How to find Crab Nebula (M1) using Taurus

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

Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach Crab Nebula (M1).

Crab Nebula (M1) is 57° above the horizon toward the southwest.

Begin with Taurus, then follow the reference stars toward Crab Nebula (M1).

Taurus

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

Identify Elnath in or near Taurus; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Elnath, move about 5° toward the southeast until you reach HYG 26248.0.

From HYG 26248.0, move about 2° toward the south until you reach Crab Nebula (M1). This is the target field.