Vulpecula

Vulpecula is a faint northern constellation in the Milky Way, within the Summer Triangle. It contains the Dumbbell Nebula (M27), one of the brightest planetary nebulae and the first ever discovered by Messier in 1764.

Location in the Sky

When to Observe

Vulpecula is best observed during September. It is located in the NQ4 quadrant and is primarily visible from the northern hemisphere. The constellation contains 5 main stars forming its asterism, with 33 Bayer/Flamsteed designated stars in total. Its brightest star is Anser.

Mythology & History

Vulpecula was created by Johannes Hevelius in 1687, originally as Vulpecula cum Ansere (the Little Fox with the Goose). The goose was dropped from the name over time, though the brightest star retains the name Anser. It has no mythological background.