How to find M102 using Ursa Major

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

Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach M102.

M102 is 23° above the horizon toward the northwest.

Begin with Ursa Major, then follow the reference stars toward M102.

Ursa Major

Recognize the characteristic star pattern of Ursa Major before following the route.

Identify Alkaid in or near Ursa Major; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Alkaid, move about 6.5° toward the northeast until you reach HYG 70497.0.

From HYG 70497.0, move about 6.7° toward the northeast until you reach HYG 73909.0.

From HYG 73909.0, move about 1.2° toward the north until you reach M102. This is the target field.