Dumbbell Nebula
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Planetary nebula | Lists of nebulae |
|---|---|
Dumbbell Nebula |
|
| Observation data (Epoch J2000.0) |
|
| Right ascension | 19h 59.6m |
| Declination | +22° 43′ |
| Distance | 1,250 ly |
| Apparent magnitude (V) | +7.4 |
| Apparent dimensions (V) | 8.0 × 5.7 arcmin |
| Constellation | Vulpecula |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Radius | - |
| Absolute magnitude (V) | - |
| Notable features | - |
| Other designations | NGC 6853, M27 |
The Dumbbell Nebula (also known as Messier 27, M27, or NGC 6853) is a planetary nebula in the Vulpecula constellation, at a distance of about 1250 light years.
This object was the first planetary nebula to be discovered; by Charles Messier in 1764. At its brightness of visual magnitude 7.4 and its diameter of about 8 arcminutes, it is easily visible in binoculars, and a great observing target in amateur telescopes.
It is estimated that the Dumbbell Nebula is 3,000 to 4,000 years old.
[edit] See also
- List of messier objects
- List of planetary nebulae
- New General Catalogue
- Wikipedia Project: Astronomical Objects
