Description

Messier 27 was the first planetary nebula ever discovered.
It was discovered by Charles Messier on 12th July 1764.

The central star in the heart of the nebula is mag 13.5. The nebula is one of the brightest planetary nebulas in the sky and lies at a distance of about 1.200 light years.

The age of M27 is estimated to be about 3.000 to 4.000 years.

Other versions

Previous/older images:

Jul 03, 2006 – Canon 350D (Orion USA 80/600 ED 1h 4m)

Jun 18, 2005 – Canon 350D (GSO 10″ f5 Newt, OTE-150 35m)

Aug 12, 2007 – Canon 350D (GSO 8″ f4 Newton, G-11 1h)

Image data

Name M27 – The Dumbbell Nebula
Type Planetary nebula
Constellation Vulpecula
Right ascension 19h 59m 36s
Declination +22° 43′ 16″
Distance 1.200 ly
Other designations Apple Core Nebula, NGC6853