How to find M86 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 M86.

M86 is 14° above the horizon toward the east.

Begin with Leo, then follow the reference stars toward M86.

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 0.9° toward the southeast until you reach HYG 60089.0.

From HYG 60089.0, move about 2.3° toward the southeast until you reach M86. This is the target field.