Ursa Major
Recognize the characteristic star pattern of Ursa Major before following the route.
How to find Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) 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 Whirlpool Galaxy (M51).
Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) is 19° above the horizon toward the northwest.
Begin with Ursa Major, then follow the reference stars toward Whirlpool Galaxy (M51).
Alkaid
Identify Alkaid in or near Ursa Major; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.
Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)
From Alkaid, move about 3.6° toward the southwest until you reach Whirlpool Galaxy (M51). This is the target field.
