Are the 'unexpected' results of Z-Machine testing evidence the tests were performed prematurely?

Question

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Sandia’s Z machine has produced plasmas that exceed temperatures of 2 billion degrees Kelvin — hotter than the interiors of stars.

The unexpectedly hot output, if its cause were understood and harnessed, could eventually mean that smaller, less costly nuclear fusion plants would produce the same amount of energy as larger plants.

http://www.sandia.gov/news-center/news-releases/2006/physics-astron/hottest-z-output.html

http://www.sandia.gov/media/z290.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Z_machine

http://zpinch.sandia.gov/

If the consequences of the tests were unexpected is it reasonable to suggest more formidable are possible when scientists 'shoot from the hip' with their testing?

Answer 1

In an ideal world, it should be up to those on the receiving end of the benefits or risks to determine how far the scientists can go with their experiments. But then there would be the issue of who it is on the receiving end, if you're talking about risks especially.

One might hope that a government would be able to have a reasonable response to the issue, but the government is now too self-serving and wouldn't care about the people (e.g. 9/11)

And what would happen is that whether their actions are approved or not, someone will do it anyway, because they won't be able to restrain their curiosity.