The Dumbbell Nebula is the easiest planetary nebula to see, even with small instruments; it is visible even with binoculars. It was discovered in 1764 by Charles Messier, the great French comet hunter who compiled the first catalogue of diffuse and nebular objects so as not to become confused in his research into comets that were similar in appearances to these. Messier's catalogue contains more than 100 star clusters, galaxies and nebulas designated with an M and a progressive number. The name, inspired by gym equipment, was coined in the 19th century by Rev. Thomas William Webb.