Sagittarius
Recognize the characteristic star pattern of Sagittarius before following the route.
How to find M17 using Sagittarius
This guide uses bright stars first, then narrows the field for a telescope or binocular finder. Use Sagittarius as the main sky landmark.
Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach M17.
M17 is 32° above the horizon toward the southwest.
Begin with Sagittarius, then follow the reference stars toward M17.
Nunki
Identify Nunki in or near Sagittarius; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.
HYG 91438.0
From Nunki, move about 6.4° toward the northwest until you reach HYG 91438.0.
HYG 90494.0
From HYG 91438.0, move about 4.2° toward the northwest until you reach HYG 90494.0.
