About Fireworks Galaxy
Description
The Fireworks Galaxy (NGC 6946) is a face-on spiral galaxy straddling the border of Cepheus and Cygnus, about 25 million light-years away. It is notable for its prolific supernova production.
Observing Tips
Visible as a round, diffuse glow in a 4-inch telescope. Larger scopes reveal a brighter nucleus with faint spiral arm hints. Low surface brightness means dark skies are important. Best in summer and autumn evenings.
History
Discovered by William Herschel on September 9, 1798. Ten supernovae have been observed in this galaxy since 1917, more than in any other known galaxy.
Fun Facts
With 10 observed supernovae (1917A, 1939C, 1948B, 1968D, 1969P, 1980K, 2002hh, 2004et, 2008S, 2017eaw), NGC 6946 has earned its "Fireworks" nickname. The average galaxy produces only 1-2 supernovae per century.
Observe
1Properties
Position & Identifiers
2How easy to spot?
| Telescope | Bortle 3 | Bortle 4 | Bortle 5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80 mm refractor 80mm refr. | Hard | Hard | V. hard+ |
| 150 mm Newton 150mm Newt. | Hard | Hard | Hard |
| Celestron C8 (203 mm SCT) C8 203mm | Hard+ | Hard | Hard |
Bortle 3 = rural · 4 = outer suburbs · 5 = suburbs
3Visibility
Set a location in User Settings to see visibility data.
4
Eyepiece View
Fireworks Galaxy · 11.4′×10.8′ · N up, E left
5
Best Magnification
Explore
6
Surface Brightness
7
Morphology Decoder
8
Inclination & True Shape
9
Redshift
10
Size Comparator
Discover
11
Light Travel Time Machine
12
Relativistic Travel
Community Photos (1)
Credit: Andreigusan. License: CC0. (Wikimedia Commons)
Skybred Mar 2, 2026
Nearby in the Sky
Other targets within a few degrees — pan your scope a little and keep exploring.
Visibility scores assume a 150 mm Newton at Bortle 4.
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