How to find NGC2396 using Orion

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

Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach NGC2396.

NGC2396 is 12° above the horizon toward the southeast.

Begin with Orion, then follow the reference stars toward NGC2396.

Orion

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

Identify Sirius in or near Orion; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Sirius, move about 4.6° toward the east until you reach Muliphein.

From Muliphein, move about 5.5° toward the east until you reach HYG 35998.0.

From HYG 35998.0, move about 2.2° toward the north until you reach NGC2396. This is the target field.