The North American Nebula (NGC 7000) got its name from its unique shape. The nebula glows with a faint greenish light. It's considered to be about 1500-1600 light years away.

The North American Nebula lies between Deneb and xi Cygni, an orange supergiant: binoculars.

Binoculars or a small telescope with low power are most effective with this nebula because of its low surface brightness. Most noticeable is the dark area which makes up the 'Gulf of Mexico'.