The Ring Nebula (Messier Object 57 or NGC 6720) is a planetary nebula located in the constellation Lyra, south of its brightest star, Vega. This time of year, both lie near the zenith, directly overhead. M57 is best seen through at least an 8-inch telescope - a 12 inch telescope was used here. This was my first time to image this particular nebula, and it was the highlight of the night.
(Canon EOS20D, f/6.3 Focal Reducer/Field Flattener, Meade 12" LX90 GPS, Jim W. Coleman, Port Orchard, Washington)