-12/31/19 $ 53,830 • The minimum adjusted consolidated EBITDA Minimum Amount changes semi-annually through December 31, 2022, for which measurement period the Minimum Amount is $65.7 million . • The Company maintains a minimum debt service coverage ratio of 1.00 :1; • The Company maintains a maximum net debt to adjusted consolidated EBITDA ratio of 5.00 :1 for the December 31, 2018 measurement period, decreasing gradually each semi-annual period until the requirement equals 2.50 :1 for the five semi-annual measurement periods leading up to December 31, 2022; • The Company maintains a minimum interest coverage ratio of 3.50 :1 for the December 31, 2018 measurement period, increasing gradually each semi-annual period until the requirement equals 5.00 :1 for the five semi-annual measurement periods leading up to December 31, 2022; and • The Company makes mandatory prepayments in specified circumstances and amounts, including if the Company generates excess cash flow, monetizes its spectrum rights, receives the proceeds of certain asset dispositions or receives more than $145.0 million from the sale of additional debt or equity securities (excluding the Thermo commitments described below and the excluded Purchase Agreement Amounts, as defined in the Facility Agreement). Additionally, the covenants in the Facility Agreement limit the Company's ability to, among other things, incur or guarantee additional indebtedness; make certain investments, acquisitions or capital expenditures above certain agreed levels; pay dividends or repurchase or redeem capital stock or subordinated indebtedness; grant liens on its assets; incur restrictions on the ability of its subsidiaries to pay dividends or to make other payments to the Company; enter into transactions with its affiliates; merge or consolidate with other entities or transfer all or substantially all of its assets; and transfer or sell assets. In calculating compliance with the financial covenants of the Facility Agreement, the Company may include certain cash funds contributed to the Company from the issuance of the Company's common stock and/or subordinated indebtedness. These funds are referred to as "Equity Cure Contributions" and may be used to achieve compliance with financial covenants through December 2019. If the Company violates any covenants and is unable to obtain a sufficient Equity Cure Contribution or obtain a waiver, or is unable to make payments to satisfy its debt obligations under the Facility Agreement when due and is unable to obtain a waiver, it would be in default under the Facility Agreement and payment of the indebtedness could be accelerated. The acceleration of the Company's indebtedness under one agreement may permit acceleration of indebtedness under other agreements that contain cross-acceleration provisions. The Company anticipates that it will need an Equity Cure Contribution to maintain compliance with financial covenants under the Facility Agreement for the measurement period ended December 31, 2018. The source of funds for these Equity Cure Contributions has not yet been fully arranged. As of December 31, 2017 , the Company was in compliance with respect to the covenants of the Facility Agreement. The Facility Agreement also requires the Company to maintain a debt service reserve account, which is pledged to secure all of the Company's obligations under the Facility Agreement. The use of these funds is restricted to making principal and interest payments under the Facility Agreement. Prior to October 30, 2017, the Company was required to maintain a total of $37.9 million in a debt service reserve account. Beginning on October 30, 2017, the balance in the debt service reserve account must equal the total amount of principal and interest payable by the Company on the next payment date. As of December 31, 2017 , the balance in the debt service reserve account was $50.9 million , which is classified as restricted cash on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. The remaining amount included in restricted cash as of December 31, 2017 represents a portion of the proceeds from the October 2017 stock offering (see further discussion below). The following changes to the terms of the Facility Agreement were made upon its amendment and restatement in 2017: • The amendments to the Facility Agreement defer most financial covenants until the measurement period ending December 31, 2018; extend to the measurement period ending December 31, 2019 the date through which Equity Cure Contributions can be made; eliminate the requirement of the Company to redeem in full the 2013 8.00% Notes; defer mandatory prepayments from qualifying equity raises until January 1, 2020; and revise the definition of the debt service reserve account required balance after October 30, 2017 to mean an amount equal to the Debt Service (as defined in the 2017 GARA) amount due on the next payment date. • The Company agreed to raise at least $159.0 million in equity, which includes $12.0 million previously raised from its common stock purchase agreement with Terrapin Opportunity, L.P. ("Terrapin") in January 2017. The Company was required to raise a portion of the total $159.0 million by June 30, 2017 and the remaining amount no later than October 30, 2017. The Company was required to raise approximately $33.0 million as of June 30, 2017, which included amounts for the Company's outstanding restructuring fees, insurance premiums to BPIFAE and principal and interest due under the Facility Agreement as of June 30, 2017. This amount was raised pursuant to the Common Stock Purchase Agreement entered into between the Company and Thermo on June 30, 2017, as discussed in Note 9: Related Party Transactions . In October 2017, the Company satisfied the remaining equity requirement by completing a common stock offering that generated net proceeds of approximately $115.0 million (after deducting underwriter commissions and estimated offering expenses), as discussed further below. The Company is required to deposit 80% of any equity proceeds raised through December 31, 2019 (including those funds required to be raised in 2017) into a restricted account, separate from the debt service reserve account discussed above, that may only be used to pay obligations under the Facility Agreement. • The 2017 GARA required Thermo to fund or backstop the amounts required to be raised as of June 30, 2017. The total $33.0 million was raised pursuant to the Common Stock Purchase Agreement with Thermo, discussed in Note 9: Related Party Transactions • The Company agreed to limit expenditures in connection with its spectrum rights to be the lesser of (1) $20.0 million and (2) 20% of the proceeds of the aggregate of any equity the Company raises from January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2019. • The Company agreed to pay an amendment fee to the agent and lenders in the aggregate amount of $0.3 million and accelerated the payment of the restructuring fee and insurance premium of approximately $20.8 million, which was previously due December 31, 2017 and accrued as a current liability on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. The amendment and restatement of the Facility Agreement was considered a debt modification pursuant to applicable accounting guidance. As such, fees paid to the creditors were capitalized on the Company's consolidated balance sheet as deferred financing costs and fees paid to the Company's advisors and other third parties were expensed in the Company's statement of operations for the period ended June 30, 2017. Thermo Loan Agreement In connection with the amendment and restatement of the Facility Agreement in July 2013, the Company amended and restated its loan agreement with Thermo (the “Loan Agreement”). All obligations of the Company to Thermo under the Loan Agreement are subordinated to the Company’s obligations under the Facility Agreement. The Loan Agreement accrues interest at 12% per annum, which is capitalized and added to the outstanding principal in lieu of cash payments. The Company will make payments to Thermo only when permitted by the Facility Agreement. Principal and interest under the Loan Agreement become due and payable six months after the obligations under the Facility Agreement have been paid in full, or earlier if the Company has a change in control or if any acceleration of the maturity of the loans under the Facility Agreement occurs. As of December 31, 2017 , $62.6 million of interest had accrued since 2009 with respect to the Loan Agreement; the Loan Agreement is included in long-term debt on the Company's consolidated balance sheets. The Company evaluated the various embedded derivatives within the Loan Agreement (See Note 5: Fair Value Measurements for additional information about the embedded derivative in the Loan Agreement). The Company determined that the conversion option and the contingent put feature upon a fundamental change required bifurcation from the Loan Agreement. The conversion option and the contingent put feature were not deemed clearly and closely related to the Loan Agreement and were separately accounted for as a standalone derivative. The Company recorded this compound embedded derivative liability as a non-current liability on its consolidated balance sheets with a corresponding debt discount, which is netted against the face value of the Loan Agreement. The Company is accreting the debt discount associated with the compound embedded derivative liability to interest expense through the maturity of the Loan Agreement using an effective interest rate method. The fair value of the compound embedded derivative liability is marked-to-market at the end of each reporting period, with any changes in value reported in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company determines the fair value of the compound embedded derivative using a blend of a Monte Carlo simulation model and market prices. All of the transactions between the Company and Thermo and its affiliates were reviewed and approved on the Company's behalf by a Special Committee of its independent directors, who were represented by independent counsel. The amount by which the if-converted value of the Loan Agreement exceeds the principal amount at December 31, 2017 , assuming conversion at the closing price of the Company's common stock on that date of $1.31 per share, is approximately $83.8 million . 8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013 On May 20, 2013, the Company issued $54.6 million aggregate principal amount of its 2013 8.00% Notes. The 2013 8.00% Notes are convertible into shares of common stock at a conversion price of $0.73 (as adjusted) per share of common stock, or 1,370 shares of the Company's common stock per $1,000 principal amount of the 2013 8.00% Notes. The conversion price of the 2013 8.00% Notes is adjusted in the event of certain stock splits or extraordinary share distributions, or as a reset of the base conversion and exercise price pursuant to the terms of the Fourth Supplemental Indenture between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, dated May 20, 2013 (the “Indenture”). The 2013 8.00% Notes are senior unsecured debt obligations of the Company with no sinking fund. The 2013 8.00% Notes will mature on April 1, 2028, subject to various call and put features, and bear interest at a rate of 8.00% per annum. Interest on the 2013 8.00% Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year. Interest is paid in cash at a rate of 5.75% per annum and in additional notes at a rate of 2.25% per annum. Subject to certain conditions set forth in the Indenture, the Company may redeem the 2013 8.00% Notes, with the prior approval of the majority lenders under the Facility Agreement, in whole or in part, at any time on or after April 1, 2018, at a price equal to the principal amount of the 2013 8.00% Notes to be redeemed plus all accrued and unpaid interest thereon. A holder of the 2013 8.00% Notes has the right, at the holder’s option, to require the Company to purchase some or all of the 2013 8.00% Notes held by it on each of April 1, 2018 and April 1, 2023 at a price equal to the principal amount of the 2013 8.00% Notes to be purchased plus accrued and unpaid interest. Subject to the procedures for conversion and other terms and conditions of the Indenture, a holder may convert its 2013 8.00% Notes at its option at any time prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding April 1, 2028, into shares of common stock (or, at the option of the Company, cash in lieu of all or a portion thereof, provided that, under the Facility Agreement, the Company may pay cash only with the consent of the majority lenders). The conversion activity since issuance of the 2013 8.00% Notes is summarized in the table below (in thousands): Period Principal Amount Converted Shares of Voting Common Stock Issued (Gain)/Loss on Extinguishment of Debt Year Ended December 31, 2013 $ 8,029 14,863 $ (4,237 ) Year Ended December 31, 2014 24,881 46,353 44,061 Year Ended December 31, 2015 6,491 10,887 2,254 Year Ended December 31, 2016 — — — Year Ended December 31, 2017 15,986 26,411 6,306 Total $ 55,387 98,514 $ 48,384 On August 24, 2017, the Company entered into an agreement to issue an aggregate of 26.4 million shares of its voting common stock in exchange for approximately $16.0 million principal amount of its 2013 8.00% Notes. As a result of this conversion, the Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt of $6.3 million during the third quarter of 2017 calculated as the difference between the fair value of the shares issued to the holder and the carrying value of the debt and derivative liabilities written off due to the conversion. Holders who convert 2013 8.00% Notes may receive conversion shares over a 40 -consecutive trading day settlement period. Accordingly, the portion of converted debt is extinguished on an incremental basis over the 40 -day settlement period, reducing the Company's outstanding debt balance. As of December 31, 2017 , no conversions had been initiated but not yet fully settled. A holder of the 2013 8.00% Notes has the right, at the holder’s option, to require the Company to purchase some or all of the 2013 8.00% Notes held by it at any time if there is a Fundamental Change. A Fundamental Change occurs if the Company's common stock ceases to be traded on a stock exchange or an established over-the-counter market, or if there is a change of control. If there is a Fundamental Change, the purchase price of any 2013 8.00% Notes purchased by the Company will be equal to its principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest and a Fundamental Change Make-Whole Amount calculated as provided in the Indenture. The Indenture provides that the Company and its subsidiaries may not, with specified exceptions, including the liens securing the Facility Agreement and liens approved in writing by the Agent, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any lien on any of its assets, provided that if the Company or any of its subsidiaries creates, incurs or assumes any lien which is junior to the most senior lien securing the Facility Agreement, the Company must promptly issue to the holders of the 2013 8.00% Notes $3.6 million (as calculated under the Indenture) of shares of the Company's common stock. At December 31, 2017 , the Company did not expect that a lien will be created that does not meet at least one of the specified exceptions in the Indenture, and therefore accrued no amount for this feature. The Indenture provides for customary events of default. If there is an event of default, the Trustee may, at the direction of the holders of 25% or more in aggregate principal amount of the 2013 8.00% Notes, accelerate the maturity of the 2013 8.00% Notes. As of December 31, 2017 , the Company was in compliance with respect to the terms of the 2013 8.00% Notes and the Indenture. The Company evaluated the various embedded derivatives within the Indenture for the 2013 8.00% Notes. The Company determined that the conversion option and the contingent put feature within the Indenture required bifurcation from the 2013 8.00% Notes. The Company did not deem the conversion option and the contingent put feature to be clearly and closely related to the 2013 8.00% Notes and separately accounted for them as a standalone derivative. The Company recorded this compound embedded derivative liability as a liability on its consolidated balance sheets with a corresponding debt discount which is netted against the face value of the 2013 8.00% Notes. The Company was accreting the debt discount associated with the compound embedded derivative liability to interest expense through the first put date of the 2013 8.00% Notes (April 1, 2018) using an effective interest rate method. However, following the conversion in August 2017 (as discussed above), the remaining debt discount balance was recorded to interest expense during the third quarter 2017, resulting in no balance as of September 30, 2017. The Company is marking to market the fair value of the compound embedded derivative liability at the end of each reporting period, or more frequently as deemed necessary, and as of the date of a significant conversion (such as the one discussed above), with any changes in value reported in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company determines the fair value of the compound embedded derivative using a blend of a Monte Carlo simulation model and market prices. The amount by which the if-converted value of the 2013 8.00% Notes exceeded the principal amount at December 31, 2017 , assuming conversion at the closing price of the Company's common stock on that date of $1.31 per share, is approximately $1.1 million . Debt maturities Annual debt maturities for each of the five years following December 31, 2017 and thereafter are as follows (in thousands): 2018 79,215 2019 94,870 2020 100,000 2021 100,000 2022 94,519 Thereafter 106,054 Total $ 574,658 Amounts in the above table are calculated based on amounts outstanding at December 31, 2017 , and therefore exclude paid-in-kind interest payments that will be made in future periods. The 2013 8.00% Notes are subject to repurchase by the Company at the option of the holders on April 1, 2018. As such, the amounts are included in the 2018 maturities in the table above. Terrapin Opportunity, L.P. Common Stock Purchase Agreement In August 2015, the Company entered into a common stock purchase agreement with Terrapin pursuant to which the Company could require Terrapin to purchase up to $75.0 million of shares of the Company’s voting common stock over the 24 -month term following the date of the agreement. From time to time over the 24 -month term, in the Company’s discretion, the Company could present Terrapin with up to 24 draw notices requiring Terrapin to purchase a specified dollar amount of shares of voting common stock, based on the price per share per day over ten consecutive trading days (a "Draw Down Period"). The per share purchase price for these shares of voting common stock will equal the daily volume weighted average price of the common stock on each date during the Draw Down Period on which shares are purchased by Terrapin, but not less than a minimum price specified by the Company (a “Threshold Price”), less a discount ranging from 2.75% to 4.00% based on the Threshold Price. In addition, in the Company’s discretion, but subject to certain limitations, the Company could grant to Terrapin the option to purchase additional shares during a Draw Down Period. The Company agreed not to sell to Terrapin a number of shares of voting common stock that, when aggregated with all other shares of voting common stock then beneficially owned by Terrapin and its affiliates, would result in their beneficial ownership of more than 9.9% of the then issued and outstanding shares of voting common stock. Through the term of this agreement, Terrapin purchased a total of 67.3 million shares of voting common stock for a total purchase price of $75.0 million . In January 2017, the Company drew $12.0 million and issued to Terrapin 8.9 million shares of voting common stock. No funds remain available under this agreement. Public Offering of Common Stock In October 2017, the Company entered into an underwriting agreement (the “Underwriting Agreement”) with Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, as manager for several underwriters (collectively, the “Underwriters”), relating to the sale of 73.4 million shares of common stock, at a public offering price of $1.65 per share. The Company received approximately $115.0 million in net proceeds from the sale of the common stock. The Company used the net proceeds from the offering to meet its obligation to raise $114.0 million by October 30, 2017 pursuant to the 2017 GARA (as discussed above). Eighty percent of the net proceeds of the offering were deposited in a restricted account, a portion of which was used to pay principal and interest due under the Facility Agreement in December 2017. The remainder of the proceeds will be used for principal and interest due under the Facility Agreement in June 2018 and for general corporate purposes.

DERIVATIVES

DERIVATIVES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
DERIVATIVES	4. DERIVATIVES In connection with certain existing borrowing arrangements, the Company was required to record derivative instruments on its consolidated balance sheets. None of these derivative instruments are designated as a hedge. The following table discloses the fair values of the derivative instruments on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Derivative assets: Interest rate cap $ — $ 4 Total derivative assets $ — $ 4 Derivative liabilities: Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes $ (1,326 ) $ (26,664 ) Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo (226,659 ) (254,507 ) Total derivative liabilities $ (227,985 ) $ (281,171 ) The following table discloses the changes in value recorded as derivative gain (loss) in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Interest rate cap $ (4 ) $ (2 ) $ (40 ) Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes (6,662 ) (461 ) 32,829 Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo 27,848 (41,068 ) 149,071 Total derivative gain (loss) $ 21,182 $ (41,531 ) $ 181,860 Intangible and Other Assets Interest Rate Cap In June 2009, in connection with entering into the Facility Agreement, under which interest accrues at a variable rate, the Company entered into five ten -year interest rate cap agreements. The interest rate cap agreements reflect a variable notional amount at interest rates that provide coverage to the Company for exposure resulting from escalating interest rates over the term of the Facility Agreement. The interest rate cap provides limits on the six-month Libor rate (“Base Rate”) used to calculate the coupon interest on outstanding amounts on the Facility Agreement and is capped at 5.50% should the Base Rate not exceed 6.5% . Should the Base Rate exceed 6.5% , the Company’s Base Rate will be 1% less than the then six-month Libor rate. The Company paid an approximately $12.4 million upfront fee for the interest rate cap agreements. The interest rate cap did not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, and changes in the fair value of the agreements are included in the consolidated statements of operations. Derivative Liabilities The Company has identified various embedded derivatives resulting from certain features in the Company’s debt instruments, including the conversion option and the contingent put feature within both the 2013 8.00% Notes and the Loan Agreement with Thermo. These embedded derivatives required bifurcation from the debt host agreement and are recorded as a derivative liability on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets with a corresponding debt discount netted against the principal amount of the related debt instrument. The Company accretes the debt discount associated with each derivative liability to interest expense over the term of the related debt instrument using an effective interest rate method. The fair value of each embedded derivative liability is marked-to-market at the end of each reporting period, or more frequently as deemed necessary, with any changes in value reported in its consolidated statements of operations. The Company determined the fair value of its compound embedded derivative liabilities using a blend of a Monte Carlo simulation model and market prices. See Note 5: Fair Value Measurements for further discussion. Each liability and the features embedded in the debt instrument which required the Company to account for the instrument as a derivative are described below. Compound Embedded Derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes As a result of the conversion option and the contingent put feature within the 2013 8.00% Notes, the Company recorded a compound embedded derivative liability on its consolidated balance sheets with a corresponding debt discount that is netted against the face value of the 2013 8.00% Notes. The Company determined the fair value of the compound embedded derivative liability using a blend of a Monte Carlo simulation model and market prices. As the first put date for the 2013 8.00% Notes is on April 1, 2018, the Company has classified this derivative liability as current on its consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2017 . Compound Embedded Derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo As a result of the conversion option and the contingent put feature within the Loan Agreement with Thermo as amended and restated in July 2013, the Company recorded a compound embedded derivative liability on its consolidated balance sheets with a corresponding debt discount that is netted against the face value of the Loan Agreement. The Company determined the fair value of the compound embedded derivative liability using a blend of a Monte Carlo simulation model and market prices.

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS	5. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS The Company follows the authoritative guidance for fair value measurements relating to financial and non-financial assets and liabilities, including presentation of required disclosures herein. This guidance establishes a fair value framework requiring the categorization of assets and liabilities into three levels based upon the assumptions (inputs) used to price the assets and liabilities. Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, whereas Level 3 generally requires significant management judgment. The three levels are defined as follows: Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2: Quoted prices in markets that are not active or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity). Recurring Fair Value Measurements The following tables provide a summary of the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in thousands): Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017: (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Balance Assets: Interest rate cap $ — $ — $ — $ — Total assets measured at fair value $ — $ — $ — $ — Liabilities: Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes — — (1,326 ) (1,326 ) Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo — — (226,659 ) (226,659 ) Total liabilities measured at fair value $ — $ — $ (227,985 ) $ (227,985 ) Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016: (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Balance Assets: Interest rate cap $ — $ 4 $ — $ 4 Total assets measured at fair value $ — $ 4 $ — $ 4 Liabilities: Liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes $ — $ (2,706 ) $ — $ (2,706 ) Liability for stock issuance due to legal settlement — (389 ) — $ (389 ) Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes — — (26,664 ) (26,664 ) Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo — — (254,507 ) (254,507 ) Total liabilities measured at fair value $ — $ (3,095 ) $ (281,171 ) $ (284,266 ) Assets Interest Rate Cap The fair value of the interest rate cap is determined using observable pricing inputs including benchmark yields, reported trades and broker/dealer quotes at the reporting date. See Note 4: Derivatives for further discussion. Liabilities Liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes As described in Note 6: Commitments , the Company agreed to provide downside protection after the issuance of shares of common stock to Hughes in lieu of cash for contract payments in June 2015. This feature required the Company to issue to Hughes additional shares of common stock equal to the difference, if any, between the initial consideration of $15.5 million and the total amount of gross proceeds Hughes receives from the sale of any shares plus the market value of any shares still held by Hughes as of the close of trading on June 30, 2017. In April 2017, Hughes sold all remaining shares of Globalstar common stock and the Company was not required to issue additional shares. Prior to settlement, this liability was recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheet in accrued expenses and was marked-to-market at each balance sheet date. The value of this option was calculated using a Black-Scholes pricing model. The Company recorded gains and losses resulting from changes in the value of this liability in its consolidated statement of operations. This liability is no longer outstanding. Liability for future stock issuance due to legal settlement As described in Note 7: Contingencies , the Company settled litigation related to its Brazilian subsidiary in October 2016 through payment of Globalstar common stock. In connection with this settlement, the Company paid 4.5 million reais, or $1.4 million . The Company agreed to provide downside protection for the difference between the total settlement amount of 4.5 million reais and the total amount of gross proceeds the counterparty receives from the sale of these shares. An estimate of $0.4 million for this liability was recorded in accrued expenses in the Company's consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2016. In March 2017, the Company settled this liability through the final payment of approximately 0.3 million shares of Globalstar common stock. Derivative Liabilities The Company has two derivative liabilities classified as Level 3. The Company marks-to-market these liabilities at each reporting date, or more frequently as deemed necessary, with the changes in fair value recognized in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. See Note 4: Derivatives for further discussion. The significant quantitative Level 3 inputs utilized in the valuation models are shown in the tables below: December 31, 2017: Stock Price Volatility Risk-Free Interest Rate Conversion Price Discount Rate Market Price of Common Stock Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes 78% 1.4% $0.73 27% $1.31 Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo 40 - 77% 2.2% $0.73 27% $1.31 December 31, 2016: Stock Price Volatility Risk-Free Interest Rate Conversion Price Discount Rate Market Price of Common Stock Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes 100 - 110% 1.0% $0.73 25% $1.58 Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo 40 - 110% 2.2% $0.73 25% $1.58 Fluctuation in the Company’s stock price is the primary driver for the changes in the derivative valuations during each reporting period. The Company’s stock price decreased 17% from December 31, 2016 to December 31, 2017 . As the stock price decreases towards the current conversion price for each of the related derivative instruments, the value to the holder of the instrument generally decreases, thereby decreasing the liability on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. These valuations are sensitive to the weighting applied to each of the simulated values. Additionally, stock price volatility is one of the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of each of the Company’s derivative instruments. The simulated fair value of these liabilities is sensitive to changes in the expected volatility of the Company’s stock price. Decreases in expected volatility would generally result in a lower fair value measurement. Probability of a change of control is another significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s derivative instruments. Subject to certain restrictions in each indenture, the Company’s debt instruments contain certain provisions whereby holders may require the Company to purchase all or any portion of the convertible debt instrument upon a change of control. A change of control will occur upon certain changes in the ownership of the Company or certain events relating to the trading of the Company’s common stock. The simulated fair value of the derivative liabilities above is sensitive to changes in the assumed probabilities of a change of control. Decreases in the assumed probability of a change of control would generally result in a lower fair value measurement. In addition to the inputs described above, the valuation model used to calculate the fair value measurement of the compound embedded derivatives within the Company’s 2013 8.00% Notes and Loan Agreement included the following inputs and features: payment in kind interest payments, make whole premiums, a 40 -day stock issuance settlement period upon conversion, estimated maturity date, and the principal balance of each loan at the balance sheet date. There are also certain put and call features within the 2013 8.00% Notes that impact the valuation model. The trading activity in the market provides the Company with additional valuation support. The Company uses a weight factor to calculate the fair value of the embedded derivatives to align the fair value produced from the Monte Carlo simulation model with the market value of the 2013 8.00% Notes. Due to the similarities of the debt instruments, the Company applies a similar weight to the embedded derivative in the Loan Agreement. These valuations are sensitive to the weighting applied to each of the simulated values. The following table presents a rollforward for all liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) (in thousands): Year Ended December 31 2017 2016 Balance at beginning of period $ (281,171 ) $ (239,642 ) Derivative adjustment related to conversions 32,000 — Unrealized gain (loss), included in derivative gain (loss) 21,186 (41,529 ) Balance at end of period $ (227,985 ) $ (281,171 ) Fair Value of Debt Instruments The Company believes it is not practicable to determine the fair value of the Facility Agreement without incurring significant additional costs. Unlike typical long-term debt, interest rates and other terms for the Facility Agreement are not readily available and generally involve a variety of factors, including due diligence by the debt holders. The following table sets forth the carrying values and estimated fair values of the Company's other debt instruments, which are classified as Level 3 financial instruments (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Carrying Value Estimated Fair Value Carrying Value Estimated Fair Value Loan Agreement with Thermo $ 79,721 $ 54,936 $ 64,347 $ 47,874 2013 8.00% Notes 1,348 1,295 14,572 14,350 Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements The Company follows the authoritative guidance regarding non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities that are remeasured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. On August 24, 2017, a holder of $16.0 million principal amount of its 2013 8.00% Notes converted the notes into shares of the Company's common stock. See further discussion in Note 3: Long-Term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements. As a result of this conversion, the Company wrote off a portion of the compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes based on the value of the derivative on the conversion date. As of the date of conversion, the fair value of the compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes was $34.7 million . The significant quantitative Level 3 inputs utilized in the valuation models as of the conversion date are shown in the table below: August 24, 2017: Stock Price Risk-Free Note Discount Rate Market Price of Common Stock Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes 65 % 1.1 % 0.73 26 % 2.03 See further discussion in Note 4: Derivatives for other valuation inputs used in the valuation model of the 2013 8.00% Notes and the impact these inputs have on the fair value measurement. Long-Lived Assets Long-lived assets and intangible and other assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. The Company no longer considers the likelihood of recovering the value of LLI to be probable. See Note 2: Property and Equipment for further discussion. As such, a reduction in the value of long-lived assets of $17.0 million was recorded on its consolidated statements of operations during the fourth quarter of 2017. During 2016, the Company recorded a loss of $0.4 million to reduce the carrying value of the intangible asset associated with its efforts to support its petition to the FCC to use its licensed MSS spectrum to provide terrestrial wireless services. See Note 1: Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further discussion. Losses of this nature are recorded in operating expenses in the consolidated statement of operations. The following tables present the location on the Company's consolidated balance sheet and the amount of the reduction in the value of long-lived assets recorded in 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017: (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Losses Property and equipment, net: $ — $ — $ 971,119 $ 17,040 Total $ — $ — $ 971,119 $ 17,040 Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016: (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Losses Intangibles and other assets, net $ — $ — $ 16,782 $ 350 Total $ — $ — $ 16,782 $ 350

COMMITMENTS

COMMITMENTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
COMMITMENTS	6. COMMITMENTS Contractual Obligations - Next-Generation Gateways and Other Ground Facilities As of December 31, 2017 , the Company had purchase commitments with Thales, Hughes and Ericsson related to the procurement, deployment and maintenance of the second-generation network. The Company is obligated to make payments under these purchase commitments totaling approximately $0.5 million , which were recorded in accounts payable and accrued expenses on its consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2017 . Hughes designed, supplied and implemented the Radio Access Network ("RAN") ground network equipment and software upgrades for installation at a number of the Company’s gateways. Hughes also provided the satellite interface chips to be used in various second-generation Globalstar devices. Ericsson developed, implemented and installed the Company's ground interface, or core network system, at certain of the Company’s gateways. The second-generation Ericsson core links the Hughes RANs to the public-switched telephone network (“PSTN”), cellular networks and Internet. In December 2016, the Company formally accepted all contract deliverables under the core contracts for both Hughes and Ericsson necessary to deploy its second-generation ground infrastructure. The Company intends to complete certain add-ons outside of the scope of the core contracts, which include certain punch list items with Ericsson and the installation of second-generation RANs at certain additional gateways. In April 2015, Hughes exercised an option to be paid in shares of the Company's common stock (at a price 7% below market) in lieu of cash for certain contract payments, totaling approximately $15.5 million . In June 2015, the Company issued 7.4 million shares of freely tradable common stock at the 7% discount pursuant to this option. In connection with this option, the Company agreed to provide downside protection through June 30, 2017. This feature required that the Company issue additional shares of common stock equal to the difference, if any, between the initial consideration of $15.5 million and the total amount of gross proceeds Hughes received from the sale of any shares plus the market value of any shares still held by Hughes as of the close of trading on June 30, 2017. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company recorded a liability of $2.7 million as of December 31, 2016 . In April 2017, Hughes sold all remaining shares of Globalstar common stock. The Company was not required to issue additional shares. See Note 5: Fair Value Measurements for further discussion of the fair value of this liability. Other Second-Generation Commitments The Company has signed various licensing and royalty agreements necessary for the manufacture and distribution of its second-generation products. Payments made under these agreements were $6.6 million as of December 31, 2017 ; amounts are recorded primarily in noncurrent assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. The Company estimates the portion of expense incurred or royalties earned for the next 12 months and reclassifies these amounts to current assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheet each reporting period. The Company will expense these amounts through depreciation expense over the life of the gateway, maintenance expense over the term of the services, or cost of goods sold on a per unit basis as these units are manufactured, sold, or activated. Future Minimum Lease Obligations The Company has non-cancelable operating leases for facilities and equipment throughout the United States and around the world, including Louisiana, California, Florida, Canada, Ireland, France, Brazil, Panama, Singapore and Botswana. The leases expire on various dates through 2021. The following table presents the future minimum lease payments for leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year (in thousands) as of December 31, 2017 , excluding possible lease payment reimbursement from the State of Louisiana pursuant to the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement the Company entered into with the Louisiana Department of Economic Development (See Note 8: Accrued Expenses and Other Non-Current Liabilities ): 2018 $ 1,241 2019 357 2020 313 2021 168 2022 — Thereafter — Total minimum lease payments $ 2,079 Rent expense for 2017 , 2016 and 2015 was approximately $1.4 million , $1.3 million and $1.3 million , respectively.

CONTINGENCIES

CONTINGENCIES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
CONTINGENCIES	7. CONTINGENCIES Arbitration On June 3, 2011, Globalstar filed a demand for arbitration against Thales before the American Arbitration Association to enforce certain rights to order additional satellites under the 2009 Contract. The Company did not include within its demand any claims that it had against Thales for work previously performed under the contract to design, manufacture and timely deliver the first 25 second-generation satellites. On May 10, 2012, the arbitration tribunal issued its award in which it determined that the Company had terminated the 2009 Contract "for convenience" and had materially breached the contract by failing to pay to Thales the €51.3 million in termination charges required under the contract. The tribunal additionally determined that absent further agreement between the parties, Thales had no further obligation to manufacture or deliver satellites under Phase 3 of the 2009 Contract. Based on these determinations, the tribunal directed the Company to pay Thales approximately €53 million in termination charges, plus interest by June 9, 2012. On May 23, 2012, Thales commenced an action in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York by filing a petition to confirm the arbitration award (the “New York Proceeding”). Thales and the Company entered into a tolling agreement as of June 13, 2013, under which Thales dismissed the New York Proceeding without prejudice. The tolling agreement has expired. Thales may refile the petition at a later date and pursue the confirmation of the arbitration award, which the Company would oppose. Should Thales be successful in confirming the arbitration award, this would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and liquidity. On June 24, 2012, the Company and Thales agreed to settle their prior commercial disputes, including those disputes that were the subject of the arbitration award. In order to effectuate this settlement, the Company and Thales entered into a Release Agreement, a Settlement Agreement and a Submission Agreement. Under the terms of the Release Agreement, Thales agreed unconditionally and irrevocably to release and forever discharge the Company from any and all claims and obligations (with the exception of those items payable under the Settlement Agreement or in connection with a new contract for the purchase of any additional second-generation satellites), including, without limitation, a full release from paying €35.6 million of the termination charges awarded in the arbitration together with all interest on the award amount effective upon the earlier of December 31, 2012, and the effective date of the financing for the purchase of any additional second-generation satellites. Under the terms of the Release Agreement, the Company agreed unconditionally and irrevocably to release and forever discharge Thales from any and all claims (with limited exceptions), including, without limitation, claims related to Thales’ work under the 2009 satellite construction contract, including any obligation to pay liquidated damages, effective upon the earlier of December 31, 2012, and the effective date of the financing for the purchase of any additional second-generation satellites. In connection with the Release Agreement and the Settlement Agreement, the Company recorded a contract termination charge of approximately €17.5 million which is recorded in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . The releases became effective on December 31, 2012. Under the terms of the Settlement Agreement, the Company agreed to pay €17.5 million to Thales, representing one-third of the termination charges awarded to Thales in the arbitration, subject to certain conditions, on the later of the effective date of the new contract for the purchase of any additional second-generation satellites and the effective date of the financing for the purchase of these satellites. As of December 31, 2017 , this condition had not been satisfied. Because the effective date of the new contract for the purchase of additional second-generation satellites did not occur on or prior to February 28, 2013, any party may terminate the Settlement Agreement. If any party terminates the Settlement Agreement, all parties’ rights and obligations under the Settlement Agreement shall terminate. The Release Agreement is a separate and independent agreement from the Settlement Agreement and provides that it supersedes all prior understandings, commitments and representations between the parties with respect to the subject matter thereof; therefore it would survive any termination of the Settlement Agreement. As of December 31, 2017 , no party had terminated the Settlement Agreement Litigation Due to the nature of the Company's business, the Company is involved, from time to time, in various litigation matters or subject to disputes or routine claims regarding its business activities. Legal costs related to these matters are expensed as incurred. In 2016, the Company settled litigation incurred on behalf of the Company's Brazilian subsidiary. The Company paid the total settlement of 4.5 million reais, or $1.4 million , by issuing approximately 1.3 million shares of Globalstar common stock in October 2016. The Company agreed to provide downside protection for the difference between the total settlement amount of 4.5 million reais and the total gross proceeds received by the third party upon sale of these shares. In March 2017, the Company paid 0.3 million shares of Globalstar common stock related to this downside protection, valued at 1.4 million reais, or $0.5 million . In management's opinion, there is no pending litigation, dispute or claim, other than those described in this report, which could be expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NON-

ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES	8. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES Accrued expenses consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Accrued interest $ 228 $ 381 Accrued liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes — 2,706 Accrued compensation and benefits 3,913 3,193 Accrued property and other taxes 3,944 4,173 Accrued customer liabilities and deposits 4,529 3,907 Accrued professional and other service provider fees 3,386 2,544 Accrued commissions 1,162 858 Accrued telecommunications expenses 876 686 Accrued satellite and ground costs 634 2,076 Accrued inventory 102 90 Accrued liability for legal settlement — 389 Other accrued expenses 1,980 2,159 Total accrued expenses $ 20,754 $ 23,162 Accrued liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes included the estimated value at December 31, 2016 of the downside protection that the Company provided to Hughes in connection with its April 2015 agreement (as amended). This liability was settled in 2017. See Note 5: Fair Value Measurements and Note 6: Commitments for further discussion. Accrued liability for legal settlement related to the litigation incurred on behalf of the Company's Brazilian subsidiary. The balance at December 31, 2016 included the fair value of the downside protection the Company provided related to the settlement of this litigation. This liability was settled in 2017. See Note 5: Fair Value Measurements and Note 7: Contingencies for further discussion. Other accrued expenses include primarily advertising costs, capital lease obligations, vendor services, warranty reserve, occupancy costs, payments to IGOs and estimated payroll shortfall under the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Louisiana Department of Economic Development (“LED”). The following is a summary of the activity in the warranty reserve account, which is included in other accrued expenses above (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 132 $ 101 $ 129 Provision 273 272 279 Utilization (262 ) (241 ) (307 ) Balance at end of period $ 143 $ 132 $ 101 Other non-current liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Long-term accrued interest $ — $ 99 Asset retirement obligation 1,451 1,443 Deferred rent and other deferred expense 274 470 Capital lease obligations 154 87 Liability related to the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the State of Louisiana 460 445 Foreign tax contingencies 3,634 3,346 Total other non-current liabilities $ 5,973 $ 5,890 The Company relocated to Louisiana in 2011. In connection with its relocation, the Company entered into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the LED whereby the Company would be reimbursed for certain qualified relocation costs and lease expenses. In accordance with the terms of the agreement, these reimbursement costs, not to exceed $8.1 million , will be reimbursed to the Company as incurred provided the Company maintains required annual payroll levels in Louisiana through 2019. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company was reimbursed a total of $5.2 million for qualifying relocation and lease expenses and $1.3 million for facility improvements and replacement equipment in connection with the relocation through December 31, 2017 .

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS	9. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Payables to Thermo and other affiliates related to normal purchase transactions were $0.2 million and $0.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Transactions with Thermo General and administrative expenses are related to non-cash expenses and those expenses incurred by Thermo on behalf of the Company which are charged to the Company. Non-cash expenses, which the Company accounts for as a contribution to capital, relate to services provided by two executive officers of Thermo (who are also directors of the Company) and receive no cash compensation from the Company. The Thermo expense charges are based on actual amounts (with no mark-up) incurred or upon allocated employee time. Those expenses charged to the Company were $0.8 million , $0.7 million , and $0.9 million for the periods ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. As of December 31, 2017 , the principal amount outstanding under the Loan Agreement with Thermo was $106.1 million , and the fair value of the compound embedded derivative liability associated with the Loan Agreement was $226.7 million . During 2017 and 2016 , interest accrued on the Loan Agreement was approximately $12.1 million and $10.7 million, respectively. In June 2009, the Company entered into a Contingent Equity Agreement with Thermo, under which Thermo agreed to deposit $60.0 million into a contingent equity account to fulfill a condition precedent for borrowing under the Facility Agreement. The Company has drawn the entire amount in this account plus accrued interest. Since the origination of the Contingent Equity Agreement, the Company has issued to Thermo warrants to purchase 41.5 million shares of common stock for the annual availability fee and subsequent resets due to provisions in the Contingent Equity Agreement and 163.0 million shares of common stock resulting from the Company's draws on the contingent equity account, including accrued interest, pursuant to the terms of the Contingent Equity Agreement. Thermo has exercised all warrants related to the Contingent Equity Agreement resulting in the issuance of 41.5 million shares of Globalstar common stock. In June 2017, the Company and Thermo entered into a Common Stock Purchase Agreement in connection with the amendment and restatement of the Company's Facility Agreement. Thermo purchased 17.8 million shares of common stock for $33.0 million at a purchase price of $1.85 , which represented a 10% discount to the closing price of the Company's common stock on June 29, 2017. In October 2017, the Company entered into an underwriting agreement relating to the sale of its common stock at a public offering. Thermo participated in the stock offering and purchased a total of 27.6 million shares of common stock at a purchase price of $43.3 million . The Facility Agreement requires Thermo to maintain minimum and maximum ownership levels in the Company's common stock. Thermo may convert shares of nonvoting common stock into shares of common stock as needed to comply with these ownership limitations. In October 2017, Thermo converted 134.0 million shares of the Company's nonvoting common stock into 134.0 million shares of voting common stock. In 2013, the Company's Board of Directors formed a special committee consisting solely of independent directors of the Company, represented by independent legal counsel. This special committee serves as an independent board to review and approve certain transactions between the Company and Thermo. See Note 3: Long-Term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements for further discussion of the Company's debt and financing transactions with Thermo.

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BEN

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS	10. PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS Defined Benefit Plan Until June 1, 2004, substantially all Old and New Globalstar employees and retirees who participated and/or met the vesting criteria for the plan were participants in the Retirement Plan of Space Systems/Loral (the "Loral Plan"), a defined benefit pension plan. The accrual of benefits in the Old Globalstar segment of the Loral Plan was curtailed, or frozen, by the administrator of the Loral Plan in 2003. Prior to 2003, benefits for the Loral Plan were generally based upon contributions, length of service with the Company and age of the participant. On June 1, 2004, the assets and frozen pension obligations of the Globalstar Segment of the Loral Plan were transferred into a new Globalstar Retirement Plan (the "Globalstar Plan"). The Globalstar Plan remains frozen and participants are not currently accruing benefits beyond those accrued as of October 23, 2003. The Company's funding policy is to fund the Globalstar Plan in accordance with the Internal Revenue Code and regulations. Defined Benefit Pension Obligation and Funded Status Below is a reconciliation of projected benefit obligation, plan assets, and the funded status of the Company’s defined benefit plan (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 Change in projected benefit obligation: Projected benefit obligation, beginning of year $ 17,778 $ 17,595 Service cost 195 195 Interest cost 722 758 Actuarial loss 916 381 Benefits paid (974 ) (1,151 ) Projected benefit obligation, end of year $ 18,637 $ 17,778 Change in fair value of plan assets: Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year $ 12,895 $ 12,785 Return on plan assets 1,682 937 Employer contributions 645 324 Benefits paid (974 ) (1,151 ) Fair value of plan assets, end of year $ 14,248 $ 12,895 Funded status, end of year-net liability $ (4,389 ) $ (4,883 ) Net Benefit Cost and Amounts Recognized Components of the net periodic benefit cost of the Company’s defined benefit pension plan were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 195 $ 195 $ 111 Interest cost 722 758 744 Expected return on plan assets (825 ) (808 ) (862 ) Amortization of unrecognized net actuarial loss 443 473 512 Total net periodic benefit cost $ 535 $ 618 $ 505 Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Amounts recognized: Funded status recognized in other non-current liabilities $ (4,389 ) $ (4,883 ) Net actuarial loss recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss 5,558 5,942 Net amount recognized in retained deficit $ 1,169 $ 1,059 The estimated net actuarial loss that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost in 2018 is $0.4 million . No amounts are expected to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost in 2018 related to prior service costs or net transition obligations. Assumptions The weighted-average assumptions used to determine the benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost were as follows: For the Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Benefit obligation assumptions: Discount rate 3.63 % 4.15 % 4.38 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A N/A Net periodic benefit cost assumptions: Discount rate 4.15 % 4.38 % 4.03 % Expected rate of return on plan assets 6.50 % 6.50 % 6.50 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A N/A The assumptions, investment policies and strategies for the Globalstar Plan are determined by the Globalstar Plan Committee. The Globalstar Plan Committee is responsible for ensuring the investments of the plans are managed in a prudent and effective manner. Amounts related to the pension plan are derived from actuarial and other assumptions, including discount rates, mortality, expected rate of return, participant data and termination. The Company reviews assumptions on an annual basis and makes adjustments as considered necessary. The expected long-term rate of return on pension plan assets is selected by taking into account the expected duration of the projected benefit obligation for the plan, the asset mix of the plan and the fact that the plan assets are actively managed to mitigate risk. Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies The plan assets are invested in various mutual funds which have quoted prices. The plan has a target allocation. On a weighted-average basis, target allocations for equity securities range from 50% to 60% , for debt securities 25% to 50% and for other investments 0% to 15% . The defined benefit pension plan asset allocations as of the measurement date presented as a percentage of total plan assets were as follows: December 31, 2017 2016 Equity securities 58 % 56 % Debt securities 42 44 Total 100 % 100 % The fair values of the Company’s pension plan assets by asset category were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) United States equity securities $ 6,597 $ — $ 6,597 $ — International equity securities 1,615 — 1,615 — Fixed income securities 4,119 — 4,119 — Other 1,917 — 1,917 — Total $ 14,248 $ — $ 14,248 $ — December 31, 2016 Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) United States equity securities $ 5,705 $ — $ 5,705 $ — International equity securities 1,460 — 1,460 — Fixed income securities 4,028 — 4,028 — Other 1,702 — 1,702 — Total $ 12,895 $ — $ 12,895 $ — Accumulated Benefit Obligation The accumulated benefit obligation of the defined benefit pension plan was $18.6 million and $17.8 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Benefits Payments and Contributions The benefit payments to retirees over the next ten years are expected to be paid as follows (in thousands): 2018 $ 988 2019 1,010 2020 1,012 2021 1,013 2022 1,038 2023 - 2027 5,517 For 2017 and 2016 , the Company contributed $0.6 million and $0.3 million , respectively, to the Globalstar Plan. For 2018 , the Company's expected contributions to the Globalstar Plan are $0.4 million . 401(k) Plan The Company has a defined contribution employee savings plan, or “401(k),” which provides that the Company may match the contributions of participating employees up to a designated level. Under this plan, the matching contributions were approximately $0.4 million , $0.3 million and $0.3 million for 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.

TAXES

TAXES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
TAXES	11. TAXES The components of income tax expense were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Current: Federal tax $ — $ — $ — State tax 25 18 34 Foreign tax 165 (6,561 ) (211 ) Total 190 (6,543 ) (177 ) Deferred: Federal and state tax — — — Foreign tax provision (benefit) — — 1,569 Total — — 1,569 Income tax expense (benefit) $ 190 $ (6,543 ) $ 1,392 U.S. and foreign components of income (loss) before income taxes are presented below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 U.S. income (loss) $ (60,964 ) $ (103,494 ) $ 109,411 Foreign income (loss) (27,920 ) (35,695 ) (35,697 ) Total income (loss) before income taxes $ (88,884 ) $ (139,189 ) $ 73,714 As of December 31, 2017 , the Company had cumulative U.S. and foreign net operating loss carryforwards for income tax reporting purposes of approximately $1.7 billion and $232.5 million , respectively. As of December 31, 2016 , the Company had cumulative U.S. and foreign net operating loss carryforwards for income tax reporting purposes of approximately $1.6 billion and $197.4 million , respectively. The net operating loss carryforwards expire from 2018 through 2037 , with less than 1% expiring prior to 2026. The components of net deferred income tax assets were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Federal and foreign net operating loss and credit carryforwards $ 464,288 $ 712,799 Property and equipment and other long-term assets (45,373 ) (58,379 ) Accruals and reserves 12,754 21,071 Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance 431,669 675,491 Valuation allowance (431,669 ) (675,491 ) Net deferred income tax assets $ — $ — The change in the valuation allowance during 2017 of $243.8 million was due to the Company providing valuation allowances against all of the tax benefit generated from its consolidated net losses. Due to the permanent reduction to the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% (see further discussion below) and a change in our calculation of the state income tax rate, the Company has remeasured all U.S. deferred tax assets resulting in a significant decrease in both the deferred tax asset balance and the associated valuation allowance. Additionally, the change in property and equipment and other long-term assets was driven primarily by depreciation due to the difference between tax and book depreciable lives. The actual provision for income taxes differs from the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Provision at U.S. statutory rate of 35% $ (31,118 ) $ (48,722 ) $ 25,788 State income taxes, net of federal benefit (1,804 ) (6,193 ) 6,597 Change in valuation allowance (excluding impact of foreign exchange rates) (245,304 ) 36,631 (39,686 ) Effect of foreign income tax at various rates 3,739 4,844 4,739 Permanent differences 11,166 10,331 7,046 Change in unrecognized tax benefit — (6,313 ) 712 Net change in permanent items due to provision to tax return (3,565 ) 3,222 (3,099 ) Remeasurement of U.S. deferred tax assets (Federal and State) 266,864 — — Other (including amounts related to prior year tax matters) 212 (343 ) (705 ) Total $ 190 $ (6,543 ) $ 1,392 Tax Audits The Company operates in various U.S. and foreign tax jurisdictions. The process of determining its anticipated tax liabilities involves many calculations and estimates which are inherently complex. The Company believes that it has complied in all material respects with its obligations to pay taxes in these jurisdictions. However, its position is subject to review and possible challenge by the taxing authorities of these jurisdictions. If the applicable taxing authorities were to challenge successfully its current tax positions, or if there were changes in the manner in which the Company conducts its activities, the Company could become subject to material unanticipated tax liabilities. It may also become subject to additional tax liabilities as a result of changes in tax laws, which could in certain circumstances have a retroactive effect. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries is currently under audit by the IRS or by any state jurisdiction in the United States. The Company's corporate U.S. tax returns for 2012 and subsequent years remain subject to examination by tax authorities. State income tax returns are generally subject to examination for a period of three to five years after filing of the respective return. The state impact of any federal changes remains subject to examination by various states for a period of up to one year after formal notification to the states. The Company acquired a tax liability for which the Company has been indemnified by the previous owners. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Company had recorded a tax liability of $1.4 million and $1.1 million , respectively, to the foreign tax authorities with an offsetting tax receivable from the previous owners, which is included in Intangible and Other Assets in the accompanying balance sheets. In addition, an agreement was reached in November 2014 to settle other outstanding refinancing contingencies by utilization of the Brazilian tax amnesty program and the accumulated fiscal losses related to tax periods preceding the date of the agreement. While the Brazilian tax authorities have not given final confirmation of the settlement, the Company does not currently maintain a corresponding liability on its consolidated balance sheet as the Company believes additional liability is remote. The Company may be exposed to liabilities in the future if its subsidiary in Brazil, after making use of all available tax benefits and fiscal losses, incurs additional tax liabilities for which it may not be fully indemnified by the seller, or the seller may fail to perform its indemnification obligations. In the Company's international tax jurisdictions, numerous tax years remain subject to examination by tax authorities, including tax returns for 2006 and subsequent years in most of the Company's international tax jurisdictions. During 2016, as a result of the expiration of the statute of limitations associated with the tax position of a foreign subsidiary, the Company removed $4.1 million in unrecognized tax positions and $2.2 million in related interest and penalties from non-current liabilities on its consolidated balance sheet. This adjustment resulted in a corresponding tax benefit in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. The Company classified interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense pursuant to ASC Topic 740 Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes . A rollforward of the Company's unrecognized tax benefits during 2016 is included below (in thousands). There are no unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2017. Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1, 2016 $ 3,830 Gross increase (decrease) based on tax positions related to current year 245 Gross increase (decrease) based on tax positions related to prior years — Lapse of applicable statute of limitations (4,075 ) Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2016 $ — In October 2016, the U.S. Department of the Treasury released final and temporary regulations under Section 385 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. The final regulations strengthen the tax rules distinguishing between debt and equity specific to related party transactions. The Company has evaluated the impact of these regulations on its current accounting and tax policies and procedures, and has determined that they will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. On December 22, 2017, the United States (“U.S.”) enacted significant changes to the U.S. tax law following the passage and signing of the Tax Act. The Tax Act included significant changes to existing tax law substantially effective January 1, 2018, including a permanent reduction to the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, changes to the NOL utilization regulations, repeal of alternative minimum tax, a one-time deemed repatriation tax on deferred foreign income (“Transition Tax”), implementation of a territorial tax system, implementation of anti-deferral and anti-base erosion provisions, and provisions to both accelerate and limit certain deductions. The Company has revalued its deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the new corporate tax rate. As the Company’s deferred tax assets have a full valuation allowance, the Company has not recorded any income statement impact as a result of the remeasurement of net deferred tax assets. Accordingly, the tax law changes did not have a material impact to the financial statements of the Company. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had not provided U.S. income taxes and foreign withholding taxes on approximately $1.8 million of undistributed earnings from certain foreign subsidiaries indefinitely invested outside the U.S. As required by the tax law changes, the Company performed an analysis of all foreign earnings and profits to determine whether the Company is subject to the Transition Tax. Based upon the analysis of all foreign subsidiary earnings, the Company is in a net earnings and profits deficit. Accordingly, the Company is not subject to the Transition Tax. In January 2018, the FASB released guidance on the accounting for tax on the global intangible low-taxed income ("GILTI") provisions of the Tax Act. The GILTI provisions impose a tax on foreign income in excess of a deemed return on tangible assets of foreign corporations. The guidance indicates that either accounting for deferred taxes related to GILTI inclusions or treating any taxes on GILTI inclusions as period costs are both acceptable methods subject to an accounting policy election. The Company has elected to account for GILTI tax in the period in which it is incurred, and therefore has not provided any deferred tax impacts of GILTI in its consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017. Given the significant complexity of the Act, the Company continues to evaluate the impact of the Tax Act and monitor the anticipated additional implementation guidance from the Internal Revenue Service to determine any further implications that the Tax Act may have in future periods. On December 22, 2017, the SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“SAB 118”) to address the application of U.S. GAAP in situations when a registrant does not have the necessary information available, prepared, or analyzed (including computations) in reasonable detail to complete the accounting for certain income tax effects of the Tax Act. The Company has evaluated the provisions within the Tax Act and has recognized provisional impacts related to the revaluation of its deferred tax assets, deferred tax liabilities and associated valuation allowance, and included the impact in its consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017. The ultimate impact may differ from these provisional amounts, due to, among other things, additional analysis, changes in interpretations and assumptions the Company has made, additional regulatory guidance that may be issued, and actions the Company may take as a result of the Tax Act. The Company expects to complete its analysis within the measurement period provided in SAB 118.

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION	12. GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION The Company attributes equipment revenue to various countries based on the location where equipment is sold. Service revenue is generally attributed to the various countries based on the Globalstar entity that holds the customer contract. Long-lived assets consist primarily of property and equipment and are attributed to various countries based on the physical location of the asset at a given fiscal year-end, except for the Company’s satellites which are included in the long-lived assets of the United States. The Company’s information by geographic area is as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Revenues: Service: United States $ 68,556 $ 56,868 $ 50,832 Canada 18,296 16,038 14,553 Europe 8,183 6,955 5,738 Central and South America 2,959 2,659 2,407 Others 479 549 594 Total service revenue 98,473 83,069 74,124 Subscriber equipment: United States 8,431 7,441 7,823 Canada 2,995 3,122 4,339 Europe 1,532 1,533 1,710 Central and South America 1,202 1,413 2,087 Others 27 283 407 Total subscriber equipment revenue 14,187 13,792 16,366 Total revenue $ 112,660 $ 96,861 $ 90,490 Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 Long-lived assets: United States $ 966,611 $ 1,035,331 Canada 773 670 Europe 433 408 Central and South America 3,051 3,084 Other 251 226 Total long-lived assets $ 971,119 $ 1,039,719

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE	13. EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE Basic earnings (loss) per share are computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the year. Common stock equivalents are included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share only when the effect of their inclusion would be dilutive. The following table sets forth the calculation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share and reconciles basic weighted average shares to diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding for the periods indicated (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Net income (loss) $ (89,074 ) $ (132,646 ) $ 72,322 Effect of dilutive securities: 2013 8.00% Notes — — 2,398 Loan Agreement with Thermo — — 8,903 Income (loss) to common stockholders plus assumed conversions $ (89,074 ) $ (132,646 ) $ 83,623 Weighted average common shares outstanding: Basic shares outstanding 1,166,581 1,064,443 1,020,149 Incremental shares from assumed exercises, conversions and other issuance of: Stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units and ESPP — — 8,559 2013 8.00% Notes — — 27,853 Loan Agreement with Thermo — — 136,710 Warrants and other — — 37,123 Diluted shares outstanding 1,166,581 1,064,443 1,230,394 Income (loss) per share: Basic $ (0.08 ) $ (0.12 ) $ 0.07 Diluted $ (0.08 ) $ (0.12 ) $ 0.07 For the years ended December 31, 2017, and 2016, 176.5 million and 204.2 million shares of potential common stock, respectively, were excluded from diluted shares outstanding because the effects of potentially dilutive securities would be anti-dilutive.

STOCK COMPENSATION

STOCK COMPENSATION	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
STOCK COMPENSATION	14. STOCK COMPENSATION The Company’s 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (“Equity Plan”) provides long-term incentives to the Company’s key employees, including officers, directors, consultants and advisers (“Eligible Participants”), and is designed to align stockholder and employee interests. Under the Equity Plan, the Company may grant incentive stock options, nonstatutory stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, and other stock based awards or any combination thereof to Eligible Participants. The Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors establishes the terms and conditions of any awards granted under the plans. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the number of shares of common stock that was authorized and remained available for issuance under the Equity Plan was 24.1 million and 26.6 million , respectively. Stock Options The Company has granted incentive stock options under the Equity Plan. These options have various vesting terms, but generally vest in equal installments over three or four years and expire in ten years. Non-vested options are generally forfeited upon termination of employment. The Company recognizes compensation expense for stock option grants based on the fair value at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Company uses historical data, among other factors, to estimate the expected price volatility, the expected option life and the expected forfeiture rate. The market price of common stock has been volatile at times in recent years. The Company makes judgmental adjustments to project volatility during the expected term of the options, considering, among other things, historical volatility of the share prices of its peer group and expectations with regard to business conditions that may impact stock price fluctuations or stability. The Company estimates the expected term considering factors such as historical exercise patterns and the recipients of the options granted. The risk-free rate is based on the United States Treasury Department yield curve in effect at the time of grant for the expected life of the option. The Company assumes an expected dividend yield of zero for all periods. The table below summarizes the assumptions for the indicated periods: Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Risk-free interest rate 2 % 1 - 2% Less than 1 - 2% Expected term of options (years) 5 5 6 Volatility 67 % 65 % 72% Weighted average grant-date fair value per share $ 0.85 $ 1.04 $ 1.43 The following table represents the Company’s stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 : Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at January 1, 2017 8,722,605 $ 1.43 Granted 1,346,400 1.49 Exercised (100,915 ) 0.70 Forfeited or expired (577,592 ) 2.02 Outstanding at December 31, 2017 9,390,498 1.41 Exercisable at December 31, 2017 7,546,083 $ 1.37 The following table summarizes the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years indicated below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Intrinsic value of stock options exercised $ 94 $ 199 $ 492 The intrinsic value of a stock option is the amount by which the market value of the underlying stock exceeds the exercise price of the option. Net cash proceeds during the year ended December 31, 2017 from the exercise of stock options were $0.1 million . The aggregate intrinsic value of all outstanding stock options at December 31, 2017 was $2.7 million with a remaining contractual life of 5.5 years. The aggregate intrinsic value of all vested stock options at December 31, 2017 was $2.7 million with a remaining contractual life of 4.6 years. The following table presents compensation expense related to stock options for the years indicated below (in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Total compensation expense $ 1.2 $ 1.4 $ 1.2 As of December 31, 2017 , unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested stock options outstanding was approximately $1.3 million to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.7 years. The Company adjusts its estimates of expected forfeitures of equity awards based upon its review of recent forfeiture activity and expected future employee turnover. The Company considers the impact of both pre-vesting forfeitures and post-vesting cancellations for purposes of evaluating forfeiture estimates. The effect of adjusting the forfeiture rate is recognized in the period in which the forfeiture estimate is changed. Restricted Stock Shares of restricted stock generally vest one year from the grant date or in equal annual installments over three years. Non-vested shares are generally forfeited upon the termination of employment. Holders of restricted stock are entitled to all rights of a stockholder of the Company with respect to the restricted stock, including the right to vote the shares and receive any dividends or other distributions. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock is measured based on the grant date fair value of the common stock and is recognized on a straight line basis over the vesting period. The table below summarizes the weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock for the indicated periods: Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Weighted average grant date fair value $ 1.37 $ 1.56 $ 1.84 The following is a rollforward of the activity in restricted stock for the year ended December 31, 2017 : Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested at January 1, 2017 2,528,832 $ 1.75 Granted 3,344,301 1.37 Vested (2,140,294 ) 1.75 Forfeited (102,022 ) 1.36 Nonvested at December 31, 2017 3,630,817 $ 1.41 The following table represents the compensation expense related to restricted stock for the years indicated below (in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Total compensation expense $ 2.3 $ 2.2 $ 1.4 The total fair value of restricted stock awards vested during 2017 , 2016 and 2015 was $3.4 million , $1.4 million , and $1.2 million , respectively. The increase in fair value from 2016 to 2017 was due to an increase in the average stock price during 2017, as well as incentive-based executive compensation resulting from obtaining terrestrial spectrum authorities. As of December 31, 2017 , unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock outstanding was approximately $ 4.6 million to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.5 years. Key Employee Bonus Plan The Company has an annual bonus plan designed to reward designated key employees' efforts to exceed the Company's financial performance goals for the designated calendar year ("Plan Year"). The bonus pool available for distribution is determined based on the Company's adjusted EBITDA performance during the Plan Year. The bonus may be paid in cash or the Company's common stock, as determined by the Compensation Committee. For the 2017 Plan Year, the Company's adjusted EBITDA performance was within the bonus payout threshold according to the bonus plan document. As of December 31, 2017 , $1.1 million was accrued on the Company's consolidated balance sheet related to this bonus payment, which will be made in the form of common stock. Employee Stock Purchase Plan In June 2011, the Company adopted an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “Plan”) which provides eligible employees of the Company and its subsidiaries with an opportunity to acquire shares of its common stock at a discount. The maximum aggregate number of shares of common stock that may be purchased through the Plan is 7,000,000 shares. The number of shares that may be purchased through the Plan will be subject to proportionate adjustments to reflect stock splits, stock dividends, or other changes in the Company’s capital stock. The Plan permits eligible employees to purchase shares of common stock during two semi-annual offering periods beginning on June 15 and December 15 (the “Offering Periods”), unless adjusted by the Company's Board of Directors or one of its designated committees. Eligible employees may purchase shares of up to 15% of their total compensation per pay period, but may purchase in any calendar year no more than the lesser of $25,000 in fair market value of common stock or 500,000 shares of common stock, as measured as of the first day of each applicable Offering Period. The price an employee pays is 85% of the fair market value of common stock. Fair market value is equal to the lesser of the closing price of a share of common stock on either the first day or the last day of the Offering Period. For each of the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Company received $0.7 million related to shares issued under this plan. For 2017 and 2016 , the Company recorded compensation expense of approximately $0.5 million and $0.4 million , respectively, which is reflected in marketing, general and administrative expenses. Additionally, the Company has issued approximately 4.5 million shares through December 31, 2017 related to the Plan. The fair value of the employees’ stock purchase rights granted under the ESPP was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions for the following years: Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 Risk-free interest rate 1.00 % Less than 1.00 % Expected term (months) 6 6 Volatility 100 % 108 % Weighted average grant-date fair value per share $ 0.61 $ 0.61

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS	15. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS Accumulated other comprehensive loss includes all changes in equity during a period from non-owner sources. The change in accumulated other comprehensive loss for all periods presented resulted from foreign currency translation adjustments and minimum pension liability adjustments. The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Accumulated minimum pension liability adjustment $ (5,558 ) $ (5,942 ) Accumulated net foreign currency translation adjustment (1,381 ) 564 Total accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (6,939 ) $ (5,378 ) No amounts were reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss for the periods shown above.

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)	16. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) The following is a summary of consolidated quarterly financial information (amounts in thousands, except per share data): Quarter Ended 2017 March 31 June 30 Sept. 30 Dec. 31 Total revenue $ 24,652 $ 28,123 $ 30,458 $ 29,427 Loss from operations $ (15,202 ) $ (12,510 ) $ (10,793 ) $ (30,281 ) Net income (loss) $ (20,161 ) $ (98,734 ) $ 52,406 $ (22,585 ) Basic income (loss) per common share $ (0.02 ) $ (0.09 ) $ 0.04 $ (0.02 ) Diluted income (loss) per common share $ (0.02 ) $ (0.09 ) $ 0.04 $ (0.02 ) Shares used in basic per share calculations 1,113,968 1,128,985 1,169,993 1,251,826 Shares used in diluted per share calculations 1,113,968 1,128,985 1,345,905 1,251,826 Quarter Ended 2016 March 31 June 30 Sept. 30 Dec. 31 Total revenue $ 21,836 $ 25,086 $ 25,544 $ 24,395 Loss from operations $ (15,698 ) $ (16,411 ) $ (14,763 ) $ (16,804 ) Net income (loss) $ (26,947 ) $ 14,099 $ (2,577 ) $ (117,221 ) Basic income (loss) per common share $ (0.03 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.00 $ (0.11 ) Diluted income (loss) per common share $ (0.03 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.00 $ (0.11 ) Shares used in basic per share calculations 1,041,028 1,049,381 1,080,313 1,086,631 Shares used in diluted per share calculations 1,041,028 1,249,672 1,080,313 1,086,631

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCI

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION [Abstract]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION	17. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION In connection with the Company’s issuance of the 2013 8.00% Notes, certain of the Company’s 100% owned domestic subsidiaries (the “Guarantor Subsidiaries”) fully, unconditionally, jointly, and severally guaranteed the payment obligations under these notes. The following condensed financial information sets forth, on a consolidating basis, the balance sheets, statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) and statements of cash flows for Globalstar, Inc. (“Parent Company”), the Guarantor Subsidiaries and the Parent Company’s other subsidiaries (the “Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries”). Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2017 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Elimination Consolidated (In thousands) ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 32,864 $ 4,942 $ 3,838 $ — $ 41,644 Restricted cash 63,635 — — — 63,635 Accounts receivable, net of allowance 7,129 6,524 3,460 — 17,113 Intercompany receivables 979,942 755,847 64,477 (1,800,266 ) — Inventory 1,182 4,610 1,481 — 7,273 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 3,149 2,414 1,182 — 6,745 Total current assets 1,087,901 774,337 74,438 (1,800,266 ) 136,410 Property and equipment, net 962,756 3,855 4,503 5 971,119 Intercompany notes receivable 5,600 — 6,436 (12,036 ) — Investment in subsidiaries (280,745 ) 84,244 38,637 157,864 — Intangibles and other assets, net 18,353 47 3,348 (12 ) 21,736 Total assets $ 1,793,865 $ 862,483 $ 127,362 $ (1,654,445 ) $ 1,129,265 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Current portion of long-term debt $ 79,215 $ — $ — $ — $ 79,215 Accounts payable 2,257 2,736 1,055 — 6,048 Accrued contract termination charge 21,002 — — — 21,002 Accrued expenses 7,627 6,331 6,796 — 20,754 Intercompany payables 711,159 799,565 289,503 (1,800,227 ) — Payables to affiliates 225 — — — 225 Derivative liabilities 1,326 — — — 1,326 Deferred revenue 1,164 23,282 7,301 — 31,747 Total current liabilities 823,975 831,914 304,655 (1,800,227 ) 160,317 Long-term debt, less current portion 434,651 — — — 434,651 Employee benefit obligations 4,389 — — — 4,389 Intercompany notes payable 6,436 — 5,600 (12,036 ) — Derivative liabilities 226,659 — — — 226,659 Deferred revenue 5,625 410 17 — 6,052 Other non-current liabilities 906 325 4,742 — 5,973 Total non-current liabilities 678,666 735 10,359 (12,036 ) 677,724 Stockholders' equity (deficit) 291,224 29,834 (187,652 ) 157,818 291,224 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 1,793,865 $ 862,483 $ 127,362 $ (1,654,445 ) $ 1,129,265 Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2016 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Elimination Consolidated (In thousands) ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 7,259 $ 1,327 $ 1,644 $ — $ 10,230 Accounts receivable, net of allowance 5,938 6,340 2,941 — 15,219 Intercompany receivables 897,691 678,707 32,040 (1,608,438 ) — Inventory 2,266 4,354 1,473 — 8,093 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 1,570 955 2,063 — 4,588 Total current assets 914,724 691,683 40,161 (1,608,438 ) 38,130 Property and equipment, net 1,031,623 3,708 4,384 4 1,039,719 Restricted cash 37,983 — — — 37,983 Intercompany notes receivable 8,901 — 6,436 (15,337 ) — Investment in subsidiaries (280,557 ) 73,029 36,146 171,382 — Intangible and other assets, net 15,259 128 1,407 (12 ) 16,782 Total assets $ 1,727,933 $ 768,548 $ 88,534 $ (1,452,401 ) $ 1,132,614 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Current liabilities: Current portion of long-term debt $ 75,755 $ — $ — $ — $ 75,755 Debt restructuring fees 20,795 — — — 20,795 Accounts payable 2,624 3,490 1,385 — 7,499 Accrued contract termination charge 18,451 — — — 18,451 Accrued expenses 10,573 5,884 6,705 — 23,162 Intercompany payables 636,336 750,084 221,980 (1,608,400 ) — Payables to affiliates 309 — — — 309 Deferred revenue 1,576 19,304 5,599 — 26,479 Total current liabilities 766,419 778,762 235,669 (1,608,400 ) 172,450 Long-term debt, less current portion 500,524 — — — 500,524 Employee benefit obligations 4,883 — — — 4,883 Intercompany notes payable 6,435 — 8,901 (15,336 ) — Derivative liabilities 281,171 — — — 281,171 Deferred revenue 5,567 299 11 — 5,877 Other non-current liabilities 1,115 325 4,450 — 5,890 Total non-current liabilities 799,695 624 13,362 (15,336 ) 798,345 Stockholders' equity (deficit) 161,819 (10,838 ) (160,497 ) 171,335 161,819 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity (deficit) $ 1,727,933 $ 768,548 $ 88,534 $ (1,452,401 ) $ 1,132,614 Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) Year Ended December 31, 2017 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Revenue: Service revenues $ 76,096 $ 39,347 $ 54,102 $ (71,072 ) $ 98,473 Subscriber equipment sales 264 11,459 6,141 (3,677 ) 14,187 Total revenue 76,360 50,806 60,243 (74,749 ) 112,660 Operating expenses: Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below) 25,664 5,981 10,740 (5,363 ) 37,022 Cost of subscriber equipment sales 97 9,211 4,311 (3,675 ) 9,944 Cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory 843 — — — 843 Marketing, general and administrative 22,928 4,792 77,099 (65,720 ) 39,099 Reduction in the value of long-lived assets 17,040 — — — 17,040 Depreciation, amortization and accretion 76,625 629 244 — 77,498 Total operating expenses 143,197 20,613 92,394 (74,758 ) 181,446 Income (loss) from operations (66,837 ) 30,193 (32,151 ) 9 (68,786 ) Other income (expense): Loss on extinguishment of debt (6,306 ) — — — (6,306 ) Gain (loss) on equity issuance 2,706 — (36 ) — 2,670 Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized (34,570 ) (8 ) (198 ) 5 (34,771 ) Derivative gain 21,182 — — — 21,182 Equity in subsidiary earnings (loss) (2,735 ) (13,906 ) — 16,641 — Other (2,514 ) (700 ) 345 (4 ) (2,873 ) Total other income (expense) (22,237 ) (14,614 ) 111 16,642 (20,098 ) Income (loss) before income taxes (89,074 ) 15,579 (32,040 ) 16,651 (88,884 ) Income tax expense — 25 165 — 190 Net income (loss) $ (89,074 ) $ 15,554 $ (32,205 ) $ 16,651 $ (89,074 ) Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment 384 — — — 384 Net foreign currency translation adjustment — — (1,944 ) (1 ) (1,945 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) $ (88,690 ) $ 15,554 $ (34,149 ) $ 16,650 $ (90,635 ) Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) Year Ended December 31, 2016 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Revenue: Service revenues $ 70,460 $ 34,428 $ 43,130 $ (64,949 ) $ 83,069 Subscriber equipment sales 584 9,380 6,545 (2,717 ) 13,792 Total revenue 71,044 43,808 49,675 (67,666 ) 96,861 Operating expenses: Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below) 20,569 5,929 10,976 (5,566 ) 31,908 Cost of subscriber equipment sales 207 7,481 4,931 (2,712 ) 9,907 Marketing, general and administrative 21,691 4,847 73,679 (59,235 ) 40,982 Reduction in the value of long-lived assets 350 — — — 350 Depreciation, amortization and accretion 75,896 802 1,054 (362 ) 77,390 Total operating expenses 118,713 19,059 90,640 (67,875 ) 160,537 Income (loss) from operations (47,669 ) 24,749 (40,965 ) 209 (63,676 ) Other income (expense): Gain (loss) on equity issuance 2,789 — (389 ) — 2,400 Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized (35,754 ) (24 ) (164 ) (10 ) (35,952 ) Derivative loss (41,531 ) — — — (41,531 ) Equity in subsidiary earnings (9,803 ) (15,670 ) — 25,473 — Other (678 ) 92 17 139 (430 ) Total other income (expense) (84,977 ) (15,602 ) (536 ) 25,602 (75,513 ) Income (loss) before income taxes (132,646 ) 9,147 (41,501 ) 25,811 (139,189 ) Income tax expense (benefit) — 18 (6,561 ) — (6,543 ) Net income (loss) $ (132,646 ) $ 9,129 $ (34,940 ) $ 25,811 $ (132,646 ) Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment 221 — — — 221 Net foreign currency translation adjustment — — (759 ) (7 ) (766 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) $ (132,425 ) $ 9,129 $ (35,699 ) $ 25,804 $ (133,191 ) Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) Year Ended December 31, 2015 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Revenue: Service revenues $ 66,024 $ 30,803 $ 37,887 $ (60,590 ) $ 74,124 Subscriber equipment sales 808 12,093 8,444 (4,979 ) 16,366 Total revenue 66,832 42,896 46,331 (65,569 ) 90,490 Operating expenses: Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below) 18,775 6,474 12,348 (6,982 ) 30,615 Cost of subscriber equipment sales 64 10,580 6,147 (4,977 ) 11,814 Marketing, general and administrative 19,492 5,758 65,660 (53,492 ) 37,418 Depreciation, amortization and accretion 75,313 1,203 1,212 (481 ) 77,247 Total operating expenses 113,644 24,015 85,367 (65,932 ) 157,094 Income (loss) from operations (46,812 ) 18,881 (39,036 ) 363 (66,604 ) Other income (expense): Loss on extinguishment of debt (2,254 ) — — — (2,254 ) Loss on equity issuance (6,663 ) — — — (6,663 ) Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized (35,301 ) (27 ) (536 ) 10 (35,854 ) Derivative gain 181,860 — — — 181,860 Equity in subsidiary earnings (19,467 ) (13,345 ) — 32,812 — Other 959 465 1,599 206 3,229 Total other income (expense) 119,134 (12,907 ) 1,063 33,028 140,318 Income (loss) before income taxes 72,322 5,974 (37,973 ) 33,391 73,714 Income tax expense — 34 1,358 — 1,392 Net income (loss) $ 72,322 $ 5,940 $ (39,331 ) $ 33,391 $ 72,322 Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment 787 — — — 787 Net foreign currency translation adjustment — — (2,742 ) 20 (2,722 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) $ 73,109 $ 5,940 $ (42,073 ) $ 33,411 $ 70,387 Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended December 31, 2017 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Net cash provided by operating activities: $ 6,010 $ 4,361 $ 3,486 $ — $ 13,857 Cash flows used in investing activities: Second-generation network costs (including interest) (11,856 ) — (54 ) — (11,910 ) Property and equipment additions (3,674 ) (746 ) (1,105 ) — (5,525 ) Purchase of intangible assets (3,468 ) — (328 ) — (3,796 ) Investment in businesses 455 — — — 455 Net cash used in investing activities (18,543 ) (746 ) (1,487 ) — (20,776 ) Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: Principal payments of the Facility Agreement (75,755 ) — — — (75,755 ) Proceeds from common stock offering 114,993 — — — 114,993 Proceeds from Thermo Common Stock Purchase Agreement 33,000 — — — 33,000 Payment of debt restructuring fee (20,795 ) — — — (20,795 ) Payments for debt and equity issuance costs (654 ) — — — (654 ) Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin 12,000 — — — 12,000 Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants 1,001 — — — 1,001 Net cash provided by financing activities 63,790 — — — 63,790 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash — — 195 — 195 Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 51,257 3,615 2,194 — 57,066 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period 45,242 1,327 1,644 — 48,213 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 96,499 $ 4,942 $ 3,838 $ — $ 105,279 Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended December 31, 2016 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: $ 8,642 $ 1,307 $ (1,136 ) $ — $ 8,813 Cash flows used in investing activities: Second-generation network costs (including interest) (12,901 ) — (269 ) — (13,170 ) Property and equipment additions (8,453 ) (699 ) (233 ) — (9,385 ) Purchase of intangible assets (1,996 ) — — — (1,996 ) Net cash used in investing activities (23,350 ) (699 ) (502 ) — (24,551 ) Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: Principal payments of the Facility Agreement (32,835 ) — — — (32,835 ) Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin 48,000 — — — 48,000 Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants 3,337 — 3,337 Net cash provided by financing activities 18,502 — — — 18,502 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash — — 55 — 55 Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 3,794 608 (1,583 ) — 2,819 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period 41,448 719 3,227 — 45,394 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 45,242 $ 1,327 $ 1,644 $ — $ 48,213 Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended December 31, 2015 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ (2,349 ) $ 1,767 $ 2,744 $ — $ 2,162 Cash flows used in investing activities: Second-generation network costs (including interest) (25,195 ) — — — (25,195 ) Property and equipment additions (2,608 ) (1,720 ) (1,195 ) — (5,523 ) Purchase of intangible assets (2,520 ) — — — (2,520 ) Investment in businesses (240 ) — — — (240 ) Net cash used in investing activities (30,563 ) (1,720 ) (1,195 ) — (33,478 ) Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: Principal payments of the Facility Agreement (6,450 ) — — — (6,450 ) Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin 39,000 — — — 39,000 Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants 726 — — — 726 Net cash provided by financing activities 33,276 — — — 33,276 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash — — (1,605 ) — (1,605 ) Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 364 47 (56 ) — 355 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period 41,084 672 3,283 — 45,039 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 41,448 $ 719 $ 3,227 $ — $ 45,394

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN26

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements	Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from estimates. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year Consolidated Financial Statements to conform to current year presentation. The Company evaluates estimates on an ongoing basis. Significant estimates include the value of derivative instruments, the allowance for doubtful accounts, the net realizable value of inventory, the useful life and value of property and equipment, the value of stock-based compensation, and income taxes.
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Globalstar and all its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in the consolidation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.
Restricted Cash	Restricted Cash Restricted cash is comprised of funds held in escrow by the agent for the Company’s senior secured facility agreement (the “Facility Agreement”) to secure the Company’s principal and interest payment obligations related to its Facility Agreement. For the year ended December 31, 2016 , the Company classified restricted cash as a noncurrent asset on its Consolidated Balance Sheet as the funds in the restricted cash account were fixed and to be used to pay the final principal and interest payments due under the Facility Agreement. As of December 31, 2017 , the Company's restricted cash is classified as a current asset on its Consolidated Balance Sheet as these funds are expected to be used to pay principal and interest due under the Facility Agreement during the next twelve months as a result of modified terms in the amendment and restatement of the Facility Agreement in June 2017.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash. Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash consist primarily of highly liquid short-term investments deposited with financial institutions that are of high credit quality.
Accounts and Notes Receivable	Accounts and Notes Receivable Accounts receivable are uncollateralized, without interest and consist primarily of receivables from the sale of Globalstar services and equipment. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and records specific allowances for bad debts based on factors such as current trends, the length of time the receivables are past due and historical collection experience. Accounts receivable are considered past due in accordance with the contractual terms of the arrangements. Accounts receivable balances that are determined likely to be uncollectible are included in the allowance for doubtful accounts. After attempts to collect a receivable have failed, the receivable is written off against the allowance.
Inventory	Inventory Inventory consists primarily of purchased products. Inventory is stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is computed using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Inventory write downs are measured as the difference between the cost of inventory and the net realizable value, and are recorded as a cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements. At the point of any inventory write down to net realizable value, a new, lower cost basis for that inventory is established, and any subsequent changes in facts and circumstances do not result in the restoration of the former cost basis or increase in that newly established cost basis. Product sales and returns from the previous 12 months and future demand forecasts are reviewed and excess and obsolete inventory is written off.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment The Globalstar System includes costs for the design, manufacture, test, and launch of a constellation of low earth orbit satellites (the “Space Component”), and primary and backup control centers and gateways (the “Ground Component”). Property and equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Costs associated with the design, manufacture, test and launch of the Company’s Space and Ground Components are capitalized. Capitalized costs associated with the Company’s Space Component, Ground Component, and other assets are tracked by fixed asset category and are allocated to each asset as it comes into service. When a second-generation satellite was incorporated into the second-generation constellation, the Company began depreciation on the date the satellite was placed into service, which was the point that the satellite reached its orbital altitude, over its estimated depreciable life. The Company capitalizes interest costs associated with the costs of assets in progress, including primarily the construction of its Space and Ground Components. Capitalized interest is added to the cost of the underlying asset and is amortized over the depreciable life of the asset after it is placed into service. As the Company’s construction in progress increases, specifically due to the Company incurring costs related to the second-generation upgrades to its Ground Component, the Company capitalizes more interest, resulting in a lower amount of interest expense recognized under U.S. GAAP. As these upgrades are completed and placed into service, construction in progress will decrease and less interest will be capitalized. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets as follows: Space Component - 15 years from the commencement of service Ground Component - Up to 15 years from commencement of service Software, Facilities & Equipment - 3 to 10 years Buildings - 18 years Leasehold Improvements - Shorter of lease term or the estimated useful lives of the improvements The Company evaluates and revises the estimated depreciable lives assigned to property and equipment based on changes in facts and circumstances. When changes are made to estimated useful lives, the remaining carrying amounts are depreciated prospectively over the remaining useful lives. For assets that are sold or retired, including satellites that are de-orbited and no longer providing services, the estimated cost and accumulated depreciation is removed from property and equipment. The Company assesses the impairment of long-lived assets when indicators of impairment are present. Recoverability of assets is measured by comparing the carrying amounts of the assets to the estimated future undiscounted cash flows, excluding financing costs. If the Company determines that an impairment exists, any related impairment loss is estimated based on fair values.
Derivative Instruments	Derivative Instruments The Company enters into financing arrangements that are hybrid instruments that contain embedded derivative features. Derivative instruments are recognized as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets and are measured at fair value with gains or losses recognized in earnings. The Company determines the fair value of derivative instruments based on available market data using appropriate valuation models. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company adopted ASU 2016-06, Derivatives and Hedging: Contingent Put and Call Options in Debt Instruments. ASU 2016-06 clarifies the requirements for assessing whether contingent call (put) options that can accelerate the payment of principal on debt instruments are clearly and closely related to their debt hosts. The Company evaluated its derivative instruments and determined that this standard did not have an impact on the Company's financial statements or related disclosures.
Deferred Financing Costs	Deferred Financing Costs Deferred financing costs are those costs directly incurred in obtaining long-term debt. These costs are amortized as additional interest expense over the term of the corresponding debt, or until the first put option date for the Company’s 8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013 (“2013 8.00% Notes”). Deferred financing costs are recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheets as a reduction in the carrying amount of the related debt liability. The Company classifies deferred financing costs consistent with the classification of the related debt outstanding at the end of the reporting period.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying amount of accounts receivable and accounts payable is equal to or approximates fair value. The Company believes it is not practicable to determine the fair value of the Facility Agreement. Interest rates and other terms for long-term debt are not readily available and generally involve a variety of factors, including due diligence by the debt holders. For the Company's other debt instruments, which include the Loan Agreement with Thermo and 2013 8.00% Notes, the fair value of debt is calculated using inputs consistent with those used to calculate the fair value of the derivatives embedded in these instruments.
Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies	Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies The Company is subject to various claims and lawsuits that arise in the ordinary course of business. Estimating liabilities and costs associated with these matters requires judgment and assessment based on professional knowledge and experience of our management and legal counsel. The ultimate resolution of any such exposure may vary from earlier estimates as further facts and circumstances become known.
Gain/Loss on Extinguishment of Debt	Gain/Loss on Extinguishment of Debt Gain or loss on extinguishment of debt generally is recorded upon an extinguishment of a debt instrument or the conversion of certain of the Company’s convertible notes. Gain or loss on extinguishment of debt is calculated as the difference between the reacquisition price and net carrying amount of the debt and is recorded as an extinguishment gain or loss in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations.
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue	Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue Revenue consists primarily of satellite voice and data service revenue and revenue generated from the sale of fixed and mobile devices as well as other products and accessories. The Company also recognizes revenue from certain engineering service contracts as described below. Revenue is recognized when services are rendered, assuming all recognition criteria is met under applicable accounting guidance. Customer payments received in advance of the corresponding service period are recorded as deferred revenue. Upon activation of a Globalstar device, certain customers are charged an activation fee, which is recognized over the term of the expected customer life. Credits granted to customers are expensed or charged against revenue or accounts receivable upon issuance. Estimates related to earned but unbilled service revenue are calculated using current subscriber data, including plan subscriptions and usage between the end of the billing cycle and the end of the period. Subscriber acquisition costs, including dealer and internal sales commissions and certain other costs, are expensed at the time of the related sale, except when related to multiple-element arrangement contracts as discussed below. The Company does not record sales taxes, telecommunication taxes or other governmental fees collected from customers in revenue. Duplex Service Revenue. The Company recognizes revenue for monthly access fees in the period services are rendered. Access fees represent the minimum monthly charge for each line of service based on its associated rate plan. The Company also recognizes revenue for airtime minutes in excess of the monthly access fees in the period such minutes are used. Under certain annual plans where customers prepay for a predetermined amount of minutes, revenue is deferred until the minutes are used or the prepaid time period expires. Unused minutes are accumulated until they expire, usually one year after activation, at which point we recognize revenue for any remaining unused minutes. The Company offers other annual plans whereby the customer is charged an annual fee to access the Company’s system. These fees are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the plan. In some cases, the Company charges a per minute rate whereby it recognizes the revenue when each minute is used. SPOT Service Revenue. The Company sells SPOT services as monthly, annual or multi-year plans and recognizes revenue over the service term, beginning when the service is activated by the customer. Simplex Service Revenue. The Company sells Simplex services as monthly, annual or multi-year plans and recognizes revenue ratably over the service term or as service is used, beginning when the service is activated by the customer. Independent Gateway Operator ("IGO") Service Revenue. The Company owns and operates its satellite constellation and earns a portion of its revenues through the sale of airtime minutes or data on a wholesale basis to IGOs. Revenue from services provided to IGOs is recognized based upon airtime minutes or data packages used by customers of the IGOs and in accordance with contractual fee arrangements. Equipment Revenue. Subscriber equipment revenue represents the sale of fixed and mobile user terminals, SPOT and Simplex products, and accessories. The Company recognizes revenue upon shipment provided title and risk of loss have passed to the customer, persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the fee is fixed and determinable and collection is probable. Other Service Revenue. The Company provides certain engineering services to assist customers in developing new applications related to its system. The revenues associated with these services are generally recorded when the services are rendered, and the expenses are recorded when incurred. Multiple-Element Arrangement Contracts. At times, the Company will sell subscriber equipment through multiple-element arrangement contracts with services. When the Company sells subscriber equipment and services in bundled arrangements and determines that it has separate units of accounting, the Company will allocate the bundled contract price among the various contract deliverables based on each deliverable’s relative fair value. The Company will determine vendor specific objective evidence of fair value by assessing sales prices of subscriber equipment and services when they are sold to customers on a stand-alone basis. Initial direct costs incurred related to these contracts will be deferred to the extent they exceed the profit margin recognized at the time of sale.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation The Company recognizes compensation expense in the financial statements for both employee and non-employee share-based awards based on the grant date fair value of those awards. The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate fair values of stock options. Option pricing models, including the Black-Scholes model, require the use of input estimates and assumptions, including expected volatility, term, and risk-free interest rate. The assumptions for expected volatility and expected term most significantly affect the estimated grant-date fair value. The Company's estimate of the forfeiture rate of its share-based awards also impacts the timing of expense recorded over the vesting period of the award. The Company's estimate for pre-vesting forfeitures is recognized over the requisite service periods of the awards on a straight-line basis, which is generally commensurate with the vesting term. See Note 14: Stock Compensation for a description of methods used to determine the Company's assumptions. If the Company determined that another method used to estimate expected volatility or expected life was more reasonable than its current methods, or if another method for calculating these input assumptions was prescribed by authoritative guidance, the estimated fair value calculated for share-based awards could change significantly. Higher volatility and longer expected lives result in increases to share-based compensation determined at the date of grant.
Foreign Currency	Foreign Currency The functional currency of the Company’s foreign consolidated subsidiaries is their local currency, unless the subsidiary operates in a hyperinflationary economy, such as Venezuela. Assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiaries are translated into United States dollars based on exchange rates at the end of the reporting period. Income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates prevailing during the reporting period. For 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , the foreign currency translation adjustments were losses of $1.9 million , $0.8 million and $2.7 million , respectively. Foreign currency transaction gains/losses were a $2.2 million loss, a $0.2 million loss and a $3.7 million gain for 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. These were classified as other income (expense) on the consolidated statement of operations. Effective July 1, 2015 the Company began using the SIMADI exchange rate published by the Central Bank of Venezuela to remeasure its Venezuelan subsidiary's bolivar based transactions and net monetary assets in U.S. dollars. The Company determined, based upon its specific facts and circumstances, that the SIMADI rate (renamed the DICOM rate in March 2016) is the most appropriate rate for financial reporting purposes, instead of the official exchange rate of 6.3 previously used. The Company continues to monitor the significant uncertainty surrounding current Venezuela exchange mechanisms.
Asset Retirement Obligation	Asset Retirement Obligation Liabilities arising from legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets are measured at fair value and recorded as a liability. Upon initial recognition of a liability for retirement obligations, the Company records an asset, which is depreciated over the life of the asset to be retired. Accretion of the asset retirement obligation liability and depreciation of the related assets are included in depreciation, amortization and accretion in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. The Company capitalizes, as part of the carrying amount, the estimated costs associated with the eventual retirement of gateways owned by the Company.
Warranty Expense	Warranty Expense Warranty terms extend from 90 days on equipment accessories to one year for fixed and mobile user terminals. A provision for estimated future warranty costs is recorded as cost of sales when products are shipped. Warranty costs are based on historical trends in warranty charges as a percentage of gross product shipments. The resulting accrual is reviewed regularly and periodically adjusted to reflect changes in warranty cost estimates.
Research and Development Expenses	Research and Development Expenses Research and development costs were $3.8 million , $2.1 million and $1.9 million for 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. These costs are expensed as incurred as cost of services and primarily include the cost of new product development, chip set design, software development and engineering.
Advertising Expenses	Advertising Expenses Advertising costs were $2.1 million , $4.1 million and $3.4 million for 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. These costs are expensed as incurred as marketing, general and administrative expenses.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The Company is taxed as a C corporation for U.S. tax purposes. The Company recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis, operating losses and tax credit carryforwards. The Company measures deferred tax assets and liabilities using tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The Company recognizes the effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates in income in the period that includes the enactment date; however, as the Company has full valuation allowance on its deferred tax assets, there is no impact to the consolidated statements of operations and balance sheets. The Company also recognizes valuation allowances to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. In assessing the likelihood of realization, management considers: (i) future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences; (ii) future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards; (iii) taxable income in prior carry-back year(s) if carry-back is permitted under applicable tax law; and (iv) tax planning strategies. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company adopted ASU 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes . ASU No. 2015-17 simplifies the presentation of deferred taxes on the balance sheet by requiring classification of all deferred tax items as noncurrent including valuation allowances by jurisdiction. The implementation of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Comprehensive Income (Loss) All components of comprehensive income (loss), including the minimum pension liability adjustment and foreign currency translation adjustment, are reported in the financial statements in the period in which they are recognized. Comprehensive income (loss) is defined as the change in equity during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources.
Earnings (Loss) Per Share	Earnings (Loss) Per Share The Company is required to present basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share. Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed by dividing income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. For 2017 and 2016, diluted net loss per share of common stock was the same as basic net loss per share of common stock because the effects of potentially dilutive securities were anti-dilutive. Potentially dilutive securities include primarily outstanding stock-based awards, convertible notes, warrants and shares issuable pursuant to the Company's Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
Intangible and Other Assets	The Company assesses these intangible assets for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. In assessing whether it is more likely than not that such an asset is impaired, the Company assesses relevant events and circumstances that could affect the significant inputs used to determine the fair value of the asset.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Updates ("ASU") No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . ASU 2014-09 has been modified multiple times since its initial release. This ASU outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. ASU 2014-09, as amended, becomes effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted and the standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The Company has an internal project team that has evaluated the impact this standard has on its financial statements, accounting systems and related disclosures. The most significant changes to the Company's revenue recognition accounting policies are related to the following: 1) the allocation and timing of revenue recognized between service revenue and subscriber equipment sales, 2) the acceleration of service revenue recognized for breakage during certain customer's prepaid contracts, and 3) the deferment of certain contract acquisition costs and the recognition of these costs over the expected life of a customer's contract. The Company adopted this standard when it became effective on January 1, 2018 using the cumulative effect method of adoption. The Company has determined that this standard will not have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases, which has been modified since its initial release. The main difference between the provisions of ASU No. 2016-02 and previous U.S. GAAP is the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases under previous U.S. GAAP. ASU No. 2016-02 retains a distinction between finance leases and operating leases, and the recognition, measurement, and presentation of expenses and cash flows arising from a lease by a lessee have not significantly changed from previous U.S. GAAP. For leases with a term of 12 months or less, a lessee is permitted to make an accounting policy election by class of underlying asset not to recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities. The accounting applied by a lessor is largely unchanged from that applied under previous U.S. GAAP. In transition, lessees and lessors are required to recognize and measure leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. This ASU is effective for public business entities in fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on its financial statements and related disclosures. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-04, Liabilities-Extinguishment of Liabilities: Recognition of Breakage for Certain Prepaid Stored Value Products . ASU No. 2016-04 contains specific guidance for the derecognition of prepaid stored-value product liabilities within the scope of this ASU. This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company does not expect this ASU to have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Credit Losses, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments . ASU No. 2016-13 significantly changes how entities will measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net income. The standard will replace today’s incurred loss approach with an expected loss model for instruments measured at amortized cost. Entities will apply the standard’s provisions as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for all entities for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods therein. The Company has not yet determined the impact this standard will have on its financial statements and related disclosures. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, S tatement of Cash Flows - Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments . ASU No. 2016-15 is intended to reduce diversity in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented in the statement of cash flows. The new guidance clarifies the classification of cash activity related to debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs, settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, proceeds from the settlement of corporate and bank-owned life insurance policies, distributions received from equity-method investments, and beneficial interests in securitization transactions. The guidance also describes a predominance principle pursuant to which cash flows with aspects of more than one class that cannot be separated should be classified based on the activity that is likely to be the predominant source or use of cash flow. This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on its financial statements and related disclosures, but does not expect it to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-16, Income Taxes: Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory. ASU 2016-16 requires entities to account for the income tax effects of intercompany sales and transfers of assets other than inventory when the transfer occurs rather than current guidance which requires companies to defer the income tax effects of intercompany transfers of assets until the asset has been sold to an outside party or otherwise recognized. This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on its financial statements and related disclosures. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, S tatement of Cash Flows - Restricted Cash . ASU 2016-18 requires entities to show the changes in the total of cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows. When cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents are presented in more than one line item on the balance sheet, a reconciliation of the totals in the statement of cash flows to the related captions in the balance sheet is required. This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company adopted this standard effective with reporting periods beginning on January 1, 2017 and reflected the impact of this standard using a retrospective transition method for each period presented. Additionally, the Company added required disclosures pursuant to ASC 2016-18 to its consolidated statements of cash flows. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations: Clarifying the Definition of a Business . ASU 2017-01 most significantly revises guidance specific to the definition of a business related to accounting for acquisitions. Additionally, ASU 2017-01 also affects other areas of US GAAP, such as the definition of a business related to the consolidation of variable interest entities, the consolidation of a subsidiary or group of assets, components of an operating segment, and disposals of reporting units and the impact on goodwill. This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company does not expect it to have a material effect on the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In February 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-05, Other Income-Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets: Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets . ASU 2017-05 was issued to provide clarity on the scope and application for recognizing gains and losses from the sale or transfer of nonfinancial assets, and should be adopted concurrently with ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on its financial statements and related disclosures. In February 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07: Compensation-Retirement Benefits: Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost . ASU 2017-07 requires sponsors of benefit plans to present the service cost component of net periodic benefit cost in the same income statement line or items as other employee costs and present the remaining components of net periodic benefit cost in one or more separate line items outside of income from operations. This ASU also limits the capitalization of benefit costs to only the service cost component. This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company does not expect it to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-08: Receivables-Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs: Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities . This ASU amends current US GAAP to shorten the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium to the earliest call date. This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company does not expect it to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09: Compensation-Stock Compensation: Scope of Modification Accounting. This ASU clarifies when changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award must be accounted for as modifications. Under the new guidance, a company will apply modification accounting only if the fair value, vesting conditions or classification of the award change due to a modification in the terms or conditions of the share-based payment award. This ASU is effective for public entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of any interim or annual reporting period. The Company does not expect it to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income . This guidance allows companies to reclassify items in accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the H.R.1, “An Act to Provide for Reconciliation Pursuant to Titles II and V of the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2018” (the “Tax Act”) (previously known as “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act”). This ASU is effective for all entities for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. Companies may apply the guidance in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period in which the income tax effects of the Tax Act related to items in accumulated other comprehensive income are recognized. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on its financial statements and related disclosures.
Derivatives, Embedded Derivatives	The Company has identified various embedded derivatives resulting from certain features in the Company’s debt instruments, including the conversion option and the contingent put feature within both the 2013 8.00% Notes and the Loan Agreement with Thermo. These embedded derivatives required bifurcation from the debt host agreement and are recorded as a derivative liability on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets with a corresponding debt discount netted against the principal amount of the related debt instrument. The Company accretes the debt discount associated with each derivative liability to interest expense over the term of the related debt instrument using an effective interest rate method. The fair value of each embedded derivative liability is marked-to-market at the end of each reporting period, or more frequently as deemed necessary, with any changes in value reported in its consolidated statements of operations. The Company determined the fair value of its compound embedded derivative liabilities using a blend of a Monte Carlo simulation model and market prices.
Fair Value Measurement	The Company follows the authoritative guidance for fair value measurements relating to financial and non-financial assets and liabilities, including presentation of required disclosures herein. This guidance establishes a fair value framework requiring the categorization of assets and liabilities into three levels based upon the assumptions (inputs) used to price the assets and liabilities. Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, whereas Level 3 generally requires significant management judgment. The three levels are defined as follows: Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2: Quoted prices in markets that are not active or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity).

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN27

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	The following is a summary of the activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 3,966 $ 5,270 $ 4,788 Provision, net of recoveries 1,256 1,256 2,782 Write-offs and other adjustments (1,612 ) (2,560 ) (2,300 ) Balance at end of period $ 3,610 $ 3,966 $ 5,270
Summary of Gross Carrying Amount and Accumulated Amortization of Intangible Assets	The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of the Company's intangible assets subject to amortization consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Weighted Cost Accumulated Amortization Carrying Amount Cost Accumulated Amortization Carrying Amount Developed technology 9 $ 6,108 $ (4,958 ) $ 1,150 $ 6,003 $ (4,740 ) $ 1,263 Customer relationships 8 2,100 (2,100 ) — 2,100 (2,081 ) 19 Regulatory authorizations 7 878 (56 ) 822 — — — Trade name 1 200 (200 ) — 200 (200 ) — $ 9,286 $ (7,314 ) $ 1,972 $ 8,303 $ (7,021 ) $ 1,282

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Tables)

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Globalstar System: Space component First and second-generation satellites in service $ 1,195,426 $ 1,211,090 Prepaid long-lead items — 17,040 Second-generation satellite, on-ground spare 32,481 32,481 Ground component 48,710 48,400 Construction in progress: Space component 3 81 Ground component 227,167 207,127 Next-generation software upgrades 12,414 10,223 Other 2,572 2,299 Total Globalstar System 1,518,773 1,528,741 Internally developed and purchased software 16,132 15,005 Equipment 9,966 9,875 Land and buildings 3,322 3,330 Leasehold improvements 1,969 1,893 Total property and equipment 1,550,162 1,558,844 Accumulated depreciation (579,043 ) (519,125 ) Total property and equipment, net $ 971,119 $ 1,039,719
Capitalized Interest	The following table summarizes capitalized interest for the periods indicated below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Interest cost eligible to be capitalized $ 51,212 $ 48,095 $ 42,749 Interest cost recorded in interest income (expense), net (33,319 ) (34,108 ) (32,609 ) Net interest capitalized $ 17,893 $ 13,987 $ 10,140
Depreciation Expense	The following table summarizes depreciation expense for the periods indicated below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Depreciation Expense $ 77,197 $ 76,960 $ 76,711

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA29

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-term Debt	Long-term debt consists of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Principal Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs Carrying Principal Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs Carrying Facility Agreement $ 467,256 $ 34,459 $ 432,797 $ 543,011 $ 45,651 $ 497,360 Loan Agreement with Thermo 106,054 26,333 79,721 93,962 29,615 64,347 8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013 1,348 — 1,348 17,126 2,554 14,572 Total Debt 574,658 60,792 513,866 654,099 77,820 576,279 Less: Current Portion 79,215 — 79,215 75,755 — 75,755 Long-Term Debt $ 495,443 $ 60,792 $ 434,651 $ 578,344 $ 77,820 $ 500,524
Summary Minimum Adjusted EBITDA Required by Debt Covenant	The Company achieves for each period the following minimum adjusted consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the Facility Agreement) (amounts in thousands): Period Minimum Amount 7/1/18-12/31/18 $ 47,694 1/1/19-6/30/19 $ 45,509 7/1/19-12/31/19 $ 53,830
Schedule of Debt Conversions	The conversion activity since issuance of the 2013 8.00% Notes is summarized in the table below (in thousands): Period Principal Amount Converted Shares of Voting Common Stock Issued (Gain)/Loss on Extinguishment of Debt Year Ended December 31, 2013 $ 8,029 14,863 $ (4,237 ) Year Ended December 31, 2014 24,881 46,353 44,061 Year Ended December 31, 2015 6,491 10,887 2,254 Year Ended December 31, 2016 — — — Year Ended December 31, 2017 15,986 26,411 6,306 Total $ 55,387 98,514 $ 48,384
Schedule of Maturities of Long-Term Debt	Annual debt maturities for each of the five years following December 31, 2017 and thereafter are as follows (in thousands): 2018 79,215 2019 94,870 2020 100,000 2021 100,000 2022 94,519 Thereafter 106,054 Total $ 574,658

DERIVATIVES (Tables)

DERIVATIVES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Values of Derivative Instruments	The following table discloses the fair values of the derivative instruments on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Derivative assets: Interest rate cap $ — $ 4 Total derivative assets $ — $ 4 Derivative liabilities: Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes $ (1,326 ) $ (26,664 ) Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo (226,659 ) (254,507 ) Total derivative liabilities $ (227,985 ) $ (281,171 )
Schedule of Derivative Gains (Losses)	The following table discloses the changes in value recorded as derivative gain (loss) in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Interest rate cap $ (4 ) $ (2 ) $ (40 ) Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes (6,662 ) (461 ) 32,829 Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo 27,848 (41,068 ) 149,071 Total derivative gain (loss) $ 21,182 $ (41,531 ) $ 181,860

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tables

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	The following tables provide a summary of the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in thousands): Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017: (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Balance Assets: Interest rate cap $ — $ — $ — $ — Total assets measured at fair value $ — $ — $ — $ — Liabilities: Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes — — (1,326 ) (1,326 ) Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo — — (226,659 ) (226,659 ) Total liabilities measured at fair value $ — $ — $ (227,985 ) $ (227,985 ) Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016: (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Balance Assets: Interest rate cap $ — $ 4 $ — $ 4 Total assets measured at fair value $ — $ 4 $ — $ 4 Liabilities: Liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes $ — $ (2,706 ) $ — $ (2,706 ) Liability for stock issuance due to legal settlement — (389 ) — $ (389 ) Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes — — (26,664 ) (26,664 ) Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo — — (254,507 ) (254,507 ) Total liabilities measured at fair value $ — $ (3,095 ) $ (281,171 ) $ (284,266 )
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques	The following tables present the location on the Company's consolidated balance sheet and the amount of the reduction in the value of long-lived assets recorded in 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017: (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Losses Property and equipment, net: $ — $ — $ 971,119 $ 17,040 Total $ — $ — $ 971,119 $ 17,040 Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016: (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Losses Intangibles and other assets, net $ — $ — $ 16,782 $ 350 Total $ — $ — $ 16,782 $ 350 The significant quantitative Level 3 inputs utilized in the valuation models as of the conversion date are shown in the table below: August 24, 2017: Stock Price Risk-Free Note Discount Rate Market Price of Common Stock Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes 65 % 1.1 % 0.73 26 % 2.03 The significant quantitative Level 3 inputs utilized in the valuation models are shown in the tables below: December 31, 2017: Stock Price Volatility Risk-Free Interest Rate Conversion Price Discount Rate Market Price of Common Stock Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes 78% 1.4% $0.73 27% $1.31 Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo 40 - 77% 2.2% $0.73 27% $1.31 December 31, 2016: Stock Price Volatility Risk-Free Interest Rate Conversion Price Discount Rate Market Price of Common Stock Compound embedded derivative with the 2013 8.00% Notes 100 - 110% 1.0% $0.73 25% $1.58 Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo 40 - 110% 2.2% $0.73 25% $1.58
Reconciliation of Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	The following table presents a rollforward for all liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) (in thousands): Year Ended December 31 2017 2016 Balance at beginning of period $ (281,171 ) $ (239,642 ) Derivative adjustment related to conversions 32,000 — Unrealized gain (loss), included in derivative gain (loss) 21,186 (41,529 ) Balance at end of period $ (227,985 ) $ (281,171 )
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments	The following table sets forth the carrying values and estimated fair values of the Company's other debt instruments, which are classified as Level 3 financial instruments (in thousands): December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Carrying Value Estimated Fair Value Carrying Value Estimated Fair Value Loan Agreement with Thermo $ 79,721 $ 54,936 $ 64,347 $ 47,874 2013 8.00% Notes 1,348 1,295 14,572 14,350

COMMITMENTS (Tables)

COMMITMENTS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Payments Under Operating Leases	The following table presents the future minimum lease payments for leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year (in thousands) as of December 31, 2017 , excluding possible lease payment reimbursement from the State of Louisiana pursuant to the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement the Company entered into with the Louisiana Department of Economic Development (See Note 8: Accrued Expenses and Other Non-Current Liabilities ): 2018 $ 1,241 2019 357 2020 313 2021 168 2022 — Thereafter — Total minimum lease payments $ 2,079

ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NO33

ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Schedule of Accrued Expenses	Accrued expenses consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Accrued interest $ 228 $ 381 Accrued liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes — 2,706 Accrued compensation and benefits 3,913 3,193 Accrued property and other taxes 3,944 4,173 Accrued customer liabilities and deposits 4,529 3,907 Accrued professional and other service provider fees 3,386 2,544 Accrued commissions 1,162 858 Accrued telecommunications expenses 876 686 Accrued satellite and ground costs 634 2,076 Accrued inventory 102 90 Accrued liability for legal settlement — 389 Other accrued expenses 1,980 2,159 Total accrued expenses $ 20,754 $ 23,162
Schedule of Changes in the Warranty Reserve Accrual	The following is a summary of the activity in the warranty reserve account, which is included in other accrued expenses above (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 132 $ 101 $ 129 Provision 273 272 279 Utilization (262 ) (241 ) (307 ) Balance at end of period $ 143 $ 132 $ 101
Schedule of Other Non-current Liabilities	Other non-current liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Long-term accrued interest $ — $ 99 Asset retirement obligation 1,451 1,443 Deferred rent and other deferred expense 274 470 Capital lease obligations 154 87 Liability related to the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the State of Louisiana 460 445 Foreign tax contingencies 3,634 3,346 Total other non-current liabilities $ 5,973 $ 5,890

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE B34

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Projected Benefit Obligation, Plan Assets and the Funded Status of Company's Defined Benefit Plan	Below is a reconciliation of projected benefit obligation, plan assets, and the funded status of the Company’s defined benefit plan (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 Change in projected benefit obligation: Projected benefit obligation, beginning of year $ 17,778 $ 17,595 Service cost 195 195 Interest cost 722 758 Actuarial loss 916 381 Benefits paid (974 ) (1,151 ) Projected benefit obligation, end of year $ 18,637 $ 17,778 Change in fair value of plan assets: Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year $ 12,895 $ 12,785 Return on plan assets 1,682 937 Employer contributions 645 324 Benefits paid (974 ) (1,151 ) Fair value of plan assets, end of year $ 14,248 $ 12,895 Funded status, end of year-net liability $ (4,389 ) $ (4,883 )
Schedule of Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	Components of the net periodic benefit cost of the Company’s defined benefit pension plan were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 195 $ 195 $ 111 Interest cost 722 758 744 Expected return on plan assets (825 ) (808 ) (862 ) Amortization of unrecognized net actuarial loss 443 473 512 Total net periodic benefit cost $ 535 $ 618 $ 505
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet	Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Amounts recognized: Funded status recognized in other non-current liabilities $ (4,389 ) $ (4,883 ) Net actuarial loss recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss 5,558 5,942 Net amount recognized in retained deficit $ 1,169 $ 1,059
Schedule of Assumptions Used to Calculate Benefit Obligation and Net Periodic Benefit Cost	The weighted-average assumptions used to determine the benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost were as follows: For the Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Benefit obligation assumptions: Discount rate 3.63 % 4.15 % 4.38 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A N/A Net periodic benefit cost assumptions: Discount rate 4.15 % 4.38 % 4.03 % Expected rate of return on plan assets 6.50 % 6.50 % 6.50 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A N/A
Schedule of Plan Asset Allocations	The defined benefit pension plan asset allocations as of the measurement date presented as a percentage of total plan assets were as follows: December 31, 2017 2016 Equity securities 58 % 56 % Debt securities 42 44 Total 100 % 100 %
Schedule of Fair Value of Plan Assets	The fair values of the Company’s pension plan assets by asset category were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) United States equity securities $ 6,597 $ — $ 6,597 $ — International equity securities 1,615 — 1,615 — Fixed income securities 4,119 — 4,119 — Other 1,917 — 1,917 — Total $ 14,248 $ — $ 14,248 $ — December 31, 2016 Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) United States equity securities $ 5,705 $ — $ 5,705 $ — International equity securities 1,460 — 1,460 — Fixed income securities 4,028 — 4,028 — Other 1,702 — 1,702 — Total $ 12,895 $ — $ 12,895 $ —
Schedule of Future Benefit Payments	The benefit payments to retirees over the next ten years are expected to be paid as follows (in thousands): 2018 $ 988 2019 1,010 2020 1,012 2021 1,013 2022 1,038 2023 - 2027 5,517

TAXES (Tables)

TAXES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of the Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	The components of income tax expense were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Current: Federal tax $ — $ — $ — State tax 25 18 34 Foreign tax 165 (6,561 ) (211 ) Total 190 (6,543 ) (177 ) Deferred: Federal and state tax — — — Foreign tax provision (benefit) — — 1,569 Total — — 1,569 Income tax expense (benefit) $ 190 $ (6,543 ) $ 1,392
Schedule of U.S. and Foreign Components of Income (Loss) Before Taxes	U.S. and foreign components of income (loss) before income taxes are presented below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 U.S. income (loss) $ (60,964 ) $ (103,494 ) $ 109,411 Foreign income (loss) (27,920 ) (35,695 ) (35,697 ) Total income (loss) before income taxes $ (88,884 ) $ (139,189 ) $ 73,714
Schedule of the Components of Net Deferred Income Tax Assets	The components of net deferred income tax assets were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Federal and foreign net operating loss and credit carryforwards $ 464,288 $ 712,799 Property and equipment and other long-term assets (45,373 ) (58,379 ) Accruals and reserves 12,754 21,071 Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance 431,669 675,491 Valuation allowance (431,669 ) (675,491 ) Net deferred income tax assets $ — $ —
Schedule of Actual Provision for Income Taxes to the Statutory U.S. Federal Income Tax Rate	The actual provision for income taxes differs from the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Provision at U.S. statutory rate of 35% $ (31,118 ) $ (48,722 ) $ 25,788 State income taxes, net of federal benefit (1,804 ) (6,193 ) 6,597 Change in valuation allowance (excluding impact of foreign exchange rates) (245,304 ) 36,631 (39,686 ) Effect of foreign income tax at various rates 3,739 4,844 4,739 Permanent differences 11,166 10,331 7,046 Change in unrecognized tax benefit — (6,313 ) 712 Net change in permanent items due to provision to tax return (3,565 ) 3,222 (3,099 ) Remeasurement of U.S. deferred tax assets (Federal and State) 266,864 — — Other (including amounts related to prior year tax matters) 212 (343 ) (705 ) Total $ 190 $ (6,543 ) $ 1,392
Rollforward of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	A rollforward of the Company's unrecognized tax benefits during 2016 is included below (in thousands). There are no unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2017. Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1, 2016 $ 3,830 Gross increase (decrease) based on tax positions related to current year 245 Gross increase (decrease) based on tax positions related to prior years — Lapse of applicable statute of limitations (4,075 ) Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2016 $ —

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Tables)

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Company's Information on Revenues and Long-lived Assets by Geographic Area	The Company’s information by geographic area is as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Revenues: Service: United States $ 68,556 $ 56,868 $ 50,832 Canada 18,296 16,038 14,553 Europe 8,183 6,955 5,738 Central and South America 2,959 2,659 2,407 Others 479 549 594 Total service revenue 98,473 83,069 74,124 Subscriber equipment: United States 8,431 7,441 7,823 Canada 2,995 3,122 4,339 Europe 1,532 1,533 1,710 Central and South America 1,202 1,413 2,087 Others 27 283 407 Total subscriber equipment revenue 14,187 13,792 16,366 Total revenue $ 112,660 $ 96,861 $ 90,490 Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 Long-lived assets: United States $ 966,611 $ 1,035,331 Canada 773 670 Europe 433 408 Central and South America 3,051 3,084 Other 251 226 Total long-lived assets $ 971,119 $ 1,039,719

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (Tabl

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The following table sets forth the calculation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share and reconciles basic weighted average shares to diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding for the periods indicated (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Net income (loss) $ (89,074 ) $ (132,646 ) $ 72,322 Effect of dilutive securities: 2013 8.00% Notes — — 2,398 Loan Agreement with Thermo — — 8,903 Income (loss) to common stockholders plus assumed conversions $ (89,074 ) $ (132,646 ) $ 83,623 Weighted average common shares outstanding: Basic shares outstanding 1,166,581 1,064,443 1,020,149 Incremental shares from assumed exercises, conversions and other issuance of: Stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units and ESPP — — 8,559 2013 8.00% Notes — — 27,853 Loan Agreement with Thermo — — 136,710 Warrants and other — — 37,123 Diluted shares outstanding 1,166,581 1,064,443 1,230,394 Income (loss) per share: Basic $ (0.08 ) $ (0.12 ) $ 0.07 Diluted $ (0.08 ) $ (0.12 ) $ 0.07

STOCK COMPENSATION (Tables)

STOCK COMPENSATION (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Stock Options	The table below summarizes the assumptions for the indicated periods: Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Risk-free interest rate 2 % 1 - 2% Less than 1 - 2% Expected term of options (years) 5 5 6 Volatility 67 % 65 % 72% Weighted average grant-date fair value per share $ 0.85 $ 1.04 $ 1.43
Schedule of Stock Option Activity	The following table represents the Company’s stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 : Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at January 1, 2017 8,722,605 $ 1.43 Granted 1,346,400 1.49 Exercised (100,915 ) 0.70 Forfeited or expired (577,592 ) 2.02 Outstanding at December 31, 2017 9,390,498 1.41 Exercisable at December 31, 2017 7,546,083 $ 1.37
Schedule of Aggregate Intrinsic Value of Stock Options Exercised	The following table summarizes the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years indicated below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Intrinsic value of stock options exercised $ 94 $ 199 $ 492
Schedule of Share-Based Compensation Expense	The following table represents the compensation expense related to restricted stock for the years indicated below (in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Total compensation expense $ 2.3 $ 2.2 $ 1.4 The following table presents compensation expense related to stock options for the years indicated below (in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Total compensation expense $ 1.2 $ 1.4 $ 1.2
Schedule of Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value of Restricted Stock	The table below summarizes the weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock for the indicated periods: Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Weighted average grant date fair value $ 1.37 $ 1.56 $ 1.84
Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Activity	The following is a rollforward of the activity in restricted stock for the year ended December 31, 2017 : Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested at January 1, 2017 2,528,832 $ 1.75 Granted 3,344,301 1.37 Vested (2,140,294 ) 1.75 Forfeited (102,022 ) 1.36 Nonvested at December 31, 2017 3,630,817 $ 1.41
Schedule of Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Employees' Stock Purchase Rights	The fair value of the employees’ stock purchase rights granted under the ESPP was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions for the following years: Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 Risk-free interest rate 1.00 % Less than 1.00 % Expected term (months) 6 6 Volatility 100 % 108 % Weighted average grant-date fair value per share $ 0.61 $ 0.61

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSI39

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Accumulated minimum pension liability adjustment $ (5,558 ) $ (5,942 ) Accumulated net foreign currency translation adjustment (1,381 ) 564 Total accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (6,939 ) $ (5,378 )

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATI40

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Unaudited Quarterly Financial Information	The following is a summary of consolidated quarterly financial information (amounts in thousands, except per share data): Quarter Ended 2017 March 31 June 30 Sept. 30 Dec. 31 Total revenue $ 24,652 $ 28,123 $ 30,458 $ 29,427 Loss from operations $ (15,202 ) $ (12,510 ) $ (10,793 ) $ (30,281 ) Net income (loss) $ (20,161 ) $ (98,734 ) $ 52,406 $ (22,585 ) Basic income (loss) per common share $ (0.02 ) $ (0.09 ) $ 0.04 $ (0.02 ) Diluted income (loss) per common share $ (0.02 ) $ (0.09 ) $ 0.04 $ (0.02 ) Shares used in basic per share calculations 1,113,968 1,128,985 1,169,993 1,251,826 Shares used in diluted per share calculations 1,113,968 1,128,985 1,345,905 1,251,826 Quarter Ended 2016 March 31 June 30 Sept. 30 Dec. 31 Total revenue $ 21,836 $ 25,086 $ 25,544 $ 24,395 Loss from operations $ (15,698 ) $ (16,411 ) $ (14,763 ) $ (16,804 ) Net income (loss) $ (26,947 ) $ 14,099 $ (2,577 ) $ (117,221 ) Basic income (loss) per common share $ (0.03 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.00 $ (0.11 ) Diluted income (loss) per common share $ (0.03 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.00 $ (0.11 ) Shares used in basic per share calculations 1,041,028 1,049,381 1,080,313 1,086,631 Shares used in diluted per share calculations 1,041,028 1,249,672 1,080,313 1,086,631

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINAN41

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION [Abstract]
Supplemental Consolidating Balance Sheet	Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2017 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Elimination Consolidated (In thousands) ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 32,864 $ 4,942 $ 3,838 $ — $ 41,644 Restricted cash 63,635 — — — 63,635 Accounts receivable, net of allowance 7,129 6,524 3,460 — 17,113 Intercompany receivables 979,942 755,847 64,477 (1,800,266 ) — Inventory 1,182 4,610 1,481 — 7,273 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 3,149 2,414 1,182 — 6,745 Total current assets 1,087,901 774,337 74,438 (1,800,266 ) 136,410 Property and equipment, net 962,756 3,855 4,503 5 971,119 Intercompany notes receivable 5,600 — 6,436 (12,036 ) — Investment in subsidiaries (280,745 ) 84,244 38,637 157,864 — Intangibles and other assets, net 18,353 47 3,348 (12 ) 21,736 Total assets $ 1,793,865 $ 862,483 $ 127,362 $ (1,654,445 ) $ 1,129,265 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Current portion of long-term debt $ 79,215 $ — $ — $ — $ 79,215 Accounts payable 2,257 2,736 1,055 — 6,048 Accrued contract termination charge 21,002 — — — 21,002 Accrued expenses 7,627 6,331 6,796 — 20,754 Intercompany payables 711,159 799,565 289,503 (1,800,227 ) — Payables to affiliates 225 — — — 225 Derivative liabilities 1,326 — — — 1,326 Deferred revenue 1,164 23,282 7,301 — 31,747 Total current liabilities 823,975 831,914 304,655 (1,800,227 ) 160,317 Long-term debt, less current portion 434,651 — — — 434,651 Employee benefit obligations 4,389 — — — 4,389 Intercompany notes payable 6,436 — 5,600 (12,036 ) — Derivative liabilities 226,659 — — — 226,659 Deferred revenue 5,625 410 17 — 6,052 Other non-current liabilities 906 325 4,742 — 5,973 Total non-current liabilities 678,666 735 10,359 (12,036 ) 677,724 Stockholders' equity (deficit) 291,224 29,834 (187,652 ) 157,818 291,224 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 1,793,865 $ 862,483 $ 127,362 $ (1,654,445 ) $ 1,129,265 Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2016 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Elimination Consolidated (In thousands) ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 7,259 $ 1,327 $ 1,644 $ — $ 10,230 Accounts receivable, net of allowance 5,938 6,340 2,941 — 15,219 Intercompany receivables 897,691 678,707 32,040 (1,608,438 ) — Inventory 2,266 4,354 1,473 — 8,093 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 1,570 955 2,063 — 4,588 Total current assets 914,724 691,683 40,161 (1,608,438 ) 38,130 Property and equipment, net 1,031,623 3,708 4,384 4 1,039,719 Restricted cash 37,983 — — — 37,983 Intercompany notes receivable 8,901 — 6,436 (15,337 ) — Investment in subsidiaries (280,557 ) 73,029 36,146 171,382 — Intangible and other assets, net 15,259 128 1,407 (12 ) 16,782 Total assets $ 1,727,933 $ 768,548 $ 88,534 $ (1,452,401 ) $ 1,132,614 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Current liabilities: Current portion of long-term debt $ 75,755 $ — $ — $ — $ 75,755 Debt restructuring fees 20,795 — — — 20,795 Accounts payable 2,624 3,490 1,385 — 7,499 Accrued contract termination charge 18,451 — — — 18,451 Accrued expenses 10,573 5,884 6,705 — 23,162 Intercompany payables 636,336 750,084 221,980 (1,608,400 ) — Payables to affiliates 309 — — — 309 Deferred revenue 1,576 19,304 5,599 — 26,479 Total current liabilities 766,419 778,762 235,669 (1,608,400 ) 172,450 Long-term debt, less current portion 500,524 — — — 500,524 Employee benefit obligations 4,883 — — — 4,883 Intercompany notes payable 6,435 — 8,901 (15,336 ) — Derivative liabilities 281,171 — — — 281,171 Deferred revenue 5,567 299 11 — 5,877 Other non-current liabilities 1,115 325 4,450 — 5,890 Total non-current liabilities 799,695 624 13,362 (15,336 ) 798,345 Stockholders' equity (deficit) 161,819 (10,838 ) (160,497 ) 171,335 161,819 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity (deficit) $ 1,727,933 $ 768,548 $ 88,534 $ (1,452,401 ) $ 1,132,614
Supplemental Consolidating Statement of Operations	Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) Year Ended December 31, 2017 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Revenue: Service revenues $ 76,096 $ 39,347 $ 54,102 $ (71,072 ) $ 98,473 Subscriber equipment sales 264 11,459 6,141 (3,677 ) 14,187 Total revenue 76,360 50,806 60,243 (74,749 ) 112,660 Operating expenses: Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below) 25,664 5,981 10,740 (5,363 ) 37,022 Cost of subscriber equipment sales 97 9,211 4,311 (3,675 ) 9,944 Cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory 843 — — — 843 Marketing, general and administrative 22,928 4,792 77,099 (65,720 ) 39,099 Reduction in the value of long-lived assets 17,040 — — — 17,040 Depreciation, amortization and accretion 76,625 629 244 — 77,498 Total operating expenses 143,197 20,613 92,394 (74,758 ) 181,446 Income (loss) from operations (66,837 ) 30,193 (32,151 ) 9 (68,786 ) Other income (expense): Loss on extinguishment of debt (6,306 ) — — — (6,306 ) Gain (loss) on equity issuance 2,706 — (36 ) — 2,670 Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized (34,570 ) (8 ) (198 ) 5 (34,771 ) Derivative gain 21,182 — — — 21,182 Equity in subsidiary earnings (loss) (2,735 ) (13,906 ) — 16,641 — Other (2,514 ) (700 ) 345 (4 ) (2,873 ) Total other income (expense) (22,237 ) (14,614 ) 111 16,642 (20,098 ) Income (loss) before income taxes (89,074 ) 15,579 (32,040 ) 16,651 (88,884 ) Income tax expense — 25 165 — 190 Net income (loss) $ (89,074 ) $ 15,554 $ (32,205 ) $ 16,651 $ (89,074 ) Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment 384 — — — 384 Net foreign currency translation adjustment — — (1,944 ) (1 ) (1,945 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) $ (88,690 ) $ 15,554 $ (34,149 ) $ 16,650 $ (90,635 ) Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) Year Ended December 31, 2016 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Revenue: Service revenues $ 70,460 $ 34,428 $ 43,130 $ (64,949 ) $ 83,069 Subscriber equipment sales 584 9,380 6,545 (2,717 ) 13,792 Total revenue 71,044 43,808 49,675 (67,666 ) 96,861 Operating expenses: Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below) 20,569 5,929 10,976 (5,566 ) 31,908 Cost of subscriber equipment sales 207 7,481 4,931 (2,712 ) 9,907 Marketing, general and administrative 21,691 4,847 73,679 (59,235 ) 40,982 Reduction in the value of long-lived assets 350 — — — 350 Depreciation, amortization and accretion 75,896 802 1,054 (362 ) 77,390 Total operating expenses 118,713 19,059 90,640 (67,875 ) 160,537 Income (loss) from operations (47,669 ) 24,749 (40,965 ) 209 (63,676 ) Other income (expense): Gain (loss) on equity issuance 2,789 — (389 ) — 2,400 Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized (35,754 ) (24 ) (164 ) (10 ) (35,952 ) Derivative loss (41,531 ) — — — (41,531 ) Equity in subsidiary earnings (9,803 ) (15,670 ) — 25,473 — Other (678 ) 92 17 139 (430 ) Total other income (expense) (84,977 ) (15,602 ) (536 ) 25,602 (75,513 ) Income (loss) before income taxes (132,646 ) 9,147 (41,501 ) 25,811 (139,189 ) Income tax expense (benefit) — 18 (6,561 ) — (6,543 ) Net income (loss) $ (132,646 ) $ 9,129 $ (34,940 ) $ 25,811 $ (132,646 ) Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment 221 — — — 221 Net foreign currency translation adjustment — — (759 ) (7 ) (766 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) $ (132,425 ) $ 9,129 $ (35,699 ) $ 25,804 $ (133,191 ) Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) Year Ended December 31, 2015 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Revenue: Service revenues $ 66,024 $ 30,803 $ 37,887 $ (60,590 ) $ 74,124 Subscriber equipment sales 808 12,093 8,444 (4,979 ) 16,366 Total revenue 66,832 42,896 46,331 (65,569 ) 90,490 Operating expenses: Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below) 18,775 6,474 12,348 (6,982 ) 30,615 Cost of subscriber equipment sales 64 10,580 6,147 (4,977 ) 11,814 Marketing, general and administrative 19,492 5,758 65,660 (53,492 ) 37,418 Depreciation, amortization and accretion 75,313 1,203 1,212 (481 ) 77,247 Total operating expenses 113,644 24,015 85,367 (65,932 ) 157,094 Income (loss) from operations (46,812 ) 18,881 (39,036 ) 363 (66,604 ) Other income (expense): Loss on extinguishment of debt (2,254 ) — — — (2,254 ) Loss on equity issuance (6,663 ) — — — (6,663 ) Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized (35,301 ) (27 ) (536 ) 10 (35,854 ) Derivative gain 181,860 — — — 181,860 Equity in subsidiary earnings (19,467 ) (13,345 ) — 32,812 — Other 959 465 1,599 206 3,229 Total other income (expense) 119,134 (12,907 ) 1,063 33,028 140,318 Income (loss) before income taxes 72,322 5,974 (37,973 ) 33,391 73,714 Income tax expense — 34 1,358 — 1,392 Net income (loss) $ 72,322 $ 5,940 $ (39,331 ) $ 33,391 $ 72,322 Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment 787 — — — 787 Net foreign currency translation adjustment — — (2,742 ) 20 (2,722 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) $ 73,109 $ 5,940 $ (42,073 ) $ 33,411 $ 70,387
Supplemental Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows	Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended December 31, 2017 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Net cash provided by operating activities: $ 6,010 $ 4,361 $ 3,486 $ — $ 13,857 Cash flows used in investing activities: Second-generation network costs (including interest) (11,856 ) — (54 ) — (11,910 ) Property and equipment additions (3,674 ) (746 ) (1,105 ) — (5,525 ) Purchase of intangible assets (3,468 ) — (328 ) — (3,796 ) Investment in businesses 455 — — — 455 Net cash used in investing activities (18,543 ) (746 ) (1,487 ) — (20,776 ) Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: Principal payments of the Facility Agreement (75,755 ) — — — (75,755 ) Proceeds from common stock offering 114,993 — — — 114,993 Proceeds from Thermo Common Stock Purchase Agreement 33,000 — — — 33,000 Payment of debt restructuring fee (20,795 ) — — — (20,795 ) Payments for debt and equity issuance costs (654 ) — — — (654 ) Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin 12,000 — — — 12,000 Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants 1,001 — — — 1,001 Net cash provided by financing activities 63,790 — — — 63,790 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash — — 195 — 195 Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 51,257 3,615 2,194 — 57,066 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period 45,242 1,327 1,644 — 48,213 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 96,499 $ 4,942 $ 3,838 $ — $ 105,279 Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended December 31, 2016 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: $ 8,642 $ 1,307 $ (1,136 ) $ — $ 8,813 Cash flows used in investing activities: Second-generation network costs (including interest) (12,901 ) — (269 ) — (13,170 ) Property and equipment additions (8,453 ) (699 ) (233 ) — (9,385 ) Purchase of intangible assets (1,996 ) — — — (1,996 ) Net cash used in investing activities (23,350 ) (699 ) (502 ) — (24,551 ) Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: Principal payments of the Facility Agreement (32,835 ) — — — (32,835 ) Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin 48,000 — — — 48,000 Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants 3,337 — 3,337 Net cash provided by financing activities 18,502 — — — 18,502 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash — — 55 — 55 Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 3,794 608 (1,583 ) — 2,819 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period 41,448 719 3,227 — 45,394 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 45,242 $ 1,327 $ 1,644 $ — $ 48,213 Globalstar, Inc. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended December 31, 2015 Parent Company Guarantor Subsidiaries Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Eliminations Consolidated (In thousands) Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ (2,349 ) $ 1,767 $ 2,744 $ — $ 2,162 Cash flows used in investing activities: Second-generation network costs (including interest) (25,195 ) — — — (25,195 ) Property and equipment additions (2,608 ) (1,720 ) (1,195 ) — (5,523 ) Purchase of intangible assets (2,520 ) — — — (2,520 ) Investment in businesses (240 ) — — — (240 ) Net cash used in investing activities (30,563 ) (1,720 ) (1,195 ) — (33,478 ) Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: Principal payments of the Facility Agreement (6,450 ) — — — (6,450 ) Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin 39,000 — — — 39,000 Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants 726 — — — 726 Net cash provided by financing activities 33,276 — — — 33,276 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash — — (1,605 ) — (1,605 ) Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 364 47 (56 ) — 355 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period 41,084 672 3,283 — 45,039 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 41,448 $ 719 $ 3,227 $ — $ 45,394

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN42

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Details)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	May 20, 2013
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period		$ 3,966,000	$ 5,270,000	$ 4,788,000
Provision, net of recoveries		1,256,000	1,256,000	2,782,000
Write-offs and other adjustments		(1,612,000)	(2,560,000)	(2,300,000)
Balance at end of period		3,610,000	3,966,000	5,270,000
Provision for bad debts		1,256,000	1,256,000	3,357,000
Inventory
Write-down of inventory		843,000	0	0
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs		34,500,000	45,700,000
Foreign Currency
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(1,945,000)	(766,000)	(2,722,000)
Foreign currency transaction gain (loss)		(2,200,000)	(200,000)	3,700,000
Asset Retirement Obligation
Asset retirement obligation		1,451,000	1,443,000
Research and Development Expenses
Research and development expense		3,800,000	2,100,000	1,900,000
Advertising Expenses
Advertising expense		$ 2,100,000	4,100,000	$ 3,400,000
Subsidiaries | VENEZUELA
Foreign Currency
Foreign currency transaction gain (loss)	$ (1,900,000)
Official Bolivar exchange rate, previously used						6.3
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Deferred Financing Costs
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		8.00%		8.00%	8.00%		8.00%	8.00%
Minimum
Warranty Expense
Warranty term		90 days
Maximum
Warranty Expense
Warranty term		1 year
Space component
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful life		15 years
Ground component
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful life		15 years
Software, Facilities and Equipment | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful life		3 years
Software, Facilities and Equipment | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful life		10 years
Building
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful life		18 years
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets | Notes Receivable
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Provision for bad debts				$ 600,000
Bad debt recovery			$ 500,000

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN43

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	$ 9,286	$ 8,303
Accumulated Amortization	(7,314)	(7,021)
Carrying Amount	$ 1,972	1,282
Developed technology
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Useful Life (in years)	9 years
Cost	$ 6,108	6,003
Accumulated Amortization	(4,958)	(4,740)
Carrying Amount	$ 1,150	1,263
Customer relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Useful Life (in years)	8 years
Cost	$ 2,100	2,100
Accumulated Amortization	(2,100)	(2,081)
Carrying Amount	$ 0	19
Regulatory authorizations
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Useful Life (in years)	7 years
Cost	$ 878	0
Accumulated Amortization	(56)	0
Carrying Amount	$ 822	0
Trade name
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Useful Life (in years)	1 year
Cost	$ 200	200
Accumulated Amortization	(200)	(200)
Carrying Amount	$ 0	$ 0

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN44

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Amortization of acquired intangible assets	$ 300	$ 300
Estimated annual amortization in 2018	300
Estimated annual amortization in 2019	300
Estimated annual amortization in 2020	300
Estimated annual amortization in 2021	300
Estimated annual amortization in 2022	300
Estimated annual amortization, thereafter	500
Intangible assets not subject to amortization	$ 7,900	5,600
Impairment of intangible assets		$ 350

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Schedul

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Schedule of Property and Equipment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	$ 1,550,162	$ 1,558,844
Accumulated depreciation	(579,043)	(519,125)
Total property and equipment, net	971,119	1,039,719
Internally developed and purchased software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	16,132	15,005
Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	9,966	9,875
Land and buildings
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	3,322	3,330
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	1,969	1,893
Global Star System
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	1,518,773	1,528,741
Global Star System | Ground component
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	48,710	48,400
Global Star System | First and second-generation satellites in service | Space component
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	1,195,426	1,211,090
Global Star System | Prepaid long-lead items | Space component
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	0	17,040
Global Star System | Second-generation satellite, on-ground spare | Space component
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	32,481	32,481
Global Star System | Construction in progress: | Space component
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	3	81
Global Star System | Construction in progress: | Ground component
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	227,167	207,127
Global Star System | Construction in progress: | Next-generation software upgrades
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	12,414	10,223
Global Star System | Construction in progress: | Other
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment	$ 2,572	$ 2,299

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Narrati

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands, € in Millions	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2009EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Payments to acquire machinery and equipment	€ 12
Payments to acquire machinery and equipment, procurement costs	€ 3.1
Reduction in the value of long-lived assets | $		$ 17,000	$ 17,040	$ 350	$ 0

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Capital

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Capitalized Interest and Depreciation Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Interest Costs Incurred [Abstract]
Interest cost eligible to be capitalized	$ 51,212	$ 48,095	$ 42,749
Interest cost recorded in interest income (expense), net	(33,319)	(34,108)	(32,609)
Net interest capitalized	17,893	13,987	10,140
Depreciation Expense	$ 77,197	$ 76,960	$ 76,711

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA48

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Long-term Debt) (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	May 20, 2013
Principal Amount
Total Debt	$ 574,658,000		$ 654,099,000
Less: Current Portion	79,215,000		75,755,000
Long-Term Debt	495,443,000		578,344,000
Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs
Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs	60,792,000		77,820,000
Current Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs	0		0
Noncurrent Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs	60,792,000		77,820,000
Carrying Value
Total Debt	513,866,000		576,279,000
Less: Current Portion	79,215,000		75,755,000
Long-Term Debt	434,651,000		500,524,000
Facility Agreement
Principal Amount
Total Debt	467,256,000		543,011,000
Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs
Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs	34,459,000		45,651,000
Carrying Value
Total Debt	432,797,000		497,360,000
Loan Agreement with Thermo
Principal Amount
Total Debt	106,054,000		93,962,000
Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs
Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs	26,333,000		29,615,000
Carrying Value
Total Debt	$ 79,721,000		64,347,000
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage	8.00%	8.00%		8.00%	8.00%	8.00%
Principal Amount
Total Debt	$ 1,348,000		17,126,000			$ 54,600,000
Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs
Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs	0		2,554,000
Carrying Value
Total Debt	$ 1,348,000		$ 14,572,000

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA49

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Facility Agreement) (Details) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)measurement_period	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2013	May 20, 2013	Dec. 31, 2009USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consideration received on transaction		$ 115,000
Restructuring fees					$ 20,795	$ 0	$ 0
Terrapin
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Draws on line of credit	$ 12,000			$ 12,000
Thermo Capital Partners LLC
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consideration received on transaction		43,300	$ 33,000
Stock purchase agreement, value of shares	33,000
Facility Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate increase					0.50%
Percentage of guarantee provided by French export credit agency to lending syndicate					95.00%
Maximum capital expenditures					$ 15,000
Limit of capital expenditures per terms of agreement					$ 20,000
Limit of capital expenditures per terms of agreement as a percentage of equity proceeds					20.00%
Minimum liquidity					$ 4,000
Minimum EBITDA, final period					$ 65,700
Minimum debt service coverage ratio					1
Maximum net debt to adjusted consolidated EBITDA					5
Minimum net debt to adjusted consolidated EBITDA, in 2022					2.50
Number of semi-annual measurement periods | measurement_period					5
Minimum interest coverage ratio					3.50
Maximum interest coverage ratio					5
Amount available to be drawn					$ 145,000
Debt service reserve account, required amount											$ 37,900
Debt service reserve account					$ 50,900
Facility Agreement | Domestic Subsidiaries
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Percentage of equity pledged as collateral					100.00%
Facility Agreement | Foreign Subsidiaries
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Percentage of equity pledged as collateral					65.00%
Facility Agreement | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest above LIBOR rate					3.25%
Facility Agreement | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest above LIBOR rate					5.75%
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage					8.00%		8.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%
2017 GARA
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Required equity proceeds to be raised per terms of agreement by specified period		$ 114,000
Percentage of proceeds to be deposited		80.00%
2017 GARA | Thermo Capital Partners LLC
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Limit of capital expenditures per terms of agreement	$ 20,000
Limit of capital expenditures per terms of agreement as a percentage of equity proceeds	20.00%
Minimum value of equity proceeds required to be raised per terms of agreement	$ 159,000
Required equity proceeds to be raised per terms of agreement by specified period	$ 33,000
Percentage of proceeds to be deposited	80.00%
Amendment fees	$ 300
Restructuring fees	$ 20,800

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA50

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Minimum EBITDA) (Details) - Facility Agreement $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
7/1/18-12/31/18	$ 47,694
1/1/19-6/30/19	45,509
7/1/19-12/31/19	$ 53,830

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA51

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Thermo Loan Agreement) (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / shares
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Share price (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.31
Loan Agreement with Thermo | Thermo
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage	12.00%
Maturity period after full repayment of debt	6 months
Outstanding interest	$ 62.6
Fair value, if converted, exceeding principal amount	$ 83.8

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA52

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013) (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands	Aug. 24, 2017USD ($)shares	May 20, 2013USD ($)equity_interest$ / shares	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, principal amount				$ 574,658,000	$ 654,099,000				$ 574,658,000
Principal amount of debt converted into common stock				15,986,000	0	$ 6,491,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt				$ 6,306,000	0	$ 2,254,000
Settlement period				40 days
Share price (USD per share) | $ / shares				$ 1.31					$ 1.31
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, principal amount		$ 54,600,000		$ 1,348,000	17,126,000				$ 1,348,000
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		8.00%	8.00%	8.00%		8.00%		8.00%	8.00%
Conversion price per share of common stock (USD per share) | $ / shares		$ 0.73
Number of shares of common stock convertible into (in equity interests) | equity_interest		1,370
Principal amount of debt converted into common stock		$ 1,000		$ 15,986,000	$ 0	$ 6,491,000	$ 24,881,000	$ 8,029,000	$ 55,387,000
Interest rate, payable in cash				5.75%					5.75%
Interest rate, payable in additional notes				2.25%					2.25%
Conversion of notes into shares of common stock (in shares) | shares	26,400			26,411	0	10,887	46,353	14,863	98,514
Debt conversion amount	$ 16,000,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt			$ 6,300,000	$ 6,306,000	$ 0	$ 2,254,000	$ 44,061,000	$ (4,237,000)	$ 48,384,000
Payments of debt if lien were to occur								$ 3,600,000
Percentage of debt holders required for acceleration of maturity				25.00%
Fair value, if converted, exceeding principal amount				$ 1,100,000

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA53

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Summary of Debt Conversion) (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands	Aug. 24, 2017	May 20, 2013	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Conversion [Line Items]
Principal Amount Converted				$ 15,986,000	$ 0	$ 6,491,000
(Gain)/Loss on Extinguishment of Debt				6,306,000	0	2,254,000
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Debt Conversion [Line Items]
Principal Amount Converted		$ 1,000		$ 15,986,000	$ 0	$ 6,491,000	$ 24,881,000	$ 8,029,000	$ 55,387,000
Shares of Voting Common Stock Issued (in shares)	26,400			26,411	0	10,887	46,353	14,863	98,514
(Gain)/Loss on Extinguishment of Debt			$ 6,300,000	$ 6,306,000	$ 0	$ 2,254,000	$ 44,061,000	$ (4,237,000)	$ 48,384,000

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA54

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Maturities of Long-term Debt) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2,018	$ 79,215
2,019	94,870
2,020	100,000
2,021	100,000
2,022	94,519
Thereafter	106,054
Total	$ 574,658

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA55

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Terrapin Opportunity, L.P. Common Stock Purchase Agreement) (Details)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2017USD ($)shares	Aug. 31, 2015USD ($)draw_down_notice	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)shares
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum value of shares required to be purchased per terms of stock purchase agreement			$ 75,000,000
Stock purchase agreement term			24 months
Number of draw down notices | draw_down_notice			24
Draw down period			10 days
Minimum discount percentage for per share price			2.75%
Maximum discount percentage for per share price			4.00%
Maximum beneficial ownership percentage allowed per stock purchase agreement			9.90%
Purchase price				$ 114,993,000	$ 0	$ 0
Terrapin
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance of stock (in shares) | shares		8,900,000					67,300,000
Purchase price							$ 75,000,000
Draws on line of credit	$ 12,000,000	$ 12,000,000

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINA56

LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Public Offering of Common Stock) (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions	1 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consideration received on transaction	$ 115
2017 GARA
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Required equity proceeds to be raised per terms of agreement by specified period	$ 114
Percentage of proceeds to be deposited	80.00%
Over-Allotment Option
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Number of shares issued in transaction (in shares) | shares	73.4
Price per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.65

DERIVATIVES (Schedule of Fair V

DERIVATIVES (Schedule of Fair Value of Derivative Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative assets:
Total derivative assets	$ 0	$ 4
Derivative liabilities:
Total derivative liabilities	(227,985)	(281,171)
Interest rate cap
Derivative assets:
Interest rate cap	0	4
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Derivative liabilities:
Total derivative liabilities	(1,326)	(26,664)
Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo
Derivative liabilities:
Total derivative liabilities	$ (226,659)	$ (254,507)
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage	8.00%

DERIVATIVES (Schedule of Deriva

DERIVATIVES (Schedule of Derivative Gain (Loss)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative gain (loss)	$ 21,182	$ (41,531)	$ 181,860
Interest rate cap
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative gain (loss)	(4)	(2)	(40)
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative gain (loss)	(6,662)	(461)	32,829
Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative gain (loss)	$ 27,848	$ (41,068)	$ 149,071
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage	8.00%

DERIVATIVES (Additional Informa

DERIVATIVES (Additional Information) (Details) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2009USD ($)contract	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	May 20, 2013
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Derivative [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		8.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%
Interest rate cap
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of Interest rate cap agreements (in contracts) | contract	5
Interest rate cap agreements period	10 years
Interest rate cap | Six-month LIBOR Rate
Derivative [Line Items]
Base rate to be cap	5.50%
Interest on outstanding amounts on the Facility Agreement	6.50%
Debt instrument, basis spread reduction on variable rate	1.00%
Fee for interest rate cap agreements | $	$ 12.4

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Financ

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets measured at fair value	$ 0	$ 4
Total liabilities measured at fair value	(227,985)	(284,266)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value		(2,706)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Liability for stock issuance due to legal settlement
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value		(389)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Interest rate cap
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets measured at fair value	0	4
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	(1,326)	(26,664)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	(226,659)	(254,507)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 1)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets measured at fair value	0	0
Total liabilities measured at fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 1) | Liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value		0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 1) | Liability for stock issuance due to legal settlement
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value		0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 1) | Interest rate cap
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets measured at fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 1) | Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 1) | Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 2)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets measured at fair value	0	4
Total liabilities measured at fair value	0	(3,095)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 2) | Liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value		(2,706)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 2) | Liability for stock issuance due to legal settlement
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value		(389)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 2) | Interest rate cap
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets measured at fair value	0	4
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 2) | Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 2) | Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 3)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets measured at fair value	0	0
Total liabilities measured at fair value	(227,985)	(281,171)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 3) | Liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value		0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 3) | Liability for stock issuance due to legal settlement
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value		0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 3) | Interest rate cap
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets measured at fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 3) | Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	(1,326)	(26,664)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | (Level 3) | Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	$ (226,659)	$ (254,507)
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage	8.00%

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Additi

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Additional Information) (Details) $ in Thousands, shares in Millions, BRL in Millions	Aug. 24, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017shares	Oct. 31, 2016BRLshares	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)contract	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)contract	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2013	May 20, 2013
Fair Value Measurements [Line Items]
Fair value of common stock issued to vendor for payment of invoices							$ 0	$ 0	$ 16,683
Loss contingency accrual			BRL 4.5			$ 0	$ 0	389
Stock issued for settlement (in shares) | shares		0.3	1.3
Share price percentage decrease							17.00%
Stock issuance, settlement period upon conversion and automatic conversion							40 days
Reduction in the value of long-lived assets						$ 17,000	$ 17,040	350	$ 0
Impairment of intangible assets								$ 350
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Fair Value Measurements [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage						8.00%	8.00%		8.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%
Debt conversion amount	$ 16,000
Hughes Network Systems LLC
Fair Value Measurements [Line Items]
Fair value of common stock issued to vendor for payment of invoices				$ 15,500	$ 15,500
(Level 3)
Fair Value Measurements [Line Items]
Number of derivatives held | contract						2	2
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes | Nonrecurring
Fair Value Measurements [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	$ 34,700

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Schedu

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Schedule of Significant Quantitative Level 3 Inputs Utilized) (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Market Price of Common Stock (USD per share)	$ 1.31
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Stock Price Volatility	78.00%
Risk-Free Interest Rate	1.40%	1.00%
Conversion Price (USD per share)	$ 0.73	$ 0.73
Discount Rate	27.00%	25.00%
Market Price of Common Stock (USD per share)	$ 1.31	$ 1.58
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes | Minimum
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Stock Price Volatility		100.00%
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes | Maximum
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Stock Price Volatility		110.00%
Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Risk-Free Interest Rate	2.20%	2.20%
Conversion Price (USD per share)	$ 0.73	$ 0.73
Discount Rate	27.00%	25.00%
Market Price of Common Stock (USD per share)	$ 1.31	$ 1.58
Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo | Minimum
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Stock Price Volatility	40.00%	40.00%
Compound embedded derivative with the Loan Agreement with Thermo | Maximum
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Stock Price Volatility	77.00%	110.00%

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Reconc

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Reconciliation of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ (281,171)	$ (239,642)
Unrealized gain (loss), included in derivative gain (loss)	21,186	(41,529)
Balance at end of period	(227,985)	(281,171)
Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Derivative adjustment related to conversions	$ 32,000	$ 0

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS FAIR VA

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Schedule of Fair Value and Carrying Value of Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$ 513,866	$ 576,279
Loan Agreement with Thermo
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	79,721	64,347
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	1,348	14,572
Carrying Value | Loan Agreement with Thermo
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	79,721	64,347
Carrying Value | 8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	1,348	14,572
Estimated Fair Value | Loan Agreement with Thermo
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt instrument, fair value disclosure	54,936	47,874
Estimated Fair Value | 8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt instrument, fair value disclosure	$ 1,295	$ 14,350

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Non-Fi

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Non-Financial Assets and Liabilities Remeasured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis) (Details) - $ / shares	Aug. 24, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	May 20, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Market Price of Common Stock (USD per share)		$ 1.31
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Stock Price Volatility		78.00%
Risk-Free Interest Rate		1.40%	1.00%
Conversion Price (USD per share)		$ 0.73	$ 0.73
Discount Rate		27.00%	25.00%
Market Price of Common Stock (USD per share)		$ 1.31	$ 1.58
Compound embedded derivative with 2013 8.00% Notes | Nonrecurring
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Stock Price Volatility	65.00%
Risk-Free Interest Rate	1.10%
Conversion Price (USD per share)	$ 0.73
Discount Rate	26.00%
Market Price of Common Stock (USD per share)	$ 2.03
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		8.00%		8.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Sche66

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Schedule of Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets	$ 17,000	$ 17,040	$ 350	$ 0
Impairment of intangible assets			350
Nonrecurring | (Level 1)
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net:	0	0
Intangibles and other assets, net			0
Total assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Nonrecurring | (Level 2)
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net:	0	0
Intangibles and other assets, net			0
Total assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Nonrecurring | (Level 3)
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net:	971,119	971,119
Intangibles and other assets, net			16,782
Total assets measured at fair value	$ 971,119	$ 971,119	$ 16,782

COMMITMENTS (Additional Informa

COMMITMENTS (Additional Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2015	Apr. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments [Line Items]
Fair value of common stock issued to vendor for payment of invoices			$ 0	$ 0	$ 16,683
Accrued liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes			0	(2,706)
Licensing and royalty agreement payments			6,600
Ericsson Inc.
Commitments [Line Items]
Purchase obligation, due in 2018			$ 500
Hughes Network Systems LLC
Commitments [Line Items]
Percentage discount when paid in stock	7.00%	7.00%
Purchase commitment, remaining minimum amount committed		$ 15,500
Share-based goods and nonemployee services transaction, quantity of securities issued (in shares)	7,400,000
Fair value of common stock issued to vendor for payment of invoices	$ 15,500	$ 15,500
Accrued liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes				$ (2,700)

COMMITMENTS (Future Minimum Lea

COMMITMENTS (Future Minimum Lease Obligations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2,018	$ 1,241
2,019	357
2,020	313
2,021	168
2,022	0
Thereafter	0
Total minimum lease payments	2,079
Rent expense	$ 1,400	$ 1,300	$ 1,300

CONTINGENCIES (Details)

CONTINGENCIES (Details) $ in Thousands, € in Millions, shares in Millions, BRL in Millions	Jun. 24, 2012EUR (€)	May 10, 2012EUR (€)	Jun. 03, 2011satellite	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)shares	Mar. 31, 2017BRLshares	Oct. 31, 2016USD ($)shares	Oct. 31, 2016BRLshares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of satellites (in satellites) | satellite			25
Loss contingency accrual							BRL 4.5	$ 0		$ 389
Stock issued for settlement				$ 500	BRL 1.4	$ 1,400	BRL 4.5	$ 453		$ 1,395		$ 0
Stock issued for settlement (in shares) | shares				0.3	0.3	1.3	1.3
Thales Alenia Space
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Contract termination, damages awarded		€ 51.3
Contract termination charge		€ 53							€ 17.5		€ 17.5
Gain on release of liability	€ 35.6
Loss contingency accrual	€ 17.5

ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NO70

ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES (Details) $ in Thousands, BRL in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2016BRL
Accrued expenses:
Accrued interest	$ 228	$ 381
Accrued liability for potential stock issuance to Hughes	0	2,706
Accrued compensation and benefits	3,913	3,193
Accrued property and other taxes	3,944	4,173
Accrued customer liabilities and deposits	4,529	3,907
Accrued professional and other service provider fees	3,386	2,544
Accrued commissions	1,162	858
Accrued telecommunications expenses	876	686
Accrued satellite and ground costs	634	2,076
Accrued inventory	102	90
Accrued liability for legal settlement	0	389		BRL 4.5
Other accrued expenses	1,980	2,159
Total accrued expenses	20,754	23,162
Summary of activity in the warranty reserve account:
Balance at beginning of period	132	101	$ 129
Provision	273	272	279
Utilization	(262)	(241)	(307)
Balance at end of period	143	132	$ 101
Non-current liabilities:
Long-term accrued interest	0	99
Asset retirement obligation	1,451	1,443
Deferred rent and other deferred expense	274	470
Capital lease obligations	154	87
Liability related to the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the State of Louisiana	460	445
Foreign tax contingencies	3,634	3,346
Total other non-current liabilities	$ 5,973	$ 5,890

ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NO71

ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES (Headquarter Relocation) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Relocation expenses	$ 5.2
Capital expenditures	1.3
Agreement One | Maximum
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cost of reimbursement expense	$ 8.1

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Add

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Additional Information) (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2009	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Payables to affiliates				$ 225,000	$ 309,000
Sale of stock, consideration received on transaction	$ 115,000,000
Contingent Equity Agreement
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Issuance of stock (in shares)				41,500,000
Thermo Capital Partners LLC
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
General and administrative expense				$ 800,000	700,000	$ 900,000
Sale of stock, number of shares issued in transaction (in shares)	27,600,000	17,800,000
Sale of stock, consideration received on transaction	$ 43,300,000	$ 33,000,000
Price per share (in dollars per share)		$ 1.85
Percentage discount on closing price		10.00%
Thermo Capital Partners LLC | Loan Agreement with Thermo
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes purchased by related party				106,100,000
Fair value of embedded derivative liability				226,700,000
Accrued interest				$ 12,100,000	$ 10,700,000
Thermo Capital Partners LLC | Contingent Equity Agreement
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Debt facility related party			$ 60,000,000
Warrants issued associated with Contingent Equity Agreement (in shares)			41,500,000
Shares issued (in shares)			163,000,000
Thermo Capital Partners LLC | Facility Agreement
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Conversion of stock, shares converted (in shares)	134,000,000

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE B73

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Defined Benefit Pension Obligation and Funded Status) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation, beginning of year	$ 17,778	$ 17,595
Service cost	195	195	$ 111
Interest cost	722	758	744
Actuarial loss	916	381
Benefits paid	(974)	(1,151)
Projected benefit obligation, end of year	18,637	17,778	17,595
Change in fair value of plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	12,895	12,785
Return on plan assets	1,682	937
Employer contributions	645	324
Benefits paid	(974)	(1,151)
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	14,248	12,895	$ 12,785
Funded status, end of year-net liability	$ (4,389)	$ (4,883)

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE B74

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Net Benefit Cost) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	$ 195	$ 195	$ 111
Interest cost	722	758	744
Expected return on plan assets	(825)	(808)	(862)
Amortization of unrecognized net actuarial loss	443	473	512
Total net periodic benefit cost	$ 535	$ 618	$ 505

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE B75

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Amounts Recognized) (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Funded status recognized in other non-current liabilities	$ (4,389,000)	$ (4,883,000)
Net actuarial loss recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss	5,558,000	5,942,000
Net amount recognized in retained deficit	1,169,000	$ 1,059,000
Expected amortization of net actuarial loss in 2018	400,000
Expected amortization of prior service costs in 2018	0
Expected amortization of transition obligations in 2018	$ 0

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE B76

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Assumptions) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Benefit obligation assumptions:
Discount rate	3.63%	4.15%	4.38%
Net periodic benefit cost assumptions:
Discount rate	4.15%	4.38%	4.03%
Expected rate of return on plan assets	6.50%	6.50%	6.50%

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE B77

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Schedule of Plan's Asset Allocations) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies
Asset allocations	100.00%	100.00%
Equity securities
Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies
Asset allocations	58.00%	56.00%
Equity securities | Minimum
Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies
Target allocation	50.00%
Equity securities | Maximum
Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies
Target allocation	60.00%
Debt securities
Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies
Asset allocations	42.00%	44.00%
Debt securities | Minimum
Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies
Target allocation	25.00%
Debt securities | Maximum
Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies
Target allocation	50.00%
Other | Minimum
Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies
Target allocation	0.00%
Other | Maximum
Plan Assets and Investment Policies and Strategies
Target allocation	15.00%

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE B78

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Schedule of Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	$ 14,248	$ 12,895	$ 12,785
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	14,248	12,895
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
United States equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	6,597	5,705
United States equity securities | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
United States equity securities | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	6,597	5,705
United States equity securities | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
International equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	1,615	1,460
International equity securities | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
International equity securities | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	1,615	1,460
International equity securities | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	4,119	4,028
Fixed income securities | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Fixed income securities | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	4,119	4,028
Fixed income securities | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Other
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	1,917	1,702
Other | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Other | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	1,917	1,702
Other | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	$ 0	$ 0

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE B79

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Accumulated Benefit Obligation and Benefits Payments and Contributions) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 18,600	$ 17,800
Benefit payments expected to be paid during the following fiscal years:
2,018	988
2,019	1,010
2,020	1,012
2,021	1,013
2,022	1,038
2023 - 2027	5,517
Employer contributions	645	$ 324
Expected future employer contributions, 2018	$ 400

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE B80

PENSIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (401(k) Plan) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Contributions to employee benefits plan	$ 0.4	$ 0.3	$ 0.3

TAXES (Components of Income Tax

TAXES (Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current:
Federal tax	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
State tax	25	18	34
Foreign tax	165	(6,561)	(211)
Total	190	(6,543)	(177)
Deferred:
Federal and state tax	0	0	0
Foreign tax provision (benefit)	0	0	1,569
Total	0	0	1,569
Income tax expense (benefit)	$ 190	$ (6,543)	$ 1,392

TAXES (Schedule of U.S. and For

TAXES (Schedule of U.S. and Foreign Components of Income (Loss) Before Taxes) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
U.S. income (loss)	$ (60,964)	$ (103,494)	$ 109,411
Foreign income (loss)	(27,920)	(35,695)	(35,697)
Income (loss) before income taxes	$ (88,884)	$ (139,189)	$ 73,714

TAXES (Additional Information)

TAXES (Additional Information) (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Change in valuation allowance	$ 243,800,000
Gross decreases based on tax positions related to current year		$ 4,075,000
Interest and penalties recorded in connection with FIN 48 adjustment		2,200,000
Unrecognized tax benefits	0	0	$ 3,830,000
Undistributed earnings of the Company's foreign subsidiaries		1,800,000
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	1,700,000,000	1,600,000,000
Foreign Tax Authority
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	232,500,000	197,400,000
Tax liability	$ 1,400,000	1,100,000
Gross decreases based on tax positions related to current year		$ 4,100,000
Prior to 2026
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards, percentage expiring prior to 2026 (less than)	1.00%

TAXES (Schedule of Components o

TAXES (Schedule of Components of Net Deferred Tax Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal and foreign net operating loss and credit carryforwards	$ 464,288	$ 712,799
Property and equipment and other long-term assets	(45,373)	(58,379)
Accruals and reserves	12,754	21,071
Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	431,669	675,491
Valuation allowance	(431,669)	(675,491)
Net deferred income tax assets	$ 0	$ 0

TAXES (Schedule of Actual Provi

TAXES (Schedule of Actual Provision for Income Taxes to Statutory U.S. Federal Income Tax Rate) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Provision at U.S. statutory rate of 35%	$ (31,118)	$ (48,722)	$ 25,788
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	(1,804)	(6,193)	6,597
Change in valuation allowance (excluding impact of foreign exchange rates)	(245,304)	36,631	(39,686)
Effect of foreign income tax at various rates	3,739	4,844	4,739
Permanent differences	11,166	10,331	7,046
Change in unrecognized tax benefit	0	(6,313)	712
Net change in permanent items due to provision to tax return	(3,565)	3,222	(3,099)
Remeasurement of U.S. deferred tax assets (Federal and State)	266,864	0	0
Other (including amounts related to prior year tax matters)	212	(343)	(705)
Income tax expense (benefit)	$ 190	$ (6,543)	$ 1,392

TAXES (Rollforward of Unrecogni

TAXES (Rollforward of Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Gross unrecognized tax benefits, beginning balance	$ 3,830
Gross increase (decrease) based on tax positions related to current year	245
Gross increase (decrease) based on tax positions related to prior years	0
Lapse of applicable statute of limitations	(4,075)
Gross unrecognized tax benefits, ending balance	$ 0

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Informa

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Information by Geographic Area Revenues) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service revenues									$ 98,473	$ 83,069	$ 74,124
Subscriber equipment revenues									14,187	13,792	16,366
Total revenue	$ 29,427	$ 30,458	$ 28,123	$ 24,652	$ 24,395	$ 25,544	$ 25,086	$ 21,836	112,660	96,861	90,490
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service revenues									68,556	56,868	50,832
Subscriber equipment revenues									8,431	7,441	7,823
Canada
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service revenues									18,296	16,038	14,553
Subscriber equipment revenues									2,995	3,122	4,339
Europe
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service revenues									8,183	6,955	5,738
Subscriber equipment revenues									1,532	1,533	1,710
Central and South America
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service revenues									2,959	2,659	2,407
Subscriber equipment revenues									1,202	1,413	2,087
Others
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service revenues									479	549	594
Subscriber equipment revenues									$ 27	$ 283	$ 407

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Infor88

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Information by Geographic Area, Long-Lived Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	$ 971,119	$ 1,039,719
United States
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	966,611	1,035,331
Canada
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	773	670
Europe
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	433	408
Central and South America
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	3,051	3,084
Others
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	$ 251	$ 226

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (Deta

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	May 20, 2013
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Net income (loss)	$ (22,585)	$ 52,406	$ (98,734)	$ (20,161)	$ (117,221)	$ (2,577)	$ 14,099	$ (26,947)	$ (89,074)	$ (132,646)	$ 72,322
Effect of dilutive securities:
Income (loss) to common stockholders plus assumed conversions									$ (89,074)	$ (132,646)	$ 83,623
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic shares outstanding (in shares)	1,251,826	1,169,993	1,128,985	1,113,968	1,086,631	1,080,313	1,049,381	1,041,028	1,166,581	1,064,443	1,020,149
Incremental shares from assumed exercises, conversions and other issuance of:
Stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units and ESPP (in shares)									0	0	8,559
Warrants and other (in shares)									0	0	37,123
Diluted shares outstanding (in shares)	1,251,826	1,345,905	1,128,985	1,113,968	1,086,631	1,080,313	1,249,672	1,041,028	1,166,581	1,064,443	1,230,394
Income (loss) per share:
Basic (USD per share)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.04	$ (0.09)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.11)	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ (0.03)	$ (0.08)	$ (0.12)	$ 0.07
Diluted (USD per share)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.04	$ (0.09)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.11)	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ (0.03)	$ (0.08)	$ (0.12)	$ 0.07
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage	8.00%	8.00%							8.00%		8.00%	8.00%	8.00%
Effect of dilutive securities:
Dilutive securities									$ 0	$ 0	$ 2,398
Incremental shares from assumed exercises, conversions and other issuance of:
Conversion of debt securities (in shares)									0	0	27,853
Loan Agreement with Thermo
Effect of dilutive securities:
Dilutive securities									$ 0	$ 0	$ 8,903
Incremental shares from assumed exercises, conversions and other issuance of:
Conversion of debt securities (in shares)									0	0	136,710

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (Narr

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (Narrative) (Details) - shares shares in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Shares excluded from computation and reporting of earnings per share (in shares)	176.5	204.2

STOCK COMPENSATION (Additional

STOCK COMPENSATION (Additional Information) (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total shares authorized for issuance (in shares)		24,100,000	26,600,000
Accrued bonuses		$ 1,100,000
Employee Stock Option
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration period		10 years
Expected dividend yield		0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Proceeds from stock options exercised		$ 100,000
Options, outstanding, intrinsic value		$ 2,700,000
Weighted average remaining contractual term		5 years 186 days
Vested and expected to vest, outstanding, aggregate intrinsic value		$ 2,700,000
Weighted average remaining contractual term		4 years 223 days
Unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options		$ 1,300,000
Unrecognized compensation cost, recognition period		2 years 241 days
Employee Stock Option | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		3 years
Employee Stock Option | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		4 years
Restricted Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		1 year
Unrecognized compensation cost, recognition period		2 years 186 days
Fair value of restricted stock awards vested in period		$ 3,400,000	$ 1,400,000	$ 1,200,000
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted shares		$ 4,600,000
Restricted Stock | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		3 years
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total shares authorized for issuance (in shares)	7,000,000
Maximum employee subscription rate	15.00%
Maximum amount per employee	$ 25,000
Maximum number of shares per employee (in shares)	500,000
Purchase price of common stock, percent	85.00%
Proceeds from stock plans		$ 700,000	700,000
Allocated share-based compensation expense		$ 500,000	$ 400,000
Issuance of stock through employee stock purchase plan (in shares)		4,500,000

STOCK COMPENSATION (Fair Value

STOCK COMPENSATION (Fair Value Assumptions) (Details) - Employee Stock Option - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	2.00%
Risk-free interest rate, minimum		1.00%	1.00%
Risk-free interest rate, maximum		2.00%	2.00%
Expected term of options (in years)	5 years	5 years	6 years
Volatility	67.00%	65.00%	72.00%
Weighted average grant-date fair value per share (USD per share)	$ 0.85	$ 1.04	$ 1.43

STOCK COMPENSATION (Summary of

STOCK COMPENSATION (Summary of Stock Option Activity) (Details) - Employee Stock Option	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017$ / sharesshares
Shares
Outstanding, beginning balance (in shares) | shares	8,722,605
Granted (in shares) | shares	1,346,400
Exercised (in shares) | shares	(100,915)
Forfeited or expired (in shares) | shares	(577,592)
Outstanding, ending balance (in shares) | shares	9,390,498
Exercisable at December 31, 2017 (in shares) | shares	7,546,083
Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)
Outstanding, beginning (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.43
Granted (USD per share) | $ / shares	1.49
Exercised (USD per share) | $ / shares	0.70
Forfeited or expired (USD per share) | $ / shares	2.02
Outstanding, ending (USD per share) | $ / shares	1.41
Exercisable at December 31, 2017 (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.37

STOCK COMPENSATION (Intrinsic V

STOCK COMPENSATION (Intrinsic Value) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Employee Stock Option
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Intrinsic value of stock options exercised	$ 94	$ 199	$ 492

STOCK COMPENSATION (Stock Optio

STOCK COMPENSATION (Stock Option Compensation Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Employee Stock Option
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total compensation expense	$ 1.2	$ 1.4	$ 1.2

STOCK COMPENSATION (Restricted

STOCK COMPENSATION (Restricted Stock) (Details) - Restricted Stock - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Shares
Nonvested, beginning balance (in shares)	2,528,832
Granted (in shares)	3,344,301
Vested (in shares)	(2,140,294)
Forfeited (in shares)	(102,022)
Nonvested, ending balance (in shares)	3,630,817	2,528,832
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (USD per share)
Nonvested, beginning (USD per share)	$ 1.75
Granted (USD per share)	1.37	$ 1.56	$ 1.84
Vested (USD per share)	1.75
Forfeited (USD per share)	1.36
Nonvested, ending (USD per share)	$ 1.41	$ 1.75
Total compensation expense	$ 2.3	$ 2.2	$ 1.4

STOCK COMPENSATION (Employee St

STOCK COMPENSATION (Employee Stock Purchase Plan) (Details) - Employee Stock Purchase Plan - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assumptions used to value employees' stock purchase rights:
Risk-free interest rate	1.00%	1.00%
Expected term of options (in months)	6 months	6 months
Volatility	100.00%	108.00%
Weighted average grant-date fair value per share (USD per share)	$ 0.61	$ 0.61

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSI98

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Accumulated minimum pension liability adjustment	$ (5,558)	$ (5,942)
Accumulated net foreign currency translation adjustment	(1,381)	564
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	$ (6,939)	$ (5,378)

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSI99

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income	$ 0	$ 0

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMAT100

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Total revenue	$ 29,427	$ 30,458	$ 28,123	$ 24,652	$ 24,395	$ 25,544	$ 25,086	$ 21,836	$ 112,660	$ 96,861	$ 90,490
Loss from operations	(30,281)	(10,793)	(12,510)	(15,202)	(16,804)	(14,763)	(16,411)	(15,698)	(68,786)	(63,676)	(66,604)
Net income (loss)	$ (22,585)	$ 52,406	$ (98,734)	$ (20,161)	$ (117,221)	$ (2,577)	$ 14,099	$ (26,947)	$ (89,074)	$ (132,646)	$ 72,322
Basic income (loss) per common share (USD per share)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.04	$ (0.09)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.11)	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ (0.03)	$ (0.08)	$ (0.12)	$ 0.07
Diluted income (loss) per common share (USD per share)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.04	$ (0.09)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.11)	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ (0.03)	$ (0.08)	$ (0.12)	$ 0.07
Shares used in basic per share calculations (in shares)	1,251,826	1,169,993	1,128,985	1,113,968	1,086,631	1,080,313	1,049,381	1,041,028	1,166,581	1,064,443	1,020,149
Shares used in diluted per share calculations (in shares)	1,251,826	1,345,905	1,128,985	1,113,968	1,086,631	1,080,313	1,249,672	1,041,028	1,166,581	1,064,443	1,230,394

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINA101

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION - (Narrative) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	May 20, 2013
8.00% Convertible Senior Notes Issued in 2013
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINA102

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION - (Supplemental Consolidating Balance Sheet) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 41,644	$ 10,230	$ 7,476
Restricted cash	63,635	0
Accounts receivable, net of allowance	17,113	15,219
Intercompany receivables	0	0
Inventory	7,273	8,093
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	6,745	4,588
Total current assets	136,410	38,130
Property and equipment, net	971,119	1,039,719
Restricted cash	0	37,983
Intercompany notes receivable	0	0
Investment in subsidiaries	0	0
Intangible and other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $XXXX and $7,021, respectively	21,736	16,782
Total assets	1,129,265	1,132,614
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	79,215	75,755
Debt restructuring fees	0	20,795
Accounts payable	6,048	7,499
Accrued contract termination charge	21,002	18,451
Accrued expenses	20,754	23,162
Intercompany payables	0	0
Payables to affiliates	225	309
Derivative liabilities	1,326
Deferred revenue	31,747	26,479
Total current liabilities	160,317	172,450
Long-term debt, less current portion	434,651	500,524
Employee benefit obligations	4,389	4,883
Intercompany notes payable	0	0
Derivative liabilities	226,659	281,171
Deferred revenue	6,052	5,877
Other non-current liabilities	5,973	5,890
Total non-current liabilities	677,724	798,345
Total stockholders’ equity	291,224	161,819	$ 237,131	$ 78,916
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	1,129,265	1,132,614
Reportable Legal Entities | Parent Company
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	32,864	7,259
Restricted cash	63,635
Accounts receivable, net of allowance	7,129	5,938
Intercompany receivables	979,942	897,691
Inventory	1,182	2,266
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	3,149	1,570
Total current assets	1,087,901	914,724
Property and equipment, net	962,756	1,031,623
Restricted cash		37,983
Intercompany notes receivable	5,600	8,901
Investment in subsidiaries	(280,745)	(280,557)
Intangible and other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $XXXX and $7,021, respectively	18,353	15,259
Total assets	1,793,865	1,727,933
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	79,215	75,755
Debt restructuring fees		20,795
Accounts payable	2,257	2,624
Accrued contract termination charge	21,002	18,451
Accrued expenses	7,627	10,573
Intercompany payables	711,159	636,336
Payables to affiliates	225	309
Derivative liabilities	1,326
Deferred revenue	1,164	1,576
Total current liabilities	823,975	766,419
Long-term debt, less current portion	434,651	500,524
Employee benefit obligations	4,389	4,883
Intercompany notes payable	6,436	6,435
Derivative liabilities	226,659	281,171
Deferred revenue	5,625	5,567
Other non-current liabilities	906	1,115
Total non-current liabilities	678,666	799,695
Total stockholders’ equity	291,224	161,819
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	1,793,865	1,727,933
Reportable Legal Entities | Guarantor Subsidiaries
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	4,942	1,327
Restricted cash	0
Accounts receivable, net of allowance	6,524	6,340
Intercompany receivables	755,847	678,707
Inventory	4,610	4,354
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	2,414	955
Total current assets	774,337	691,683
Property and equipment, net	3,855	3,708
Restricted cash		0
Intercompany notes receivable	0	0
Investment in subsidiaries	84,244	73,029
Intangible and other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $XXXX and $7,021, respectively	47	128
Total assets	862,483	768,548
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	0	0
Debt restructuring fees		0
Accounts payable	2,736	3,490
Accrued contract termination charge	0	0
Accrued expenses	6,331	5,884
Intercompany payables	799,565	750,084
Payables to affiliates	0	0
Derivative liabilities	0
Deferred revenue	23,282	19,304
Total current liabilities	831,914	778,762
Long-term debt, less current portion	0	0
Employee benefit obligations	0	0
Intercompany notes payable	0	0
Derivative liabilities	0	0
Deferred revenue	410	299
Other non-current liabilities	325	325
Total non-current liabilities	735	624
Total stockholders’ equity	29,834	(10,838)
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	862,483	768,548
Reportable Legal Entities | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	3,838	1,644
Restricted cash	0
Accounts receivable, net of allowance	3,460	2,941
Intercompany receivables	64,477	32,040
Inventory	1,481	1,473
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	1,182	2,063
Total current assets	74,438	40,161
Property and equipment, net	4,503	4,384
Restricted cash		0
Intercompany notes receivable	6,436	6,436
Investment in subsidiaries	38,637	36,146
Intangible and other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $XXXX and $7,021, respectively	3,348	1,407
Total assets	127,362	88,534
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	0	0
Debt restructuring fees		0
Accounts payable	1,055	1,385
Accrued contract termination charge	0	0
Accrued expenses	6,796	6,705
Intercompany payables	289,503	221,980
Payables to affiliates	0	0
Derivative liabilities	0
Deferred revenue	7,301	5,599
Total current liabilities	304,655	235,669
Long-term debt, less current portion	0	0
Employee benefit obligations	0	0
Intercompany notes payable	5,600	8,901
Derivative liabilities	0	0
Deferred revenue	17	11
Other non-current liabilities	4,742	4,450
Total non-current liabilities	10,359	13,362
Total stockholders’ equity	(187,652)	(160,497)
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	127,362	88,534
Elimination
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Restricted cash	0
Accounts receivable, net of allowance	0	0
Intercompany receivables	(1,800,266)	(1,608,438)
Inventory	0	0
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	0	0
Total current assets	(1,800,266)	(1,608,438)
Property and equipment, net	5	4
Restricted cash		0
Intercompany notes receivable	(12,036)	(15,337)
Investment in subsidiaries	157,864	171,382
Intangible and other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $XXXX and $7,021, respectively	(12)	(12)
Total assets	(1,654,445)	(1,452,401)
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	0	0
Debt restructuring fees		0
Accounts payable	0	0
Accrued contract termination charge	0	0
Accrued expenses	0	0
Intercompany payables	(1,800,227)	(1,608,400)
Payables to affiliates	0	0
Derivative liabilities	0
Deferred revenue	0	0
Total current liabilities	(1,800,227)	(1,608,400)
Long-term debt, less current portion	0	0
Employee benefit obligations	0	0
Intercompany notes payable	(12,036)	(15,336)
Derivative liabilities	0	0
Deferred revenue	0	0
Other non-current liabilities	0	0
Total non-current liabilities	(12,036)	(15,336)
Total stockholders’ equity	157,818	171,335
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$ (1,654,445)	$ (1,452,401)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINA103

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION - (Supplemental Consolidating Statement of Operations) (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Revenue:
Service revenues									$ 98,473,000	$ 83,069,000	$ 74,124,000
Subscriber equipment sales									14,187,000	13,792,000	16,366,000
Total revenue	$ 29,427,000	$ 30,458,000	$ 28,123,000	$ 24,652,000	$ 24,395,000	$ 25,544,000	$ 25,086,000	$ 21,836,000	112,660,000	96,861,000	90,490,000
Operating expenses:
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below)									37,022,000	31,908,000	30,615,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales									9,944,000	9,907,000	11,814,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory									843,000	0	0
Marketing, general and administrative									39,099,000	40,982,000	37,418,000
Reduction in the value of long-lived assets	17,000,000								17,040,000	350,000	0
Depreciation, amortization and accretion									77,498,000	77,390,000	77,247,000
Total operating expenses									181,446,000	160,537,000	157,094,000
Loss from operations	(30,281,000)	(10,793,000)	(12,510,000)	(15,202,000)	(16,804,000)	(14,763,000)	(16,411,000)	(15,698,000)	(68,786,000)	(63,676,000)	(66,604,000)
Other income (expense):
Loss on extinguishment of debt									(6,306,000)	0	(2,254,000)
Gain (loss) on equity issuance									2,670,000	2,400,000	(6,663,000)
Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized									(34,771,000)	(35,952,000)	(35,854,000)
Derivative gain (loss)									21,182,000	(41,531,000)	181,860,000
Equity in subsidiary earnings (loss)									0	0	0
Other									(2,873,000)	(430,000)	3,229,000
Total other income (expense)									(20,098,000)	(75,513,000)	140,318,000
Income (loss) before income taxes									(88,884,000)	(139,189,000)	73,714,000
Income tax expense (benefit)									190,000	(6,543,000)	1,392,000
Net income (loss)	$ (22,585,000)	$ 52,406,000	$ (98,734,000)	$ (20,161,000)	$ (117,221,000)	$ (2,577,000)	$ 14,099,000	$ (26,947,000)	(89,074,000)	(132,646,000)	72,322,000
Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment									384,000	221,000	787,000
Net foreign currency translation adjustment									(1,945,000)	(766,000)	(2,722,000)
Total comprehensive income (loss)									(90,635,000)	(133,191,000)	70,387,000
Reportable Legal Entities | Parent Company
Revenue:
Service revenues									76,096,000	70,460,000	66,024,000
Subscriber equipment sales									264,000	584,000	808,000
Total revenue									76,360,000	71,044,000	66,832,000
Operating expenses:
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below)									25,664,000	20,569,000	18,775,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales									97,000	207,000	64,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory									843,000
Marketing, general and administrative									22,928,000	21,691,000	19,492,000
Reduction in the value of long-lived assets									17,040,000	350,000
Depreciation, amortization and accretion									76,625,000	75,896,000	75,313,000
Total operating expenses									143,197,000	118,713,000	113,644,000
Loss from operations									(66,837,000)	(47,669,000)	(46,812,000)
Other income (expense):
Loss on extinguishment of debt									(6,306,000)		(2,254,000)
Gain (loss) on equity issuance									2,706,000	2,789,000	(6,663,000)
Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized									(34,570,000)	(35,754,000)	(35,301,000)
Derivative gain (loss)									21,182,000	(41,531,000)	181,860,000
Equity in subsidiary earnings (loss)									(2,735,000)	(9,803,000)	(19,467,000)
Other									(2,514,000)	(678,000)	959,000
Total other income (expense)									(22,237,000)	(84,977,000)	119,134,000
Income (loss) before income taxes									(89,074,000)	(132,646,000)	72,322,000
Income tax expense (benefit)									0	0	0
Net income (loss)									(89,074,000)	(132,646,000)	72,322,000
Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment									384,000	221,000	787,000
Net foreign currency translation adjustment									0	0	0
Total comprehensive income (loss)									(88,690,000)	(132,425,000)	73,109,000
Reportable Legal Entities | Guarantor Subsidiaries
Revenue:
Service revenues									39,347,000	34,428,000	30,803,000
Subscriber equipment sales									11,459,000	9,380,000	12,093,000
Total revenue									50,806,000	43,808,000	42,896,000
Operating expenses:
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below)									5,981,000	5,929,000	6,474,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales									9,211,000	7,481,000	10,580,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory									0
Marketing, general and administrative									4,792,000	4,847,000	5,758,000
Reduction in the value of long-lived assets									0	0
Depreciation, amortization and accretion									629,000	802,000	1,203,000
Total operating expenses									20,613,000	19,059,000	24,015,000
Loss from operations									30,193,000	24,749,000	18,881,000
Other income (expense):
Loss on extinguishment of debt									0		0
Gain (loss) on equity issuance									0	0	0
Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized									(8,000)	(24,000)	(27,000)
Derivative gain (loss)									0	0	0
Equity in subsidiary earnings (loss)									(13,906,000)	(15,670,000)	(13,345,000)
Other									(700,000)	92,000	465,000
Total other income (expense)									(14,614,000)	(15,602,000)	(12,907,000)
Income (loss) before income taxes									15,579,000	9,147,000	5,974,000
Income tax expense (benefit)									25,000	18,000	34,000
Net income (loss)									15,554,000	9,129,000	5,940,000
Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment									0	0	0
Net foreign currency translation adjustment									0	0	0
Total comprehensive income (loss)									15,554,000	9,129,000	5,940,000
Reportable Legal Entities | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
Revenue:
Service revenues									54,102,000	43,130,000	37,887,000
Subscriber equipment sales									6,141,000	6,545,000	8,444,000
Total revenue									60,243,000	49,675,000	46,331,000
Operating expenses:
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below)									10,740,000	10,976,000	12,348,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales									4,311,000	4,931,000	6,147,000
Cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory									0
Marketing, general and administrative									77,099,000	73,679,000	65,660,000
Reduction in the value of long-lived assets									0	0
Depreciation, amortization and accretion									244,000	1,054,000	1,212,000
Total operating expenses									92,394,000	90,640,000	85,367,000
Loss from operations									(32,151,000)	(40,965,000)	(39,036,000)
Other income (expense):
Loss on extinguishment of debt									0		0
Gain (loss) on equity issuance									(36,000)	(389,000)	0
Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized									(198,000)	(164,000)	(536,000)
Derivative gain (loss)									0	0	0
Equity in subsidiary earnings (loss)									0	0	0
Other									345,000	17,000	1,599,000
Total other income (expense)									111,000	(536,000)	1,063,000
Income (loss) before income taxes									(32,040,000)	(41,501,000)	(37,973,000)
Income tax expense (benefit)									165,000	(6,561,000)	1,358,000
Net income (loss)									(32,205,000)	(34,940,000)	(39,331,000)
Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment									0	0	0
Net foreign currency translation adjustment									(1,944,000)	(759,000)	(2,742,000)
Total comprehensive income (loss)									(34,149,000)	(35,699,000)	(42,073,000)
Elimination
Revenue:
Service revenues									(71,072,000)	(64,949,000)	(60,590,000)
Subscriber equipment sales									(3,677,000)	(2,717,000)	(4,979,000)
Total revenue									(74,749,000)	(67,666,000)	(65,569,000)
Operating expenses:
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately below)									(5,363,000)	(5,566,000)	(6,982,000)
Cost of subscriber equipment sales									(3,675,000)	(2,712,000)	(4,977,000)
Cost of subscriber equipment sales - reduction in the value of inventory									0
Marketing, general and administrative									(65,720,000)	(59,235,000)	(53,492,000)
Reduction in the value of long-lived assets									0	0
Depreciation, amortization and accretion									0	(362,000)	(481,000)
Total operating expenses									(74,758,000)	(67,875,000)	(65,932,000)
Loss from operations									9,000	209,000	363,000
Other income (expense):
Loss on extinguishment of debt									0		0
Gain (loss) on equity issuance									0	0	0
Interest income and expense, net of amounts capitalized									5,000	(10,000)	10,000
Derivative gain (loss)									0	0	0
Equity in subsidiary earnings (loss)									16,641,000	25,473,000	32,812,000
Other									(4,000)	139,000	206,000
Total other income (expense)									16,642,000	25,602,000	33,028,000
Income (loss) before income taxes									16,651,000	25,811,000	33,391,000
Income tax expense (benefit)									0	0	0
Net income (loss)									16,651,000	25,811,000	33,391,000
Defined benefit pension plan liability adjustment									0	0	0
Net foreign currency translation adjustment									(1,000)	(7,000)	20,000
Total comprehensive income (loss)									$ 16,650,000	$ 25,804,000	$ 33,411,000

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINA104

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION - (Supplemental Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	$ 13,857	$ 8,813	$ 2,162
Cash flows used in investing activities:
Second-generation network costs (including interest)	(11,910)	(13,170)	(25,195)
Property and equipment additions	(5,525)	(9,385)	(5,523)
Purchase of intangible assets	(3,796)	(1,996)	(2,520)
Investment in businesses	455	0	(240)
Net cash used in investing activities	(20,776)	(24,551)	(33,478)
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
Principal payments of the Facility Agreement	(75,755)	(32,835)	(6,450)
Proceeds from common stock offering	114,993	0	0
Proceeds from Thermo Common Stock Purchase Agreement	33,000	0	0
Payment of debt restructuring fee	(20,795)	0	0
Payments for debt and equity issuance costs	(654)	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin	12,000	48,000	39,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants	1,001	3,337	726
Net cash provided by financing activities	63,790	18,502	33,276
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	195	55	(1,605)
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	57,066	2,819	355
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period	48,213	45,394	45,039
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period	105,279	48,213	45,394
Reportable Legal Entities | Parent Company
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	6,010	8,642	(2,349)
Cash flows used in investing activities:
Second-generation network costs (including interest)	(11,856)	(12,901)	(25,195)
Property and equipment additions	(3,674)	(8,453)	(2,608)
Purchase of intangible assets	(3,468)	(1,996)	(2,520)
Investment in businesses	455		(240)
Net cash used in investing activities	(18,543)	(23,350)	(30,563)
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
Principal payments of the Facility Agreement	(75,755)	(32,835)	(6,450)
Proceeds from common stock offering	114,993
Proceeds from Thermo Common Stock Purchase Agreement	33,000
Payment of debt restructuring fee	(20,795)
Payments for debt and equity issuance costs	(654)
Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin	12,000	48,000	39,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants	1,001	3,337	726
Net cash provided by financing activities	63,790	18,502	33,276
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	0	0	0
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	51,257	3,794	364
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period	45,242	41,448	41,084
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period	96,499	45,242	41,448
Reportable Legal Entities | Guarantor Subsidiaries
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	4,361	1,307	1,767
Cash flows used in investing activities:
Second-generation network costs (including interest)	0	0	0
Property and equipment additions	(746)	(699)	(1,720)
Purchase of intangible assets	0	0	0
Investment in businesses	0		0
Net cash used in investing activities	(746)	(699)	(1,720)
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
Principal payments of the Facility Agreement	0	0	0
Proceeds from common stock offering	0
Proceeds from Thermo Common Stock Purchase Agreement	0
Payment of debt restructuring fee	0
Payments for debt and equity issuance costs	0
Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants	0		0
Net cash provided by financing activities	0	0	0
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	0	0	0
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	3,615	608	47
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period	1,327	719	672
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period	4,942	1,327	719
Reportable Legal Entities | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	3,486	(1,136)	2,744
Cash flows used in investing activities:
Second-generation network costs (including interest)	(54)	(269)	0
Property and equipment additions	(1,105)	(233)	(1,195)
Purchase of intangible assets	(328)	0	0
Investment in businesses	0		0
Net cash used in investing activities	(1,487)	(502)	(1,195)
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
Principal payments of the Facility Agreement	0	0	0
Proceeds from common stock offering	0
Proceeds from Thermo Common Stock Purchase Agreement	0
Payment of debt restructuring fee	0
Payments for debt and equity issuance costs	0
Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants	0		0
Net cash provided by financing activities	0	0	0
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	195	55	(1,605)
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	2,194	(1,583)	(56)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period	1,644	3,227	3,283
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period	3,838	1,644	3,227
Elimination
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	0	0	0
Cash flows used in investing activities:
Second-generation network costs (including interest)	0	0	0
Property and equipment additions	0	0	0
Purchase of intangible assets	0	0	0
Investment in businesses	0		0
Net cash used in investing activities	0	0	0
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
Principal payments of the Facility Agreement	0	0	0
Proceeds from common stock offering	0
Proceeds from Thermo Common Stock Purchase Agreement	0
Payment of debt restructuring fee	0
Payments for debt and equity issuance costs	0
Proceeds from issuance of stock to Terrapin	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of options and warrants	0	0	0
Net cash provided by financing activities	0	0	0
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	0	0	0
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	0	0	0
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period	0	0	0
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Uncategorized Items - gsat-2017

Label	Element	Value
Restricted Cash	us-gaap_RestrictedCash	$ 37,918,000
Restricted Cash	us-gaap_RestrictedCash	37,983,000
Restricted Cash	us-gaap_RestrictedCash	$ 63,635,000