LAKEWOOD – The Pierce College Fort Steilacoom Science Dome is revolutionizing science and astronomy education on the campus while also providing a learning opportunity for the community with science films offered for $6 for adults and $3 tickets for children ages three to 18-years-old.
The Science Dome is a 55-seat visualization theatre with a 38 foot dome-shaped screen. It provides an immersive and interactive experience to users as a planetarium for showing science films. Since January, approximately 250 Pierce College students have used the Science Dome during class – some more than once. Beyond the college students, 600 preschool to grade 12 students have utilized the dome along with 1,300 visitors from the public.
“Pierce College welcomes visitors to the Science Dome shows. Next year we will expand the opportunity for K-12 learning experiences in the Dome,” said the President of Pierce College Fort Steilacoom, Denise Yochum. “We are committed to developing interests in science, math and technology and to prepare students for further education and high wage, high demand careers.”
The Science Dome serves multiple curriculum purposes. In addition to students studying the sciences, design students have utilized the space to create a 180-degree movie and drama students have produced a theatrical performance in the space.
“The Pierce College Science Dome is a one of a kind community asset,” said Ellie Chambers-Grady, economic development manager for the City of Lakewood. “It offers a unique destination and learning opportunity for area residents and regional tourism.”
This summer, the Science Dome is offering six shows and will be playing the movies on Fridays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 3:15 p.m. Beginning on June 26, there will be shows on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and 2:15 p.m. Adults are $6, children three to 18 are $3 and Pierce College students are $3. To learn more, visit:wp.pierce.ctc.edu/blog/