How to find M39 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 M39.

M39 is 21° above the horizon toward the northwest.

Begin with Cygnus, then follow the reference stars toward M39.

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 6.5° toward the northeast until you reach HYG 104962.0.

From HYG 104962.0, move about 2.7° toward the east until you reach M39. This is the target field.