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illustration of planets and stars in the night sky

Science Dome

Explore the night sky, fly through the solar system, explore the universe, and learn about new astronomical discoveries at the Pierce College Science Dome.

The Pierce College Science Dome is a 58-seat digital planetarium that is the only one of its kind in the South Puget Sound region. This immersive and interactive facility allows visitors to view the night sky from anywhere in the known universe on a cloudy day, be immersed in an alien environment with breathtaking full-dome images, explore the Egyptian pyramids and so much more.

Public Shows

Public shows are every Friday and Saturday and include a live sky talk and a full-dome video.

Public Show Information and Tickets

Group Visits

We are currently offering in-person private shows and field trips. These are perfect for your Pierce College class or club, pre-K-12 school group, homeschool group, or other private group.

Plan your Group Visit

Space Camp

Every summer, the Science Dome hosts one-day and five-day Space Camp for students aged 6-18 years. Early registration is encouraged, as "space" fills fast! Registration for Summer 2024 camps is expected to open in late April.

Space Camp Information and Registration

Slooh Telescope Club Membership

Slooh is a system of robotically controlled telescopes in the Canary Islands and Chile. If you join our Pierce College Science Dome Club on Slooh, YOU will have access to these telescopes!

Find out more about Slooh.

Tacoma Astronomical Society Public Nights

The Tacoma Astronomical Society hosts free public viewing sessions approximately twice each month at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom. Indoor lectures in the Science Dome, demonstrations, and workshops are available at public nights regardless of the weather. On nights with clear skies TAS volunteers provide telescopic observations (in parking lot A) of the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, double stars and more. Each season boasts something new and exciting for our frequent guests. There is no charge for these programs. Students and community members are encouraged to attend! Check out their schedule of events for upcoming sessions.

Location

Pierce College Fort Steilacoom
Rainier Building, Room 263
9401 Farwest Dr SW
Lakewood, WA 98498