Astro Glossary

From A-Z, let’s discover the cosmos together. You can explore a range of out-of-this-world topics like planet descriptions, birth chart definitions, and astrocartography terms. Happy scrolling!

Air element
The air element represents vitality, movement, communication, intelligence and sharp thinking. Although this element can appear breezy and fickle to some, it represents power and ignition in its purest form. Air is essential to the other three major elements—to the creation of fire, the movement of water, and the growth of earth’s life forms. Air represents the movers and shakers of the world (as does the fire element). It rules the three air signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.
Aquarius
Aquarius, named after the Aquarius constellation, is a fixed air sign anciently ruled by the planet Saturn and modernly by Uranus. This air sign is intellectual, independent, rebellious, quirky, and radical. Nothing is too “weird” for Aquarius. Known as the water-bearer sign, Aquarius is inspired by utopian societal, environmental, or humanitarian ideals. As much all air signs are social and connection-seeking, Aquarius can be a lone wolf that enjoys its own company.
Air sign
Air signs are embody the spacious qualities of the air element. The three air signs are Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. This breezy trio shares similar traits: quick wit (for a Gemini, maybe even biting sarcasm), intellectualism, and stellar communication. Air signs have a way with words—they can converse with just about anyone and thrive in social, collaborative environments.
Aries
Aries is a cardinal fire sign named after the Aries constellation and ruled by the planet Mars. This fire sign leads with ambition, proactivity, playfulness, and independence. Aries is the first of the 12 zodiac signs, symbolizing the discovery of self-awareness through chasing impulses and instincts wholeheartedly.
Cancer
Cancer is a cardinal water sign after the Cancer constellation and ruled by the moon. Cancer is a reflection of sensitivity, creativity, depth, and intuition. Cancer symbolizes home, family, roots, and the foundations that nourish us. Because Cancer is symbolized by the crab, this gentle water sign is known for a hard, self-protective shell and soft inner world. Cancer is moody, deep, mystical, and artistic.
Capricorn
Capricorn is a cardinal earth sign named after the Capricorn constellation and ruled by the planet Saturn. This grounded earth sign seeks stability, security, and structure. Because Saturn’s orbit is slow, Capricorn understands that “slow and steady wins the race” and honors long-term goals. Known as the sea-goat sign, Capricorn is diligent, hard-working, ambitious, practical, caring, agile, and devoted. This sign is also known for its dark, cynical, or clever sense of humor.
Cardinal sign
The 12 zodiac signs are categorized into three modalities. The first is called cardinal: this group is visionary, self-initiating, and driven. Cardinal signs are the movers and shakers of the zodiac. The four cardinal signs are Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn.
Earth element
The earth element represents the tangible, material world. Earth is fertile, rich, and abundant. Although it can be fixed and unyielding, it is also a fruitful and high-yielding force. In their own ways, the three earth signs—Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn—embody the grounded, sacred qualities of the earth element.
Earth sign
Earth signs embody the grounded, replenishing, and steadfast nature of the earth element. The three earth signs are Virgo, Capricorn, and Taurus. This trio values security and stability, and each stabilizes themselves in their own ways. Earth signs understand that you must plant and tend to your garden before you can bloom.
Feminine sign
The feminine zodiac signs are associated with divine feminine, “yin” energy. Earth and water signs are feminine: this includes Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Pisces. These zodiac signs are gentle, wise, intuitive, artistic, and healing. Earth signs possess a sacred inner strength and discipline, while water signs reflect a fluid, receptive state. All zodiac signs are either masculine or feminine (regardless of an individual’s gender identity). So, for example, you can be a Cancer man or a non-binary Pisces while still embodying divine feminine qualities.
Fire element
The fire element is the hot and dry exhale of earth. Fire is energy, power, strength, and ignition in its purest form. By nature, fire is both a creative and destructive force. Its energy feels hot and dry. Fire represents the movers and shakers of the world (as does the air element). There’s a warm intensity to the three fire signs: Leo, Aries, and Sagittarius.
Fire sign
Fire signs embody the crackling, blazing and incandescent qualities of the fire element. The three fire signs are Leo, Aries, and Sagittarius. This trio is fierce, energetic, and tenacious. Fire signs make strides in sporadic bursts of passion. Structure and routine support fire signs in channeling their inner flame.
Fixed sign
The 12 zodiac signs are categorized into three modalities. The second is called fixed: this group is focused, inflexible, rooted, and firm. Rather than shift to match changing circumstances, fixed signs are unwavering in their preferences, beliefs, and self-presentation. The four fixed signs are Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius.
Gemini
Gemini is a mutable air sign named after the Gemini constellation and ruled by the planet Mercury. This air sign is an eternal student, thriving off variety and mental stimulation. Gemini is a symbol of communication, expression, curiosity, learning, and intellect.
Horoscope
Your horoscope is a personal energetic forecast based on your birth chart. A birth chart reflects celestial bodies’ positions at the time of your birth. Astrologers study the real-time movement of planets through an individual’s birth chart to predict internal and external experiences.
Leo
Leo is a fixed fire sign named after the Leo constellation and ruled by the sun. Leo is a symbol of charisma, loyalty, vitality, strength, and passion. This vibrant fire sign approaches the world with exuberance, playfulness, and child-like wonder. Leo possesses the ability to creatively visualize and manifest its desires. This sign often gravitates towards the spotlight and leadership roles.
Libra
Libra is a cardinal air sign named after the Libra constellation and ruled by the planet Venus. Libra is a symbol of peace, balance, harmony, diplomacy, justice, and fairness. This air sign values relationships and partnerships. Libra is a natural communicator, cultivating harmony and collaboration. This sign is also fascinated with culture and the arts.
Masculine sign
The masculine zodiac signs are associated with divine masculine, “yang” energy. Fire and air signs are masculine: this includes Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, Aquarius. These zodiac signs are active, direct, collaborative, and expressive. They’re “doers,” leaders, and supporting roles. Fire signs possess a passionate, assertive nature, while air signs reflect a logical, analytical state. All zodiac signs are either masculine or feminine (regardless of an individual’s gender identity). So, for example, you can be a Leo woman or a non-binary Aquarius while still embodying divine masculine qualities.
Modality
Just like we can group zodiac signs by their elements (fire, air, water, earth), we can also group them by their modalities (also known as quadruplicities). There are three modalities—cardinal, fixed, and mutable—and each comes with a distinct quality and set of characteristics. Modalities show us that zodiac signs overlap in character, despite their elemental differences.
Mutable sign
The 12 zodiac signs are categorized into three modalities. The third is called mutable: this group is adaptable, flexible, dynamic, and go-with-the-flow. Mutable signs are chameleons who can mirror or match changing environments. Mutable signs also stimulate and alchemize stagnant environments. The four mutable signs are Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces.
Ophiuchus
Ophiuchus is the 13th zodiac sign, named after the recently discovered Ophiuchus constellation. Although this addition is excluded from the traditional, tropical astrology system, it’s recognized under sidereal astrology. Ophiuchus, known as the “serpent-bearer,” is situated behind the sun from November 29 to December 18. This constellation lies between Scorpio and Sagittarius territory, which explains the new sign’s blend between neighboring zodiacs’ qualities. The recognition of Ophiuchus in a 2020 NASA article set the world into an astro-frenzy and existential crisis. Adding a 13th zodiac sign doesn’t just affect Scorpios and Sagittarians: it means almost everyone shifts back a sig. (For example, I am an August 1st Leo who would now be considered a Cancer).
Pisces
Pisces, named after the Pisces constellation, is a mutable water sign anciently ruled by the planet Jupiter and modernly by Neptune. Pisces is dreamy, artistic, nostalgic, mystical, intuitive, and emotionally sensitive. This water sign reflects Jupiter’s free-spirited, philosophical, and wanderlust nature. Pisces is open-minded and imaginative with strong escapist tendencies.
Quadruplicity
Just like we can group zodiac signs by their elements (fire, air, water, earth), we can also group them by their quadruplicities (also known as modalities). There are three quadruplicities—cardinal, fixed, and mutable—and each comes with a distinct quality and set of characteristics. Quadruplicities show us that zodiac signs overlap in character, despite their elemental differences.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius is a mutable fire sign named after the Sagittarius constellation and ruled by the planet Jupiter. Sagittarius is the embodiment of Jupiter’s optimism, adventure, luck, abundance, and good fortune. This restless fire sign has an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, with an interest in philosophy, religion, faith, culture, travel, spirituality, and higher learning. Sagittarius is a jack-of-all-trades, channeling a rare blend of wisdom and curiosity.
Scorpio
Scorpio, named after the Scorpio constellation, is a fixed water sign anciently ruled by the planet Mars and modernly ruled by Pluto. Scorpio is artistic, emotional, and intense. Scorpio possesses an oceanic depth that draws people in and powers a subtle, undercurrent of influence. This brooding, alluring water sign can be secretive, controlling, and protective—only softening with trust. Scorpio is alchemical, seeking inner or outer transformation throughout the course of life and pushing others to transform, too.
Star sign
Your star sign reflects the sun’s zodiac sign position at the moment of your birth. The star signs are named after the zodiac constellations that the sun annually orbits, of which there are 12: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. Stars signs are also referred to as sun signs or zodiac signs.
Sun sign
Your sun sign reflects the sun’s zodiac sign position at the moment of your birth. The star signs are named after the zodiac constellations that the sun annually orbits, of which there are 12: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. Stars signs are also referred to as star signs or zodiac signs.
Zodiac
The zodiac is a conceptual divine of the sky into an imaginary belt or ring of constellations at the same latitude as our solar system.
Zodiac sign
Your zodiac sign reflects where sun was positioned at the time of your birth. The signs are named after the zodiac constellations that the sun annually orbits, of which there are 12: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. Zodiac signs are also commonly referred to as sun signs or star signs.
Taurus
Taurus is a fixed earth sign named after the Taurus constellation and ruled by the planet Venus. Taurus embodies Venus’ nourishing, replenishing, sensual, abundant, and lush qualities. This grounded sign prioritizes rest and earthly pleasures, while also possessing a hands-on and bootstrapping work ethic.
Virgo
Virgo is a mutable earth sign named after the Virgo constellation and ruled by the planet Mercury. Virgos are talented wordsmiths and storytellers. This sign is mentally sharp and known for its thoughtful, articulate, and analytical nature. Virgos ground themselves through daily rituals and wellness routines that tend to the physical body. Virgo often feels a sense of mental chaos, as a result seeking to organize both its inner and outer world. This wise earth sign likes to feel helpful or in service of others.

Water element
The water element represents the flowing current of water. Water is intuition, emotion, and reflection in its purest form. Although it can be transient and changing, it is a powerful and purifying force. In their own ways, the three water signs—Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces—personify both shallow, peaceful waters and the dark, unknown oceanic depths.
Water sign
Water signs represent the flowing current of energy. Water signs are sensitive, intuitive, mystical, healing, reflective, and receptive. Although water can be transient and changing, it also a powerful and purifying force. In their own ways, the three water signs—Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces—personify both shallow, placid water and the dark, unknown ocean depths.
Yang
In ancient Chinese philosophy, yang represents divine masculine energy. This energy is associated with daytime’s hot, dry air. Yang is active, service-oriented, and providing. The masculine yang complements the feminine yin: yin/yang represents nature’s dualities (such as of light and dark, day and night, fire and water).
Yin
In ancient Chinese philosophy, yin represents divine feminine energy. This energy is soft, diffuse, receptive, and gentle. Yin is associated with water’s cool wetness, earth’s cold dampness, and nightfall’s quiet darkness. The feminine yin complements the masculine yang.
Zodiac
In astrology and astronomy, the zodiac belt is a figurative celestial “roadway” that encompasses the paths of the sun, moon, and major planets. Within it, the 12 zodiac constellations exist in order of Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.
Zodiac sign
Your zodiac sign reflects where sun was positioned at the time of your birth. The signs are named after the zodiac constellations that the sun annually orbits, of which there are 12: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. Zodiac signs are also commonly referred to as sun signs or star signs.

Asteroid
In astrology, planets are major players, and asteroids play minor roles. Although over 200 asteroids can be used in astrology readings, astrologers more commonly focus on Ceres, Pallas, Juno, Vesta, and Chiron—especially when these asteroids make a 1-3º orb with the natal planets or sensitive points (such as the ascendant, IC, and lunar nodes). Although Chiron has gained popularity in modern astrology, Juno made mainstream astrology waves on TikTok in 2021.
Celestial body
In astronomy and astrology, a celestial body is considered any natural object outside of the Earth’s atmosphere. This includes the sun, moon, asteroids, planets, comets, and stars.
Ceres
Ceres, one of astrology’s four major asteroids, is named after the Roman goddess of grain, agriculture, fertility, and motherhood (her Greek mythological counterpart is Demeter). In astrology, Ceres embodies nurturing, nourishing, wholesome, and care-giving qualities. This natural goddess is simple and unadorned. Ceres is also associated with cycles of grief and separation because, in mythology, her daughter Persephone must spend half the year in the underworld. Ceres’ energy is cyclical, reflecting transitional phases in a woman's life. Your Ceres sign reveals your style of nurturing yourself and others, especially if your Ceres is placed strongly in your birth chart (such as through a conjunction to your sun sign, moon sign, or rising sign).
Chiron
Chiron is an asteroid, or minor celestial body, that represents your wounds and pain points. Chiron is named after a centaur in Greek mythology who was famed for his wisdom and healing powers. The comet’s nickname—“the wounded healer”—is based on the story of Chiron getting injured by a poison arrow and, despite his supernatural healing abilities, failing to relieve his own pain. Just as much as Chiron reflects your greatest strength, Chiron’s position in your birth chart also reveals your deepest wounds, traumas, blind spots, or vulnerable areas. You have carried these personal pain points from a previous lifetime (or otherwise experienced similar scenarios while growing up). Your Chiron placement can also perpetuate generational trauma: because you were born with a specific Chiron sign, that means your parents were navigating that Chiron lesson in the four years leading up to your birth or overlapping with your early years of life.
Eros
In astrology, Eros is an asteroid named after the Greek god of erotic love and desire (in Roman mythology, this is Cupid!). Eros irresistibly overpowers your senses with sex, lust, and enamor. Your Eros sign reveals the style in which you pursue your creative and romantic passions. Eros mostly travels within Mars’ orbit, a major astrology planet that can also symbolize sexual desire and aggression.
Generational planet
The generational planets, also called outer planets, are further from Earth and slow-moving: Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. These planets stay in the same zodiac sign for years (some even as long as a decade). As a result, generational planets mark personal chapters and collective, societal shifts. People born within the same cluster of years share generational planet birth chart placements. For example, Gen Z individuals were born with Pluto in Sagittarius.
Inner planet
The inner planets are the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, and Mars. Because these celestial bodies are physically closer to Earth and orbit quickly, these “personal planets” have an immediate effect on our day-to-day lives. Inner planets move close together through the zodiac signs, which your birth chart reflects in zodiac clusters. For example, if you’re a Sagittarius, you likely have another personal planet in Scorpio or Capricorn.
Juno
Juno is a major asteroid that represents marriage and life partnership. Juno is named after the Roman goddess of marriage and protector of women. Astrologers believe that whichever zodiac sign Juno was positioned in at the moment of your birth is also the sign of your soulmate. Alternatively, your Juno sign describes the qualities and traits you seek in a long-term partner.
Jupiter
Jupiter is an outer planet associated with international travel, philosophy, religion, faith, spirituality, optimism, luck, and good fortune. Jupiter’s house position in your birth chart symbolizes an expansive area of your life, while its zodiac sign position reflects your expansive qualities and traits. Jupiter rules over adventurous Sagittarius and mystical Pisces.
Luminaries
In astrology, the term "luminaries" refers to the two most significant celestial bodies in the sky—the sun and moon. These two luminous bodies play essential roles in a birth chart, representing distinct aspects of an individual's personality and life experiences.
Mars
Mars is the planet of action, named after the Roman god of war. Mars is assertive, aggressive, passionate, active, and driven. Your Mars sign reflects your self-assertion and vitality, such as your approach for chasing desires. Mars’ real-time movement can forecast energetic boosts. Your Mars sign also represents your approach to conflict—direct versus passive, stubborn versus diplomatic, reactive versus avoidant, loudly forceful versus quietly calculating—as well as reveals your preferred sexual style.
Mercury
Mercury is the planet of communication, named after the Roman messenger of the gods. Mercury represents curiosity, logic, reason, intelligence, expression, and the sharing of information. Mercury-ruled individuals are able to absorb divine or complex information and translate it into digestible messages. Mercurial energy can also feel nervous, restless, and fickle (which explains its rulership over fast-thinking Gemini and Virgo). Your Mercury placement symbolizes your communication style, both spoken and written. If you have heavy Gemini or Virgo placements, you’re a wordsmith or talented storyteller.
Moon
In astrology, the moon represents your inner, emotional world. Your moon sign is based on the moon’s position in the sky at the moment of your birth. Although not a planet, this celestial body is part of your astrological Big Three. Your moon sign is a deeply personal placement that reflects your innermost thoughts and emotional processing style. While some people wear their hearts on their sleeves, most individuals’ moon signs are privately hidden upon first impression.
Neptune
Neptune symbolizes dreams, mysticism, fantasy, illusion, consciousness, and projections of reality. Neptune is named after the Roman god of the sea, which is mirrored in this planet’s otherworldly hues of deep ocean blues and its subtle influence over the tides of our consciousness. Because Neptune takes 165 years to travel around the sun, this planet stays in the same zodiac sign for an average of 15 years. This generational planet marks cultural, artistic, and philosophical eras. Neptune’s position in your birth chart reveals the collective consciousness reflected in your individual ideals. Neptune rules sensitive, dreamy Pisces and is exalted in Cancer and Leo.
Outer planet
The outer planets, also called generational planets, are further from Earth and slow-moving: Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. These planets stay in the same zodiac sign for years (some even as long as a decade). As a result, generational planets mark personal chapters and collective, societal shifts. People born within the same cluster of years share generational planet birth chart placements. For example, Gen Z individuals were born with Pluto in Sagittarius.
Pallas
Pallas, one of astrology’s four major asteroids, is named after the Greek goddess of warcraft, battle, strategy, and intelligence (her well-known epithet, or nickname, is Athena). In astrology, Pallas symbolizes wisdom, healing arts, and knowledge. The zodiac sign that Pallas transited at your birth time reveals your style of creative thinking and learning.
Personal planet
The personal planets include the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, and Mars. Because these celestial bodies are physically closer to Earth and orbit quickly, these “inner planets” have an immediate effect on our day-to-day lives. Personal planets move close together through the zodiac signs, which your birth chart reflects in zodiac clusters. For example, if you’re a Leo, you likely have another personal planet in Cancer or Virgo.
Pluto
Pluto, named after the Greek ruler of the underworld, symbolizes death, rebirth, and transformation. Pluto’s “death” is metaphorical—in the same way that tarot’s Death card is not a death omen but a signal of intense metamorphosis or renewal. Pluto controls life’s lessons, cycles, beginnings and endings. This planet is powerfully disruptive, igniting deep spiritual development within us. This slow-moving generational planet’s spends anywhere from 12 to 21 years in a single zodiac sign. Pluto’s position in your birth chart reveals collective power dynamics and hidden truths reflected in your individual ideals. Pluto rules intense Scorpio and is exalted in obsessive Leo.
Saturn
Saturn is the planet of karma, time, and restriction. It rules ambition, responsibility, hard work, authority, organization, and structure. In Roman mythology, Saturn is the god of harvest and time; in Greek mythology, this god is named Chronos. Lighter Saturn birth chart placements can feel like a healthy dose of discipline and challenge, while heavier placements feel like an area of your life can’t escape limitations and frustrations. Your soul growth comes from working on this difficult or “stuck” area throughout your lifetime. Saturn is the ruling planet of diligent, hard-working Capricorn. It also rules the 10th House of Career and is exalted in Libra.
Sun
In astrology, the sun represents the self. Your Sun sign symbolizes your creative life force, vitality, and self-expression. The sun’s sign and house placement in your birth chart reveals your identity and consciousness. The sun rules Leo and is exalted in Aries.
Uranus
Uranus, known as “the great awakener,” brings sudden jolts of change or shocks to the system. This radical generational planet is named after the Greek god of the sky and symbolizes technology and innovation. Uranus is eccentric and open-minded, with a special focus on collectivism, community, and friendship. Uranus’ sign and house placement in your birth chart reflects your free-thinking or nonconformist values (or the most innovative area of your life). Uranus takes approximately seven years to transit each zodiac sign, marking distinct periods of sociocultural change. Uranus rules progressive and independent Aquarius and is exalted in deep-thinking Scorpio.
Venus
Venus symbolizes relationships, harmony, sensuality, luxury, abundance, and fertility. This planet is named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty (and her Greek counterpart Aphrodite). Venus’ sign and house placement in your birth chart reflects your romantic approach, as well as the traits and qualities you desire in a partner. Your Venus sign also reveals your ideal love languages. Venus is the ruling planet of beautiful, graceful Libra and sensual, grounded Taurus; it’s also exalted in dreamy Pisces.
Vesta
Vesta, one of astrology’s four major asteroids, is named after the Roman goddess of hearth, home, and domestic life (and sister of Zeus or Jupiter). Vesta orbits the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. In astrology, Vesta represents your inner fire and divine feminine energy. Vesta’s placement in your birth chart reveals the areas of your life in which you’re most devoted. Vesta reveals an innate wholeness and sacred calling within you.

Angular house
The Placidus house system emphasizes the four angular houses: the first house (representing the self), the fourth house (representing home and family), the seventh house (representing relationships and partnerships), and the tenth house (representing career and public image). These houses are considered the most powerful and influential in a birth chart.
Eighth house
In astrology, the 8th house is the birth chart house of transformation. This house symbolizes death, rebirth, and renewal. Your eighth house’s zodiac ruler reveals the area of life where you experience profound change and evolution. When planets transit your eighth house, your focus shifts to deep, intimate connections, shared resources, taboo subjects (such as sex and ego), and psychological exploration. In astrology, the eighth house is associated with zodiac sign Scorpio and the planets Mars and Pluto.
Eleventh house
In astrology, the 11th house is the birth chart house of friendship. This house symbolizes friends, community, group activities, teamwork, social groups, and collective endeavors. This house also rules strategic alliances and collaborations. Your eleventh house’s zodiac ruler reveals the qualities you value in friendship and ability to establish meaningful connections with others. When planets transit your eleventh house, you instinctively nurture your inner circle and interactions with a wider network. In astrology, the eleventh house is associated with zodiac sign Aquarius and the planets Saturn.
Empty house
Empty houses refer to houses in a birth chart that do not contain any planets or celestial bodies. Planets occupying houses symbolize life lessons and conditions, and so empty house reflect areas of life that don’t require extra attention. Empty houses can indicate where you experience a sense of openness, freedom, or personal growth. Individuals with empty houses can develop a greater sense of autonomy in those specific areas, while redirecting focus on energetically emphasized houses occupied by planets. An empty house is still influenced by the sign that rules that house and its planetary ruler. The ruling sign and planet provide insights into the general themes and characteristics of that house.
First house
In astrology, the 1st house is the birth chart house of self, identity, and consciousness. Your first house’s zodiac ruler is the essence of “you.” When planets transit your first house, your focus shifts to self-image and personal goals. Your ascendant is a sensitive point always positioned in the first house. If you have other planets or celestial bodies occupying your first house, their energies are strongly felt and expressed throughout your lifetime. For example, if Venus is positioned in your first house, your values of beauty, sensuality, and abundance are outwardly radiated. In astrology, the first house is associated with the zodiac sign Aries and planet Mars.
Fifth house
In astrology, the 5th house is the birth chart house of pleasure. This house symbolizes the recreational activities, hobbies, and interests that stir your soul. Your fifth house’s zodiac ruler reveals your creative spark. When planets transit your fifth house, your focus shifts to leisure time, romance, artistic projects, and performative or playful activities that nurture your inner child. In astrology, the fifth house is associated with zodiac sign Leo and the sun.
Fourth house
In astrology, the 4th house is the birth chart house of home. This house symbolizes family, roots, and sense of security. Your fourth house’s zodiac ruler reveals your source of belonging and comfort. When planets transit your fourth house, your focus shifts to domestic affairs, parenthood, ancestry, living spaces, interior design, and more. In astrology, the fourth house is associated with zodiac sign Cancer and the moon.
House
Each birth chart is divided into 12 segments called houses. There are 12 houses, and each represents a specific area of life. Houses deepen natal chart readings, as well as fuel predictive astrology. The rising sign is a sensitive point that establishes an individual’s houses. Because houses establish the timing of your life, people who share the same rising sign undergo similar life path experiences. To understand the houses’ role in astrology, follow this simple equation: planet + zodiac sign + house = meaning. The first six houses rule personal matters, and the last six houses represent interpersonal affairs. Multiple planets can occupy the same house, or zero planets establish an empty house.
Intercepted house
In the Placidus system, it's possible for a house larger than 30° to be intercepted, meaning it falls entirely within a particular sign. This occurs when the cusp of a house falls in one sign, but the following house begins in a different sign. Intercepted houses are considered important areas of focus in a person's life, and they can indicate unique challenges and potentials.
Ninth house
In astrology, the 9th house is the house of higher purpose. This segment of your birth chart is associated with higher learning, travel, philosophy, religion, faith and spirituality. Your ninth house’s zodiac ruler reveals your quest for knowledge, self-expansion, wisdom, and deeper meaning. When planets transit your ninth house, your focus shifts to sharing a wider message, and you’re encouraged to explore modalities of public speaking, teaching, studying, research, or publishing. The ninth house broadens your horizon. In astrology, the ninth house is associated with zodiac sign Sagittarius and the worldly planet Jupiter.
Placidus (house system)
The Placidus house system is one of the most popular and widely used house systems in Western astrology—in fact, many well-known birth chart calculators and apps default to this method. Placidus divides the birth chart into twelve houses of varying sizes based on the degree of the ascendant (also known as rising sign) and the degree of the Midheaven (the point directly overhead at the time of birth). One distinctive feature of the Placidus system is that it produces unequal house sizes. As the ascendant degree changes, the size of the houses in the chart also changes. This means that houses near the poles (closer to the Ascendant or Descendant) can be significantly smaller than those near the equator (closer to the Midheaven or IC). Some astrologers believe that Whole Sign houses offer a more holistic, accurate approach. Cosmic Latte uses Whole Sign houses.
Porphyry (house system)
In the Porphyry house system, your birth chart is divided into equal-sized house, each spanning 30° each. The ascendant marks the beginning of the first house, and subsequent houses are determined by dividing the ecliptic into twelve equal segments. With the Porphyry system, the signs of the zodiac can begin and end at any point within a house. This means that a sign may span two different houses, and planets within a sign can be distributed across different houses.
Quadrant
In astrology, the quadrants refer to the division of a birth chart into four equal sections, each starting at the cusp of the first, fourth, seventh, and tenth houses (which are based on the four angles). Each quadrant contains three houses.
Second house
In astrology, the 2nd house is the birth chart house of value, resources, and finances. Your second house’s zodiac ruler reveals your values and relationship with the material world. More broadly, this house also relates to self-worth and security. When planets transi t your second house, you experience shifts to money and material possessions. Pay attention the planets or celestial bodies in your birth chart’s second house—each tells a story. For example, if “wounded healer” Chiron occupies your second house, you may hold a scarcity mindset. In astrology, the second house is associated with zodiac sign Taurus and planet Venus.
Sixth house
In astrology, the 6th house is the birth chart house of health and service. This house symbolizes your daily routines, habits, and work ethic. Your sixth house’s zodiac ruler reveals your approach to personal wellbeing and service to others. When planets transit your sixth house, your focus shifts to your physical and mental health, job performance, and wider societal impact (such as volunteer work or seeking work with deeper personal meaning). In astrology, the sixth house is associated with zodiac sign Virgo and the planet Mercury.
Seventh house
In astrology, the seventh house is the birth chart house of partnerships. This house symbolizes close relationships—romantic, platonic, or professional. Your seventh house’s zodiac ruler reveals the qualities you seek in a partner and how you approach relationships (as does your Venus sign). When planets transit your seventh house, your focus shifts to one-on-one interactions, negotiation, and compromise. In astrology, the seventh house is associated with zodiac sign Libra and the planet Venus.
Third house
In astrology, the 3rd house is the birth chart house of communication and expression. This house symbolizes expression in all forms—speaking, writing, language, information-sharing, technology, and local travel. Your third house’s zodiac ruler reveals your communication style (as does your Mercury sign). When planets transit your third house, your focus shifts to communications projects, juggling the details of your life, short-term trips, and even spending time with siblings and neighbors. In astrology, the third house is associated with zodiac sign Gemini and planet Mercury.
Tenth house
In astrology, the 10th house is the house of career and vocational calling. This house symbolizes professional pursuits, aspirations, organizations, respect, fame, discipline, and responsibilities. Your tenth house’s zodiac ruler reveals your hard work, ambition, and success (as does your Midheaven sign). When planets transit your tenth house, your focus shift your professional path. In astrology, the tenth house is associated with zodiac sign Capricorn and planet Saturn.
Twelfth house
In astrology, the 12th house is the house of subconscious. This house symbolizes the hidden realms of the unconscious mind, secrets, mysticism, and solitude. The twelfth house is also connected with karma and past lives. Your twelfth house’s zodiac ruler reveals your style of spiritual retreat, introspection, and shadow work. When planets transit your twelfth house, you enter a period of introspection or contemplation, usually in seclusion. In astrology, the twelfth house is associated with zodiac sign Pisces and planet Neptune.
Whole Sign (house system)
Whole Sign evenly divides a birth chart’s 360° zodiac wheel into twelve houses, with each house segmented at 30°. In this traditional method, each zodiac sign starts at 0° and rules over an entire house. Whole Sign standardizes birth chart interpretations: for example, every Virgo rising (with Virgo ruling the first house) has a Pisces-ruled seventh house. Whole Sign houses also simplify tracking the real-time movement of planets through your houses. Many popular birth chart calculators, like Cafe Astrology and Co-Star, default to the Placidus or Porphyry house systems. Cosmic Latte uses Whole Sign houses, as well as other well-known astrologers such as You Were Born For This author Chani Nicholas.

Anaretic
Anaretic is a critical degree that occurs when a planet is at 29° in a zodiac sign, right before changing signs. A zodiac wheel is segmented into 12 astrology houses, each 30° when using whole sign houses. If you were born with a planet at 29°, you’ve mastered this particular zodiac sign’s theme, feeling a sense of “old soul” familiarity. Although possessing this critical degree in your birth chart might present life lessons and challenges, you have the tools for self-mastery.
Applying aspect
Applying aspects occur when a faster planet is approaching the exact degree, or position, of a slower planet. An applying aspect is proactive, dynamic, anticipatory, and responsive—it embodies the tension of something about to happen. Individuals with an applying aspect in their birth chart feel both a sense of preparedness and a desire for conscious control over their reactions. The particular planets involved in an applying aspect give form and meaning to its expression in an individual’s life.
Applying sextile
There are two kinds of sextiles: applying and separating. A sextile describes the major aspect formed between two planets that are positioned three zodiac signs apart (at approximately 60° angles). There is always one planet moving faster than the other in a sextile. An applying sextile describes a scenario where the faster planet has almost completed its cycle and is 60° away from being in aspect with the slower planet. With any applying aspect comes reactionary change. The applying sextile’s energy creates a re-organization, re-orientation, and re-adaptation.
Ascendant
Your ascendant, or rising sign, is the zodiac sign that was ascending on the eastern horizon at the moment of your birth. Your ascendant sign reveals the self-image or self-expression that you exude—in other words, how you want to be perceived and how others actually see you. This is your cosmic first impression: your ascendant sign reflects your physical appearance, mannerisms, and self-presentation. The ascendant sign is a sensitive point in your birth chart that sets up natal planets’ house positions (ultimately, this affects the timing and nature of your life events). Because this sensitive point changes zodiac signs rapidly (approximately every two hours), your birth time is essential to an accurate calculation. This explains why, despite sharing the same birthday, two people born on the same day and year can present very differently.
Aspect
In astrology, an aspect describes the angle formed between two (or among a few) planets. Aspects among natal planets provide a deeper interpretation of your birth chart. The real-time movement of planets in aspect with your natal planet positions can trigger internal or external experiences for individuals. The real-time aspects formed among planets can also affect people collectively (such as Venus and Neptune forming a tight square in the sky one day and stirring friction for everyone). Aspects can be major, minor, hard, or soft. Some planetary angles bring pleasant, harmonious energy, while others build tension.
Big Three
The Big Three represents three major, personal placements in your birth chart: the sun sign, moon sign, and rising sign. Trying using this astro-savvy lingo in conversation.
Big Six
The Big Six stands for the six personal placements in your chart: the sun sign, moon sign, rising sign, Mercury sign, Venus sign, and Mars sign. Your Big Six includes your Big Three.
Birth chart
Your birth chart is a blueprint of where the planets and celestial bodies were positioned at the moment you were born. Your birth chart doesn’t make you a certain person—rather, it reflects (or mirrors) who you already are and who you came here to be. To calculate your birth chart, enter your birth date, time, and location into a birth chart calculator (recommended: astro-charts and Chani). When calculating your chart, it’s important to input an accurate birth time because your Rising sign (and, as a result, the planets’ house positions) changes every two hours.
Birth chart reading
Your birth chart reading is an interpretation of your personality and life events based on where the planets and celestial bodies were at the moment of your birth. The beauty of astrology is that you could have three birth chart readings in a row with three different astrologers, yet unearth something new about yourself each time.
Bi-wheel
In astrology, a bi-wheel displays two zodiac wheels to compare two people’s birth charts (synastry) or an individual’s birth chart against real-time planet transits. Both synastry bi-wheels and transit bi-wheels display an individual’s birth chart in the inner circle, with the second chart in the outer circle for comparison.
Cazimi
A cazimi occurs when a planet or celestial body is located within a very close orb of the sun, which revitalizes and amplifies its energy. The word "cazimi" is derived from an Arabic term meaning "in the heart of the sun.” In traditional astrology, a planet in cazimi is considered potent, fortunate, and powerful. However, being in cazimi can also amplify the challenging qualities associated with a planet, such as with active Mars and tough-love teacher Saturn. Many astrologers pay close attention to planets in cazimi, as they usually indicate a period of heightened activity, opportunity, or breakthrough. Cazimis support taking action, making decisions, or initiating new ventures related to the involved planet.
Chiron line
In astrocartography, the Chiron line represents places in the world where you attract personal growth and healing. When living or traveling on a Chiron line, your wounds are triggered to the surface of your consciousness. You focus on emotional processing and tapping into your inner wisdom. If you’ve been repressing painful or memories or vulnerable experiences, you can’t avoid them here. You might also dive deeper into a purpose-driven healing path that inspires others. To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Conjunction
Conjunction describes a major astrological aspect in which two or more celestial bodies are within approximately 0° of each other—in other words, they’re positioned extra-close together in the sky. Both celestial bodies’ energies overlap, mingle, or intensify. Sometimes both amplified energies are complementary, and other times they’re contradictory or challenging. A stellium is formed when three or more celestial bodies form conjunctions.
Castle
A castle is a birth chart pattern composed of a grand trine aspect (three planets or celestial bodies positioned 120º apart) and two sextiles (two celestial bodies positioned 60º apart) on the side. This rare pattern is shaped like a star or pentacle. Castles reflect drive, ambition, and willpower. Individuals with natal castles possess innate leadership skills, or seek complexity in others.
Cradle
The cradle, or trapeze, is a rare birth chart pattern composed of numerous major aspects: four planets are connected by three sextiles, two trines, and one opposition. A cradle resembles a game of popular 90s string game “cat’s cradle” that forms a half-hexagon. A cradle is similar to a grand sextile, yet its energies aren’t as self-contained. If you have this pattern in your birth chart, you must learn to harness a cradle’s unbalanced and dispersed energies.
Composite chart
In astrology, you can calculate a composite chart between two individuals to determine the meaning of a relationship. Your composite chart calculates the mathematical midpoint between both people’s planetary positions to create a singular birth chart that reflects the relationship’s nature. For example, if one individual has a Virgo Venus and another a Scorpio Venus, their relationship embodies the midpoint of Libra Venus. You can can calculate a composite chart for romantic partners, friends, or family members. While using different techniques, both composite charts and synastry reveal insights.
Critical degree
In astrology, critical degrees mean that a planet or celestial body is positioned in a notable degree at your birth time. Critical degrees include: 0° (ingress), 15°, and 29° (anaretic). Calculate your birth chart to discover degrees. Particular critical degrees also coincide with zodiac signs. Aries’ critical degrees are 1°, 13°, 24°. Taurus’ critical degrees are 2°, 14°, 25°. Gemini’s critical degrees are 3°, 15°, and 26°. Cancer’s critical degrees are 4°, 16°, 27°. Leo’s critical degrees are 5°, 17°, 28°. Virgo’s critical degrees are 6° and 18°. Libra’s critical degrees are 7° and 18°. Scorpio’s critical degrees are 8° and 19°. Sagittarius’ critical degrees are 9° and 20°. Capricorn’s critical degrees are 10° and 21°. Aquarius’ critical degrees are 11° and 22°. Pisces’ critical degrees are 12° and 23°.
Cusp
The cusp describes the line dividing two houses or zodiac signs, where the two share a border. If your birthday is during the last few days of one zodiac season or the first few days of the next, then might be considered a cusp, or blend, or both signs. For example, someone born between August 19 and 25 would be considered a Leo/Virgo cusp. Because this Leo/Virgo cusp individual was born during the latest degrees of Leo, they likely also possess other personal planets in Virgo (such as a Virgo Mercury, Mars, or Venus). This also amplifies the blend of a cusp.
Decan
A decan, or face, is an approximately 10-day period during which a zodiac sign has a powerful influence. Decans are one of astrology’s five essential dignities, although the least influential. Some astrologers use decans to sub-divide a zodiac wheel and narrow their interpretation for each section.
Degree
In astrology, degrees add a new layer of meaning to interpreting an individual’s birth chart. Within the 360° zodiac wheel, each house is segmented 30°, when using whole sign houses. Each planet or celestial body occupied a specific degree in the sky at your birth time. Critical degrees are especially notable in your birth chart.
Descendent (DC)
The descendent, which opposes the ascendant, is the zodiac sign that descended on the western horizon at the moment of your birth. While your ascendant sign (positioned in the first house) represents your optimal self-image, your descendent sign (oppositely positioned in the seventh house) reflects the traits you idealize or value in others. À la the popular “opposites attract” theory, many astrologers believe that we’re attracted to people who possess our descendent sign’s qualities.
Detriment
A planet’s influence is weakened or misdirected when in detriment. This condition is one of astrology’s three essential debilities. A planet in detriment is positioned in the zodiac sign opposite from its zodiac sign of rulership. For example, Venus rules Taurus and Libra, which means that Venus is in detriment in Scorpio and Aries.
Domicile
A planet’s influence is amplified when in domicile, or rulership. This condition is the strongest of astrology’s five essential dignities. Each zodiac sign has a planetary ruler that feels like home. When a planet is positioned in the zodiac sign over which it rules, then it’s in domicile. For example, Venus rules Taurus. If your sun is in Taurus, it’s not in domicile; if your Venus is in Taurus, then it’s in domicile.
Ephemeris
An ephemeris is a table of planetary transits and positions, listing the exact date and time a planet enters a zodiac sign, or its point of ingress. Another column reveals each planet’s retrograde and direct timing. Before the Internet’s boom, astrologers relied on ephemeris tables to calculate birth charts by hand. In modern practice, ephemeris tables are useful for studying long-term planetary transits and cycles.
Essential debilities
There are two types of weak (or neutral) conditions known as the essential debilities: peregrine, detriment, and fall. Astrological compatibility isn’t just for humans—it’s for planets too. A planet’s influence shifts based on its zodiac sign placement. The essential dignities symbolize a planet’s discomfort within a particular sign or degree.
Essential dignities
There are five types of positive conditions known as the essential dignities: rulership, exaltation, triplicity, term, and face. Astrological compatibility isn’t just for humans—it’s for planets too. A planet’s influence shifts based on its zodiac sign placement. The essential dignities reflect a planet’s comfort within a particular sign or degree.
Exalted
A planet’s influence is magnified when in exaltation, which means the planet Exaltedis positioned in a zodiac sign of similar or complementary nature. This is one of the five essential dignities: although not as strong as a planet in rulership, this condition has a considerable positive influence. A planet positioned opposite from an exalted planet is in fall.
Face
A face, or decan, is an approximately 10-day period during which a zodiac sign has a powerful influence. Faces are one of astrology’s five essential dignities, although the least influential. Some astrologers use faces to sub-divide a zodiac wheel and narrow their interpretation for each section.
Fall
A planet’s effect is weakened when in fall, which means the planet is positioned in a zodiac sign of dissimilar or conflicting nature. This condition is one of astrology’s three essential debilities. When in fall, a planet is positioned in a zodiac sign opposite from its sign of exaltation, and, as a result, this planet’s influence is diluted or weakened. For example, Venus is exalted in Pisces and in fall for Virgo (these two signs are 180º opposites). A planet’s fall in your birth chart reveals the need for extra attention and awareness when navigating a challenging area of life.
Four angles
The four angles describe the four cardinal points in a birth chart: the ascendant (or rising), the Midheaven (MC), the descendant (DC), and the Imum Coeli (IC). These angles are based on the visible divisions of the sun’s ecliptic path. The four angles are captured in a birth chart’s zodiac wheel view.
Grand Cross
The rare and intense grand cross is a major astrology aspect composed of four planets that were each positioned in tense squares 90° apart at the moment of your birth, or two planets in 180° oppositions. A grand cross looks like an “X” or cross shape. In a grand cross, the four planets are positioned in zodiac signs of the same modality (fixed, cardinal, or mutable). While the shared modality feels harmonious, tension arises among elemental clashes because each planet is situated in a zodiac sign of a different element (fire, earth, air of water). Friction inspires action. Individuals born with planets forming a grand cross (also known as a grand square) experience challenges in life that demand active resolution.
Grand Sextile
The grand sextile describes six planets positioned in six sextiles (angled at 60°), which link together to form a perfect hexagon. This shape looks like a Star of David. Its power is immense: this configuration contains six kites, six trines, three mystic rectangles, three oppositions, and two Grand Trines. There are two types of sextiles—“applying” and “separating”—and both work together in a Grand Sextile to create a force to be reckoned with. A single sextile usually creates action-inspiring tension. With a Grand Sextile, there are multiple linked sextiles. As a result, the energies are balanced out (or even scattered), and the urgency for energetic release dissipates. Individuals with a Grand Sextile in their birth chart should focus on understanding each individual sextile in order to consciously activate this chart pattern and create a unified force.
Grand Square
The rare and intense grand square is a major astrology aspect composed of four planets that were each positioned in tense squares 90° apart at the moment of your birth, or two planets in 180° oppositions. A grand square looks like an “X” or cross shape. In a grand square, the four planets are positioned in zodiac signs of the same modality (fixed, cardinal, or mutable). While the shared modality feels harmonious, tension arises among elemental clashes because each planet is situated in a zodiac sign of a different element (fire, earth, air of water). Friction inspires action. Individuals born with planets forming a grand square (also known as a grand cross) experience challenges in life that demand active resolution.
Grand Trine
The grand trine is a rare major astrology aspect composed of three planets each positioned 120° apart, forming an equilateral triangle. In other words, three trines occur in the sky at the moment of your birth. There is a sense of ease and pleasure that comes with possessing a grand trine in your birth chart. A grand trine’s energies are free-flowing and harmonious because all three planets share the same astrological element (fire, earth, air, or water). As a result, the ruling element influences this chart pattern’s expression. Grand trines reflect natural talent, balance, and good fortune. That being said, innate ease can be taken for granted. Without the tension that comes with frictional astrological aspects, action can stall and talents are left dormant.
Hard aspect
Planets can form hard aspects and soft aspects, depending on their angles. Hard aspects, such as oppositions and squares, create energetic tension that triggers challenges in an individual’s inner world or external circumstances. Hard aspects have nothing to do with bad luck. Friction inspires action, while also demanding self-awareness. Without a healthy dose of “difficult” aspects, we would stagnate.
Imum Coeli (IC)
Imum Coeli (IC), Latin for “bottom of the sky,” is a point at the very bottom of your birth chart (when viewing a zodiac wheel). Your IC is situated directly opposite from your Midheaven (MC) both from a physical and figurative standpoint. While your MC reflects your professional or public self, your IC reflects your private, inner world. Located on the cusp of your fourth house, this placement symbolizes foundations, roots, home, and family. Your IC reflects the ways you seek emotional security and comfort. The IC is also referred to as the nadir.
Inconjunct (Quincunx)
Inconjunct, also known as quincunx, is a major aspect formed between two planets that are positioned five zodiac signs apart (angled at approximately 150°). This angle feels like an energetic misunderstanding because the involved zodiac signs are usually of different elements and modalities. Rather than forcefully blend unfamiliar energies, you can resolve the inconjunct’s tension with intention. Recognize and compartmentalize each planet’s zodiac position. Then, activate each planet’s distinct qualities in unrelated areas of your life.
Ingress
Ingress is a critical degree that occurs the moment a planet, or celestial body, changes signs. The ingress marks the 0° beginning of a planet’s travels through a particular zodiac sign. If you were born with a planet at 0°, you feel immense potential for that particular placement. For example, if you were born when the sun was positioned in 0° Leo, then your Leo personality traits are magnified.
Jupiter line
In astrocartography, the Jupiter line represents places in the world where you attract abundance, luck, and expansion. When living or traveling on a Jupiter line, you feel adventurous, magnanimous, generous, and open-minded. Your trip feels especially charmed and indulgent. You also feel drawn to Jupiter-ruled subjects, such as spirituality, religion, faith, culture, philosophy, and esoteric subjects (such as astrology, meditation, or tarot). To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Kite
The kite is a rare birth chart pattern formed among planets (in the shape of a kite!). You possess a kite in your birth chart if, at the moment of your birth, one planet was positioned directly opposite (180°) a trio of planets that formed a grand trine. Kites hold the easy-flowing, balanced energy of a grand trine—but with an extra kick. The fourth oppositional planet creates a point of tension. To release this tension, you must focus on the oppositional planet and take inspired, positive action. In isolation, grand trines bring inborn gifts and talents that don't require much effort to maintain (in other words, it’s very easy to stagnate). A kite’s added tension point stirs movement.
Lilith
In astrology, Lilith is known as the “black moon” or “dark moon.” Lilith is not a planet or asteroid but instead a mathematical point that captures a distant, dark cosmic void. Lilith was first referenced in Jewish mythology as dark goddess who was banished from the Garden of Eden for asserting her sexual needs. Your Lilith sign reveals your inner dark side, your repressed desires, and the less desirable parts of yourself that you hide from the world. Lilith symbolizes the sacred feminine and, oppositely, the wounded feminine that perpetuates self-limiting patterns and tendencies.
Malefic
In Vedic astrology, malefic refers to planets that create a force of darkness and negativity. The two malefics, Mars and Saturn, can bring bad luck and misfortune (although not always). They contrast the two benefic planets which offer positive energetic support.
Mars line
In astrocartography, the Mars line represents places in the world that attract action, passion, and red-hot intensity. When living or traveling on a Mars line, you chase each goal wholeheartedly or delight in competition: these are great places to train for a marathon or launch your start-up. Mars lines (especially Mars/Descendent lines) can also spark passionate affairs. There’s truly never a dull moment on your Mars line. You’re active, ambitious, and even combative. Just be sure that interpersonal conflicts or a “hustle culture” lifestyle don’t add too much stress.
Medium Coeli (MC)
The Medium Coeli (MC), or Midheaven, is a birth chart position that represents your career path and public persona. Medium Coeli (which is Latin for “middle of the sky”) is the highest point at the top of your chart and represents the southmost high point above the horizon at your time of birth. The MC marks the cusp, or edge point, of the tenth house, although your MC isn’t always situated in the tenth house when using the whole sign house system. Your MC’s zodiac placement reflects your ideal work style, career strengths, professional ambitions, and—more broadly—the self that you broadcast in the public arena (your personal “brand”). To learn more about your Medium Coeli placement, book a Matcha Latte session.
Mercury line
In astrocartography, the Mercury line represents places in the world where you sharpen your self-expression and communication skills. Communications-based projects and careers flourish here (related to writing, presenting, or research). When living or traveling on a Mercury line, your mind is sharp. You’re especially articulate and thoughtful. Life gets busier, and you might yourself organizing its details. To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Midheaven (MC)
The Midheaven (MC), or Medium Coeli, is a birth chart position that represents your career path and public persona. Medium Coeli (which is Latin for “middle of the sky”) is the highest point at the top of your chart and represents the southmost high point above the horizon at your time of birth. The Midheaven marks the cusp, or edge point, of the tenth house, although your MC isn’t always situated in the tenth house when using the whole sign house system. Your Midheaven’s zodiac placement reflects your ideal work style, career strengths, professional ambitions, and—more broadly—the self that you broadcast in the public arena (your personal “brand”). To learn more about your Midheaven placement, book a Matcha Latte session.
Moon line
In astrocartography, the Moon line represents places in the world where you deepen your emotions, explore your inner landscape, and plant your roots. When living or traveling on a moon line, your sensitivity heightens and home expands. You naturally tune into your inner rhythm and feel connected with your surroundings. Spend time around children, nourishing a partnership, or enriching your family life. Your moon line also reveals places you’ve spent past lives in that, in this lifetime, you’ve inexplicably longed for. To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Moon’s node line
In astrocartography, the moon’s node line represents places in the world where you stumble across meaningful, soul-aligned connections. The lunar nodes reflect karmic fate, or destiny. When traveling on a moon’s node line, your experiences are kismet and divinely timed. Alternatively, you might meet a soul-aligned friend or partner who has direct ties to the places your moon node’s line crosses (without stepping foot in the place itself!). To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Mystic rectangle
The mystic rectangle is a birth chart pattern composed of four planets, which are always in the same polarity of astrological elements: all fire and air signs (masculine elements) or all earth and water signs (feminine elements). A mystic rectangle contains two oppositions, two sextiles, and two trines. When viewing a zodiac wheel, these aspects form a rectangle shape. A mystic rectangle feels relatively easy-going and frictionless. That being said, harnessing its energy requires conscious effort. If you have a mystic rectangle in your birth chart, you must not lean too much into any specific planet’s energy—otherwise, this harmonized pattern is thrown out of balance.
Nadir
The nadir (IC) is a point at the very bottom of your birth chart (when viewing a zodiac wheel). Your nadir is situated directly opposite from your Midheaven (MC) both from a physical and figurative standpoint. While your MC reflects your professional or public self, your nadir reflects your private, inner world. Located on the cusp of your fourth house, this placement symbolizes foundations, roots, home, and family. Your nadir reflects the ways you seek emotional security and comfort. The nadir is also referred to as Imum Coeli.
Natal chart
Your natal chart (also known as a birth chart) is a blueprint of where the planets and celestial bodies were positioned at the moment you were born. Your natal chart doesn’t make you a certain person—rather, it reflects (or mirrors) who you already are and who you came here to be. To calculate your natal chart, enter your birth date, time, and location into a birth chart calculator (recommended: astro-charts and Chani). When calculating your chart, it’s important to input an accurate birth time because your rising sign (and, as a result, the planets’ house positions) changes every two hours.
Neptune line
In astrocartography, the Neptune line represents places in the world where you find meditative or spiritual retreat. Neptune dissolves boundaries—between yourself and another, between you and nature. When traveling on a hazy and dreamy Neptune line, your experiences are imaginative, creative, and even other-worldly. An artist’s craft flourishes here. Neptune lines feel like a momentary escape from reality. Too much time spent under Neptune’s mystical influence can lead to disorient or disillusionment. To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Nodes of Fate
Nodes of fate refers to lunar nodes associated with our past lives’ karma (south node) and current lifetime’s destiny (north node). Your fate is encoded in these lunar nodes: your natal lunar nodes symbolize life lessons and journeys that support your soul’s growth. Because the north node is ascending and the south node descending, the north node is always positioned in a zodiac sign opposite from the south node’s placement. During the moon’s orbit, eclipses activate the nodes and their expression in our birth charts.
North node
The north node, one of moon’s two orbital nodes, symbolizes your cosmic destiny. Your north node feels out of your depth. Leaning into its lessons feels like flexing an untrained muscle—wobbly and uncertain. But, the actual experience of pursuing your nodal path ends up feeling cathartic, gratifying, and fulfilling. To achieve self-mastery, you must train these underdeveloped personal areas. Your south node oppositely represents your comfort zone and innate skills. Understanding the nodes of fate is the key to unlocking your soul growth.
North node line
In astrocartography, the north node line represents places in the world where you stumble across meaningful, soul-aligned connections. The lunar nodes represent karmic fate, or destiny. When traveling on a north node line, your experiences are kismet and divinely timed. Alternatively, you might meet a soul-aligned friend or partner who has direct ties to the places your nodal line crosses (without stepping foot in the place itself!). To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Opposition
Opposition, one of astrology’s five major aspects, occurs when two planets are directly opposite each other (angled at 180°). Oppositions are considered hard aspects because this angle builds energetic tension between two polar-opposite planets. Oppositions create a challenging push-and-pull dynamic that demands rebalancing. However, we’ve all heard that “opposites attract”: with effort and awareness, you can harmonize these opposing forces. The planets in opposition (and their zodiac placements) are the key to unlocking this chart pattern’s expression in your life.
Orb
In astrology, orbs refer to a planetary aspect’s degree range of influence. For example, a sextile includes two celestial bodies angled 60° apart. If two planets were 62° degrees apart, then they’re in sextile with an orb of 2° difference.
Part of Fortune
In astrology, the Part of Fortune reveals your innate gifts and talents that can lead to personal success and fulfillment. This cosmic point is calculated based on the position of the sun, moon, and ascendant in your birth chart. Understanding the part of fortune can help you identify strengths and inspire prosperity.
Pluto line
In astrocartography, the Pluto line represents places in the world where you experience intense self-discovery and personal evolution. Pluto’s influence triggers profound inner transformation and rebirth. When living or traveling on Pluto lines, the universe challenges you to examine the most hidden parts of your subconscious to release old patterns. You seek these places during periods of unrest or personal growth. Pluto lines can change the course of your life. To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Quincunx (Inconjunct)
Quincunx, also known as inconjunct, is a major aspect formed between two planets that are positioned five zodiac signs apart (angled at approximately 150°). This angle feels like an energetic misunderstanding because the involved zodiac signs are usually of different elements and modalities. Rather than forcefully blend unfamiliar energies, you can resolve the quincunx’s tension with intention. Recognize and compartmentalize each planet’s zodiac position. Then, activate each planet’s distinct qualities in unrelated areas of your life.
Rising sign
Your rising sign, or ascendant, is the zodiac sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of your birth. Your rising sign reveals the self-image or self-expression that you exude—in other words, how you want to be perceived and how others actually see you. This is your cosmic first impression: your rising sign reflects your physical appearance, mannerisms, and self-presentation. The rising sign is a sensitive point in your birth chart that sets up natal planets’ house positions (ultimately, this affects the timing and nature of your life events). Because this sensitive point changes zodiac signs rapidly (approximately every two hours), your birth time is essential to an accurate calculation. This explains why, despite sharing the same birthday, two people born on the same day and year can present very differently.
Rulership
A planet’s influence is amplified when in rulership, or domicile. This condition is the strongest of astrology’s five essential dignities. Each zodiac sign has a planetary ruler that feels like home. When a planet is positioned in the zodiac sign over which it rules, then it’s in rulership. For example, Venus rules Taurus. If your sun is in Taurus, it’s not in rulership; if your Venus is in Taurus, it’s in rulership.
Saturn line
In astrocartography, the Saturn line represents places in the world where you work hard, pursue a long-term goal, or develop your sense of responsibility. When living or traveling on a Saturn line, you feel the sobering influence of time and other boundaries. Saturn lines are ideal for studying, working, or getting serious about an area of your life. Saturn is a “tough love” planet that gives us not what we want but what we ultimately need. If you’re drawn to living somewhere under Saturn’s influence, you are ready for a soul-aligned karmic lesson. To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Semi-square
Semi-square, a minor aspect in astrology, describes two planets angled 45° from one another. The energy is similar to (but weaker than) a square. Semi-squares create minor energetic tension between two planets that provokes challenging yet expansive experiences. Because this friction demands effortful resolution, semi-squares often push individuals into action. Where this action arises depends on the two involved planets.
Separating sextile
In astrology, a separating sextile occurs when a faster planet has moved 60° from a slower-moving planet. There are two kinds of sextiles: applying and separating. In a separating sextile, there is always one planet moving faster than the other. This aspect feels reflective and reactive. Individuals with separating sextiles in their birth chart must lean on frequent reflection and retrospection to make sense of their life lessons.
Sextile
Sextile describes a major aspect formed between two planets that are positioned three zodiac signs apart (angled at approximately 60°). This aspect is considered “soft,” or easy, because the energy is frictionless and cooperative. Sextiles are formed between complementary elements: fire and air signs or earth and water signs. The energetic relationship is flowing and smooth.
Sidereal astrology
Sidereal astrology is based on the current position of zodiac constellations, since they’ve gradually shifted over the years. If you live in the America or Europe, you likely encounter tropical astrology, which uses a fixed approach based on the constellations’ positions in 0 AD. Your sun sign, along with other zodiac placements, in tropical astrology is different from your sidereal zodiac placements.
Soft aspect
Planets can form soft aspects and hard aspects, depending on their angles. Soft aspects, such as sextiles, trines, and conjunctions, bring gentleness and ease into a person’s life. In soft aspects, energies among planets are complementary and supportive.
South node
The moon’s south node is a blueprint of your past—symbolizing past lifetimes, karma, and early life experiences. The south node is your comfort zone, reflecting areas of self-mastery and innate talents that you’ve honed in on. Leaning into the south node’s familiar energy feels like visiting a childhood home: you feel a nourishing sense of belonging but eventually itch to spread your wings and leave the nest. While your south node feels natural and easy, you unlock your full potential when embracing the north node’s discomfort soul growth.
Square
In a square aspect, two planets in zodiac signs of the same modality (cardinal, fixed, or mutable) are tensely angled 90° from one other. This hard aspect’s energetic tension inspires action and propels problem-solving.
Stellium
Stellium refers to an intense planetary alignment in an individual’s birth chart. A stellium is a cluster — or “conjunction” — of three planets (or four celestial bodies, if the sun and moon are involved) in a single zodiac sign or house. This is expressed as a unified approach to the multiple areas of your life that the stellium planets rule. A stellium can also play out as a concentration of energy in a particular life domain over which the dominant zodiac sign rules (for instance, Libra is centered around harmony, balance, and partnership). An individual’s birth chart can have more than one stellium.
Sun line
In astrocartography, the sun line represents places in the world where you develop your sense of self or attract personal success. When living or traveling on a sun line, you feel uplifted, energized, and visionary. You radiate an aura of confidence, and bask in the warm glow of the spotlight. Your sun/IC line feels especially relaxing and rejuvenating. To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Synastry
Synastry is the interaction of two birth charts—between romantic partners, friends, or family members—to represent the nature of a relationship. Synastry calculates the interplay between two people’s birth charts, with focus on major and minor aspects or chart patterns. The aspects can reveal a relationship’s strengths and challenges. Although using different techniques, both synastry and composite charts reveal insights.
Trapeze
The trapeze, also known as a cradle, is a rare and complex birth chart pattern. A trapeze consists of four planets that are connected by three sextiles, two trines, and one opposition. This combination resembles a game of “cat’s cradle,” the popular string-game from the 90s, or a half-hexagon. A trapeze is similar to a grand sextile, yet its energies aren’t as self-contained. If you have this pattern in your birth chart, you must learn to harness unbalanced and dispersed energies.
Trine
Trine describes a major aspect formed between two planets that are positioned four zodiac signs apart (angled at approximately 120°). Because trines are formed between signs of the same element, the energy is flowing and harmonious. This soft aspect attracts luck, positive opportunities, and synchronicities.
Triplicity
Triplicity refers to a trio of zodiac signs that share the same element. When viewing a zodiac wheel, the three zodiac signs form a trine, meaning each sign of the same triplicity is 120° apart. For example, the three fire signs (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius) form a triplicity. Triplicities are one of the five essential dignities in astrology, attracting a powerful or positive influence.
T-square
T-square is formed when a two planets are in tense opposition (angled at 180°), and a third planet forms a hard square (90°) with both of them—resembling a wide triangle. T-squares involve three different zodiac signs that share the same modality (cardinal, fixed, mutable). With two hard aspects involved, T-squares build friction and inspire action. To overcome these energetic challenges, individuals with T-squares in their birth charts are ambitious and driven. T-squares are sometimes referred to as “achievement triangles” because the third planet at the apex is as a driving force—and this apex planet’s archetype and zodiac placement reveal the meaning behind this drive.
Uranus line
In astrocartography, the Uranus line represents places in the world where you explore your individuality and eccentricities. When living or traveling on a Uranus line, you’re free-thinking, radical, and innovative. Visit these places to stir up boredom and monotony. Unexpected events take place, and the fun depends on your flexibility and spontaneity. In the spirit of out-of-the-box Uranus, the most memorable experiences are found on a whim. For some people, this experience is jarring and negative, and for others it’s positive and adventurous. To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Venus line
In astrocartography, the flirty and fun Venus line represents places in the world where you cultivate romance and sensuality. When living or traveling on a Venus line, you radiate personal magnetism and attract abundance. Many people experience a spike in dating activity (or admirers!) on Venus/AC and Venus/DC lines, while others experience a spike in leisure time and creativity on Venus/IC lines. Falling in love—with yourself and with others—feels natural on a Venus line. Alternatively, Venus/MC lines attract abundant career opportunities. To learn more about your unique astrocartography lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Weakness
In astrology, a planet is weak when positioned in a zodiac sign of its detriment, fall, or (more neutrally) peregrine. These negative conditions, otherwise known as the essential debilities, represent disharmonious or incompatible relationships between planets and zodiac signs. In Vedic astrology, planets are weakened when “afflicted,” or when aspected with a malefic planet.
Wedge
A wedge is a birth chart pattern comprised of three planets connected by an opposition, sextile, and trine. When viewing a zodiac wheel, these aspects form a narrow triangle that resembles a wedge of cheese. A wedge makes up half of a mystic rectangle and, as a result, its energies are less balanced and self-contained. Wedges contain elemental imbalances: two planets usually share the same element (fire, air, water, or earth) while the third planet belongs to a different element. People born with wedges in their birth charts must learn to balance these elemental differences. Check each planet’s house placement to find points of release.
Yod
A yod is a rare and powerful birth chart pattern, comprised of two planets in sextile (angled 60° apart) and a third planet is angled inconjunct (150°) to them both. When viewing a zodiac wheel, a yod resembles a long, skinny isosceles triangle. Both planets at the triangle’s base are harmonious and complementary, while the third planet (at the “apex,” or point of the triangle) creates a point of energetic friction. Yods are called the “finger of god.” People with yods in their birth chart feel a unique sense of purpose. Your life feels propelled by fate, even if you can’t quite put your finger on its meaning. Think of yods as the“grad school” of life: yods reveal mysterious spiritual lessons that you’ve spent lifetimes exploring. The key to your spiritual growth is encoded in the yod’s energetic tension—growth happens when you learn to release the apex planet’s potential. When progressions and planetary transits activate yods throughout your life, self-mastery requires intentional effort.
Zodiac wheel
A zodiac wheel displays a 360° view of your birth chart. Think of a zodiac wheel as a bird’s eye view that maps where the planets and celestial bodies were positioned at your birth time. Each zodiac wheel is divided into 12 houses. When using Whole Sign houses, each house segmented at 30° and the ascendant sets up the 12 zodiac signs running counter-clockwise. Zodiac wheels also include the four angles. You can calculate bi-wheels that superimpose two individuals birth charts (synastry) or track the real-time movement of planets (transits).

Age of Aquarius
The Age of Aquarius is a new astrological age of harmony, collectivism, empathy, trust, technology, and innovation. Earth’s rotation to face the constellation Aquarius marks the start of this age (it has faced Pisces over the last 2,160 years). The Age of Aquarius coincides with the recent rise in spirituality and influx of light workers on Earth. Over the next 2,000+ years, humanity is shifting into a collectivist, tech-advanced culture. Due to the nature of thousand-year shifts, this age’s impact will be felt beyond our lifetimes. Even so, our generation is the powerful (yet ephemeral) driving force.
Annual Profection
Using annual profections is an ancient astrology timing technique. Each of the 12 houses represents a distinct area of life. Profection means “advancement,” and so annual profections mark periods of advancement and growth in these areas of life. Each profection year is sequentially ruled by one of the 12 houses. At age zero, you “profect” the first house. Then, you cycle through the 12 houses and return to the first house at age 12, then 24, then 36, and so on. Each house rules a theme or area of your life, therefore reflecting the focus of a given profection year. For example, at age 24, you are transforming and re-defining your sense of self, identity, and personal ambition (first house). At age 25, you are restructuring your finances and making strides on your career path (second house).
Astrocartography
Astrocartography is the astrology of location, or the geography-based interpretation of your birth chart. Astrocartography, also known as locational astrology, analyzes planetary influences in different regions and places. This tool is the “geography of your soul,” mapping ideal places to travel, spark romance, settle down, attract career opportunities, magnetize success, and beyond. Astrocartography can also reflect places you feel drawn to from past life experiences. To calculate these points, input your birth time, date, and location into an online astrocartography calculator (such as astro.com). This will generate a map displaying dozens of vertical lines crossing over just as many looping, diagonal lines. Each line symbolizes a planet and angle. To learn more about your unique lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Astrological age
An astrological age is a time period (spanning approximately 2,150 years) during which one of the 12 zodiac signs reigns and majorly influences collective consciousness. These periods create cultural ripple effects, with each zodiac age defining a new era of humanity. Astrological ages are measured based on the earth’s slow axis rotation over 25,800 years and the sun’s position in relation to the zodiac constellations. There are 12 zodiac constellations and 12 corresponding astrological ages. We’ve been in the Age of Pisces for thousands of years, and we’ve recently entered the Age of Aquarius (some argue this happened in 2012, while others believe in a 2020 start date).
Astrological transit
An astrological transit describes the ongoing movement of planets through the 12 zodiac constellations, affecting humans on both an individual and collective level. Planets’ movements influence you on a personal level when interacting with, or aspecting, your natal planets (where the planets were positioned at your birth time). Collective astrological transits are felt simultaneously, while personal transits stagger depending on your birth chart. The infamous Saturn return, for example, is a personal transit that occurs when Saturn returns to its position at the moment of your birth.
Ecliptic
From the perspective of Earth’s orbit around the Sun, the ecliptic plane outlines the path of the Sun, moon, planets, and other celestial bodies over the course of a year. These celestial bodies travel through the zodiac constellations arranged along the ecliptic path. In tropical astrology, the ecliptic plane is divided in 12 sections to correspond with the 12 zodiac signs. In tradition, ancient astrology, the first constellation is Aries; however, the Earth has shifted over the years, and Pisces is now technically the first constellation (this is recognized by sidereal and Vedic astrology).
Evolutionary astrology
Evolutionary astrology uses an individual’s birth chart as a map of their soul growth and evolution—both in this lifetime and over multiple lifetimes. Evolutionary astrology rejects deterministic “fate,”and instead focuses on free will and supporting people in making informed, soul-aligned decisions.
First quarter moon
During a lunar cycle, the first quarter moon occurs approximately one week after the new moon, when the moon is exactly halfway between the fresh start of a new moon and the sense of culmination at the full moon. The first quarter moon represents a phase of growth, challenges, and decision-making. This point of tension inspires you to take action or initiative.
Full moon
A full moon describes when the moon is directly opposite the sun, and both luminaries are positioned 180 degrees apart in the zodiac. Full moons occur at the midpoint of a lunar cycle, or the moon’s orbit around the earth. Because the entire moon’s visible ‘frontside’ is illuminated during this phase, this is a time of clarity and completion. Full moons are a culmination or fulfillment of energy, intentions, or projects initiated during the previous new moon in the same sign. In astrology, the moon symbolizes emotions, intuition, and subconscious. Full moons heighten our sensitivity, intensifying emotions and illuminating any brewing issues in need of release.
Hellenistic astrology
Hellenistic astrology is horoscopic astrology’s origin, first appearing in the Mediterranean (most notably Egypt) during the Hellenistic period sometimes around late 2nd or early 1st century BCE. Western astrology, or tropical astrology, as we know it today is rooted in Hellenistic astrology’s use of the ascendant and 12 celestial houses.
Jupiter return
A Jupiter return is a personal, astrological transit that occurs when the planet Jupiter returns to the exact position it held at the moment of your birth (this comes around every 12 years). Jupiter is associated with luck, good fortune, optimism, and spirituality. Jupiter returns feel like a major confidence boost. Opportunities flow, and luck and abundance are in the air.
Last quarter moon
During a lunar cycle, the last quarter moon occurs approximately one week after the full moon, when the moon is again halfway between the culmination of the full moon and the fresh start of a new moon. The last quarter moon represents a time of introspection, reflection, and letting go. This lunar phase encourages you to release the old to clear space for a new beginning.
Locational astrology
Locational astrology is the astrology of location, or the geography-based interpretation of your birth chart. Astrocartography, also known as astrocartography, analyzes planetary influences in different regions and places. This tool is the “geography of your soul,” mapping ideal places to travel, spark romance, settle down, attract career opportunities, magnetize success, and beyond. Locational astrology can also reflect places you feel drawn to from past life experiences. To calculate these points, input your birth time, date, and location into an online astrocartography calculator (such as astro.com). This will generate a map displaying dozens of vertical lines crossing over just as many looping, diagonal lines. Each line symbolizes a planet and angle. To learn more about your unique lines, you can order an Astro Map digital guide.
Lunar cycle
Lunar cycle refers to the recurring pattern of changes in the moon’s appearance as it orbits around the earth. This cycle tracks the phases of the moon, from new moon to full moon and back again to new moon. Each lunar cycle spans approximately 29.5 days. The lunar cycle is significant in a multitude of cultures and has been used for centuries as a natural timekeeping system. Astrologers, like myself, believe the lunar phases influence your emotions, behavior, and intuition.
Lunar eclipse
A lunar eclipse occurs when when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are exactly or partially aligned. As a result, the earth blocks sunlights from reaching the moon, which casts a dark shadow over it. Lunar eclipses activate the lunar nodes (or Nodes of Fate) and illuminate our karmic path.
Lunar node
Lunar nodes describe the two orbital nodes of the moon, or the points where the moon’s orbit intersects the ecliptic. The nodes shift positions among zodiac constellations every 18 months. In astrology, the lunar nodes reflect your past lifetimes (south node) and point to your destiny in this lifetime (north node). Individuals born within the same lunar node group are here on earth to learn the same or similar lessons.
Lunar phase
Lunar phase refers to the different appearances of the moon as it orbits around the earth. Throughout the lunar cycle, the moon goes through several phases, including the new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent. Each phase embodies a unique energy and symbolism from which we derive spiritual and astrological meaning.
Lunar progression
Lunar progressions are an advanced astrology technique that symbolically advances your natal moon’s position one day ahead for each year of life. For example, imagine a person born on August 1, 1997, who turned 24-years-old in 2022. To symbolize 24 years of life, you would calculate a birth chart for August 25, 1997 (August 1 + 24). Although that individual was born with a natal Cancer moon, their progressed moon is in Gemini. Lunar progressions reveal the evolving nature of your inner landscape and emotional landscape over time. When the progressed moon transitions into a new zodiac sign, you feel a significant inner shift. It's important to note that the progressed moon is just one component of a progressed chart, which involves progressing all the planets and sensitive points in the natal chart.
Lunar return
A lunar return occurs when the moon completes a full orbit around the earth and returns to the same zodiac sign and degree it occupied at your birth time. Lunar returns occur approximately once every month, heightening your sensitivity and intuition. During this personal lunar phase, explore your inner landscape, tune into your inner rhythm, and reconnect with yourself.
Mars return
Your Mars return occurs when Mars completes a full orbit around the sun and returns to the same zodiac sign and degree it occupied at your birth time. Mars returns occur approximately once every two years, propelling new opportunities to take action and assert yourself. During Mars returns, individuals feel a surge of energy, motivated to pursue passion projects and make progress on personal goals. Your Mars sign reveals your approach to chasing desires.
New moon
A new moon occurs when the sun and moon align on opposite ends of the moon, so the moon’s backside is lit and frontside is dark, obscuring our view of la luna. In this obscured ‘nothingness' we find limitless potential. New moons are blank canvases for painting. New moons kick off the lunar cycle, symbolizing fresh starts and new beginnings. Use this lunar phase to take inventory of your energy, set intentions, and manifest.
Planetary transit
An planetary transit describes the ongoing movement of planets through the 12 zodiac constellations, affecting humans on both an individual and collective level. Planets’ movements influence you on a personal level when interacting with, or aspecting, your natal planets (where the planets were positioned at your birth time). Collective planetary transits are felt simultaneously, while personal transits stagger depending on your birth chart. The infamous Saturn return, for example, is a personal transit that occurs when Saturn returns to its position at the moment of your birth.
Post-retrograde shadow
The post-retrograde shadow period occurs after a planet completes its retrograde motion and stations direct, but before it returns to the degree where it first began retrograding. During this time, you might notice residual effects of retrograde. This phase is an opportunity to attend to unfinished business, attend to lingering issues, and apply the lessons learned during retrograde.
Predictive astrology
Predictive astrology is the interpretation of your birth chart against upcoming planetary transits to forecast potential future events. Predictive astrology doesn’t determine the future but reflects your many potential emerging paths.
Pre-retrograde shadow
The pre-retrograde shadow period occurs before a planet stations retrograde, appearing to spin backwards in the sky relative to its usual direction. This phase begins when a planet enters the early degrees of the zodiac sign where it will later go retrograde (and actually track back to these earlier degrees). Because the pre-shadow period grants a glimpse, or foresight, into upcoming retrograde themes, astrologers advise paying attention to events during this time. The length of the pre-shadow periods vary depending on the planet. For example, Mercury, the planet most commonly associated with retrogrades, enters pre-shadow a couple of weeks before its actual retrograde motion begins.
Progression
In astrology, progression (also known as secondary progression) is a technique that studies the progression of an individual’s birth chart over time. The progression of the planets in a progressed birth chart is based on the concept that each day after birth represents one year of life. For example, if someone is 28-years-old, the progressed chart for that individual would be constructed by advancing the planets 28 days after their birth positions. Progressions provide insights into internal changes and transformations that occur throughout your life. It's important to note that secondary progressions are just one of many techniques used in astrology to explore the complexities of an individual's life. This tool is often used in conjunction with other astrological methods and should be interpreted within the context of your unique birth chart and personal experiences.
Progressed chart
Your progressed birth chart, also known as a secondary progressed chart, is an astrological technique that reveals your personal growth over time, based on the movement of the planets. Unlike your natal chart, which is based on the date, time, and location of your birth, your progressed chart is based on the current date and the number of days since your birth. By progressing (or “moving ahead”) the planets in this way, this technique offers a snapshot of your current astrological influences and identifies evolving themes, life events, and perspective shifts. The progressed birth chart is particularly useful for understanding long-term cycles and trends in your life. This tool can reflect developmental phases, major life transitions, and periods of heightened activity or introspection.
Progressed ascendant
The progressed ascendant is an advanced astrology technique that symbolically advances your natal ascendant (or rising sign) position one degree for each year of life. This approach is used to gain insight into the evolving nature of your self-expression, self-image, and the way you present yourself to the world. As with progressed moons, the progressed ascendant is just one component of a progressed chart, which involves progressing all the planets and sensitive points in a birth chart.
Progressed Mars
The progressed Mars is an advanced astrology technique that symbolically advances your natal Mars's position one degree for each year of life. This approach is used to gain insight into the evolving nature of your desire, drive, energy, and passion. As with progressed moons and suns, the progressed Mars is just one component of a progressed chart, which involves progressing (or “moving ahead”) all the planets and sensitive points in a birth chart.
Progressed Mercury
The progressed Mercury is an advanced astrology technique that symbolically advances your natal Mercury's position one degree for each year of life. This approach is used to gain insight into the evolving nature of your communication style, intellectual interests, and thought processes. As with progressed moons and suns, the progressed Mercury is just one component of a progressed chart, which involves progressing all the planets and sensitive points in a birth chart.
Progressed moon
Progressed moons are an advanced astrology technique that symbolically advances your natal moon’s position one day ahead for each year of life. For example, imagine a person born on August 1, 1997, who turned 24-years-old in 2022. To symbolize 24 years of life, you would calculate a birth chart for August 25, 1997 (August 1 + 24). Although that individual was born with a natal Cancer moon, their progressed moon is in Gemini. Lunar progressions reveal the evolving nature of your inner landscape and emotional landscape over time. When the progressed moon transitions into a new zodiac sign, you feel a significant inner shift. It's important to note that the progressed moon is just one component of a progressed chart, which involves progressing all the planets and sensitive points in a birth chart.
Progressed sun
Progressed suns are an advanced astrology technique that symbolically advances your natal sun's position one degree for each year of life. This approach is used to gain insight into the evolving nature of your identity, consciousness, and life path. As with progressed moons, the progressed sun is just one component of a progressed chart, which involves progressing (or “moving ahead”) all planets and sensitive points in a birth chart.
Progressed Venus
The progressed Venus is an advanced astrology technique that symbolically advances your natal Venus's position one degree for each year of life. This technique is used to gain insight into the evolving nature of your intimate relationships, values, abundance, and aesthetics. As with progressed moons and suns, the progressed Venus is just one component of a progressed chart, which involves progressing (or “moving ahead”) all the planets and sensitive points in a birth chart.
Profection
Profections, or annual profections, are part of an ancient astrology timing technique. Each of the 12 houses represents a distinct area of life. Profection means “advancement,” and so annual profections mark periods of advancement and growth in these areas of life. Each profection year is sequentially ruled by one of the 12 houses. At age zero, you “profect” the first house. Then, you cycle through the 12 houses and return to the first house at age 12, then 24, then 36, and so on. Each house rules a theme or area of your life, therefore reflecting the focus of a given profection year. For example, at age 24, you are transforming and re-defining your sense of self, identity, and personal ambition (first house). At age 25, you are restructuring your finances and making strides on your career path (second house).
Retrograde
Retrograde (sometimes shortened to “Rx”) means a planet appears to spin backwards when Earth is orbiting past it (it isn’t actually spinning backwards). Retrogrades can affect us an individual or collective level. Although Mercury is more frequently in retrograde (which explains Mercury Retrograde’s mainstream media clout), many other planets go retrograde. Each planet represents a facet of life. For example, Venus rules love and relationships. During a retrograde, this area of your life experiences challenges. In the case of a Venus Retrograde, you might experience romance blockages that demand attention and clearing.
Return
In astrology, a return occurs when a celestial body returns to the exact zodiac sign and degree it occupied at your birth time. Your solar return falls every year around your birthday month, and Saturn returns strike between the ages of 27-31.
Saturn return
Your Saturn return is a significant astrological transit that occurs when Saturn completes its first full orbit around the sun and returns to the same degree and zodiac sign it occupied at the time of their birth. Saturn’s journey around the sun takes approximately 29.5 years. Most people experience their first Saturn return between ages 27-31, followed by their second Saturn return between ages 56-60 and final return between ages 84-90. Tough-love planet Saturn sets boundaries and teaches karmic lessons. Your Saturn return revolves around taking a particular area of your life more seriously. If you’ve strayed from your path, external or internal events tug you in the right direction. While you might feel challenged to find footing, you’re ultimately guided to build a solid foundation for your most soul-aligned path. To understand your personal Saturn return theme, calculate your birth chart to note which sign and house your natal Saturn occupies.
Secondary progression
In astrology, secondary progression (also known as progression) is a technique that studies the progression of an individual’s birth chart over time. The progression of the planets in a progressed birth chart is based on the concept that each day after birth represents one year of life. For example, if someone is 28-years-old, the progressed chart for that individual would be constructed by advancing the planets 28 days after their birth positions. Secondary progressions provide insights into internal changes and transformations that occur throughout your life. It's important to note that secondary progressions are just one of many techniques used in astrology to explore the complexities of an individual's life. This tool is often used in conjunction with other astrological methods and should be interpreted within the context of your unique birth chart and personal experiences.
Secondary progressed chart
Your secondary progressed chart, also known as a progressed chart, is an astrological technique that reveals your personal growth over time, based on the movement of the planets. Unlike your natal chart, which is based on the date, time, and location of your birth, your progressed chart is based on the current date and the number of days since your birth. By progressing (or “moving ahead”) the planets in this way, this technique offers a snapshot of your current astrological influences and identifies evolving themes, life events, and perspective shifts. The secondary progressed birth chart is particularly useful for understanding long-term cycles and trends in your life. This tool can reflect developmental phases, major life transitions, and periods of heightened activity or introspection.
Solar arc direction
Solar arc direction, also known as solar arc direction, is a predictive astrology technique that advances your birth chart’s planets by a specific degree for each year of life. This approach is based on the concept that as time progresses, the planets continue to move and form new angles or aspects with each other. In solar arc directions, astrologers use the sun’s position in your birth chart as a key reference point. The difference in degrees between the sun’s position and the position of each planet in the natal chart is calculated and added to the natal positions of the planets. This advancement creates a new set of positions known as the solar arc progressed chart. Solar arc directions provide dynamic insight into an individual’s life journey—including significant life events, growth in specific areas (career, romance, spirituality), and shifts in consciousness.
Solar arc progression
Solar arc progression, also known as solar arc direction, is a predictive astrology technique that advances your birth chart’s planets by a specific degree for each year of life. This approach is based on the concept that as time progresses, the planets continue to move and form new angles or aspects with each other. In solar arc progressions, astrologers use the sun’s position in your birth chart as a key reference point. The difference in degrees between the sun’s position and the position of each planet in the natal chart is calculated and added to the natal positions of the planets. This advancement creates a new set of positions known as the solar arc progressed chart. Solar arc progressions provide dynamic insight into an individual’s life journey—including significant life events, growth in specific areas (career, romance, spirituality), and shifts in consciousness.
Solar eclipse
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes it front of the sun and temporarily fully or partially blocks sunlight. As a result, the earth is engulfed in the moon’s shadow. Solar eclipses occur during new moons, which catalyzes profound changes, breakthroughs, and new beginnings. Solar eclipses are generally associated with initiating major shifts and endings, clearing away the old to make space for the new. To understand your personal solar eclipse theme, pay attention to the zodiac sign and degree in which the solar eclipse occurs, as well as the aspects it makes to other planets and sensitive points in your birth chart. More broadly, check which house a solar eclipse activates in your chart. A solar eclipse’s impacts can extend beyond the actual event, often lasting several weeks or months (and even years for those with significant natal placements).
Solar return
A solar return occurs when the sun travels back to the the position it was in at the time of your birth—this happens on or around your birthday each year. During your solar return, you feel like the sun shines just a little bit brighter: you experience good fortune, opportunities, abundance, vitality, and new beginnings. For this reason, your “birthday month” is typically lucky.
Solar return chart
A solar return chart is a predictive astrology technique used to calculate a birth chart for the exact moment when the sun returns to its exact degree and position at your birth time. Your solar return happens each year, around the time of your birthday. Your solar return chart provides insight into the themes, influences, and potential events that may unfold during the upcoming year.
Supermoon
A supermoon is a phenomena that occurs when a new moon or full moon is in the lunar phase “perigee,” which describes the moon’s orbit hitting the closest point to Earth. As a result, the moon appears larger than usual in the sky. In astrology, supermoons symbolize a time of intense reflection and rebirth.
Third quarter moon
In a lunar cycle, the third quarter moon is a lunar phase that occurs approximately three weeks after the new moon and one week before the next new moon (when the moon has completed three-quarters of its journey around the earth). During this phase, the moon appears half-illuminated, which symbolizes a time of reflection, illumination, surrender, realignment, and letting go. The third quarter moon is a turning point in the lunar cycle, when the moon begins to wane or dim.
Tropical astrology
Tropical astrology is a widely used form of astrology, based on traditional or ancient methods of dividing up the sky. Over the years, the zodiac constellations have inarguably shifted along the ecliptic plane. While sidereal astrology recognizes this shift (i.e., Pisces is now technically the first constellation, and everyone’s Sun sign should theoretically shift back by one zodiac sign), tropical astrology is fixed in its interpretation, honoring the original order of celestial bodies which started at 0° Aries. Unless specified as sidereal or Vedic astrology, most Western astrologers use tropical astrology.
Vedic astrology
Vedic astrology, now known as sidereal astrology, is an ancient Hindu practice. Vedic astrology uses the sidereal system, which takes into account earth’s gradual shift over the years in respect to the zodiac constellations. Since the ancient origins of astrology, the zodiac constellations have inarguably moved slightly. Western astrology, also known as tropical astrology, is based on where the constellations were versus where they are now. Vedic astrologers center their practice around an individual’s karma and dharma.
Venus return
Your Venus return occurs when Venus completes a full orbit around the sun and returns to the same zodiac sign and degree it occupied at your birth time. Venus returns occur once a year, propelling a new personal cycle and revealing insight into relationship dynamics, personal values, and desires. During Venus returns, individuals feel particularly magnetic, abundant, and confident in embodying Venusian or divine feminine qualities.
Void-of-course

In astrology, void-of-course occurs when the moon has made its final major aspect (conjunction, sextile, square, trine, or opposition) with another planet before changing zodiac signs. Void-of-course moons can last a few minutes or several hours. Because the moon’s effect is weakened while in a state of transition, cosmic energies are unfavorable for initiating new projects, making important decisions, or taking definitive actions. This lunar period is better suited for reflection, relaxation, and completing ongoing tasks.
Waning crescent
In a lunar cycle, the waning crescent phase occurs in the final days leading up to the new moon, when the moon appears as a crescent-shaped sliver, with only a small portion its illuminated side visible. As the light diminishes, this is a period of transition, reflection, and introspection. You’re making space for a new beginning.
Waning gibbous
In a lunar cycle, the waning gibbous phase occurs in the final days leading up to the last quarter moon, when the moon appears as a mostly illuminated disc with a small sliver of darkness on one side. This period is a time for letting go, releasing outdated narratives, and shedding old habits. During the waning gibbous phase, reflect on lessons you learned during this lunar cycle and set intentions for the next four-week lunar cycle.
Waxing crescent
In a lunar cycle, the waxing crescent phase occurs in the days immediately following a new moon, when the moon appears as a thin crescent-shaped sliver in the sky. This is a time of new beginnings, growth, and manifestation. Use this phase to set intentions and take action towards your goals for the upcoming lunar cycle.
Waxing gibbous
In a lunar cycle, the waxing gibbous phase occurs in the days leading up to a full moon, when the moon appears as a mostly illuminated disc with a small sliver of darkness on one side. This is a time to focus on progress and forward momentum, as the energy of the lunar cycle builds towards its peak. Use this phase to continue working towards your goals and stay motivated in your pursuits.
Zenith
A zenith describes a point directly above a specific location. The nearer a particular celestial body or planet is to a zenith point, the more powerful its effect. In astrocartography, a Zenith point symbolizes a planet’s most potent energy.

Angel numbers
Angel numbers describe repeating number sequences that hold spiritual significance. Although angel numbers are popularly recognized as repetitions of the same number (e.g., 111 or 1111), more advanced, less obvious combos exist (e.g., 1212 and even 369). According to numerology, all numbers hold meaning for our interpretation. Astrology’s house numbers are also layered in meaning.
Chakra
Chakras are the body’s energy centers. There are seven main chakras: crown, third eye, throat, heart, solar plexus, sacral, and root. Imagine a river: just like water passes around obstacles like rocks or branches, our energy is meant to stream fluidly among the chakras. We can encounter blockages to the flow during our human experiences (“under-active” chakras), or even moments of “overactivity.” The chakras originated from certain forms of Hinduism and Buddhism. Westernized spirituality associates the chakras with colors.
Collective (consciousness)
In spirituality, the collective describes our cumulative shared consciousness on Earth. Think of it as a cosmic unity: we’re all connected, coming from the same force. Our earthly energy is the total of each and every one of our vibrational energies. Many gifted light workers, psychics, and tarot readers can read (or channel) the energy of the collective. For example, we’re currently undergoing a collective spiritual awakening. Rumi once wrote, “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” As humans, we tend to feel like separate entities. In reality, behind the layers of multiplicity, we’re the universe experiencing itself from billions of vantage points. Each and every one of us holds the entire universe—the “entire ocean”—in a drop of our humanity.
Divine feminine
The divine feminine represents the goddess spirit within. Every human, regardless of gender identity, has a balance of masculine and feminine energies. The divine feminine describes the gentle, receiving yin to the masculine yang. It is nurturing, intuitive, and flowing. You can connect to your divine feminine through gentle, intuitive movement and breath work.
Divine masculine
The divine masculine represents the warrior within. Divine masculine energy is direct, action-oriented, assertive, decisive, and self-assured. The masculine archetype embodies accountability, truth, courage, and a decisive inner strength unique from their wise and mystical divine feminine counterpart.
Karma
Karma is the accumulation of energy (positive or negative) over lifetimes. This concept is rooted in Hinduism and Buddhism, which also emphasize reincarnation. As we cycle through lifetimes, we bring both the knowledge of our hard-earned lessons and the repercussions of our pitfalls. In both tropical astrology and Vedic astrology, fatalistic karmic energy is reflected in each individual’s birth chart.
Karmic connection
A karmic connection describes a fated relation between two people, during which both parties experience a significant energetic exchange that teaches you a lesson and expands your soul’s evolution. Because karmic partners can attract tumultuous will-we-won’t-we energy, many people mistake their karmic partners for twin flames. While karmic partners are often romantic, karma can also be cleared among family members and friends in this lifetime. A karmic connection is a type of soul contract: before coming to Earth, you two decided to meet again to learn from one another. Karmic connections can bring intense pain and ecstatic pleasure. Some end in heartbreak, or feel like a person you can’t move on from. Other times, karmic connections are easy and frictionless—you feel a familiar soulmate-level bond. When the energy is karmic, you must recognize the relationship’s transient or impermanent nature along your journey. In a birth chart, a few common markers of past life karma together include significant 12th house, Chiron, and south node aspects or synastry.
Law of assumption
The law of assumption leverages law of attraction principles to theorize that our assumptions—not just our focus and attention—create our reality. By assuming we’ve already achieved our desires, we call it into existence. The law of assumption is an effective method to aligns us the frequency of “having” rather than “lacking.” Law of assumption principles support manifestation.
Law of attraction
The law of attraction is the universe theory that we attract the people, things, and circumstances of similar frequency to our mindset. You can think of the human mind as a powerful search engine: our thoughts, beliefs, and feelings have the power to transform our realities (for the better, if positively directed). Just like we can intentionally attract positive circumstances, we can also—unintentionally—attract negative experiences. Law of attraction principles support manifestation.
Manifestation
Manifestation describes the process of manifesting the object of your desire into your tangible reality. Manifestation leverages principles of law of attraction and law of assumption. This technique requires control of thought and an intentional alignment of frequency.
New Age
New Age refers to an alternative religious movement that spread through occult and metaphysical communities in the Western world during the 1960s and 70s. This movement centers around a rejection of traditional religious thought and an embrace of an alternative mode of mind, body, and soul expansion. New Age beliefs support reincarnation, psychic gifts, yoga, meditation, crystals, astrology, and tarot (to name a few). Although this belief system has long been considered eccentric and somewhat obscure, New Age spiritual beliefs have recently revitalized among Millennials and Gen-Zers.
Numerology
Numerology describes the mystical branch of knowledge surrounding numbers. According to numerology, numbers carry energy, and this energy holds spiritual significance. Numerology is a great method of receiving signs from the universe. Angel numbers have gained immense popularity, offering signs for communicating with the universe.
Twin flame
A twin flame is an intense soul connection, in which you find your soul’s “mirror.” There’s something powerfully familiar in this person that’s reflected back to you. Your twin flame could be an ideal life partner, yet not all twin flames end up together. Twin flames are marked by volatile relationship phases that alternate between chasing and waiting (known as the twin flame journey). This journey requires immense patience, and it’s worth it in the end. Overall, twin flames are tricky to define: many people mistake unpredictable karmic connections for their twin flame journeys.
Reincarnation
Reincarnation is the concept that we experience rebirth over hundreds of thousands of lifetimes. It’s based on the notion that our soul and bodies are separate—and, when we die, our physical body dies and our soul outlasts it and later returns in different form. Energy cannot be created or destroyed: and so, our energy is in an unending process of recycling. This concept is related to Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. However, many New Age spiritualists support reincarnation, believing that we continue coming back to Earth until we’ve expanded our soul from every angle of human existence. Once our earthly lessons are complete, we move onto mentoring others from a different plane of existence.
Sacred feminine
The sacred feminine represents the goddess spirit within. Every human, regardless of gender identity, has a balance of masculine and feminine energies. The sacred feminine describes the gentle, receiving yin to the masculine yang. It is nurturing, intuitive, and flowing. You can connect to your sacred feminine through gentle, intuitive movement and breath work.
Shadow self
Psychologist Carl Jung first introduced the concept of a shadow self to Western culture. The shadow self describes the unconscious aspects of our personality—the less glamorous parts that our ego resists acceptance of. Recognizing your shadow self is the first step to self-awareness and growth. There is also a “shadow” side to each zodiac sign.
Shadow work
Shadow work describes the exercise of bringing the “shadow self” to light, or the unconscious aspects of your personality. With conscious effort and reflection, shadow work pushes us to grow.
Soul contract
Soul contracts describe the contractual agreements we make before coming to Earth in order to aide our individual spiritual growth. This concept is based on reincarnation, soul missions, and the idea that there is a plane of existence between lifetimes. Soul contracts are can be made between two people or among a group of people (such as family members of friends). Your soul contracts might not even be made with people at all—but with life events or circumstances you've opted for during this lifetime, in support of your soul growth.
Soul mission
A soul mission describes your soul’s purpose on Earth. A soul mission is the answer to why you’re here on Earth, right now, at this time. It’s your calling. It’s the gut feeling or instinctual pull you have towards certain people, places, circumstances, and vocations. When you are living your purpose, or walking the path towards it, you feel in alignment. Soul missions support growth. You are a “student,” and the earth is your classroom: you’re here to learn, grow, master, and ascend.

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