Understanding the deformation response of materials at different length scales, is particularly helpful in validation and development of multi-scale models. Micromechanical or nanomechanical testing experiments are particularly useful in investigatin at micron or sub-micron length scales. These experimental techniques, particularly useful in evaluating the mechanical properties of miniature samples such as thin films and other miniature samples, are typically conducted in-situ using a optical, scanning or transmission electron microscopes.