Turns out that no amount of PR and arse kissing can overcome physics, engineering and economics.

Also https://archive.md/clwoW.

Thing was stupid from start. I'm appalled that it's come thus far

Was it ever raveled? :P Rather than a tale of engineering--good or bad--perhaps we should look at this thing through the lens of psychology and organizations.

Namely, the contortions of thought and (non-)feedback that happens in the proximity of a king with grandiose plans, an enormous amount of cash to disburse, and a penchant for assassinating dissidents.

It was clearly a terrible idea from the very start.

The link doesn't go to the article.

Huh, you're right, I just assumed it did but I was being individually redirected to the paywall.