How to find Cocoon Nebula (IC5146) using Cygnus

This guide uses bright stars first, then narrows the field for a telescope or binocular finder. Use Cygnus as the main sky landmark.

Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach Cocoon Nebula (IC5146).

Cocoon Nebula (IC5146) is 75° above the horizon toward the northeast.

Begin with Cygnus, then follow the reference stars toward Cocoon Nebula (IC5146).

Cygnus

Recognize the characteristic star pattern of Cygnus before following the route.

Identify Deneb in or near Cygnus; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Deneb, move about 4.9° toward the northeast until you reach HYG 104194.0.

From HYG 104194.0, move about 6.5° toward the east until you reach HYG 107339.0.

From HYG 107339.0, move about 1.6° toward the east until you reach Cocoon Nebula (IC5146). This is the target field.