How to find Dumbbell Nebula (M27) using Cygnus

This guide uses bright stars first, then narrows the field for a telescope or binocular finder. Use Cygnus as the main sky landmark.

Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach Dumbbell Nebula (M27).

Dumbbell Nebula (M27) is 51° above the horizon toward the west.

Begin with Cygnus, then follow the reference stars toward Dumbbell Nebula (M27).

Cygnus

Recognize the characteristic star pattern of Cygnus before following the route.

Identify Altair in or near Cygnus; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Altair, move about 1.5° toward the north until you reach HYG 97675.0.

From HYG 97675.0, move about 6.3° toward the north until you reach HYG 98085.0.

From HYG 98085.0, move about 4.4° toward the north until you reach HYG 98169.0.

From HYG 98169.0, move about 1.8° toward the north until you reach Dumbbell Nebula (M27). This is the target field.