For the first time in 99 years, a total solar eclipse will pass across the entire United States this month, creating a spectacular sight for communities across the country. And on Aug. 21, the Pierce College Science Dome will be ready.

The dome, located on the college’s Lakewood campus, will offer a stellar opportunity to safely view the solar eclipse. Although the local community isn’t in the path of the total eclipse, 94 percent of the sun will ultimately be blocked during the height of the eclipse. Special equipment is necessary to view the sun during this time to avoid damaging your vision.

The eclipse will take place Aug. 21 from 9:08 to 11:38 a.m., and the Science Dome will provide viewers with special equipment and telescopes to view rare solar event. The maximum eclipse will take place at 10:20 a.m.

In parts of Oregon, communities will have the opportunity to experience a total eclipse, where the sun will be fully blocked by the moon and stars will shine brightly for two minutes. The Science Dome’s event will offer a live stream of the total eclipse throughout the morning.  

Science Dome festivities, all free, will take place from 8:30 to noon, with presentations taking place in the dome. The first presentation will begin at 8:30, teaching viewers about what a solar eclipse is, why they appear when they do, and why you need to be in certain locations to view total eclipses, a Pierce College spokeswoman said. Following the first presentation, viewers will head outside and view the eclipse as it unfolds.

The Science Dome is located on the campus at 9401 Farwest Dr. SW. in Lakewood. Additional information is available at piercecollegedome.com.