Alpha Cancri, "Acubens" (claws), is not the brightest star in this faint constellation. Delta Cancri, NNW seven degrees, holds that distinction. Not only that, but delta is the centre of the most interesting part of Cancer, the 'head' of the crab, while alpha is only one of its legs.

Nevertheless, let's begin our investigation of Cancer with alpha, for there is a Messier, M67, in the same field of view.

Finding the stars of Cancer could be a bit of an adventure, particularly if you don't enjoy the darkest of nights and the blackest of skies.

With the naked eye spot Procyon (alpha Canis Minoris). If you aren't sure which star this is, begin with Orion (if it's still visible in the west). Due east of Betelgeuse (alpha Ori) and south of the twins Gemini is the brightest star in this region: Procyon.

Now move eastward two full fields of vision and you'll come across the Hydra's head: binoculars. Hydra is a Spring constellation; you can study it under that heading.

Put this asterism that forms Hydra's head just out of view at the bottom of your glasses and you'll have alpha Cancri at the top. Centre this star: binoculars.

To the southwest of alpha is beta, found exactly half-way between alpha Cnc and alpha CMi (Procyon).