Your Rising Sign defines your physically and personal style because it was on the Eastern horizon when you were born. Astrology enthusiasts are likely to be familiar with their Rising sign, but they are less likely to be familiar with their Descendant. Your Descendant is the sign that was rising over the horizon at the time of your birth, and it is the sister sign of your Rising sign. Francesca Oddie, astrologer (
In astrology, how do I find out what my Descendant is?
Your ancestor is on the other side of the zodiac wheel, and he or she represents qualities you wish for or appreciate in others.
What exactly is the distinction between ascendant and descendant?
On the same axis of the Zodiac wheel, the Ascendant sign (or rising sign) and the Descendant sign are situated on opposing sides of the birth chart, facing each other. The Ascendant is associated with the First House, whereas the Descendant is associated with the Seventh House.
At the precise moment of birth, the Ascendant is the sign that is on the most eastern horizon (east, rising). At the same time, the Descendant is the sign that is discovered below the western horizon (west).
The Ascendant/Descendant axis can control Houses on opposite sides of the zodiac, but in Astrology, rather than separating, it links, relates, and complements two halves that appear to be independent and opposite, forming an unified entity.
