A non-invasive means and method locates a target spinal segment on a patient prior to surgery. An apparatus comprises a frame; a plurality of laser diodes projecting planar beams and mounted on the perimeter of the frame; a radio-opaque cable attached to the frame at the location of a laser diode; optionally, a weight is attached to the cable; optionally a rod extends from the frame perimeter; and optionally a bombsight is included within the frame marked with crosshairs. The method comprises the steps of marking a patient's skin; placing the frame on the patient; turning on the laser diodes; rotating the frame until the until a line of visible light is perpendicular to the patient's spine; aligning the cable with the planar laser beam; providing an X-ray source; aligning the X-ray source with the planar laser beam and obtaining an X-ray.