NGC 6517 is a 10.1 magnitude globular star cluster. Presented in the sketch at left, the cluster appears 2' across at 190X in my 10-inch Newtonian. After several minutes observing, subtle irregularities within the cluster are revealed. No stars are resolved in the globular, which isn't surprising considering that the brightest members are dim little 16th magnitude embers. Of the 12 field stars shown, the brightest is an 11th magnitude GSC member positioned 3'.6 due west of the cluster. You'll find NGC 6517 tucked away in western Ophiuchus. 3.3 magnitude Nu Ophiuchi shines about a degree to the southwest. 4.8 magnitude Tau Ophiuchi stands 49' to the northeast.