How to find NGC4697 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 NGC4697.

NGC4697 is only 10° above the horizon, so the view is likely to be poor. It becomes suitable for observing around 24 October 2026 at 04:55.

Begin with Leo, then follow the reference stars toward NGC4697.

Leo

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

Identify Spica in or near Leo; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Spica, move about 4.6° toward the northwest until you reach HYG 64122.0.

From HYG 64122.0, move about 5.9° toward the northwest until you reach HYG 62421.0.

From HYG 62421.0, move about 0.6° toward the northeast until you reach NGC4697. This is the target field.