Dumbbell Nebula (M 27)
Dumbbell Nebula (M 27) is a planetary nebula in the constellation Vulpecula, magnitude 7.4, 8.0′ × 5.7′ across.
One of the brightest planetary nebulae, easy in binoculars as a small glowing patch. Telescopes show its 'apple core' or hourglass shape, and an OIII filter reveals the fainter wings that round it into a football.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around August, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in July). It can be seen from everywhere north of 67°S and never sets north of 67°N.
At its highest it stands 63° up from 50°N, 78° up from 35°N, 67° up from the equator, 32° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Planetary nebula
- Constellation
- Vulpecula
- Designations
- M 27, NGC 6853
- Magnitude
- 7.4
- Apparent size
- 8.0′ × 5.7′
- Position
- RA 19h 59.6m, Dec +22° 43′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when Dumbbell Nebula (M 27) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.