How to find NGC6281 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 NGC6281.

NGC6281 is 19° above the horizon toward the southwest.

Begin with Scorpius, then follow the reference stars toward NGC6281.

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 4.5° toward the southeast until you reach HYG 83499.0.

From HYG 83499.0, move about 0.2° toward the southeast until you reach NGC6281. This is the target field.