How to find M26 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 M26.

M26 is 35° above the horizon toward the southwest.

Begin with Sagittarius, then follow the reference stars toward M26.

Sagittarius

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

Identify Nunki in or near Sagittarius; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Nunki, move about 5.2° toward the north until you reach HYG 93085.0.

From HYG 93085.0, move about 5.5° toward the north until you reach HYG 92814.0.

From HYG 92814.0, move about 5.8° toward the north until you reach HYG 92136.0.

From HYG 92136.0, move about 0.8° toward the northwest until you reach M26. This is the target field.