Ring Nebula
planetary nebula · Lyra · 9.0ᵐ
The Ring Nebula — a dying star’s shed shell that looks like a smoke ring. An easy target: even a small telescope shows it between β and γ Lyrae.
Notable facts
About 1/31 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is Ring Nebula in?
Ring Nebula lies in Lyra.
Is Ring Nebula visible to the naked eye?
9.0ᵐ — a telescope is needed.
When is the best time to observe Ring Nebula?
Best observed in July.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 18h 54m · +33° 02′
- Type
- planetary nebula
- Constellation
- Lyra
- How to observe
- 9.0ᵐ — a telescope is needed
- Angular size
- 1′
- Designation
- M57 · NGC 6720 · Ring 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° | 63° · never sets | — |
| +55° | 68° | 18° |
| +45° | 78° | 40° |
| +30° | 87° | 51° |
| 0° | 57° | 57° |
| −35° | 22° | 48° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 11:08 |
| February | 09:01 |
| March | 07:15 |
| April | 05:22 |
| May | 03:28 |
| June | 01:22 |
| July | 23:18 |
| August | 21:17 |
| September | 19:24 |
| October | 17:35 |
| November | 15:34 |
| December | 13:26 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.