The Dumbbell Nebula ( sometimes called Messier 27 , M 27 , or NGC 6853 ) is a planetary nebula in the constellation Vulpecula . It is about 1,360 light years away from earth . The Dumbbell Nebula ( also known as Messier 27 , M 27 , or NGC 6853 ) is a planetary nebula ( PN ) in the constellation Vulpecula , at a distance of about 1,360 light years .