@SSNBubblehead: That man was unhinged and a ghoul. He wasn't able to be stopped for one reason and one reason alone:
He had enough money to dodge shit and to squash people who said no.
That part about him instantly losing interest in space tourism once Branson did it and then his turning instantly to the deeps. That tells much of the tale.
If only there was a Hell for him to roast in.