Iridium Communications (IRDM) 10-K 17 Feb 22 2021 FY Annual report Financial data

Cover

Cover - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Feb. 15, 2022	Jun. 30, 2021
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock, $0.001 par value
Entity Address, Address Line One	1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400
Document Type	10-K
Document Annual Report	true
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2021
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2021
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	IRDM
Entity Registrant Name	Iridium Communications Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	0001418819
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		128,373,452
Entity Public Float			$ 3,410.7
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	001-33963
Entity Address, City or Town	McLean
Entity Address, State or Province	VA
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	22102
City Area Code	703
Local Phone Number	287-7400
Documents Incorporated by Reference	Portions of the registrant’s definitive proxy statement for its 2022 annual meeting of stockholders to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the registrant’s fiscal year end of December 31, 2021, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.
Entity Tax Identification Number	26-1344998
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag	true
NASDAQ/NGS (GLOBAL SELECT MARKET)
Document Information [Line Items]
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ

Audit Information

Audit Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Auditor [Line Items]
Auditor Name	Ernst & Young LLP
Auditor Firm ID	42
Auditor Location	Tysons, Virginia

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 320,913	$ 237,178
Marketable Securities	0	7,548
Accounts receivable, net	63,410	61,151
Inventory	29,044	32,480
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	11,043	9,464
Total current assets	424,410	347,821
Property and equipment, net	2,662,336	2,917,076
Other assets	50,050	50,548
Intangible assets, net	43,999	45,504
Total assets	3,180,795	3,360,949
Current liabilities:
Short-term secured debt	16,500	16,766
Accounts payable	16,196	14,390
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	48,122	49,504
Deferred revenue	28,018	32,412
Total current liabilities	108,836	113,072
Long-term secured debt, net	1,581,516	1,596,893
Deferred income tax liabilities, net	134,279	155,084
Deferred revenue, net of current portion	48,070	51,258
Other long-term liabilities	20,147	25,203
Total liabilities	1,892,848	1,941,510
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $0.001 par value, 300,000 shares authorized, 131,342 and 134,056 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively	131	134
Additional paid-in capital	1,154,058	1,160,570
Retained earnings	140,810	275,915
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(7,052)	(17,180)
Total stockholders' equity	1,287,947	1,419,439
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 3,180,795	$ 3,360,949

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.0001
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized	300,000,000	300,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	131,341,844	134,055,756
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	131,341,844	134,055,756
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Preferred stock, shares authorized	500,000	500,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	500,000	500,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	0	0

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Revenue:
Total Revenue	$ 614,500	$ 583,439	$ 560,444
Operating expenses:
Research and development	11,885	12,037	14,310
Selling, general and administrative	100,474	90,052	93,165
Depreciation and amortization	305,431	303,174	297,705
Total operating expenses	568,186	547,956	550,324
Operating income	46,314	35,483	10,120
Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net	(73,906)	(94,271)	(115,396)
Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt	(879)	(30,209)	(111,710)
Other income (expense), net	(417)	33	(1,133)
Total other expense	(75,202)	(124,447)	(228,239)
Loss before income taxes	(28,888)	(88,964)	(218,119)
Income tax benefit	(19,569)	(32,910)	(56,120)
Net loss	(9,319)	(56,054)	(161,999)
Dividends, Preferred Stock [Abstract]
Net loss attributable to common stockholders	$ (9,319)	$ (56,054)	$ (166,193)
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic and diluted	133,530	133,491	125,167
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	$ (0.07)	$ (0.42)	$ (1.33)
Comprehensive income (loss):
Net loss	$ (9,319)	$ (56,054)	$ (161,999)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(280)	(3,277)	2,051
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax	10,408	(7,036)	(121)
Comprehensive income (loss)	809	(66,367)	(160,069)
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Dividends, Preferred Stock [Abstract]
Series B preferred stock dividends, declared and paid excluding cumulative dividends	0	0	4,194
Services
Revenue:
Total Revenue	491,991	463,095	447,158
Operating expenses:
Cost of Goods and Services Sold	97,020	91,097	94,958
Subscriber equipment
Revenue:
Total Revenue	92,071	86,119	82,856
Operating expenses:
Cost of Goods and Services Sold	53,376	51,596	50,186
Engineering and support services
Revenue:
Total Revenue	$ 30,438	$ 34,225	$ 30,430

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock, Shares [Member]	Common Stock, Amount	Additional Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Retained Earnings	Series B Convertible Preferred Stock
Balance at Dec. 31, 2018	$ 1,601,577		$ 112	$ 1,108,550	$ (8,797)	$ 501,712
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018		112,200					497
Stock-based compensation	16,641			16,641
Shares Issued, Value, Share-based Payment Arrangement, before Forfeiture	13,471		3	13,468
Stock options exercised and awards vested (in shares)		3,003
Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital Stock Withheld To Cover Employee Taxes	(4,594)		0	(4,594)
Stock withheld to cover employee taxes (in shares)		199
Net loss	(161,999)					(161,999)
Dividends on preferred stock	(7,744)					(7,744)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	2,051				2,051
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax	(121)				(121)
Preferred stock converted to common (preferred shares)		16,628					(497)
Preferred stock converted to common (value)			17	(17)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2019	1,459,282		132	1,134,048	(6,867)	331,969
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019		131,632					0
Stock-based compensation	18,322			18,322
Shares Issued, Value, Share-based Payment Arrangement, before Forfeiture	12,715		2	12,713
Stock options exercised and awards vested (in shares)		2,588
Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital Stock Withheld To Cover Employee Taxes	(4,513)		0	(4,513)
Stock withheld to cover employee taxes (in shares)		(164)
Net loss	(56,054)					(56,054)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(3,277)				(3,277)
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax	(7,036)				(7,036)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2020	1,419,439		134	1,160,570	(17,180)	275,915
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020		134,056					0
Stock-based compensation	29,616			29,616
Shares Issued, Value, Share-based Payment Arrangement, before Forfeiture	7,443		1	7,442
Stock options exercised and awards vested (in shares)		1,769
Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital Stock Withheld To Cover Employee Taxes	(5,918)		0	(5,918)
Stock withheld to cover employee taxes (in shares)		(144)
Repurchases and retirements of common stock	(163,442)		(4)	(37,652)		(125,786)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares		(4,339)
Net loss	(9,319)					(9,319)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(280)				(280)
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax	10,408				10,408
Balance at Dec. 31, 2021	$ 1,287,947		$ 131	$ 1,154,058	$ (7,052)	$ 140,810
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2021		131,342					0

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$ (9,319)	$ (56,054)	$ (161,999)
Deferred income taxes	(21,314)	(33,684)	(53,897)
Depreciation and amortization	305,431	303,174	297,705
Loss on extinguishment of debt	879	30,209	111,710
Stock-based compensation (net of amounts capitalized)	26,782	16,714	15,138
Amortization of deferred financing fees	4,201	3,658	18,904
All other items, net	(160)	1,124	952
Accounts receivable	(1,823)	6,380	2,509
Inventory	3,592	7,234	(12,951)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(1,696)	1,119	7,973
Other assets	3,911	3,241	3,097
Accounts payable	(2,166)	7,410	(4,300)
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	7,170	(15,662)	(17,093)
Deferred revenue	(7,531)	(21,692)	(6,435)
Other long-term liabilities	(5,083)	(3,404)	(3,170)
Net cash provided by operating activities	302,874	249,767	198,143
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(42,147)	(38,689)	(117,819)
Purchases of other investments	(1,635)	(152)	(10,000)
Purchases of marketable securities	0	(7,629)	0
Sales and maturities of marketable securities	7,400	0	0
Net cash used in investing activities	(36,382)	(46,470)	(127,819)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments on the Credit Facility, including extinguishment costs	0	0	(1,734,965)
Borrowings under the Term Loan	179,285	202,000	1,450,000
Repayments on the Notes, including extinguishment costs	0	(383,451)	0
Repurchases of common stock	(163,442)	0	0
Payment of deferred financing fees	(4,052)	(2,562)	(28,803)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	7,443	12,715	13,471
Tax payment upon settlement of stock awards	(5,918)	(4,513)	(4,596)
Payment of Series B preferred stock dividends	0	0	(8,387)
Net cash used in financing activities	(182,469)	(188,186)	(313,280)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(288)	(1,494)	1,230
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash	83,735	13,617	(241,726)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period	237,178	223,561	465,287
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period	320,913	237,178	223,561
Supplemental cash flow information:
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	72,195	98,714	119,464
Income taxes paid (refund received), net	1,784	(661)	(606)
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Property and equipment received but not paid for yet	8,225	3,721	3,975
Capitalized amortization of deferred financing costs	115	115	2,416
Capitalized stock-based compensation	2,834	1,608	1,503
Term Loan B
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payments on the Term Loan	$ (195,785)	$ (12,375)	$ 0

Organization and Business

Organization and Business	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization and Business	Organization and Business Iridium Communications Inc. (the “Company”), a Delaware corporation, offers voice and data communications services and products to businesses, U.S. and international government agencies and other customers on a global basis. The Company is a provider of mobile voice and data communications services via a constellation of low earth orbiting satellites. The Company holds various licenses and authorizations from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (the “FCC”) and from foreign regulatory bodies that permit the Company to conduct its business, including the operation of its satellite constellation. The Company’s operations are conducted through, and its operating assets are owned by, its principal operating subsidiary, Iridium Satellite LLC (“Iridium Satellite”), Iridium Satellite’s immediate parent, Iridium Holdings LLC, and their subsidiaries. As a result, there are no material differences between the information presented in these consolidated financial statements of the Company and the financial information of Iridium Holdings, Iridium Satellite and their subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, other than as a result of (i) tax provision as a result of Iridium Holdings, Iridium Satellite and their subsidiaries being classified as flow-through entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes and (ii) senior unsecured notes (fully repaid February 15, 2020, see Note 7 ), related interest expense and loss on extinguishment of debt.

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation	Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation The Company has prepared the consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of (i) the Company, (ii) its wholly owned subsidiaries, and (iii) all less than wholly owned subsidiaries that the Company controls. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its estimates and assumptions, including those related to revenue recognition, the useful lives and recoverability of long-lived and intangible assets, income taxes, stock-based compensation, the incremental borrowing rate for its leases, and contingencies, among others. The Company bases these estimates on historical and anticipated results, trends, and various other assumptions that it believes are reasonable, including assumptions as to future events. These estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities and recorded revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In December 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (“ASU 2019-12”). This guidance amends certain aspects of the accounting for income taxes. The Company's adoption of ASU 2019-12 on January 1, 2021 had no impact on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting (“ASU 2020-04”). The guidance provides optional expedients and exceptions for contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference London Inter-bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) or another reference rate expected to be discontinued. ASU 2020-04 was further amended in January 2021 when the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope (“ASU 2021-01”), which clarified the applicability of certain provisions. Both ASU 2020-04 and ASU 2021-01 are currently effective prospectively for all entities through December 31, 2022 when the reference rate replacement activity is expected to have been completed. The guidance in ASU 2020-04 and ASU 2021-01 is optional and may be elected over time as reference rate reform activities occur. As of December 31, 2021, the Company elected to apply the optional expedient for hedge accounting specifically to the interest rate cap agreement (the "Cap") which was executed in July 2021. This allowed the Company to assume that the index upon which future interest payments on the hedged portion of the Term Loan (see Note 8 ) will be based matches the index on the Cap. Adoption of this practical expedient had no impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements upon adoption. The Company has not yet adopted any other expedients and will continue to evaluate the impact this standard may have on its consolidated financial statements. Fair Value Measurements The Company evaluates assets and liabilities subject to fair value measurements on a recurring and non-recurring basis to determine the appropriate level to classify them for each reporting period. This determination requires significant judgments to be made by management of the Company. Fair value is the price that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability assuming an orderly transaction in the most advantageous market at the measurement date. U.S. GAAP establishes a hierarchical disclosure framework which prioritizes and ranks the level of observability of inputs used in measuring fair value. The fair value hierarchy consists of the following tiers: • Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; • Level 2, defined as observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities; and • Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions. The fair value estimates are based upon certain market assumptions and information available to the Company. The carrying values of the following financial instruments approximated their fair values as of December 31, 2021 and 2020: cash and cash equivalents, prepaid expenses and other current assets, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued expenses and other current liabilities. Fair values approximate their carrying values because of their short-term nature. The Level 2 cash equivalents include money market funds, commercial paper and short-term U.S. agency securities. The Company also classifies its derivative financial instruments as Level 2. The fair values of the Company’s Level 2 estimates are based upon certain market assumptions and information available to the Company. In determining fair value, the Company uses a market approach utilizing valuation models that incorporate observable inputs such as interest rates, bond yields and quoted prices for similar assets. Leases For new leases, the Company will determine if an arrangement is or contains a lease at inception. Leases are included as right-of-use (“ROU”) assets within other assets and ROU liabilities within accrued expenses and other liabilities and within other long-term liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. Certain leases contain variable contractual obligations as a result of future base rate escalations which are estimated based on observed trends and included within the measurement of present value. The Company’s leases do not provide an implicit rate. The Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. The ROU asset also includes any lease payments made and excludes lease incentives. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The Company has lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are generally accounted for separately. For certain leases, such as teleport network facilities, the Company elected the practical expedient to combine lease and non-lease components as a single lease component. Taxes assessed on leases in which the Company is either a lessor or lessee are excluded from contract consideration and variable payments when measuring new lease contracts or remeasuring existing lease contracts. Concentrations of Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and receivables. The majority of cash is invested into a money market fund with U.S. treasuries, Agency Mortgage Backed Securities and/or U.S. government guaranteed debt. While the Company maintains its cash and cash equivalents with financial institutions with high credit ratings, it often maintains those deposits in federally insured financial institutions in excess of federally insured limits. The Company performs credit evaluations of its customers’ financial condition and records reserves to provide for estimated credit losses. Accounts receivable are due from both domestic and international customers. Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of ninety days or less to be cash equivalents. These investments, along with cash deposited in institutional money market funds, regular interest bearing depository accounts and non-interest bearing depository accounts, are classified as cash and cash equivalents on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Accounts Receivable Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and are subject to late fee penalties. Management develops its estimate of an allowance for uncollectible receivables based on the Company’s experience with specific customers, aging of outstanding invoices, its understanding of customers’ current economic circumstances and its own judgment as to the likelihood that the Company will ultimately receive payment. The Company writes off its accounts receivable when balances ultimately are deemed uncollectible. The allowance for doubtful accounts was not material as of December 31, 2021 and 2020. Foreign Currencies Generally, the functional currency of the Company’s foreign consolidated subsidiaries is the local currency. Assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiaries are translated to U.S. dollars based on exchange rates at the end of the reporting period. Income and expense items are translated at the weighted-average exchange rates prevailing during the reporting period. Translation adjustments are accumulated in a separate component of stockholders’ equity. Transaction gains or losses are classified as other income (expense), net in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). In instances where the financial statements of a foreign entity in a highly inflationary economy are material, they are remeasured as if the functional currency were the reporting currency. In these instances, the financial statements of those entities are remeasured into the reporting currency. A highly inflationary economy is one that has cumulative inflation of approximately 100% or more over a three-year period. Deferred Financing Costs Direct and incremental costs incurred in connection with securing debt financing are deferred and are amortized as additional interest expense using the effective interest method over the term of the related debt. Capitalized Interest During the development and construction periods of a project, including the financing of the Company's upgraded satellite constellation, the Company capitalizes interest. Capitalization ceases when the asset is ready for its intended use or when these activities are substantially suspended. If some portions of a project are substantially complete and ready for use and other portions have not yet reached that stage, the Company ceases capitalizing costs on the completed portion of the project but continues to capitalize for the incomplete portion of the project. Inventory Inventory consists primarily of finished goods, although the Company at times also maintains an inventory of raw materials from third-party manufacturers. The Company outsources manufacturing of subscriber equipment to a third-party manufacturer and purchases accessories from third-party suppliers. The Company’s cost of inventory includes an allocation of overhead, including payroll and payroll-related costs of employees directly involved in bringing inventory to its existing condition, and freight. Inventories are valued using the average cost method and are carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value. The Company's expense for excess and obsolete inventory was not material during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 or 2019. The Company has a manufacturing agreement with Benchmark Electronics Inc. (“Benchmark”) to manufacture most of its subscriber equipment. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company may be required to purchase excess materials at cost plus a contractual markup if the materials are not used in production within the periods specified in the agreement. Benchmark will then repurchase such materials from the Company at the same price paid by the Company, as required for the production of the subscriber equipment. The Company's inventory balance consisted of the following: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Finished Goods $ 18,395 $ 27,936 Raw Materials 11,850 5,983 Inventory Valuation Reserve (1,201) (1,439) Total $ 29,044 $ 32,480 Stock-Based Compensation The Company accounts for stock-based compensation at fair value. The fair value of stock options is determined at the grant date using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. The fair value of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) is equal to the closing price of the underlying common stock on the grant date. The fair value of an award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service or performance period and is classified in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) in a manner consistent with the classification of the recipient’s compensation. The expected vesting of the Company’s performance-based RSUs is based upon the probability that the Company achieves the defined performance goals. The level of achievement of performance goals, if any, is determined by the Compensation Committee. Stock-based awards to non-employee consultants are expensed at their grant-date fair value as services are provided according to the terms of their agreements and are classified in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Classification of stock-based compensation by line item on the balance sheet and statement of operations is presented below: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Property and equipment, net $ 2,376 $ 1,319 Inventory 436 261 Prepaid and other current assets 22 28 Cost of subscriber equipment 53 29 Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) 8,037 5,037 Research and development 333 305 Selling, general and administrative 18,359 11,343 Total stock-based compensation $ 29,616 $ 18,322 Property and Equipment Property and equipment is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. The Company applies judgment in determining the useful lives based on factors such as engineering data, long-term strategy for using the assets, the manufacturer's estimated design life for the assets, laws and regulations that could impact the useful lives of the assets and other economic factors. The Company assesses the current estimated operational life of the satellites, including the potential impact of environmental factors on the satellites, ongoing operational enhancements and software upgrades when evaluating the useful lives of its satellites. Additionally, the Company reviews engineering data relating to the operation and performance of its satellite network. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Satellites 12.5 years Ground system 5-7 years Equipment 3-5 years Internally developed software and purchased software 3-7 years Building 39 years Building improvements 5-39 years Leasehold improvements shorter of useful life or remaining lease term The Company calculates depreciation expense using the straight-line method and evaluates the appropriateness of the useful life used in this calculation on a quarterly basis or as events occur that require additional assessment. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. Derivative Financial Instruments The Company uses derivatives (interest rate swap, swaption, cap) to manage its exposure to fluctuating interest rate risk on variable rate debt. Its derivatives are measured at fair value and are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets within other current liabilities and other assets. When the Company’s derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the changes in fair value of the derivatives are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and subsequently recognized in earnings when the hedged items impact earnings. Any ineffective portion of a derivative's change in fair value will be recognized in earnings in the same period in which the hedged interest payments affect earnings. Within the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), the gains and losses related to cash flow hedges are recognized within interest income (expense), net, as this is the same financial statement line item associated with the hedged items. Cash flows from hedging activities are included in operating activities within the Company’s consolidated statements of cash flows, which is the same category as the item being hedged. See Note 8 for further information. Long-Lived Assets The Company assesses its long-lived assets for impairment when indicators of impairment exist. Recoverability of assets is measured by comparing the carrying amounts of the assets to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. Any impairment loss would be measured as the excess of the assets’ carrying amount over their fair value. Intangible Assets The Company’s intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their useful lives and reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If any indicators were present, the Company would test for recoverability by comparing the carrying amount of the asset to the net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated from the asset. If those net undiscounted cash flows do not exceed the carrying amount (i.e., the asset is not recoverable), the Company would perform the next step, which is to determine the fair value of the asset and record an impairment loss, if any. The Company evaluates the useful lives for these intangible assets each reporting period to determine whether events and circumstances warrant a revision in their remaining useful lives. Amortization is calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Intellectual property 20 years Assembled workforce 7 years Patents 14 - 20 years Revenue Recognition The Company derives its revenue primarily as a wholesaler of satellite communications products and services. The primary types of revenue include (i) service revenue (access and usage-based airtime fees), (ii) subscriber equipment revenue, and (iii) revenue generated by providing engineering and support services to commercial and government customers. In addition to the discussion immediately below, see Note 12 for further discussion of the Company's revenue recognition. Wholesaler of satellite communications products and services Pursuant to wholesale agreements, the Company sells its products and services to service providers and recognizes revenue as it fulfills its performance obligations to the service providers, based an amount that reflects the consideration to which it expects to be entitled to in exchange for those products and services. The service providers, in turn, sell the products and services to other distributors or directly to the end users. The Company recognizes revenue when an arrangement exists, services or equipment are transferred, the transaction price is determined, the arrangement has commercial substance, and collection of consideration is probable. Contracts with multiple performance obligations At times, the Company sells services and equipment through arrangements that bundle equipment, airtime and other services. For these revenue arrangements when the Company sells services and equipment in bundled arrangements and determines that it has separate distinct performance obligations, the Company allocates the bundled contract price among the various performance obligations based on each deliverable’s stand-alone selling price. If the stand-alone selling price is not directly observable, the Company estimates the amount to be allocated for each performance obligation based on observable market transactions or the residual approach. When the Company determines the performance obligations are not distinct, the Company recognizes revenue on a combined basis. To the extent the Company's contracts include variable consideration, the transaction price includes both fixed and variable consideration. The variable consideration contained within the Company's contracts with customers may include discounts, credits and other similar items. When a contract includes variable consideration, the Company evaluates the estimate of the variable consideration to determine whether the estimate needs to be constrained; therefore, the Company includes the variable consideration in the transaction price only to the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal of the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently resolved. Variable consideration estimates are updated at the end of each quarter. Service revenue sold on a stand-alone basis Service revenue is generated from the Company’s service providers through usage of its satellite system and through fixed monthly access fees per user charged to service providers. Revenue for usage is recognized when usage occurs and billed in arrears with payments generally submitted within 30 days. Revenue for fixed-per-user access fees is billed monthly in advance and generally recognized over the month, or related usage period, in which the services are provided to the end user. The Company sells prepaid services in the form of e-vouchers and prepaid cards. A liability is established equal to the cash paid upon purchase for the e-voucher or prepaid card. The Company recognizes revenue from (i) the prepaid services upon the use of the e-voucher or prepaid card by the customer and (ii) the estimated pattern of use. The Company does not offer refunds for unused prepaid services. Services sold to the U.S. government The Company provides airtime and airtime support to U.S. government and other authorized customers pursuant to the Enhanced Mobile Satellite Services (“EMSS”) contract managed by the U.S. Space Force. Under the terms of this agreement, authorized customers continue to utilize airtime services, provided through the U.S. government’s dedicated gateway. These services include unlimited global standard and secure voice, low and high-speed data, paging, broadcast and Distributed Tactical Communications Services (“DTCS”) services for an unlimited number of Department of Defense (“DoD”) and other federal subscribers. Under this contract, revenue is based on the annual fee for the fixed-price contract with unlimited subscribers and is recognized on a straight-line basis over each contractual year, with equal payments submitted monthly. The U.S. government purchases its subscriber equipment from third-party distributors and not directly from the Company. Subscriber equipment sold on a stand-alone basis The Company recognizes subscriber equipment sales and the related costs when title to the equipment (and the risks and rewards of ownership) passes to the customer, typically upon shipment. Customers are billed when inventory is shipped, and payment is generally due within 30 days. Customers do not have rights of return without prior consent from the Company. Government engineering and support services The Company provides maintenance services to the U.S. government’s dedicated gateway. This revenue is recognized ratably over the periods in which the services are provided; the related costs are expensed as incurred. Other government and commercial engineering and support services The Company also provides engineering services to assist customers in developing new technologies for use on the Company’s satellite system. Fees to customers under these agreements are generally based on milestones and payments are submitted as milestones are achieved. The revenue associated with fixed-fee contracts is recognized over time using costs incurred to date relative to total estimated costs at completion to measure progress toward satisfying its performance obligation. The Company does not include purchases of goods from a third party in its evaluation of costs incurred. Incurred costs represent work performed, which corresponds with, and thereby best depicts, the transfer of control to the customer. The revenue associated with cost-plus-fixed-fee contracts is recognized to the extent of estimated costs incurred plus the applicable fees earned. The Company considers fixed fees under cost-plus-fixed-fee contracts to be earned in proportion to the allowable costs incurred in performance of the contract. Research and Development Research and development costs are charged to expense in the period in which they are incurred. Advertising Costs Costs associated with advertising and promotions are expensed as incurred. Advertising expenses were $1.9 million, $1.2 million and $0.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability approach, which requires the recognition of tax benefits or expenses for temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized. The Company also recognizes a tax benefit from uncertain tax positions only if it is “more likely than not” that the position is sustainable based on its technical merits. The Company’s policy is to recognize interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions as a component of income tax expense. Net Loss Per Share The Company calculates basic net loss per share by dividing net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per share takes into account the effect of potentially dilutive common shares when the effect is dilutive. The effect of potentially dilutive common shares, including common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options, is computed using the treasury stock method. The effect of potentially dilutive common shares from the conversion of outstanding convertible preferred securities was computed using the as-if converted method at the stated conversion rate. The Company’s unvested RSUs awarded to the board of directors contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends and therefore are considered to be participating securities in periods of net income. The calculation of basic and diluted net loss per share excludes net income attributable to these unvested RSUs from the numerator and excludes the impact of these unvested RSUs from the denominator.
Lessee, Operating Leases	Leases For new leases, the Company will determine if an arrangement is or contains a lease at inception. Leases are included as right-of-use (“ROU”) assets within other assets and ROU liabilities within accrued expenses and other liabilities and within other long-term liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. Certain leases contain variable contractual obligations as a result of future base rate escalations which are estimated based on observed trends and included within the measurement of present value. The Company’s leases do not provide an implicit rate. The Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. The ROU asset also includes any lease payments made and excludes lease incentives. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The Company has lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are generally accounted for separately. For certain leases, such as teleport network facilities, the Company elected the practical expedient to combine lease and non-lease components as a single lease component. Taxes assessed on leases in which the Company is either a lessor or lessee are excluded from contract consideration and variable payments when measuring new lease contracts or remeasuring existing lease contracts.
Property and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives	Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Satellites 12.5 years Ground system 5-7 years Equipment 3-5 years Internally developed software and purchased software 3-7 years Building 39 years Building improvements 5-39 years Leasehold improvements shorter of useful life or remaining lease term

Cash and Cash Equivalents and M

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities	Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities Cash and Cash Equivalents The following table summarizes the Company’s cash and cash equivalents: December 31, Recurring Fair 2021 2020 (In thousands) Cash and cash equivalents: Cash $ 28,496 $ 27,168 Money market funds 292,417 208,005 Level 2 Fixed income debt securities — 2,005 Level 2 Total cash and cash equivalents $ 320,913 $ 237,178 Marketable Securities As of December 31, 2021, the Company did not hold any investment positions in marketable securities. As of December 31, 2020, the Company's marketable securities consisted of only fixed-income securities. The amortized cost of these securities amounted to $7.6 million and the estimated fair value amounted to $7.5 million as of December 31, 2020. The gross unrealized gains and gross unrealized losses on these marketable securities were not material as of December 31, 2020. All marketable securities were classified as Level 2 investments in the fair value hierarchy. The following table presents the contractual maturities of the Company's fixed income debt securities: December 31, 2020 Amortized Cost Fair Value (In thousands) Mature within one year $ 5,530 $ 5,525 Mature after one year and within three years 2,024 2,023 Total $ 7,554 $ 7,548

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment consisted of the following: December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Satellite system $ 3,197,460 $ 3,197,460 Ground system 75,899 64,581 Equipment 46,461 44,871 Internally developed software and purchased software 290,979 251,320 Building and leasehold improvements 30,198 29,924 Total depreciable property and equipment 3,640,997 3,588,156 Less: accumulated depreciation (1,253,354) (959,606) Total depreciable property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation 2,387,643 2,628,550 Land 8,037 8,037 Construction-in-process: Ground spares 225,254 225,254 Other construction-in-process 41,402 55,235 Total property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation $ 2,662,336 $ 2,917,076 Other construction-in-process consisted of the following: December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Internally developed and purchased software $ 29,443 $ 44,444 Equipment 11,558 10,388 Ground system 401 403 Total other construction-in-process $ 41,402 $ 55,235

Intangible Assets

Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets The Company had identifiable intangible assets as follows: December 31, 2021 Useful Gross Accumulated Net (In thousands) Indefinite life intangible assets: Trade names Indefinite $ 21,195 $ — $ 21,195 Spectrum and licenses Indefinite 14,030 — 14,030 Total 35,225 — 35,225 Definite life intangible assets: Intellectual property 20 years 16,439 (9,637) 6,802 Assembled workforce 7 years 5,678 (4,055) 1,623 Patents 14 - 20 years 441 (92) 349 Total 22,558 (13,784) 8,774 Total intangible assets $ 57,783 $ (13,784) $ 43,999 December 31, 2020 Useful Gross Accumulated Net (In thousands) Indefinite life intangible assets: Trade names Indefinite $ 21,195 $ — $ 21,195 Spectrum and licenses Indefinite 14,030 — 14,030 Total 35,225 — 35,225 Definite life intangible assets: Intellectual property 20 years 16,439 (8,927) 7,512 Assembled workforce 7 years 5,678 (3,244) 2,434 Patents 14 - 20 years 396 (63) 333 Total 22,513 (12,234) 10,279 Total intangible assets $ 57,738 $ (12,234) $ 45,504 Amortization expense was $1.6 million, $1.5 million and $1.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Future amortization expense with respect to intangible assets existing at December 31, 2021, by year and in the aggregate, was as follows: Year ending December 31, Amount (In thousands) 2022 $ 1,555 2023 1,555 2024 744 2025 744 2026 744 Thereafter 3,432 Total estimated future amortization expense $ 8,774

Leases (Notes)

Leases (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Leases [Abstract]
Leases [Text Block]	Leases The Company has operating leases for land, office space, satellite network operations center (“SNOC”) facilities, system gateway facilities, a warehouse and a distribution center. The Company also has operations and maintenance (“O&M”) agreements that include leases associated with two teleport network facilities. Some of the Company's leases include options to extend the leases for up to 10 years. The Company does not include term extension options as part of its present value calculation of lease liabilities unless it is reasonably certain to exercise those options. As of December 31, 2021, the Company’s weighted-average remaining lease term relating to its operating leases was 5.9 years, and the weighted-average discount rate used to calculate the operating lease liability payment was 6.7%. The table below summarizes the Company’s lease-related assets and liabilities: Leases Classification December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 (In thousands) Operating lease assets Noncurrent Other assets $ 20,369 $ 23,974 Total lease assets $ 20,369 $ 23,974 Operating lease liabilities Current Accrued expenses and other current liabilities $ 3,703 $ 3,838 Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities 19,587 23,258 Total lease liabilities $ 23,290 $ 27,096 During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Company incurred lease expense of $5.6 million, $5.6 million and $5.1 million, respectively. A portion of rent expense during these comparable periods was derived from leases that were not included within the ROU asset and liability balances shown above as they had terms shorter than twelve months and were therefore excluded from balance sheet recognition under ASU 2016-02. Future payment obligations with respect to the Company's operating leases in which it was the lessee at December 31, 2021, by year and in the aggregate, were as follows: Year Ending December 31, Amount (In thousands) 2022 $ 5,270 2023 4,997 2024 4,972 2025 5,088 2026 3,287 Thereafter 4,921 Total lease payments $ 28,535 Lessor Arrangements Operating leases in which the Company is a lessor consist primarily of hosting agreements with Aireon LLC (“Aireon”) (see Note 14 ) and L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (“L3Harris”) for space on the Company’s satellites. These agreements provide for a fee that will be recognized over the life of the satellites, currently estimated to be approximately 12.5 years. Lease income related to these agreements was $21.4 million, $21.4 million and $21.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Lease income is recorded as hosted payload and other data service revenue within service revenue on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Both Aireon and L3Harris have made payments for their hosting agreements and the Company expects they will continue to do so. Future income with respect to the Company's operating leases in which it was the lessor at December 31, 2021, by year and in the aggregate, is as follows: Year Ending December 31, Amount (In thousands) 2022 $ 21,445 2023 21,445 2024 21,445 2025 21,445 2026 21,445 Thereafter 77,462 Total lease income $ 184,687

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Debt Term Loan and Revolving Facility On November 4, 2019, pursuant to a loan agreement (as amended to date, the “Credit Agreement”), the Company entered into a $1,450.0 million term loan with Deutsche Bank AG (the “Original Term Loan”) and an accompanying $100.0 million revolving loan (the “Revolving Facility”). The Original Term Loan was issued at a price equal to 99.5% of its face value, with a maturity date in November 2026. On February 7, 2020, the Company closed on an additional $200.0 million under its Credit Agreement for a total borrowing of $1,650.0 million (as expanded, the “Term Loan”). The additional amount is fungible with the Original Term Loan, having the same maturity date, interest rate and other terms, but was issued at a 1.0% premium to face value. The Term Loan initially bore interest at an annual rate of LIBOR plus 3.75%, with a 1.0% LIBOR floor. The Term Loan was repriced in January 2021 for an annual interest rate of LIBOR plus 2.75%, with a 1.0% LIBOR floor. The Term Loan was repriced again in July 2021 for a new annual interest rate of LIBOR plus 2.50%, with a 0.75% LIBOR floor. The maturity date remains unchanged in November 2026. The interest rate on the Revolving Facility remained unchanged at LIBOR plus 3.75% with no LIBOR floor, and a maturity date in November 2024. Principal payments, which are payable quarterly and began on June 30, 2020, equal $16.5 million per annum (one percent of the full principal amount of the Term Loan), with the remaining principal due upon maturity. In July 2021, the Company paid $4.1 million of original issuance costs to reprice the Term Loan. Lenders making up approximately $65.2 million of the Term Loan did not participate in the repricing. Those portions of the Term Loan were replaced by new or existing lenders. This resulted in a $0.9 million loss on extinguishment of debt during the year ended December 31, 2021, as the Company wrote off the unamortized debt issuance costs related to the lenders who were fully repaid in an exchange of principal. In February 2020, the Company used the proceeds of the additional $200.0 million borrowed under the Term Loan, together with cash on hand, to prepay and retire all of the indebtedness outstanding under then outstanding senior unsecured promissory notes (the “Notes”), including premiums for early prepayment. To prepay the Notes, the Company paid a call price equal to the present value at the redemption rate of (i) 105.125% of the $360.0 million principal amount of the Notes plus (ii) all interest due through the first call date in April 2020, representing a total call premium of $23.5 million, plus all accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. As a result of the prepayment, the Company also wrote off the remaining unamortized debt issuance costs, which resulted in a $30.2 million loss on extinguishment of debt during the year ended December 31, 2020. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company reported an aggregate of $1,621.1 million and $1,637.6 million in borrowings under the Term Loan, respectively. These amounts do not include $23.1 million and $24.0 million of net unamortized deferred financing costs as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The net principal balance in borrowings in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 amounted to $1,598.0 million and $1,613.6 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, based upon over-the-counter bid levels (Level 2 - market approach), the fair value of the borrowings under the Term Loan due in 2026 was $1,622.1 million and $1,647.9 million, respectively. The Company had not borrowed under the Revolving Facility as of December 31, 2021 or 2020. The Credit Agreement restricts the Company’s ability to incur liens, engage in mergers or asset sales, pay dividends, repay subordinated indebtedness, incur indebtedness, make investments and loans, and engage in other transactions as specified in the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement provides for specified exceptions, including baskets measured as a percentage of trailing twelve months of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) and unlimited exceptions based on achievement and maintenance of specified leverage ratios, for, among other things, incurring indebtedness and liens and making investments, restricted payments for dividends and share repurchases, and payments of subordinated indebtedness. The Credit Agreement also contains a mandatory prepayment sweep mechanism with respect to a portion of the Company’s excess cash flow (as defined in the Credit Agreement), which is phased out based on achievement and maintenance of specified leverage ratios. As of December 31, 2021, the Company was below the specified leverage ratio and a mandatory prepayment sweep was therefore not required. The Credit Agreement contains no financial maintenance covenants with respect to the Term Loan. With respect to the Revolving Facility, the Credit Agreement requires the Company to maintain a consolidated first lien net leverage ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) of no greater than 6.25 to 1 if more than 35% of the Revolving Facility has been drawn. The Credit Agreement contains other customary representations and warranties, affirmative and negative covenants, and events of default. The Company was in compliance with all covenants as of December 31, 2021. The effective interest rate on outstanding principal of the Term Loan was 4.3% during the year ended December 31, 2021. Interest on Debt Total interest incurred includes amortization of deferred financing fees and capitalized interest. To reprice the Term Loan in January 2021 and July 2021, the Company incurred third-party financing costs of $3.6 million and $1.3 million, respectively. These costs were expensed and are included within interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2021. All third-party financing costs incurred during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were also expensed and are included within interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The following table presents the interest and amortization of deferred financing fees related to the Term Loan: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Total interest incurred $ 72,816 $ 99,155 $ 140,532 Amortization of deferred financing fees $ 4,316 $ 3,773 $ 21,320 Capitalized interest $ 2,146 $ 3,225 $ 15,055 As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, accrued interest under the Term Loan was $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively. Total Debt Future minimum principal repayments with respect to the Company's debt balances existing at December 31, 2021, by year and in the aggregate, are as follows: Year ending December 31, Amount (In thousands) 2022 $ 16,500 2023 16,500 2024 16,500 2025 16,500 2026 1,555,125 Total debt commitments 1,621,125 Less: Original issuance discount 23,109 Less: Total short-term debt 16,500 Total long-term debt, net $ 1,581,516

Derivative Instruments (Notes)

Derivative Instruments (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]	Derivative Financial Instruments The Company is exposed to interest rate fluctuations related to its Term Loan. The Company has reduced its exposure to fluctuations in the cash flows associated with changes in the variable interest rate by entering into offsetting positions through the use of interest rate swap and interest rate cap contracts which result in recognizing a fixed interest rate for a portion of the Term Loan. This will reduce the negative impact of increases in the variable rate over the term of the derivative contracts. These contracts are not used for trading or other speculative purposes. Historically, the Company has not incurred, and does not expect to incur in the future, any losses as a result of counterparty default. Hedge effectiveness of interest rate swap and cap contracts is based on a long-haul hypothetical derivative methodology and includes all changes in value. The Company formally assesses, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing quarterly basis, whether the designated derivative instruments are highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged items. When the hedging instrument is sold, expires, is terminated, is exercised, no longer qualifies for hedge accounting, is de-designated, or is no longer probable, hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively. Interest Rate Swaps On November 27, 2019, the Company executed a long-term interest rate swap (“Swap”) through November 2021 to mitigate variability in forecasted interest payments on a portion of the Company’s borrowings under its Term Loan. On the last business day of each month, the Company received variable interest payments based on one-month LIBOR from the counterparty. The Company paid a fixed rate of 1.565% per annum on the Swap until its expiration in November 2021. The Company also entered into an interest rate swaption agreement (“Swaption”), for which the Company paid a fixed annual rate of 0.50%. At inception, the Swap and Swaption (collectively, the "swap contracts") were designated as cash flow hedges for hedge accounting. The unrealized changes in market value were recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and any remaining balance will be reclassified into earnings during the period in which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Due to the changes made to the Term Loan as a result of the July 2021 repricing, at that time the Company elected to de-designate the Swap as a cash flow hedge. Accordingly, as the related interest payments were still probable, the accumulated balance within other comprehensive income (loss) as of the de-designation date was amortized into earnings through the November 2021 expiration date. As of December 31, 2020, the Swap carried a notional amount of $1.0 billion and had a current liability balance of $5.2 million in other current liabilities related to the fair value of the Swap. The Swaption carried a notional amount of $1.0 billion as of December 31, 2020. At December 31, 2020, the premium liability was netted with the Swaption, for a fair value of $4.4 million which was recorded in other current liabilities. The Company sold the Swaption in May 2021 for $0.7 million. The Company continued to pay the fixed annual rate for the Swaption through the term of the Swaption, which expired in November 2021. Interest Rate Cap On July 21, 2021, the Company entered into the Cap that began in December 2021 upon the expiration of the Swap. The Cap manages the Company's exposure to interest rate movements on a portion of the Term Loan from the Cap's inception through the maturity of the Term Loan in November 2026. The Cap provides the Company with the right to receive payment if one-month LIBOR exceeds 1.5%. Beginning in December 2021, the Company began to pay a fixed monthly premium based on an annual rate of 0.31% for the Cap. The Cap carried a notional amount of $1.0 billion as of December 31, 2021. The Cap is designed to mirror the terms of the Term Loan and to offset the cash flows being hedged. The Company designated the Cap as a cash flow hedge of the variability of the LIBOR-based interest payments on the Term Loan. The effective portion of the Cap's change in fair value will be recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Any ineffective portion of the Cap's change in fair value will be recorded in current earnings as interest expense. Fair Value of Derivative Instruments As of December 31, 2021, the Company had an asset balance of $4.9 million recorded in other assets for the fair value of the Cap. During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019 the Company collectively incurred $8.5 million, $9.1 million, and $0.3 million, respectively, in net interest expense for the swap contracts and the Cap. Gains and losses resulting from fair value adjustments to the Cap are recorded within accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within the Company’s consolidated balance sheet and reclassified to interest expense on the dates that interest payments become due. Cash flows related to the derivative contracts are included in cash flows from operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Over the next 12 months, the Company expects any gains or losses for cash flow hedges amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings to have an immaterial impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The following table presents the amount of unrealized gain or loss and related tax impact associated with the derivative instruments that the Company recorded in its consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss): Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Unrealized gain (loss), net of tax $ 10,408 $ (7,036) $ (121) Tax benefit (expense) $ (3,316) $ 2,464 $ (41)

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation In May 2019, the Company’s stockholders approved the amendment and restatement of the Company’s 2015 Equity Incentive Plan (as so amended and restated, the “Amended 2015 Plan”). As of December 31, 2021, the remaining aggregate number of shares of the Company’s common stock available for future grants under the Amended 2015 Plan was 10,462,457. The Amended 2015 Plan provides for the grant of stock-based awards, including nonqualified stock options, incentive stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), stock appreciation rights and other equity securities to employees, consultants and non-employee directors of the Company and its affiliated entities. The number of shares of common stock available for issuance under the Amended 2015 Plan is reduced by (i) one share for each share of common stock issued pursuant to an appreciation award, such as a stock option or stock appreciation right with an exercise or strike price of at least 100% of the fair market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant, and (ii) 1.8 shares for each share of common stock issued pursuant to any stock award that is not an appreciation award, also referred to as a “full value award.” The Amended 2015 Plan allows the Company to utilize a broad array of equity incentives and performance cash incentives in order to secure and retain the services of its employees, directors and consultants, and to provide long-term incentives that align the interests of its employees, directors and consultants with the interests of the Company’s stockholders. The Company accounts for stock-based compensation at fair value. Stock Options The stock option awards granted to employees generally (i) have a term of ten years, (ii) vest over four The Company uses the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model to determine the fair value of its stock option awards on the date of grant. The Company will reconsider the use of the Black-Scholes-Merton model if additional information becomes available in the future that indicates another model would be more appropriate or if grants issued in future periods have characteristics that cannot be reasonably estimated under this model. The Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model incorporates the following assumptions: • Volatility - The expected volatility of the options granted was estimated based upon historical volatility of the Company's share price of its common stock through daily observations of its trading history. • Expected life of options - The expected life of options granted to employees was determined from the simplified method. • Risk-free interest rate - The yield on zero-coupon U.S. Treasury strips was used to extrapolate a forward-yield curve. This “term structure” of future interest rates was then input into a numeric model to provide the equivalent risk-free rate to be used in the Black-Scholes-Merton model based on the expected term of the underlying grants. • Dividend yield - The Black-Scholes-Merton valuation model requires an expected dividend yield as an input. The Company does not anticipate paying dividends during the expected term of the grants; therefore, the dividend rate is assumed to be zero. The Company has historically granted stock options to newly hired and promoted employees. During 2019, the Company granted approximately 139,000 stock options with an estimated aggregate grant date fair value of $1.3 million. The Company did not grant any stock options during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. The following table summarizes weighted-average assumptions used in the Company's calculations of fair value: Year Ended December 31, 2019 Expected volatility 40.78% Expected term (years) 6.11 Expected dividends —% Risk free interest rate 2.59% A summary of the activity of the Company’s stock options is as follows: Shares Weighted- Weighted- Aggregate (In thousands, except years and per share data) Options outstanding at December 31, 2018 5,703 $ 8.29 Granted 139 21.12 Cancelled or expired (1) 11.80 Exercised (1,670) 8.11 $ 29,584 Forfeited (18) 11.74 Options outstanding at December 31, 2019 4,153 $ 8.78 4.03 $ 65,887 Cancelled or expired (5) 20.17 Exercised (1,581) 8.14 $ 33,836 Forfeited (13) 18.17 Options outstanding at December 31, 2020 2,554 $ 9.10 3.94 $ 77,182 Cancelled or expired (3) 10.67 Exercised (857) 8.51 $ 31,544 Forfeited (13) 16.07 Options outstanding at December 31, 2021 1,681 $ 9.35 3.28 $ 53,698 Options exercisable at December 31, 2021 1,603 $ 8.84 3.11 $ 52,021 Options exercisable and expected to vest at December 31, 2021 1,680 $ 9.34 3.28 $ 53,684 The Company recognized $0.8 million, $1.0 million and $1.3 million of stock-based compensation expense related to stock options in the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted during the year ended December 31, 2019 was $9.18. The total fair value of the shares vested during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was $2.3 million, $1.4 million and $1.4 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2021, the total unrecognized cost related to non-vested options was approximately $0.6 million. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.9 years. Restricted Stock Units RSUs represent the right to receive a share of common stock at a future date. RSUs granted to employees for service generally vest over four years, with 25% vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and the remainder vesting ratably on a quarterly basis thereafter, subject to continued employment. The RSUs granted to non-employee directors generally vest in full on the first anniversary of the grant date. Some RSUs granted to employees for performance vest upon the completion of defined performance goals, subject to continued employment. RSUs are classified as equity awards because the RSUs will be paid in the Company’s common stock upon vesting. The fair value of RSUs is determined at the grant date based on the closing price of the Company's common stock on the date of grant. The related compensation expense is recognized over the service period and is based on the grant date fair value of the Company’s common stock and the number of shares expected to vest. The fair value of the awards is not remeasured at the end of each reporting period. RSUs do not carry voting rights until the RSUs are vested and the underlying shares are released in accordance with the terms of the award. RSU Summary A summary of the Company’s activity for RSUs is as follows: RSUs Weighted- (In thousands) Outstanding at December 31, 2018 3,077 $ 10.13 Granted 1,058 22.50 Forfeited (102) 14.86 Released (1,331) 10.52 Outstanding at December 31, 2019 2,702 $ 14.62 Granted 1,061 26.73 Forfeited (92) 17.72 Released (1,007) 15.63 Outstanding at December 31, 2020 2,664 $ 18.96 Granted 913 41.55 Forfeited (115) 29.49 Released (912) 21.12 Outstanding at December 31, 2021 2,550 $ 25.80 Vested and unreleased at December 31, 2021 (1) 860 (1) These RSUs were granted to the Company's board of directors as a part of their compensation for board and committee service and had vested but had not yet settled, meaning that the underlying shares of common stock had not been issued and released. As of December 31, 2021, the total unrecognized cost related to non-vested RSUs was approximately $22.2 million. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.36 years. The Company recognized $26.0 million, $15.7 million and $13.8 million of stock-based compensation expense related to RSUs in the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Service-Based RSU Awards The majority of the annual compensation the Company provides to non-employee members of its board of directors is paid in the form of RSUs. In addition, some members of the Company’s board of directors elect to receive the remainder of their annual compensation, or a portion thereof, in the form of RSUs. An aggregate amount of approximately 39,000, 58,000 and 76,000 service-based RSUs were granted to the Company’s non-employee directors as a result of these payments and elections during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively, with an estimated grant date fair value of $1.6 million, $1.4 million and $1.4 million, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Company granted approximately 531,000, 713,000 and 740,000 service-based RSUs, respectively, to its employees, with an estimated aggregate grant date fair value of $22.0 million, $19.1 million and $16.9 million, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Company granted approximately 2,000, 10,000 and 11,000 service-based RSUs, respectively, to non-employee consultants, with an estimated grant date fair value of $0.1 million, $0.2 million and $0.2 million, respectively. Performance-Based RSU Awards In March 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Company awarded approximately 228,000, 115,000 and 125,000 performance-based RSUs, respectively, to the Company’s executives and employees (the “Bonus RSUs”), with an estimated grant date fair value of $9.5 million, $3.1 million and $2.9 million, respectively. Vesting of the Bonus RSUs is and was dependent upon the Company’s

Equity Transactions

Equity Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Equity Transactions	Equity Transactions Preferred Stock The Company is authorized to issue 2.0 million shares of preferred stock with a par value of $0.0001 per share. The Company previously issued 1.5 million shares of preferred stock. The remaining 0.5 million authorized shares of preferred stock remain undesignated and unissued as of December 31, 2021 and 2020. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were no outstanding shares of preferred stock, as all preferred stock was converted into common stock in prior periods according to its terms. Share Repurchase Program In February 2021, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had authorized the repurchase of up to $300.0 million of its common stock through December 31, 2022. This time-frame can be extended or shortened by the Board of Directors. Repurchases are made from time to time on the open market at prevailing prices or in negotiated transactions off the market. All shares are immediately retired upon repurchase in accordance with the board-approved policy. When treasury shares are retired, the Company’s policy is to allocate the excess of the repurchase price over the par value of shares acquired first, to additional paid-in capital, and then to retained earnings. The portion to be allocated to additional paid-in capital is calculated by applying a percentage, determined by dividing the number of shares to be retired by the number of shares outstanding, to the balance of additional paid-in capital as of the date of retirement.

Revenue (Notes)

Revenue (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]	Revenue The following table summarizes the Company’s services revenue: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Commercial services: Voice and data $ 175,584 $ 168,668 $ 173,167 IoT data 110,919 96,981 96,435 Broadband 42,990 35,959 30,455 Hosted payload and other data 58,611 60,600 49,969 Total commercial services 388,104 362,208 350,026 Government services 103,887 100,887 97,132 Total services $ 491,991 $ 463,095 $ 447,158 The following table summarizes the Company’s engineering and support services revenue: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Commercial $ 4,613 $ 4,529 $ 2,852 Government 25,825 29,696 27,578 Total $ 30,438 $ 34,225 $ 30,430 The Company's contracts with customers generally do not contain performance obligations with terms in excess of one year. As such, the Company does not disclose details related to the value of performance obligations that are unsatisfied as of the end of the reporting period. The total value of any performance obligations that extend beyond a year is immaterial to the financial statements. The timing of revenue recognition, billings and cash collections results in billed accounts receivable, unbilled receivables (contract assets), and deferred revenue (contract liabilities) on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company bills amounts under its agreed-upon contractual terms at periodic intervals (for services), upon shipment (for equipment), or upon achievement of contractual milestones or as work progresses (for engineering and support services). Billing may occur subsequent to revenue recognition, resulting in unbilled accounts receivable (contract assets). The Company may also receive payments from customers before revenue is recognized, resulting in deferred revenue (contract liabilities). The Company recognized revenue that was previously recorded as deferred revenue in the amounts of $43.0 million, $41.1 million and $43.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company has also recorded costs of obtaining contracts expected to be recovered in prepaid expenses and other current assets (contract assets or commissions), that are not separately disclosed on the consolidated balance sheets. The commissions are recognized over the estimated usage period. The following table presents contract assets not separately disclosed: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Contract Assets: Commissions $ 1,190 $ 993 Other contract costs $ 2,558 $ 2,860 Unbilled receivables $ 10,752 $ 9,132

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes U.S. and foreign components of income before income taxes are presented below: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) U.S. loss $ (31,352) $ (89,251) $ (218,391) Foreign income 2,464 287 272 Total loss before income taxes $ (28,888) $ (88,964) $ (218,119) The components of the Company’s income tax provision were as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Current taxes: Federal tax benefit $ (537) $ (688) $ (3,796) State tax expense 42 70 37 Foreign tax expense 2,240 1,387 1,481 Total current tax (benefit) expense 1,745 769 (2,278) Deferred taxes: Federal tax benefit (14,109) (27,701) (50,690) State tax benefit (6,686) (5,869) (1,850) Foreign tax benefit (519) (109) (1,302) Total deferred tax benefit (21,314) (33,679) (53,842) Total income tax benefit $ (19,569) $ (32,910) $ (56,120) A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory income tax expense to the Company’s effective income tax provision is below. Any amounts that do not have a meaningful impact on this reconciliation are not separately disclosed. Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Expected tax benefit at U.S. federal statutory tax rate $ (6,067) $ (18,811) $ (45,790) State taxes, net of federal benefit (9,094) (6,723) (15,608) State tax valuation allowance 711 2,561 16,216 Deferred impact of state tax law changes and elections 1,200 (1,684) (2,414) Equity-based compensation (9,597) (8,414) (8,227) Limitation on executive compensation deduction 3,140 666 920 Other nondeductible items 65 206 873 Tax credits (1,278) (1,048) (995) Foreign taxes 1,100 723 1,217 Other adjustments 251 (386) (2,312) Total income tax benefit $ (19,569) $ (32,910) $ (56,120) The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows: December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Deferred tax assets Long-term contracts $ 57,189 $ 64,738 Federal, state and foreign net operating losses, other carryforwards and tax credits 410,450 430,273 Other 23,236 22,493 Total deferred tax assets 490,875 517,504 Valuation allowance (34,522) (32,218) Net deferred tax assets 456,353 485,286 Deferred tax liabilities Fixed assets, intangibles and research and development expenditures (532,414) (577,955) Investment in joint venture (46,070) (52,203) Other (11,061) (6,283) Total deferred tax liabilities (589,545) (636,441) Net deferred income tax liabilities $ (133,192) $ (151,155) Pursuant to ASC 740, the Company nets deferred tax assets and liabilities within the same jurisdiction. As of December 31, 2021, the Company had a net deferred tax asset of $1.1 million that is included in other assets on the balance sheet and a net deferred tax liability of $134.3 million. The Company 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 carryback year(s) if carryback is permitted under applicable tax law; and (iv) tax planning strategies. The Company had deferred tax assets related to cumulative U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards and interest expense carryforwards of approximately $330.2 million and $337.1 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards for periods prior to 2018, if unutilized, will expire in various amounts from 2031 through 2037. The Company believes that the U.S. federal net operating losses will be utilized before the expiration dates and, as such, no valuation allowance has been established for these deferred tax assets. U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards for 2018 and thereafter and interest expense carryforwards do not expire. The Company had deferred tax assets related to the state net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $61.3 million and $69.7 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, that expire from 2025 through 2043. The Company does not expect to fully utilize all of its state net operating losses within the respective carryforward periods and as such reflects a partial valuation allowance of $32.6 million and $30.2 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, against these deferred tax assets on its consolidated balance sheet. The Company had deferred tax assets related to the foreign net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $0.6 million and $0.7 million, as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, that begin to expire in 2026. The Company does not expect to fully utilize all of its foreign net operating losses within the carryforward periods. As such, the Company had recorded a partial valuation allowance of $0.5 million as of December 31, 2021, which is unchanged from December 31, 2020, against these deferred tax assets on its consolidated balance sheets. The timing and manner in which the Company will utilize the net operating loss carryforwards in any year, or in total, may be limited in the future as a result of changes in the Company’s ownership and any limitations imposed by the jurisdictions in which the Company operates. The Company had approximately $11.1 million and $10.0 million of deferred tax assets related to research and development tax credits as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, that expire in various amounts from 2029 through 2041. The Company had approximately $5.6 million and $5.7 million of deferred tax assets related to foreign tax credits as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, that expire in various amounts through 2031. The Company does not expect to utilize all of its foreign tax credits within the respective carryforward periods. As such, the Company had a partial valuation allowance of $0.8 million and $1.1 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Company has provided for U.S. income taxes on all undistributed earnings of its significant foreign subsidiaries since the Company does not indefinitely reinvest these undistributed earnings. 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. Uncertain Income Tax Positions The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. and various state and foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in evaluating tax positions and determining the provision for income taxes. The Company establishes liabilities for tax-related uncertainties based on estimates of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes may be due. These liabilities are established when the Company believes that certain positions might be challenged despite its belief that its tax return positions are fully supportable. The Company adjusts these liabilities in light of changing facts and circumstances, such as the outcome of a tax audit. The provision for income taxes includes the impact of changes to these liabilities. There were no unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2021, and the amount of unrecognized tax benefits was $0.5 million as of December 31, 2020. Any changes in the next twelve months are not anticipated to have a significant impact on the results of operations, financial position or cash flows of the Company. All of the Company’s uncertain tax positions, if recognized, would affect its income tax expense. The Company has elected an accounting policy to classify interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. As of December 31, 2021, there were no interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits, and as of December 31, 2020, potential interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits were not significant. The Company is subject to tax audits in all jurisdictions for which it files tax returns. Tax audits by their very nature are often complex and can require several years to complete. Currently, there are no U.S. federal, state or foreign jurisdiction tax audits pending. The Company’s corporate U.S. federal and state tax returns from 2011 to 2020 remain subject to examination by tax authorities and the Company’s foreign tax returns from 2013 to 2020 remain subject to examination by tax authorities. The following is a tabular reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits which includes related interest and penalties: 2021 2020 (In thousands) Balance at January 1, $ 537 $ 953 Change attributable to tax positions taken in a prior period (537) (416) Balance at December 31, $ — $ 537

Net Income (Loss) Per Share

Net Income (Loss) Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Income (Loss) Per Share	Net Loss Per Share The Company calculates basic net loss per common share by dividing net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. In periods of net income, diluted net income per share takes into account the effect of potentially dilutive common shares when the effect is dilutive. Potentially dilutive common shares include (i) common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options and (ii) contingent RSUs that are convertible into shares of common stock upon achievement of certain service and performance requirements. The effect of potentially dilutive common shares is computed using the treasury stock method. The computations of basic and diluted net loss per common share are set forth below: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands, except per share data) Numerator: Net loss attributable to common stockholders - basic and diluted $ (9,319) $ (56,054) $ (166,193) Denominator: Weighted average common shares - basic and diluted 133,530 133,491 125,167 Net loss attributable to common stockholders per share - basic and diluted $ (0.07) $ (0.42) $ (1.33) Due to the Company’s net loss position for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 all potential common stock equivalents were anti-dilutive and therefore excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share. The incremental number of shares underlying stock options and RSUs outstanding with anti-dilutive effects are presented below: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Performance-based RSUs 183 127 295 Service-based RSUs 536 567 678 Stock options 1,189 1,946 2,522

Related Party Transaction Discl

Related Party Transaction Disclosure Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions Disclosure	Related Party Transactions Aireon LLC and Aireon Holdings LLC The Company's satellite constellation hosts the Aireon system, which provides a global air traffic surveillance service through a series of automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (“ADS-B”) receivers. The Company formed Aireon in 2011, with subsequent investments from the air navigation service providers (“ANSPs”) of Canada, Italy, Denmark, Ireland and the United Kingdom, to develop and market this service. The Company and the other Aireon investors hold their interests in Aireon through an amended and restated LLC agreement (the “Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement”). Aireon Holdings LLC holds 100% of the membership interests in Aireon LLC, which is the operating entity. At each of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company's fully diluted ownership stake in Aireon Holdings LLC was approximately 35.7%, subject to certain redemption provisions contained in the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement. The Company's investment in Aireon is accounted for as an equity method investment, with a carrying value of zero. Aireon has contracted to pay the Company a fee to host the ADS-B receivers on its constellation, as well as fees for power and data services in connection with the delivery of the air traffic surveillance data. Pursuant to an agreement with Aireon (the “Hosting Agreement”), Aireon will pay the Company fees of $200.0 million to host the ADS-B receivers, of which $62.5 million had been paid as of December 31, 2021, as well as power fees of up to approximately $3.7 million per year. Aireon also pays data services fees of approximately $19.8 million per year for the delivery of the air traffic surveillance data under a data transmission services agreement. Pursuant to ASU 2016-02, the Company considers the Hosting Agreement an operating lease. The Company recognized $16.1 million, $16.1 million and $16.0 million of hosting fee revenue under the Hosting Agreement for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. There were no receivables due under the Hosting Agreement as of December 31, 2021 and 2020. The Company recorded power fee and data service fee revenue from Aireon of $23.5 million, $23.9 million and $12.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Under two services agreements, the Company also provides Aireon with administrative services and support services, the fees for which are paid monthly. Aireon receivables due to the Company under these two agreements totaled $2.2 million and $2.3 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Segments, Significant Customers

Segments, Significant Customers, Supplier and Service Providers and Geographic Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segments, significant customers, supplier and service providers and geographic information	Segments, Significant Customers, Supplier and Service Providers and Geographic Information The Company operates in one business segment, providing global satellite communications services and products. The Company derived approximately 21%, 22% and 22% of its total revenue in the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively, from prime contracts or subcontracts with agencies of the U.S. government. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, no single commercial customer accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s total revenue. Approximately 34% and 35% of the Company’s accounts receivable balance at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, was due from prime contracts or subcontracts with agencies of the U.S. government. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, no single commercial customer accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s total accounts receivable balance. The Company contracts for the manufacture of its subscriber equipment primarily from a limited number of manufacturers and utilizes other sole source suppliers for certain component parts of its devices. Should events or circumstances prevent the manufacturer or the suppliers from producing the equipment or component parts, the Company’s business could be adversely affected until the Company is able to move production to other facilities of the manufacturer or secure a replacement manufacturer or an alternative supplier for such component parts. Net property and equipment by geographic area was as follows: December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) United States $ 429,888 $ 421,930 Satellites in orbit 2,228,644 2,487,220 All others 3,804 7,926 Total $ 2,662,336 $ 2,917,076 Revenue by geographic area was as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) United States $ 330,948 $ 323,605 $ 300,494 Other countries (1) 283,552 259,834 259,950 Total $ 614,500 $ 583,439 $ 560,444 (1) No single country in this group represented more than 10% of revenue. Revenue is attributed to geographic area based on the billing address of the distributor. Service location and the billing address are often not the same. The Company’s distributors sell services directly or indirectly to end users, who may be located or use the Company’s products and services elsewhere. The Company cannot provide the geographical distribution of end users because it does not contract directly with them. The Company is exposed to foreign currency exchange fluctuations as foreign currency exchange rate movements create a degree of risk by affecting the U.S. dollar value of sales made and costs incurred in foreign currencies.

Employee Benefit Plan

Employee Benefit Plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plan	Employee Benefit PlanThe Company sponsors a defined-contribution 401(k) retirement plan (the “Plan”) that covers all employees. Employees are eligible to participate in the Plan on the first day of the month following the date of hire, and participants are 100% vested from the date of eligibility. The Company matches employees’ contributions equal to 100% of the salary deferral contributions up to 5% of the employees’ eligible compensation each pay period. Company matching contributions to the Plan were $3.5 million, $3.1 million, and $3.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Significant Accounting Polici_2

Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation	Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation The Company has prepared the consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of (i) the Company, (ii) its wholly owned subsidiaries, and (iii) all less than wholly owned subsidiaries that the Company controls. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its estimates and assumptions, including those related to revenue recognition, the useful lives and recoverability of long-lived and intangible assets, income taxes, stock-based compensation, the incremental borrowing rate for its leases, and contingencies, among others. The Company bases these estimates on historical and anticipated results, trends, and various other assumptions that it believes are reasonable, including assumptions as to future events. These estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities and recorded revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
Adopted Accounting Pronouncements	Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In December 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (“ASU 2019-12”). This guidance amends certain aspects of the accounting for income taxes. The Company's adoption of ASU 2019-12 on January 1, 2021 had no impact on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting (“ASU 2020-04”). The guidance provides optional expedients and exceptions for contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference London Inter-bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) or another reference rate expected to be discontinued. ASU 2020-04 was further amended in January 2021 when the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope (“ASU 2021-01”), which clarified the applicability of certain provisions. Both ASU 2020-04 and ASU 2021-01 are currently effective prospectively for all entities through December 31, 2022 when the reference rate replacement activity is expected to have been completed. The guidance in ASU 2020-04 and ASU 2021-01 is optional and may be elected over time as reference rate reform activities occur. As of December 31, 2021, the Company elected to apply the optional expedient for hedge accounting specifically to the interest rate cap agreement (the "Cap") which was executed in July 2021. This allowed the Company to assume that the index upon which future interest payments on the hedged portion of the Term Loan (see Note 8 ) will be based matches the index on the Cap. Adoption of this
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements The Company evaluates assets and liabilities subject to fair value measurements on a recurring and non-recurring basis to determine the appropriate level to classify them for each reporting period. This determination requires significant judgments to be made by management of the Company. Fair value is the price that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability assuming an orderly transaction in the most advantageous market at the measurement date. U.S. GAAP establishes a hierarchical disclosure framework which prioritizes and ranks the level of observability of inputs used in measuring fair value. The fair value hierarchy consists of the following tiers: • Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; • Level 2, defined as observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities; and • Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions. The fair value estimates are based upon certain market assumptions and information available to the Company. The carrying values of the following financial instruments approximated their fair values as of December 31, 2021 and 2020: cash and cash equivalents, prepaid expenses and other current assets, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued expenses and other current liabilities. Fair values approximate their carrying values because of their short-term nature. The Level 2 cash equivalents include money market funds, commercial paper and short-term U.S. agency securities. The Company also classifies its derivative financial instruments as Level 2. The fair values of the Company’s Level 2 estimates are based upon certain market assumptions and information available to the Company. In determining fair value, the Company uses a market approach utilizing valuation models that incorporate observable inputs such as interest rates, bond yields and quoted prices for similar assets.
Concentrations of Credit Risk	Concentrations of Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and receivables. The majority of cash is invested into a money market fund with U.S. treasuries, Agency Mortgage Backed Securities and/or U.S. government guaranteed debt. While the Company maintains its cash and cash equivalents with financial institutions with high credit ratings, it often maintains those deposits in federally insured financial institutions in excess of federally insured limits. The Company performs credit evaluations of its customers’ financial condition and records reserves to provide for estimated credit losses. Accounts receivable are due from both domestic and international customers.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of ninety days or less to be cash equivalents. These investments, along with cash deposited in institutional money market funds, regular interest bearing depository accounts and non-interest bearing depository accounts, are classified as cash and cash equivalents on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Accounts Receivable	Accounts ReceivableTrade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and are subject to late fee penalties. Management develops its estimate of an allowance for uncollectible receivables based on the Company’s experience with specific customers, aging of outstanding invoices, its understanding of customers’ current economic circumstances and its own judgment as to the likelihood that the Company will ultimately receive payment. The Company writes off its accounts receivable when balances ultimately are deemed uncollectible.
Foreign Currencies	Foreign CurrenciesGenerally, the functional currency of the Company’s foreign consolidated subsidiaries is the local currency. Assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiaries are translated to U.S. dollars based on exchange rates at the end of the reporting period. Income and expense items are translated at the weighted-average exchange rates prevailing during the reporting period. Translation adjustments are accumulated in a separate component of stockholders’ equity. Transaction gains or losses are classified as other income (expense), net in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). In instances where the financial statements of a foreign entity in a highly inflationary economy are material, they are remeasured as if the functional currency were the reporting currency. In these instances, the financial statements of those entities are remeasured into the reporting currency. A highly inflationary economy is one that has cumulative inflation of approximately 100% or more over a three-year period.
Deferred Financing Costs	Deferred Financing CostsDirect and incremental costs incurred in connection with securing debt financing are deferred and are amortized as additional interest expense using the effective interest method over the term of the related debt.
Capitalized Interest	Capitalized InterestDuring the development and construction periods of a project, including the financing of the Company's upgraded satellite constellation, the Company capitalizes interest. Capitalization ceases when the asset is ready for its intended use or when these activities are substantially suspended. If some portions of a project are substantially complete and ready for use and other portions have not yet reached that stage, the Company ceases capitalizing costs on the completed portion of the project but continues to capitalize for the incomplete portion of the project.
Inventory	InventoryInventory consists primarily of finished goods, although the Company at times also maintains an inventory of raw materials from third-party manufacturers. The Company outsources manufacturing of subscriber equipment to a third-party manufacturer and purchases accessories from third-party suppliers. The Company’s cost of inventory includes an allocation of overhead, including payroll and payroll-related costs of employees directly involved in bringing inventory to its existing condition, and freight. Inventories are valued using the average cost method and are carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value.The Company has a manufacturing agreement with Benchmark Electronics Inc. (“Benchmark”) to manufacture most of its subscriber equipment. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company may be required to purchase excess materials at cost plus a contractual markup if the materials are not used in production within the periods specified in the agreement. Benchmark will then repurchase such materials from the Company at the same price paid by the Company, as required for the production of the subscriber equipment.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based CompensationThe Company accounts for stock-based compensation at fair value. The fair value of stock options is determined at the grant date using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. The fair value of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) is equal to the closing price of the underlying common stock on the grant date. The fair value of an award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service or performance period and is classified in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) in a manner consistent with the classification of the recipient’s compensation. The expected vesting of the Company’s performance-based RSUs is based upon the probability that the Company achieves the defined performance goals. The level of achievement of performance goals, if any, is determined by the Compensation Committee. Stock-based awards to non-employee consultants are expensed at their grant-date fair value as services are provided according to the terms of their agreements and are classified in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. The Company applies judgment in determining the useful lives based on factors such as engineering data, long-term strategy for using the assets, the manufacturer's estimated design life for the assets, laws and regulations that could impact the useful lives of the assets and other economic factors. The Company assesses the current estimated operational life of the satellites, including the potential impact of environmental factors on the satellites, ongoing operational enhancements and software upgrades when evaluating the useful lives of its satellites. Additionally, the Company reviews engineering data relating to the operation and performance of its satellite network. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Satellites 12.5 years Ground system 5-7 years Equipment 3-5 years Internally developed software and purchased software 3-7 years Building 39 years Building improvements 5-39 years Leasehold improvements shorter of useful life or remaining lease term The Company calculates depreciation expense using the straight-line method and evaluates the appropriateness of the useful life used in this calculation on a quarterly basis or as events occur that require additional assessment. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.
Derivatives and Fair Value	Derivative Financial Instruments The Company uses derivatives (interest rate swap, swaption, cap) to manage its exposure to fluctuating interest rate risk on variable rate debt. Its derivatives are measured at fair value and are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets within other current liabilities and other assets. When the Company’s derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the changes in fair value of the derivatives are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and subsequently recognized in earnings when the hedged items impact earnings. Any ineffective portion of a derivative's change in fair value will be recognized in earnings in the same period in which the hedged interest payments affect earnings. Within the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), the gains and losses related to cash flow hedges are recognized within interest income (expense), net, as this is the same financial statement line item associated with the hedged items. Cash flows from hedging activities are included in operating activities within the Company’s consolidated statements of cash flows, which is the same category as the item being hedged. See Note 8 for further information.
Long-Lived Assets	Long-Lived AssetsThe Company assesses its long-lived assets for impairment when indicators of impairment exist. Recoverability of assets is measured by comparing the carrying amounts of the assets to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. Any impairment loss would be measured as the excess of the assets’ carrying amount over their fair value.
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets The Company’s intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their useful lives and reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If any indicators were present, the Company would test for recoverability by comparing the carrying amount of the asset to the net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated from the asset. If those net undiscounted cash flows do not exceed the carrying amount (i.e., the asset is not recoverable), the Company would perform the next step, which is to determine the fair value of the asset and record an impairment loss, if any. The Company evaluates the useful lives for these intangible assets each reporting period to determine whether events and circumstances warrant a revision in their remaining useful lives. Amortization is calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Intellectual property 20 years Assembled workforce 7 years Patents 14 - 20 years
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition The Company derives its revenue primarily as a wholesaler of satellite communications products and services. The primary types of revenue include (i) service revenue (access and usage-based airtime fees), (ii) subscriber equipment revenue, and (iii) revenue generated by providing engineering and support services to commercial and government customers. In addition to the discussion immediately below, see Note 12 for further discussion of the Company's revenue recognition. Wholesaler of satellite communications products and services Pursuant to wholesale agreements, the Company sells its products and services to service providers and recognizes revenue as it fulfills its performance obligations to the service providers, based an amount that reflects the consideration to which it expects to be entitled to in exchange for those products and services. The service providers, in turn, sell the products and services to other distributors or directly to the end users. The Company recognizes revenue when an arrangement exists, services or equipment are transferred, the transaction price is determined, the arrangement has commercial substance, and collection of consideration is probable. Contracts with multiple performance obligations At times, the Company sells services and equipment through arrangements that bundle equipment, airtime and other services. For these revenue arrangements when the Company sells services and equipment in bundled arrangements and determines that it has separate distinct performance obligations, the Company allocates the bundled contract price among the various performance obligations based on each deliverable’s stand-alone selling price. If the stand-alone selling price is not directly observable, the Company estimates the amount to be allocated for each performance obligation based on observable market transactions or the residual approach. When the Company determines the performance obligations are not distinct, the Company recognizes revenue on a combined basis. To the extent the Company's contracts include variable consideration, the transaction price includes both fixed and variable consideration. The variable consideration contained within the Company's contracts with customers may include discounts, credits and other similar items. When a contract includes variable consideration, the Company evaluates the estimate of the variable consideration to determine whether the estimate needs to be constrained; therefore, the Company includes the variable consideration in the transaction price only to the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal of the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently resolved. Variable consideration estimates are updated at the end of each quarter. Service revenue sold on a stand-alone basis Service revenue is generated from the Company’s service providers through usage of its satellite system and through fixed monthly access fees per user charged to service providers. Revenue for usage is recognized when usage occurs and billed in arrears with payments generally submitted within 30 days. Revenue for fixed-per-user access fees is billed monthly in advance and generally recognized over the month, or related usage period, in which the services are provided to the end user. The Company sells prepaid services in the form of e-vouchers and prepaid cards. A liability is established equal to the cash paid upon purchase for the e-voucher or prepaid card. The Company recognizes revenue from (i) the prepaid services upon the use of the e-voucher or prepaid card by the customer and (ii) the estimated pattern of use. The Company does not offer refunds for unused prepaid services. Services sold to the U.S. government The Company provides airtime and airtime support to U.S. government and other authorized customers pursuant to the Enhanced Mobile Satellite Services (“EMSS”) contract managed by the U.S. Space Force. Under the terms of this agreement, authorized customers continue to utilize airtime services, provided through the U.S. government’s dedicated gateway. These services include unlimited global standard and secure voice, low and high-speed data, paging, broadcast and Distributed Tactical Communications Services (“DTCS”) services for an unlimited number of Department of Defense (“DoD”) and other federal subscribers. Under this contract, revenue is based on the annual fee for the fixed-price contract with unlimited subscribers and is recognized on a straight-line basis over each contractual year, with equal payments submitted monthly. The U.S. government purchases its subscriber equipment from third-party distributors and not directly from the Company. Subscriber equipment sold on a stand-alone basis The Company recognizes subscriber equipment sales and the related costs when title to the equipment (and the risks and rewards of ownership) passes to the customer, typically upon shipment. Customers are billed when inventory is shipped, and payment is generally due within 30 days. Customers do not have rights of return without prior consent from the Company. Government engineering and support services The Company provides maintenance services to the U.S. government’s dedicated gateway. This revenue is recognized ratably over the periods in which the services are provided; the related costs are expensed as incurred. Other government and commercial engineering and support services
Research and Development	Research and Development Research and development costs are charged to expense in the period in which they are incurred.
Advertising Costs	Advertising CostsCosts associated with advertising and promotions are expensed as incurred.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability approach, which requires the recognition of tax benefits or expenses for temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized. The Company also recognizes a tax benefit from uncertain tax positions only if it is “more likely than not” that the position is sustainable based on its technical merits. The Company’s policy is to recognize interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions as a component of income tax expense.
Net Income (Loss) Per Share	Net Loss Per Share The Company calculates basic net loss per share by dividing net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per share takes into account the effect of potentially dilutive common shares when the effect is dilutive. The effect of potentially dilutive common shares, including common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options, is computed using the treasury stock method. The effect of potentially dilutive common shares from the conversion of outstanding convertible preferred securities was computed using the as-if converted method at the stated conversion rate. The Company’s unvested RSUs awarded to the board of directors contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends and therefore are considered to be participating securities in periods of net income. The calculation of basic and diluted net loss per share excludes net income attributable to these unvested RSUs from the numerator and excludes the impact of these unvested RSUs from the denominator.

Significant Accounting Polici_3

Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Inventory, Current	The Company's inventory balance consisted of the following: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Finished Goods $ 18,395 $ 27,936 Raw Materials 11,850 5,983 Inventory Valuation Reserve (1,201) (1,439) Total $ 29,044 $ 32,480
Schedule of Stock-Based Compensation	Classification of stock-based compensation by line item on the balance sheet and statement of operations is presented below: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Property and equipment, net $ 2,376 $ 1,319 Inventory 436 261 Prepaid and other current assets 22 28 Cost of subscriber equipment 53 29 Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) 8,037 5,037 Research and development 333 305 Selling, general and administrative 18,359 11,343 Total stock-based compensation $ 29,616 $ 18,322
Property and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives	Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Satellites 12.5 years Ground system 5-7 years Equipment 3-5 years Internally developed software and purchased software 3-7 years Building 39 years Building improvements 5-39 years Leasehold improvements shorter of useful life or remaining lease term
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Useful Lives	Amortization is calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Intellectual property 20 years Assembled workforce 7 years Patents 14 - 20 years

Cash and Cash Equivalents and_2

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Summary of Company's Cash and Cash Equivalents	The following table summarizes the Company’s cash and cash equivalents: December 31, Recurring Fair 2021 2020 (In thousands) Cash and cash equivalents: Cash $ 28,496 $ 27,168 Money market funds 292,417 208,005 Level 2 Fixed income debt securities — 2,005 Level 2 Total cash and cash equivalents $ 320,913 $ 237,178
Summary of Contractual Maturities of Company's Marketable Securities	The following table presents the contractual maturities of the Company's fixed income debt securities: December 31, 2020 Amortized Cost Fair Value (In thousands) Mature within one year $ 5,530 $ 5,525 Mature after one year and within three years 2,024 2,023 Total $ 7,554 $ 7,548

Property and Equipment (Tables)

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Property and equipment consisted of the following: December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Satellite system $ 3,197,460 $ 3,197,460 Ground system 75,899 64,581 Equipment 46,461 44,871 Internally developed software and purchased software 290,979 251,320 Building and leasehold improvements 30,198 29,924 Total depreciable property and equipment 3,640,997 3,588,156 Less: accumulated depreciation (1,253,354) (959,606) Total depreciable property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation 2,387,643 2,628,550 Land 8,037 8,037 Construction-in-process: Ground spares 225,254 225,254 Other construction-in-process 41,402 55,235 Total property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation $ 2,662,336 $ 2,917,076
Other construction in process	Other construction-in-process consisted of the following: December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Internally developed and purchased software $ 29,443 $ 44,444 Equipment 11,558 10,388 Ground system 401 403 Total other construction-in-process $ 41,402 $ 55,235

Intangible Assets (Tables)

Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of identifiable intangible assets	The Company had identifiable intangible assets as follows: December 31, 2021 Useful Gross Accumulated Net (In thousands) Indefinite life intangible assets: Trade names Indefinite $ 21,195 $ — $ 21,195 Spectrum and licenses Indefinite 14,030 — 14,030 Total 35,225 — 35,225 Definite life intangible assets: Intellectual property 20 years 16,439 (9,637) 6,802 Assembled workforce 7 years 5,678 (4,055) 1,623 Patents 14 - 20 years 441 (92) 349 Total 22,558 (13,784) 8,774 Total intangible assets $ 57,783 $ (13,784) $ 43,999 December 31, 2020 Useful Gross Accumulated Net (In thousands) Indefinite life intangible assets: Trade names Indefinite $ 21,195 $ — $ 21,195 Spectrum and licenses Indefinite 14,030 — 14,030 Total 35,225 — 35,225 Definite life intangible assets: Intellectual property 20 years 16,439 (8,927) 7,512 Assembled workforce 7 years 5,678 (3,244) 2,434 Patents 14 - 20 years 396 (63) 333 Total 22,513 (12,234) 10,279 Total intangible assets $ 57,738 $ (12,234) $ 45,504
Schedule of finite-lived intangible assets, future amortization expense	Future amortization expense with respect to intangible assets existing at December 31, 2021, by year and in the aggregate, was as follows: Year ending December 31, Amount (In thousands) 2022 $ 1,555 2023 1,555 2024 744 2025 744 2026 744 Thereafter 3,432 Total estimated future amortization expense $ 8,774

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Leases [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Right of Use Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	The table below summarizes the Company’s lease-related assets and liabilities: Leases Classification December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 (In thousands) Operating lease assets Noncurrent Other assets $ 20,369 $ 23,974 Total lease assets $ 20,369 $ 23,974 Operating lease liabilities Current Accrued expenses and other current liabilities $ 3,703 $ 3,838 Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities 19,587 23,258 Total lease liabilities $ 23,290 $ 27,096
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block]	Future payment obligations with respect to the Company's operating leases in which it was the lessee at December 31, 2021, by year and in the aggregate, were as follows: Year Ending December 31, Amount (In thousands) 2022 $ 5,270 2023 4,997 2024 4,972 2025 5,088 2026 3,287 Thereafter 4,921 Total lease payments $ 28,535
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Maturity [Table Text Block]	Both Aireon and L3Harris have made payments for their hosting agreements and the Company expects they will continue to do so. Future income with respect to the Company's operating leases in which it was the lessor at December 31, 2021, by year and in the aggregate, is as follows: Year Ending December 31, Amount (In thousands) 2022 $ 21,445 2023 21,445 2024 21,445 2025 21,445 2026 21,445 Thereafter 77,462 Total lease income $ 184,687

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Interest Expense Disclosure	The following table presents the interest and amortization of deferred financing fees related to the Term Loan: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Total interest incurred $ 72,816 $ 99,155 $ 140,532 Amortization of deferred financing fees $ 4,316 $ 3,773 $ 21,320 Capitalized interest $ 2,146 $ 3,225 $ 15,055
Schedule of future payments of credit facility	Future minimum principal repayments with respect to the Company's debt balances existing at December 31, 2021, by year and in the aggregate, are as follows: Year ending December 31, Amount (In thousands) 2022 $ 16,500 2023 16,500 2024 16,500 2025 16,500 2026 1,555,125 Total debt commitments 1,621,125 Less: Original issuance discount 23,109 Less: Total short-term debt 16,500 Total long-term debt, net $ 1,581,516

Derivative Instruments (Tables)

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The following table presents the amount of unrealized gain or loss and related tax impact associated with the derivative instruments that the Company recorded in its consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss): Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Unrealized gain (loss), net of tax $ 10,408 $ (7,036) $ (121) Tax benefit (expense) $ (3,316) $ 2,464 $ (41)

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Schedule of share-based payment award, stock options, valuation assumptions	The following table summarizes weighted-average assumptions used in the Company's calculations of fair value: Year Ended December 31, 2019 Expected volatility 40.78% Expected term (years) 6.11 Expected dividends —% Risk free interest rate 2.59%
Schedule of Share-based compensation, stock options, activity	A summary of the activity of the Company’s stock options is as follows: Shares Weighted- Weighted- Aggregate (In thousands, except years and per share data) Options outstanding at December 31, 2018 5,703 $ 8.29 Granted 139 21.12 Cancelled or expired (1) 11.80 Exercised (1,670) 8.11 $ 29,584 Forfeited (18) 11.74 Options outstanding at December 31, 2019 4,153 $ 8.78 4.03 $ 65,887 Cancelled or expired (5) 20.17 Exercised (1,581) 8.14 $ 33,836 Forfeited (13) 18.17 Options outstanding at December 31, 2020 2,554 $ 9.10 3.94 $ 77,182 Cancelled or expired (3) 10.67 Exercised (857) 8.51 $ 31,544 Forfeited (13) 16.07 Options outstanding at December 31, 2021 1,681 $ 9.35 3.28 $ 53,698 Options exercisable at December 31, 2021 1,603 $ 8.84 3.11 $ 52,021 Options exercisable and expected to vest at December 31, 2021 1,680 $ 9.34 3.28 $ 53,684
Schedule of share-based compensation, restricted stock units award activity	A summary of the Company’s activity for RSUs is as follows: RSUs Weighted- (In thousands) Outstanding at December 31, 2018 3,077 $ 10.13 Granted 1,058 22.50 Forfeited (102) 14.86 Released (1,331) 10.52 Outstanding at December 31, 2019 2,702 $ 14.62 Granted 1,061 26.73 Forfeited (92) 17.72 Released (1,007) 15.63 Outstanding at December 31, 2020 2,664 $ 18.96 Granted 913 41.55 Forfeited (115) 29.49 Released (912) 21.12 Outstanding at December 31, 2021 2,550 $ 25.80 Vested and unreleased at December 31, 2021 (1) 860

Revenue (Tables)

Revenue (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the Company’s services revenue: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Commercial services: Voice and data $ 175,584 $ 168,668 $ 173,167 IoT data 110,919 96,981 96,435 Broadband 42,990 35,959 30,455 Hosted payload and other data 58,611 60,600 49,969 Total commercial services 388,104 362,208 350,026 Government services 103,887 100,887 97,132 Total services $ 491,991 $ 463,095 $ 447,158
Summary of Company's Engineering and Support Service Revenue [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the Company’s engineering and support services revenue: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Commercial $ 4,613 $ 4,529 $ 2,852 Government 25,825 29,696 27,578 Total $ 30,438 $ 34,225 $ 30,430
Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block]	The following table presents contract assets not separately disclosed: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Contract Assets: Commissions $ 1,190 $ 993 Other contract costs $ 2,558 $ 2,860 Unbilled receivables $ 10,752 $ 9,132

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of income before income tax, domestic and foreign	U.S. and foreign components of income before income taxes are presented below: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) U.S. loss $ (31,352) $ (89,251) $ (218,391) Foreign income 2,464 287 272 Total loss before income taxes $ (28,888) $ (88,964) $ (218,119)
Schedule of components of income tax expense (benefit)	The components of the Company’s income tax provision were as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Current taxes: Federal tax benefit $ (537) $ (688) $ (3,796) State tax expense 42 70 37 Foreign tax expense 2,240 1,387 1,481 Total current tax (benefit) expense 1,745 769 (2,278) Deferred taxes: Federal tax benefit (14,109) (27,701) (50,690) State tax benefit (6,686) (5,869) (1,850) Foreign tax benefit (519) (109) (1,302) Total deferred tax benefit (21,314) (33,679) (53,842) Total income tax benefit $ (19,569) $ (32,910) $ (56,120)
Schedule of effective income tax rate reconciliation	A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory income tax expense to the Company’s effective income tax provision is below. Any amounts that do not have a meaningful impact on this reconciliation are not separately disclosed. Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Expected tax benefit at U.S. federal statutory tax rate $ (6,067) $ (18,811) $ (45,790) State taxes, net of federal benefit (9,094) (6,723) (15,608) State tax valuation allowance 711 2,561 16,216 Deferred impact of state tax law changes and elections 1,200 (1,684) (2,414) Equity-based compensation (9,597) (8,414) (8,227) Limitation on executive compensation deduction 3,140 666 920 Other nondeductible items 65 206 873 Tax credits (1,278) (1,048) (995) Foreign taxes 1,100 723 1,217 Other adjustments 251 (386) (2,312) Total income tax benefit $ (19,569) $ (32,910) $ (56,120)
Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities	The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows: December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) Deferred tax assets Long-term contracts $ 57,189 $ 64,738 Federal, state and foreign net operating losses, other carryforwards and tax credits 410,450 430,273 Other 23,236 22,493 Total deferred tax assets 490,875 517,504 Valuation allowance (34,522) (32,218) Net deferred tax assets 456,353 485,286 Deferred tax liabilities Fixed assets, intangibles and research and development expenditures (532,414) (577,955) Investment in joint venture (46,070) (52,203) Other (11,061) (6,283) Total deferred tax liabilities (589,545) (636,441) Net deferred income tax liabilities $ (133,192) $ (151,155)
Summary of income tax contingencies	The following is a tabular reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits which includes related interest and penalties: 2021 2020 (In thousands) Balance at January 1, $ 537 $ 953 Change attributable to tax positions taken in a prior period (537) (416) Balance at December 31, $ — $ 537

Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Ta

Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computations of basic and diluted net income per share	The computations of basic and diluted net loss per common share are set forth below: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands, except per share data) Numerator: Net loss attributable to common stockholders - basic and diluted $ (9,319) $ (56,054) $ (166,193) Denominator: Weighted average common shares - basic and diluted 133,530 133,491 125,167 Net loss attributable to common stockholders per share - basic and diluted $ (0.07) $ (0.42) $ (1.33)
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share	The incremental number of shares underlying stock options and RSUs outstanding with anti-dilutive effects are presented below: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) Performance-based RSUs 183 127 295 Service-based RSUs 536 567 678 Stock options 1,189 1,946 2,522

Segments, Significant Custome_2

Segments, Significant Customers, Supplier and Service Providers and Geographic Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of long lived assets by geographical areas	Net property and equipment by geographic area was as follows: December 31, 2021 2020 (In thousands) United States $ 429,888 $ 421,930 Satellites in orbit 2,228,644 2,487,220 All others 3,804 7,926 Total $ 2,662,336 $ 2,917,076
Revenue from external customers by geographic areas	Revenue by geographic area was as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2021 2020 2019 (In thousands) United States $ 330,948 $ 323,605 $ 300,494 Other countries (1) 283,552 259,834 259,950 Total $ 614,500 $ 583,439 $ 560,444

Significant Accounting Polici_4

Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Definition: Three Year Cumulative Inflation Rate - Highly Inflationary Economy	100.00%
Advertising expense	$ 1.9	$ 1.2	$ 0.9
Allowance for doubtful accounts	The allowance for doubtful accounts was not material as of December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Inventory Impairment, Policy	The Company's expense for excess and obsolete inventory was not material during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 or 2019.

Significant Accounting Polici_5

Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation - Schedule of Inventory (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Finished Goods	$ 18,395	$ 27,936
Raw Materials	11,850	5,983
Inventory Valuation Reserve	(1,201)	(1,439)
Inventory	$ 29,044	$ 32,480
Obsolete Inventory	The Company's expense for excess and obsolete inventory was not material during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 or 2019.

Significant Accounting Polici_6

Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation - Classification of Stock-based Compensation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Property and equipment, net	$ 2,376	$ 1,319
Inventory	436	261
Prepaid and other current assets	22	28
Cost of subscriber equipment	53	29
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)	8,037	5,037
Research and development	333	305
Selling, general and administrative	18,359	11,343
Total stock-based compensation	$ 29,616	$ 18,322

Significant Accounting Polici_7

Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation - Schedule of Property and Equipment Useful Lives (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021
Satellites
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	12 years 6 months
Ground system | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Ground system | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	7 years
Equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Internally developed software and purchased software | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Internally developed software and purchased software | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	7 years
Building
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	39 years
Building improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Building improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	39 years

Significant Accounting Polici_8

Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation - Finite Lived Intangible Assets Useful Lives (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Intellectual property
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible asset	20 years	20 years
Assembled workforce
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible asset	7 years	7 years
Minimum | Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible asset	14 years	14 years
Maximum | Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible asset	20 years	20 years

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Deta

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash	$ 28,496	$ 27,168
Total cash and cash equivalents	320,913	237,178
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Amortized Cost [Abstract]
Mature within one year (amortized cost)	0	5,530
Mature after one year and within three years (amortized cost)	0	2,024
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Amortized Cost	0	7,554
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Fair Value [Abstract]
Mature within one year (fair value)	0	5,525
Mature after one year and within three years (fair value)	0	2,023
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	0	7,548
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Money market funds	292,417	208,005
Fixed income debt securities	$ 0	$ 2,005

Property and Equipment - Summar

Property and Equipment - Summary of Property, Plant, and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Satellite system	$ 3,197,460	$ 3,197,460
Ground system	75,899	64,581
Equipment	46,461	44,871
Internally developed software and purchased software	290,979	251,320
Building and leasehold improvements	30,198	29,924
Property and equipment gross excluding construction in process and land	3,640,997	3,588,156
Less: accumulated depreciation	(1,253,354)	(959,606)
Property and equipment net excluding construction in process and land	2,387,643	2,628,550
Land	8,037	8,037
Ground Spares	225,254	225,254
Construction in process:
Total other construction-in-process	41,402	55,235
Total property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	$ 2,662,336	$ 2,917,076

Property and Equipment - Constr

Property and Equipment - Construction in Process (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Internally developed and purchased software	$ 29,443	$ 44,444
Equipment	11,558	10,388
Ground system	401	403
Total other construction-in-process	$ 41,402	$ 55,235

Property and Equipment - Narrat

Property and Equipment - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	$ 303.8	$ 301.7	$ 296.1

Intangible Assets - Indentifiab

Intangible Assets - Indentifiable Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Indefinite life intangible assets:
Net Carrying Value	$ 35,225	$ 35,225
Definite life intangible assets:
Gross Carrying Value	22,558	22,513
Accumulated Amortization	(13,784)	(12,234)
Net Carrying Value	8,774	10,279
Gross Carrying Value	57,783	57,738
Accumulated Amortization	(13,784)	(12,234)
Total intangible assets, Net Carrying Value	$ 43,999	$ 45,504
Intellectual Property
Definite life intangible assets:
Useful Life	20 years	20 years
Gross Carrying Value	$ 16,439	$ 16,439
Accumulated Amortization	(9,637)	(8,927)
Net Carrying Value	$ 6,802	$ 7,512
Assembled workforce
Definite life intangible assets:
Useful Life	7 years	7 years
Gross Carrying Value	$ 5,678	$ 5,678
Accumulated Amortization	(4,055)	(3,244)
Net Carrying Value	1,623	2,434
Patents
Definite life intangible assets:
Gross Carrying Value	441	396
Accumulated Amortization	(92)	(63)
Net Carrying Value	349	333
Trade names
Indefinite life intangible assets:
Net Carrying Value	21,195	21,195
Spectrum and licensing
Indefinite life intangible assets:
Net Carrying Value	$ 14,030	$ 14,030
Minimum | Patents
Definite life intangible assets:
Useful Life	14 years	14 years
Maximum | Patents
Definite life intangible assets:
Useful Life	20 years	20 years

Intangible Assets - Narrative (

Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization of intangible assets	$ 1.6	$ 1.5	$ 1.6

Intangible Assets - Future Amor

Intangible Assets - Future Amortization Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2021	$ 1,555
2022	1,555
2023	744
2024	744
2025	744
Thereafter	3,432
Net Carrying Value	$ 8,774	$ 10,279

Leases Narrative (Details)

Leases Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Lessee, Operating Lease, Renewal Term	10 years
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term	5 years 10 months 24 days
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent	6.70%
Operating Lease, Expense	$ 5.6	$ 5.6	$ 5.1
Operating Lease, Lease Income	$ 21.4	$ 21.4	$ 21.6
Satellites
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	12 years 6 months

Lease Account Summary (Details)

Lease Account Summary (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	$ 20,369	$ 23,974
Operating Lease, Liability, Current	3,703	3,838
Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent	19,587	23,258
Total Operating Lease Liabilities	$ 23,290	$ 27,096

Lease Future Payment Obligation

Lease Future Payment Obligations (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021USD ($)
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Rolling Maturity [Abstract]
2022	$ 5,270
2023	4,997
2024	4,972
2025	5,088
2026	3,287
Thereafter	4,921
Total lease payments	$ 28,535

Lessor Payments to be Received

Lessor Payments to be Received (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021USD ($)
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments, Rolling Maturity [Abstract]
2022	$ 21,445
2023	21,445
2024	21,445
2025	21,445
2026	21,445
Thereafter	77,462
Total Operating Lease Payments to be Received	$ 184,687

Debt- Narrative (Details)

Debt- Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	5 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 07, 2020USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2021USD ($)Rate	Jul. 27, 2021USD ($)Rate	Dec. 31, 2021USD ($)Rate	Dec. 31, 2020USD ($)Rate	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Nov. 04, 2019USD ($)Rate
Debt [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Gross		$ 1,621,125		$ 1,621,125
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal				16,500
July repricing New OID			$ 4,100
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount			$ 65,200
Loss on extinguishment of debt				879	$ 30,209	$ 111,710
Unamortized Deferred Financing Costs		23,100		23,100	24,000
Credit Facility Carrying Amount		1,598,000		1,598,000	1,613,600
Long-term Debt, Fair Value		1,622,100		$ 1,622,100	1,647,900
Ratio of Indebtedness to Net Capital							6.25
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate During Period | Rate				4.30%
Payments of Financing Costs				$ 4,052	2,562	$ 28,803
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Gross							$ 100,000
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | Rate				3.75%
Credit Facility Drawdown Floor for Application of First Lien Net Leverage Ratio | Rate							35.00%
Term Loan B (Original) [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount					$ 1,637,600
Long-term Debt, Gross	$ 1,650,000						$ 1,450,000
Discount on Debt Issuance - Term Loan B | Rate							99.50%
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | Rate					3.75%
Term Loan B (Additional) [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Gross	$ 200,000
Debt Premium Percentage	1.00%
Refinanced Term Loan B [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount		$ 1,621,100		$ 1,621,100
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | Rate		2.50%	2.75%
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount	$ 360,000
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage | Rate				105.125%
Redemption Premium				$ 23,500
Interest Rate Floor [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | Rate				0.00%
Interest Rate Floor [Member] | Term Loan B (Original) [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | Rate					1.00%
Interest Rate Floor [Member] | Refinanced Term Loan B [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | Rate		0.75%	1.00%

Debt - Interest Incurred (Detai

Debt - Interest Incurred (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 21, 2021	Jul. 27, 2021	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Third-party repricing fees	$ 3,600	$ 1,300
Total interest incurred			$ 72,816	$ 99,155	$ 140,532
Amortization of deferred financing fees			4,316	3,773	21,320
Capitalized interest			2,146	3,225	$ 15,055
Interest payable			$ 100	$ 200

Debt Future Payments (Details)

Debt Future Payments (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021USD ($)
Senior Unsecured Notes [Line Items]
2022	$ 16,500
2023	16,500
2024	16,500
2025	16,500
2026	1,555,125
Total debt commitments	1,621,125
Less: Original issuance discount	23,109
Less: Total short-term debt	16,500
Total long-term debt, net	$ 1,581,516

Derivative Instruments - Narrat

Derivative Instruments - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	May 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Interest Rate Swaps [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net		$ 8.5	$ 9.1	$ 0.3
Interest Rate Swaption [Member]
Interest Rate Swaps [Line Items]
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate			0.50%
Derivative, Notional Amount			$ 1,000
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Liability at Fair Value			$ 4.4
Proceeds from sale of derivative	$ 0.7
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Interest Rate Swaps [Line Items]
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate			1.565%
Derivative, Notional Amount			$ 1,000
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Liability at Fair Value			$ 5.2
Interest Rate Cap
Interest Rate Swaps [Line Items]
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate		0.31%
Derivative, Notional Amount		$ 1,000
Derivative, Cap Interest Rate		1.50%
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Asset at Fair Value		$ 4.9

Derivative Instruments - Summar

Derivative Instruments - Summary of Unrealized Gains and Losses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrealized gain (loss), net of tax	$ 10,408	$ (7,036)	$ (121)
Tax benefit (expense)	$ (3,316)	$ 2,464	$ (41)

Stock-Based Compensation Narrat

Stock-Based Compensation Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares available for future grant	10,462,457
Share-Base Compensation Award, Reduction In Shares Available For Issuance By Shares Issued Pursuant To Any Appreciation Award	1
Equity Plan - Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent	100.00%
Share-Based Compensation Award, Reduction in Shares Available for Issuance by Shares Issued Pursuant to Any Stock Award that is not an Appreciation Award	1.8
Options Granted - Shares	0	0	139,000
Stock Options Granted - FV	$ 0	$ 0	$ 1.3
Employee stock option
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Option Contractual Term	10 years	10 years	10 years
Share-based compensation vesting period	4 years	4 years	4 years
Allocated share-based compensation expense	$ 0.8	$ 1	$ 1.3
Weighted average grant date fair value - options			$ 9.18
Fair value of options vested	2.3	$ 1.4	$ 1.4
Nonvested awards, compensation cost not yet recognized, total	$ 0.6
Nonvested awards, compensation cost not yet recognized, period for recognition	10 months 24 days
Employee stock option | Vesting on first anniversary of grant date
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	25.00%	25.00%	25.00%
Employee stock option | Vesting on the last day of each calendar quarter
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	6.25%	6.25%	6.25%
Restricted stock units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Nonvested awards, compensation cost not yet recognized, total	$ 22.2
Nonvested awards, compensation cost not yet recognized, period for recognition	1 year 4 months 9 days
Granted - restricted stock units	2,000	10,000	11,000
RSUs Granted - Grant Date Fair Value	$ 0.1	$ 0.2	$ 0.2
Restricted Stock or Unit Expense	$ 26	$ 15.7	$ 13.8
Restricted stock units (RSUs) | Employee
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation vesting period	4 years	4 years	4 years
Restricted stock units (RSUs) | Employee | Vesting on first anniversary of grant date
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	25.00%	25.00%	25.00%
Restricted stock units (RSUs) | Employee | Vesting on the last day of each calendar quarter
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	6.25%	6.25%	6.25%
Restricted stock units (RSUs) | Nonemployee | Vesting on first anniversary of grant date
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Restricted stock units (RSUs) | Nonemployee | Vesting on the last day of each calendar quarter
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	12.50%	12.50%	12.50%
Restricted stock units (RSUs) | Maximum | Vesting on the last day of each calendar quarter
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	150.00%	150.00%	150.00%
Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation vesting period	1 year	1 year	1 year
Granted - restricted stock units	228,000	115,000	125,000
RSUs Granted - Grant Date Fair Value	$ 9.5	$ 3.1	$ 2.9
Service based R S U
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted - restricted stock units	531,000	713,000	740,000
RSUs Granted - Grant Date Fair Value	$ 22	$ 19.1	$ 16.9
Director | Restricted stock units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Quarterly vesting percentage after first year anniversary	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Director | Service based R S U
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted - restricted stock units	39,000	58,000	76,000
RSUs Granted - Grant Date Fair Value	$ 1.6	$ 1.4	$ 1.4
Executive Officer | Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation vesting period	3 years	3 years	3 years
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Accelerated Vesting, Number	3,000	20,000	11,000
Award Performance Period	2 years	2 years	2 years
Executive Officer | Performance Shares | Vesting on first anniversary of grant date
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Executive Officer | Performance Shares | Vesting on the last day of each calendar quarter
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Executive Officer | Performance Shares | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights percentage	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Executive Officer | Performance Based Bonus R S U
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted - restricted stock units	110,000	144,000	96,000
RSUs Granted - Grant Date Fair Value	$ 4.6	$ 3.9	$ 2.2

Stock-Based Compensation Fair V

Stock-Based Compensation Fair Value Of Options Granted (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected volatility	40.78%
Expected term (years)	6 years 1 month 9 days
Expected dividends	0.00%
Risk free interest rate	2.59%

Stock-Based Compensation Activi

Stock-Based Compensation Activity Of Company's Stock Options (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding
Options outstanding, beginning of period (in shares)	2,554	4,153	5,703
Options Granted - Shares	0	0	139
Options Cancelled or expired - Shares	(3)	(5)	(1)
Aggregate Intrinsic Value of Stock Options Exercised	$ 31,544	$ 33,836	$ 29,584
Options Exercised - Shares	(857)	(1,581)	(1,670)
Options Forfeited - Shares	(13)	(13)	(18)
Options outstanding, end of period (in shares)	1,681	2,554	4,153
Options exercisable, end of period (in shares)	1,603
Options exercisable and expected to vest, end of period (in shares)	1,680
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Options outstanding, beginning of period - weighted average exercise price per share	$ 9.10	$ 8.78	$ 8.29
Options granted - weighted average exercise price per share			21.12
Options cancelled or expired - weighted average exercise price per share	10.67	20.17	11.80
Options exercised - weighted average exercise price per share	8.51	8.14	8.11
Options forfeited - weighted average exercise price per share	16.07	18.17	11.74
Options outstanding, end of period - weighted average exercise price per share	9.35	$ 9.10	$ 8.78
Options exercisable, end of period - weighted average exercise price per share	8.84
Options exercisable and expected to vest, end of period- weighted average exercise price per share	$ 9.34
Options outstanding, end of period - weighted average remaining contractual term (years)	3 years 3 months 10 days	3 years 11 months 8 days	4 years 10 days
Options exercisable, end of period - weighted average remaining contractual term (years)	3 years 1 month 9 days
Options exercisable and expected to vest, end of period - Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	3 years 3 months 10 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Options outstanding, end of period - aggregate intrinsic value	$ 53,698	$ 77,182	$ 65,887
Options exercisable, end of period - aggregate intrinsic value	52,021
Options exercisable and expected to vest, end of period - aggregate intrinsic value	$ 53,684

Stock-Based Compensation Outsta

Stock-Based Compensation Outstanding RSUs (Details) - Outstanding Restricted Stock Units - $ / shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
RSUs
Outstanding - restricted stock units	2,664	2,702	3,077
Granted - restricted stock units	913	1,061	1,058
Forfeited - restricted stock units	(115)	(92)	(102)
Released - restricted stock units	(912)	(1,007)	(1,331)
Outstanding - restricted stock units	2,550	2,664	2,702
Vested - restricted stock units	860
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Outstanding - weighted average grant date fair value per RSU	$ 18.96	$ 14.62	$ 10.13
Granted - weighted average grant date fair value per RSU	41.55	26.73	22.50
Forfeited - weighted average grant date fair value per RSU	29.49	17.72	14.86
Released - weighted average grant date fair value per RSU	21.12	15.63	10.52
Outstanding - weighted average grant date fair value per RSU	$ 25.80	$ 18.96	$ 14.62

Equity Transactions Narrative (

Equity Transactions Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Feb. 05, 2021	Dec. 31, 2014
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares authorized	2,000,000
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.0001
Preferred stock, shares issued				1,500,000
Shares of preferred stock, undesignated and unissued	500,000	500,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount			$ 300
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method		$ 0
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired		0
Treasury Stock, Shares, Retired	4,300,000
Treasury Stock, Retired, Cost Method, Amount	$ 163.4
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	$ 136.6

Revenue - Narrative (Details)

Revenue - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized	$ 43	$ 41.1	$ 43

Revenue - Summary of Service Re

Revenue - Summary of Service Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 614,500	$ 583,439	$ 560,444
Voice and data
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	175,584	168,668	173,167
IoT data
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	110,919	96,981	96,435
Broadband
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	42,990	35,959	30,455
Hosted payload and other data
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	58,611	60,600	49,969
Total commercial services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	388,104	362,208	350,026
Government services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	103,887	100,887	97,132
Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	491,991	463,095	447,158
Engineering and support services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	30,438	34,225	30,430
Engineering and support services | Commercial
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	4,613	4,529	2,852
Engineering and support services | Government
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 25,825	$ 29,696	$ 27,578

Revenue - Summary of Contract C

Revenue - Summary of Contract Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Commissions
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]
Contract Assets	$ 1,190	$ 993
Other contract costs
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]
Contract Assets	2,558	2,860
Unbilled receivables
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]
Contract Assets	$ 10,752	$ 9,132

Income Taxes - U.S and Foreign

Income Taxes - U.S and Foreign Components Of Income Before Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
U.S. loss	$ (31,352)	$ (89,251)	$ (218,391)
Foreign income	2,464	287	272
Loss before income taxes	$ (28,888)	$ (88,964)	$ (218,119)

Income Taxes - Components of Co

Income Taxes - Components of Company's Income Tax Provision (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Current taxes:
Federal tax benefit	$ (537)	$ (688)	$ (3,796)
State tax expense	42	70	37
Foreign tax expense	2,240	1,387	1,481
Total current tax (benefit) expense	1,745	769	(2,278)
Deferred taxes:
Federal tax benefit	(14,109)	(27,701)	(50,690)
State tax benefit	(6,686)	(5,869)	(1,850)
Foreign tax benefit	(519)	(109)	(1,302)
Total deferred tax benefit	(21,314)	(33,679)	(53,842)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ (19,569)	$ (32,910)	$ (56,120)

Income Taxes - Effective Income

Income Taxes - Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Expected tax benefit at U.S. federal statutory tax rate	$ (6,067)	$ (18,811)	$ (45,790)
State taxes, net of federal benefit	(9,094)	(6,723)	(15,608)
State tax valuation allowance	711	2,561	16,216
Deferred impact of state tax law changes and elections	1,200	(1,684)	(2,414)
Equity-based compensation	(9,597)	(8,414)	(8,227)
Limitation on executive compensation deduction	3,140	666	920
Other nondeductible items	65	206	873
Tax credits	(1,278)	(1,048)	(995)
Foreign taxes	1,100	723	1,217
Other adjustments	251	(386)	(2,312)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ (19,569)	$ (32,910)	$ (56,120)

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Ass

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Deferred tax assets
Long-term contracts	$ 57,189	$ 64,738
Federal, state and foreign net operating losses, other carryforwards and tax credits	410,450	430,273
Other	23,236	22,493
Total deferred tax assets	490,875	517,504
Valuation allowance	(34,522)	(32,218)
Net deferred tax assets	456,353	485,286
Deferred tax liabilities
Fixed assets, intangibles and research and development expenditures	(532,414)	(577,955)
Investment in joint venture	(46,070)	(52,203)
Other	(11,061)	(6,283)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(589,545)	(636,441)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	$ (133,192)	$ (151,155)

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Deferred income tax liabilities, net	$ 134,279	$ 155,084
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	34,522	32,218
Deferred tax assets, in process research and development	11,100	10,000
Deferred tax assets, tax credit carryforwards, foreign	5,600	5,700
Foreign tax credit carry forward valuation allowance increase	800	1,100
Unrecognized tax benefits, period increase (decrease)	0	500
Long-term contracts	57,189	64,738
Deferred tax liabilities	134,300
Deferred Tax Assets	1,100
Domestic tax authority
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	330,200	337,100
Foreign tax authority
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	61,300	69,700
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	500	500
Valuation Allowance, Operating Loss Carryforwards | State and Local Jurisdiction
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, increase (decrease), amount	(32,600)	(30,200)
Tax Year 2022 and Later | Foreign tax authority
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	$ 600	$ 700

Income Taxes - Unrecognized Tax

Income Taxes - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance at January 1,	$ 537	$ 953
Change attributable to tax positions taken in a prior period	(537)	(416)
Balance at December 31,	$ 0	$ 537

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - S

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Numerator:
Net loss attributable to common stockholders - basic and diluted	$ (9,319)	$ (56,054)	$ (166,193)
Denominator:
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted	133,530	133,491	125,167
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	$ (0.07)	$ (0.42)	$ (1.33)

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - A

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - Anti-Dilutive Shares (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Performance Shares
Antidilutive Securities [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share	183	127	295
Share-based Payment Arrangement
Antidilutive Securities [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share	536	567	678
Preferred Stock
Antidilutive Securities [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share	1,189	1,946	2,522

Related Party Transaction Dis_2

Related Party Transaction Disclosure Related Party Transactions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	35.70%
Equity Method Investee [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties	$ 2.2	$ 2.3
Amended Hosting Agreement [Member] | Equity Method Investee [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Revenue from Related Parties	16.1	16.1	$ 16
Service Agreements | Equity Method Investee [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Revenue from Related Parties	23.5	23.9	$ 12.6
Aireon Investor Bridge Loan [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Investor Bridge Loan Commitment	10.7
Equity Method Investments	0	0.2
Hosted Payload Receivables
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Amount receivable pursuant to hosting agreement	0	$ 0
Line of Credit [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party, Receipt of Hosting Fees	62.5
Forecast [Member] | Hosting Agreement [Member] | Equity Method Investee [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Hosting Fees	200
Related Party Transaction, Power Fees per Year	3.7
Related Party Transaction, Data Service Fees	$ 19.8

Segments, Significant Custome_3

Segments, Significant Customers, Supplier and Service Providers and Geographic Information Narrative (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
No Single Customer Over 10% Total Revenue - Commercial	10.00%	10.00%
No Single Customer Over 10% Total AR - Government	10.00%	10.00%
No Single Customer Over 10% Total Revenue - Government	10.00%	10.00%
No Single Country Greater than Stated Percentage - PP&E	10.00%	10.00%
Sales revenue, net | Customer Concentration Risk | Prime contracts with U.S. government
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	21.00%	22.00%	22.00%
Accounts receivable | Customer Concentration Risk | Prime contracts with U.S. government
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	34.00%	35.00%

Segments, Significant Custome_4

Segments, Significant Customers, Supplier and Service Providers and Geographic Information Net Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	$ 2,662,336	$ 2,917,076
United states
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	429,888	421,930
Satellites in orbit
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	2,228,644	2,487,220
All others
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	$ 3,804	$ 7,926

Segments, Significant Custome_5

Segments, Significant Customers, Supplier and Service Providers and Geographic Information Revenue By Geographic (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 614,500	$ 583,439	$ 560,444
No Single Country or Region Representing More Than Stated Percentage of Total Revenue		10.00%
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	330,948	$ 323,605	300,494
Other countries
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 283,552	$ 259,834	$ 259,950

Employee Benefit Plan Narrative

Employee Benefit Plan Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Defined-contribution plan matching employees’ contributions vested percentage	100.00%	100.00%
Maximum employee contribution percentage	100.00%	100.00%
Maximum deferral contribution percentage	5.00%	5.00%
Defined-contribution plan employer-matching contributions amount	$ 3.5	$ 3.1	$ 3.1