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Messier 27

Messier 27 the Dumbbell Nebula

Credits: Giuseppe Donatiello

 

J2000 RA 19h 59m 36.340s Dec +22° 43′ 16.09″

M27 / NGC 6853 is a planetary nebula in Vulpecula, at a distance of about 1,360 light years. The central star, a pre-white dwarf, is estimated to have a radius which is 0.055±0.02 R☉ which gives it a size larger than any other known white dwarf. The central star mass was estimated in 1999 by Napiwotzki to be 0.56±0.01 M☉.

This object was the first planetary nebula to be discovered by Charles Messier in 1764. it is easily visible in binoculars and small telescopes.

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Uploaded on May 29, 2018
Taken on July 18, 2025