Pease 1 is a worthy target for deep-sky enthusiasts in search of a good challenge. Here's a link to my observation with the 18 inch: Pease 1 in M15. Large aperture helps but isn't necessary. Experienced observers using moderate aperture with quality optics have tracked down this elusive planetary nebula.

The initial challenge is the seemingly simple task of reconciling the eyepiece view with whichever image of M15's core you choose as your finder chart. I found the trapezium west of M15's core useful in this regard. With the trapezium identified, it was relatively quick work to pull out the crooked line of four stars to the east. Pease 1 lies to the south of the crooked line, between it and the core of the globular cluster. Blinking the field with my OIII filter allowed me to correctly identify Pease 1. It was the only "star" that retained its brightness with the filter in place. The planetary appears stellar at all but "crazy high" magnifications.

Bill in Flag