Messier 76 Little Dumbbell Nebula
The planetary nebula M76 in the constellation Perseus is about 2500 light-years away and it's size is about 0.7 light-years across. It is one of the faintest Messier objects, with an integrated visual magnitude fainter than 12 and generally low surface brightness.


This planetary is faint, but fairly large, as planetaries go. It is definitely a little smaller and much fainter than its namesake, M27. In a 8" scope, 121x seems to offer about the best view. It is difficult to make out the shape with direct vision, except that you can tell it is irregular. With averted vision, you can notice a little mottling and a generally rectangular shape. The long edges aren't quite straight, being bowed slightly inward. One end of the rectangle seems to be noticeably brighter than the other end.
You can find more information about this Messier object by visiting: SEDS - The Messier Catalog.

    Little Dumbbell
    M76
    NGC 650
    Other description: Planetary nebula irregular.
    Constellation: Perseus
    Dreyer description: Very bright, westward of double nebula; = M76.
    Magnitude: 12.0
    RA: 01h 42m 31.3s Dec: +51°35'07"
    RA: 01h 42m 18.0s Dec: +51°34'00" (Epoch 2000)
    Azm: 54°47'22" Alt: +42°49'37"
    Always above horizon. Transit: 08:28
    Size: 4.8'
RASC Charlottetown Centre