How to find M47 using Orion

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

Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach M47.

M47 is 14° above the horizon toward the southeast.

Begin with Orion, then follow the reference stars toward M47.

Orion

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

Identify Sirius in or near Orion; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Sirius, move about 5.9° toward the east until you reach HYG 34561.0.

From HYG 34561.0, move about 6.1° toward the east until you reach HYG 36773.0.

From HYG 36773.0, move about 0.7° toward the east until you reach M47. This is the target field.