Stars die and, when they do, they often leave behind large, colorful clouds called planetary nebula. Yes, this is a confusing name but at the time that people first started finding these, they thought they had to do with the formation of planets instead of the dying of stars.
One of the largest, brightest and most famous of all planetary nebulas is the Dumbbell Nebula. It has this name because, to some stargazers, it reminds them of the type of weight used for excersizing.
M27, as the Dumbbell is also known, is large and fairly bright. From a dark site it can be found with binoculars as a dim glowing orb. In a telescope, especially a larger one, structure can be seen. It takes astrophotography to 'see' its colors. We used our large 12" telescope to capture the image above and it took about 3 hours.
Viewing Dumbbell Nebula/M27
Level
Moderate
Rating
Best Viewing
June to November
Find
Binoculars or a telescope is required. Using the map above, first find Altair in Aquila. Go north (up) to the constellation Sagitta which looks like a dart or arrow. Find Gamma Sagittae, the end-star, and go north (up) to the opening of the upside-down cup. With binoculars or a telescope under low power, look for a glowing patch. If more help is needed, just the Constellations of Summer link below.
Center the Dumbbell using low power. Then switch to higher power. Try to discern the structure of brighter and dimmer parts. Try drawing. Take time to enjoy!
