How to find NGC6242 using Scorpius

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

Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach NGC6242.

NGC6242 is 16° above the horizon toward the southwest.

Begin with Scorpius, then follow the reference stars toward NGC6242.

Scorpius

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

Identify Larawag in or near Scorpius; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Larawag, move about 3.8° toward the south until you reach Xamidimura.

From Xamidimura, move about 1.6° toward the southeast until you reach NGC6242. This is the target field.