Messier object M27, also known as NGC 6853, is a planetary nebula in the constellation Vulpecula, at a distance of about 1250 light years.
The Dumbbell nebula (M27, NGC 6853)
This object was the first planetary to be discovered, by Charles Messier in 1764. At its brightness of visual magnitude 7.4 and its diameter of about 8 arc minutes, it is easily visible in binoculars, and a great observing target in amateur telescopes.
It is estimated that the Dumbbell nebula is about 3,000 to 4,000 years old.
