How to find M66 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 M66.

M66 is 13° above the horizon toward the northeast.

Begin with Leo, then follow the reference stars toward M66.

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 5.7° toward the southwest until you reach HYG 55958.0.

From HYG 55958.0, move about 2.2° toward the northwest until you reach M66. This is the target field.