William Herschel discovered NGC 5989 = H II-738 on 25 May 1788 (sweep 843) and noted "vF, vS." His position is accurate.

300/350mm - 13.1" (4/29/84): faint, fairly small, very slightly elongated, diffuse, even surface brightness. Located 29' NNE of the NGC 5981, NGC 5982, NGC 5985 trio.

600/800mm - 24" (7/16/15): fairly faint to moderately bright, fairly small, irregularly round, 35"x30", very weak concentration, slightly mottled or irregular surface brightness. Located 30' NNE of NGC 5985 (largest in the Draco Triplet).

Notes by Steve Gottlieb