How to find M53 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 M53.

M53 is 14° above the horizon toward the northeast.

Begin with Ursa Major, then follow the reference stars toward M53.

Ursa Major

Recognize the characteristic star pattern of Ursa Major before following the route.

Identify Arcturus in or near Ursa Major; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Arcturus, move about 5° toward the west until you reach Muphrid.

From Muphrid, move about 3.7° toward the west until you reach HYG 66594.0.

From HYG 66594.0, move about 6.1° toward the west until you reach HYG 64496.0.

From HYG 64496.0, move about 0.6° toward the south until you reach M53. This is the target field.