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How to See the Constellation Scorpius

The constellation Scorpius is one of the easiest to see in the night sky during the summer. No telescope needed here: you can see Scorpius with the naked eye, although binoculars can help bring the scorpion to life.

Things You'll Need

Binoculars
Planisphere

Instructions

- 1
  Find the constellation Scorpius on your planisphere before you go outside. A planisphere can be purchased specifically for your location on Earth and will make finding any constellation easier.
- 2
  Wait for a clear July evening since Scorpius is most easily seen during this month.
- 3
  Use the planisphere to make sure you are looking in the correct direction for your longitude and latitude.
- 4
  Look first for Antares, the heart of the scorpion. Antares is aptly named: it is a red giant seen easily in the sky, and it sits directly in the middle of the scorpion.
- 5
  Trace the line of Scorpius' tail south from Antares.
- 6
  Find Scorpius' arms going in the opposite direction from Antares.

Astronomy