Ursa Major
Recognize the characteristic star pattern of Ursa Major before following the route.
How to find Bode’s Galaxy (M81) 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 Bode’s Galaxy (M81).
Bode’s Galaxy (M81) is 18° above the horizon toward the north.
Begin with Ursa Major, then follow the reference stars toward Bode’s Galaxy (M81).
Dubhe
Identify Dubhe in or near Ursa Major; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.
HYG 52353.0
From Dubhe, move about 4.6° toward the northwest until you reach HYG 52353.0.
HYG 50685.0
From HYG 52353.0, move about 3.6° toward the northwest until you reach HYG 50685.0.
Bode’s Galaxy (M81)
From HYG 50685.0, move about 2.3° toward the west until you reach Bode’s Galaxy (M81). This is the target field.
