M27 - Dumbbell Nebula
The Dumbbell Nebula is a large planetary nebula, the first of its type discovered. Its distinctive dumbbell shape comes from the expanding shell of gas ejected from a dying star.
Distance: 1,360 light-years
Apparent Magnitude: 7.50
Apparent Size: 8' × 5.7'
Constellation: Vulpecula
Object Type: Planetary Nebula
Key Features:
- Largest planetary nebula by angular size
- Central white dwarf (largest known)
- Expanding at 31 km/s
- Contains knots of gas and dust
- Age: ~14,600 years
Best Imaging Season: June - October
Optimal Integration: 6+ hours (OIII strong)
