How to find M59 using Leo

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

Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach M59.

M59 is 14° above the horizon toward the east.

Begin with Leo, then follow the reference stars toward M59.

Leo

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

Identify Denebola in or near Leo; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Denebola, move about 6.5° toward the east until you reach HYG 59819.0.

From HYG 59819.0, move about 6.2° toward the southeast until you reach HYG 61246.0.

From HYG 61246.0, move about 2.6° toward the northeast until you reach M59. This is the target field.