Registration of securities issued in business combination transactions

Leases and Transponder Service Agreements (Details)

v2.4.0.8
Leases and Transponder Service Agreements (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2010
Capital transponders          
Remainder of 2013 $ 11   $ 14    
2014 11   12    
2015 11   11    
2016 10   10    
2017 10   10    
Thereafter 38   38    
Total 91   95    
Operating leases          
Remainder of 2013 16   21    
2014 15   14    
2015 12   12    
2016 8   9    
2017 7   8    
Thereafter 96   96    
Total 154   160    
Capital transponder monthly lease expense 1   1    
Capital leases income statement amortization expense 4 4 11 14 13
Imputed interest on capital lease 9   9    
Operating leases rent expense net $ 8 $ 7 $ 31 $ 24 $ 22