How to find M85 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 M85.

M85 is 13° above the horizon toward the northeast.

Begin with Leo, then follow the reference stars toward M85.

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 1.9° toward the northeast until you reach HYG 58159.0.

From HYG 58159.0, move about 6.4° toward the east until you reach HYG 60202.0.

From HYG 60202.0, move about 1.2° toward the east until you reach M85. This is the target field.