In addition, the team is exploring other applications, most notably in the biomedical field for non-destructive testing of large aerospace composite structures.

ENGADGET: Infrared holography lets rescuers see people through walls, fire, walls of fire (video)

Yet it is Russia's self-destructive streak that has turned testing weather into a tragedy.

ECONOMIST: A potent mix of heat, haze, alcohol and corruption

Recalling an era when the word "atomic" conjured modernity and mystery, the Smithsonian-run Atomic Testing Museum remains an intriguing testament to the period when the fantastical - and destructive - power of nuclear energy was tested just outside of Las Vegas.

BBC: Vintage Las Vegas

Certainly the heart of the potentially destructive but statuesque Tasmania batsman and former Australia fringe player Mark Cosgrove, who would presumably break the skinfold-testing calipers, must have sunk when he heard Arthur's comment.

WSJ: Aussie Wrangling Raises a Laugh

Japan's Meteorological Agency is currently testing a prototype system which detects the oh-so-subtle "P Waves" that precede the destructive "S Waves, " and alerts major operations to halt their hustle and take cover.

ENGADGET: Japan Meteorological Agency develops earthquake warning system