Star-hop around the night sky

Navigating takes practice. Follow our guide to learn the basics of finding your way around the constellations and deep-sky targets

You’ll need: ✔ Star chart ✔ Red torch ✔ Binoculars ✔ Small telescope

1Choose an object

Start with an object that is bright enough to be easily seen. It’s best to go for a target that can also be seen with the naked eye or binoculars.

2 Know your field of view

A circle that’s the same diameter as your instrument’s aperture is helpful, ensuring you see the same field on your chart.

3 Start from a bright star

Start your hopping from a reasonably bright star in the constellation in which the object you want to find resides – you can restart easily if you get lost.

4 Decide on the steps

Use your map and look through your instrument to gain familiarity with the objects that you’ll be using to get to your target.

5 Change your field

Use a star or star pattern on the ‘outside of the circle’ on your map and place it in your field of view. Keep doing this until you reach your chosen object.

6 Take your time

This means you are less likely to get lost, and you may find interesting things to look at on the way. The more skilled you are, the easier it gets.