Science Dome - Special Events | Pierce College District

The Science Dome hosts free and low-cost special public events approximately once a quarter that include planetarium shows and hands-on science demonstrations appropriate for all ages.

Upcoming Events

Webb Space Telescope Launch Party

November 6, 2021

The James Webb Space Telescope, when initially funded by NASA, had a launch date in 2010. For many different reasons that date has been delayed many times. But now it is FINALLY happening and we think that deserves a party!

Join us for a planetarium program about Webb and hands-on activities on November 6, 2021! Due to the ongoing pandemic you will only be admitted during your ticketed time so that everyone can sufficiently "space out". Register in advance for your FREE timed ticket.

Webb is the largest and most Complex space science telescope ever built – the premier observatory of the next decade. This international mission, led by NASA in partnership with the European and Canadian space agencies, will launch in December 2021. (Yeah, we just can't wait any longer so we are celebrating a bit early!)

Past Events

Space Camp

Calling all space enthusiasts entering grades 7 - 12! Pierce College in partnership with the Washington NASA Space Grant Consortium is offering a FREE in-person space camp July 26 - 30 from 12 - 4 p.m.

Space Camp for 2021 is now full. If you would like to be placed on the waitlist, please email your camper's name and grade for the 2021 - 22 school year to Hillary Stephens at hstephens@pierce.ctc.edu.

Take real pictures of space with robotically controlled telescopes.
Collaborate and compete with fellow campers on challenges and quests.
Learn how to navigate the nighttime sky, discover the mysteries of the Solar System, plan a space mission, see the beauty in the life and death of stars, and find your place among the galaxies of the universe!
All COVID protocols will be followed.

Are you a Pierce College student with a passion for sharing the wonders of the universe with others? Apply to be a Space Camp Leader!

International Observe the Moon Night

illustration of person looking at the night sky with binoculars

Join Pierce College Science Dome and people all around the world for International Observe the Moon Night. International Observe the Moon Night is an annual worldwide public event that encourages observation, appreciation and understanding of our Moon and its connection to NASA planetary science and exploration.

There are as many stories about the shapes on the faces of the Moon as there are cultures that have observed them! During this virtual event, we will view the moon online through Slooh’s network of telescopes in the Canary Islands and Chile and tell Moon stories from around the world. You will also get resources to keep observing and exploring the moon on your own.

Transit of Mercury

For the first time since 2016, and the last time until 2032, Mercury will pass in front of the sun! We will have SAFE ways to view this event live, and a planetarium show explaining the phenomenon. PLEASE DO NOT VIEW THE SUN WITHOUT PROPER PROTECTION.