How to find NGC6451 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 NGC6451.

NGC6451 is 30° above the horizon toward the southwest.

Begin with Scorpius, then follow the reference stars toward NGC6451.

Scorpius

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

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

From Shaula, move about 6.3° toward the northeast until you reach HYG 87220.0.

From HYG 87220.0, move about 1.5° toward the north until you reach NGC6451. This is the target field.