A scanning acoustic microscope includes a transducer mounted below a particular elevation and configured to produce ultrasonic energy, a coupling fluid source configured to introduce coupling fluid between the transducer and the particular elevation. Ultrasonic energy is directed upwardly through coupling fluid disposed between and the transducer and a first surface of a part to be inspected, wherein the part is disposed at the particular elevation and wherein a second surface of the part is not contacted by coupling fluid during inspection.