Probably one of the easiest deep space objects to observe is the Ring Nebula. This famous planetary is easy to locate (between Beta and Gamma Lyrae). This giant, stellar smoke ring is a definite bluish-purple, and the center portion of the ring is slightly more illuminated than the sky background. Look for variations in brightness along its elliptical outline.
| NGC: | 6720 |
| OTHER NAMES: | M-57, Ring Nebula |
| CLASS: | planetary nebula |
| SIZE: | 1.4' x 1' |
| MAGNITUDE: | +9 |
| MAGNITUDE OF CENTRAL STAR: | +14 |
| POSITION: | 18h 53m +33d 00' |
| CONSTELLATION: | Lyra |
| DATE OF SKETCH: | 09/03/75 |
| MAGNIFICATION USED: | 140x |
