Dumbbell Nebula
planetary nebula · Vulpecula · 8.1ᵐ
The Dumbbell Nebula — the first planetary nebula ever discovered, by Charles Messier in 1764. It is the shed envelope of a dying star.
Notable facts
About 1/4 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is Dumbbell Nebula in?
Dumbbell Nebula lies in Vulpecula.
Is Dumbbell Nebula visible to the naked eye?
8.1ᵐ — visible with binoculars.
When is the best time to observe Dumbbell Nebula?
Best observed in July.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 20h 00m · +22° 43′
- Type
- planetary nebula
- Constellation
- Vulpecula
- How to observe
- 8.1ᵐ — visible with binoculars
- Angular size
- 8×4′
- Designation
- M27 · NGC 6853 · Dumbbell Nebula
Observing tip
A telescope is required; 100× or more plus an OIII filter noticeably boosts the contrast.
Altitude above the horizon by latitude
| Latitude | Maximum altitude | Rise azimuth |
|---|---|---|
| +60° | 53° | 39° |
| +55° | 58° | 48° |
| +45° | 68° | 57° |
| +30° | 83° | 64° |
| 0° | 67° | 67° |
| −35° | 32° | 62° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 12:14 |
| February | 10:07 |
| March | 08:21 |
| April | 06:28 |
| May | 04:34 |
| June | 02:28 |
| July | 00:24 |
| August | 22:23 |
| September | 20:30 |
| October | 18:41 |
| November | 16:40 |
| December | 14:32 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.