William Herschel discovered NGC 651 = H I-193 on 12 Nov 1787 (sweep 780) and recorded "Two close together; both vB, their nebulosities run into each other. Distance of their centers 1 1/2' or 2' from sp to nf." As one was M76 he assigned one new number. Dreyer assigned NGC 650 to M76 and NGC 651 to H I-193 (following of the double nebula).

300/350mm - 13.1" SW end is brighter while the NE end is slightly curved. Boxy appearance with a dark center.

400/500mm - 17.5" part of NGC 650 = M76, see description for NGC 650.

Notes by Steve Gottlieb