A set of 9  Reference Line Maps, star charts and DSS photos of M65 and M66.  These maps works well with red dot finders and green laser pointers.  The Reference Line Method method adapts well to both binoculars and telescopes.

Notes:

1. This remarkable pair of galaxies is fairly easy to locate because the bright reference stars are located at a comfortable distance from each other.
2. Jones:  “Both galaxies are bright and distinct and, although M66 is actually the brighter, M65 tends to appear more conspicuous owing to its more ’streaky’ outline.”

How to Use Reference Line Maps to locate deep sky objects.

Credits, Links & Resources:

1. Sky and Telescope’’s  This Week’s Sky At A Glance is worth checking before every stargazing session.
2. Danko’s  Clear Sky Chart provides a 48 hour forecast of observing conditions for every  location  in North America.
3. Reference Line Maps are produced by Project DeepSkyMap, a collaborative venture of observers who enjoy  knowing the heavens and  locating objects for themselves.