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How do I translate the maps to what I can see in the sky?
Home » Astronomy » Star Charts » How do I translate the maps to what I can see in the sky?When you are first beginning, it is best to use a chart that shows the whole constellation at once. Hold the chart next to the constellation and using your red flashlight, compare the big dots of the primary stars to the primary stars you see in the constellation. This is like pinpointing a capitol city and landmarks.
When you understand which primary stars you can see on both the chart and in the sky—you are on your way. Hunting for something for the first time is a lot like looking for a needle in a haystack—with a drinking straw! But don’t worry... You’ve got a special “magnet” to help you find it called degrees.
Your hand is one of the best tools you own. With your arm extended and your hand spread wide, from the tip of your thumb to the tip of your little finger is about 20 degrees. A closed fist is about 10 degrees. A thumb-length is about 3 degrees and single finger width about a degree and a half.
Now look at your chart. Take a rough measurement from a star you recognize to the object you choose and compare it to the degree marks printed on the map for scale. If an object is about 10 degrees away to the northeast of a star you recognize, then hold your fist to the sky to give you a rough location. Point your finderscope there and use its magnifying power to help you locate fainter stars that will guide you to that object. Just remember your cardinal directions when moving the scope. A refractor images things right side up, while a reflector turns them both upside down and backwards in the eyepiece. It might be confusing at first, but the cardinal directions will keep you on the right path.
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