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How to Find Orion

In the northern hemisphere, only the Big Dipper is easier to spot than Orion the Hunter. Because it lies along the celestial equator, Orion can be seen throughout the world. Even if you haven't identified them in the night sky, you've undoubtedly heard of some of the stars that make up this constellation: Rigel and Betelgeuse.

Things You'll Need

Binoculars
Telescopes
Sky And Telescope Subscriptions
Star Charts
Astronomy Subscriptions

Instructions

- 1
  Look toward the south - toward the southeast in midwinter - if you're in the northern hemisphere. Look toward the north if you're in the southern hemisphere.
- 2
  Find Orion's belt - three stars in a short, straight line.
- 3
  Look for Orion's knee to the lower right - it's the bright star, Rigel.
- 4
  Locate the orange-red star, Betelgeuse, at the upper left from the belt. Most call it "Beetlejuice."
- 5
  Scan the sky farther away to the lower left of the belt. Here's the brightest star in the sky: the Dog Star, Sirius.

Astronomy