The solution is actually rather straightforward. It’s all about the distinction between astronomy and astrology.
Astrology is an old art of interpreting the impact of the Sun and Moon while they are in a certain zodiac sign. According to astrology, the sky is divided into 12 divisions, each measuring exactly 30 degrees. The signs Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces are all named after significant constellations located within the astrological circle. The 12 zodiac signs are listed below. Astrologers think that the Moon’s and Sun’s positions within these twelve divisions have an impact on what happens on Earth, ranging from the personalities of persons born under a particular sign to the chance of certain types of endeavors succeeding.
Astronomy, on the other hand, is the study of matter in space from a scientific standpoint. Astronomers do not attempt to deduce the meaning of the Moon’s or Sun’s location in the sky; instead, they attempt to depict it as accurately as possible. As a result, instead of dividing the sky into 12 equal slices like a pie, astronomers simply identify the constellation in which the Moon appears closest on any given night. The Sun can even stray into constellations that aren’t part of the astrological zodiac, such as Sextans, the Sextant, or Ophiuchus, the Serpent Bearer, in astronomical terms.
That’s why, on an astronomical map, the Moon could be in Ophiuchus while on an astrological map, it could be in Sagittarius. Furthermore, because astrological placement is constant throughout history and ignores the precession of the equinoxes (the “wobble” that the Earth’s axis describes over a 26,000-year interval), the Sun’s position in astrology frequently differs significantly from its real position in astronomy.
In This Article...
Is astrology based on zodiac signs?
The 12 signs of the zodiac, as mentioned in a horoscope, are inextricably linked to the Earth’s motion through the sky. The constellations that point out the path that the sun appears to take during the year provide us with these indicators. Dates in a horoscope may appear to match to when the sun travels through each constellation. They don’t always agree, though, because astrology and astronomy are two separate systems. Plus, a closer look at the Earth, the sun, and the stars reveals that the zodiac is more complicated than you might think!
The sun’s motion through the constellations
The sun appears to pass in front of numerous constellations as Earth revolves the sun. The sun’s position in relation to distant background stars drifts in an easterly direction from day to day, much how the moon appears in a little different spot in the sky each night. It’s not as if the sun isn’t moving. Its movement is totally fictitious, owing to Earth’s own rotation around our star.
The sun appears to be in front of, or “in,” different constellations throughout the year. The sun appears in Gemini one month and Cancer the next. The dates in the newspaper’s horoscope indicate when the sun is in a specific astrological sign. For example, the sign Aries is represented by the period between March 21 and April 19. However, your astrological sign does not always indicate which constellation the sun was in when you were born.
Why the zodiac constellations don’t always align with astrological signs
We need to know a little bit more about how the Earth moves to explain why constellations no longer coincide with their respective signs. We must also discuss how we measure time.
Time is a fiendishly difficult concept to grasp, especially if we insist on using the sun and stars as our point of reference. For better or worse, our calendar is based on the seasons. The day the sun appears at its most northerly point in the sky is June 21 – the approximate date of the summer solstice north of the equator and the winter solstice south of the equator. The North Pole is most inclined towards the sun at the June solstice.
The fact that the North Pole does not always point in the same direction as the background stars complicates things. Our world whirls around like a top. The Earth, like a top, wobbles! The North Pole traces a circle on the celestial sphere due to the Earth’s wobble. The wobbling is slow; it takes 26,000 years to complete one rotation. However, as time passes, the effect becomes more pronounced.
The direction of the Earth’s axis drifts somewhat throughout the course of one orbit around the sun. This means that the location of the solstice along our orbit changes by a very modest amount. The solstice occurs around 20 minutes before one full trip in front of the background stars!
Our drifting calendars
Because we base our calendar on the solstices and equinoxes (and astrologers on the signs), the Earth does not complete an orbit in a single year. The tropical or seasonal year is really a fraction of a second shorter than one full orbit (sidereal year). This means that the sun’s position relative to the stars on any given day say, June 21 wanders a very small amount each year.
However, after 2,000 years, the sun will be in a completely other constellation!
The sun was nearly halfway between Gemini and Cancer on the June solstice 2,000 years ago. The sun was between Gemini and Taurus on the June solstice fourteen years ago. In the year 4609, the June solstice point will move from Taurus to Aries, leaving Taurus behind.
When humanity formed the present Western zodiac some 2,000 years ago, the signs were roughly aligned with their respective constellations. However, the steady wobble of the Earth’s axis has led the solstice and equinox locations to shift around 30 degrees westward relative to the constellations in the intervening ages. Signs and constellations are currently around one calendar month off. They’ll be approximately two months away in another two thousand years or so.
Modern constellations and the zodiac
To make matters even more complicated, unlike astrological signs, constellations are not all the same size and shape. For the most part, the stars that make up a constellation are not physically related. They’re simply based on patterns that our forefathers noticed when they looked up at the sky, trying to make sense of it all.
The International Astronomical Union (IAU) established the constellations as sky regions, not only star patterns, in 1930. They established the boundaries we use today as a result of this. These current constellations are based on those introduced in the second century CE by Greek astronomer Ptolemy. He, in turn, took them from Babylonian scriptures dating back thousands of years. Throughout history, several societies have seen patterns in the sky that are unique to them. Some constellations are shared by many cultures (Orion is a good example), but not all.
There are actually 13 constellations that lay along the path of the sun, based on the present borders. Ophiuchus, the Serpent Bearer, sits between Sagittarius and Scorpius and is not mentioned in any horoscope. The signs stay stable in relation to the solstices and equinoxes, while the solstices and equinoxes shift westward in relation to the constellations or backdrop stars.
While the zodiac isn’t a fantastic predictor of love, fortune, or health, it is an excellent tool for better understanding the sun’s, Earth’s, and even the cultures that have come and gone on our small planet. The zodiac signs, which are drawn from constellations that line the path of the sun in the sky, trace Earth’s orbit and wobble and serve as a reminder of astronomy’s humble beginnings.
Bottom line: While you may identify the term zodiac with astrology, it also has a prestigious role in astronomy. The 12 constellations that make up the zodiac are located along the sun’s annual motion across the sky.
Is there a difference between astrology and the zodiac?
Astrology is the science of interpreting and predicting occurrences on Earth by observing the relative positions of the Sun, Moon, planets, and constellations in the zodiac. This is not the same as astronomy. The zodiac is a ring of constellations that lay east of the vernal equinox that includes Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpius, Sagittarius, Capricornus, Aquarius, and Pisces. Astrologers frequently use the zodiac constellations to explain and forecast occurrences on Earth. Precession of the Earth’s axis has altered the position of the Sun relative to the zodiac signs by one month, as reported in daily newspapers, because the zodiac constellations were designated 2,000 years ago.
What is the difference between astrology and the zodiac?
The study of the movement and location of the stars and planets around the earth is known as astrology. A zodiac sign is a symbol that depicts the personality, feelings, and motives of a person. Everyone has a variety of signs, including one for each planet, the moon, the sun, and many others. An ascending sign portrays the impression others have of you, while a lunar sign represents your inner attitude and emotions. The sun sign, on the other hand, is the most widely employed to describe a person’s core nature and personality qualities. While the qualities of these indications may not apply to everyone, they can be used to generalize most people’s activities. While you shouldn’t criticize others based on these assumptions, you can use astrology to align their behavior and teach them about themselves. Many websites allow you to look up your birth chart by entering your birthdate, birth time, and birth city. You can also look up “zodiac symbol” on Google.
The signs are further separated into four elements: fire, earth, air, and water. The signs of the most passionate, vivacious, and temperamental persons are described by fire. These indicators must be carefully regulated and lovingly maintained. Earth signs are realistic, grounded, and want to keep things simple. They are patient and steady, but always willing to aid others. Air signs are “winds of change” people who love mobility, change, and action. They’re like a blast of fresh air that could knock you off your feet. Finally, water explains the most sensitive, empathic, and emotional signs, such as persons who have feelings flowing through them. These indicators are intuitive, and they can be cognitively draining.
The sign’s element (Air, Water, Earth, or Fire) is denoted by the symbol next to the sign’s name:
(F)Aries (March 21 April 19), the Rams, are self-sufficient, determined, and charismatic. They tend to think positively, have a lot of energy, and fight for what they believe in. Because of their quick pace, Aries might be haughty or oblivious to others’ emotions.
(E) The bulls, Taurus (April 20 May 20), are famed for their stubbornness, realism, and ambition. Because of their realistic approach, they may be perceived as materialistic or possessive, despite their patience. Taurus is also regarded as a dependable sign when it comes to money and other critical things.
(A) Gemini (May 21June 20), the twins, are recognized for having “many personalities” because to their quick wit and expressiveness. Geminis are social butterflies that are intelligent, affectionate, and flexible. They are, however, indecisive, apprehensive, and unreliable.
Cancer, the crabs (June 21 July 22), are emotional, loyal, and sensitive. These people are also sentimental, perceptive, and have strong bonds with friends and family. They are artistically gifted and have imaginative minds. Cancers are moody, manipulative, insecure, and pessimistic as a result of their powerful emotions.
The lions (Leo, July 23 August 22) are generous, passionate, and warm-hearted. They are excellent at making new friends, but they enjoy being the focus of attention. Leos might be arrogant, self-centered, or stubborn, despite their confidence. As a result, they despise being confronted with reality and disregarded.
The maidens, (E) Virgo (Aug. 23 Sept. 22), are analytical, practical, and hardworking individuals with strong character. They crave order and are meticulous individuals who leave little to chance. These kind individuals can come across as bashful and self-critical of themselves and others.
(A) Libra (September 23 October 22), the scales, are noted for their diplomatic, fair-minded demeanor. These individuals are very gregarious, gifted communicators, and calm individuals. They place a high emphasis on friendship and company since they dislike being alone. Libras are noted for being indecisive, self-pitying, and lousy at confrontation because of their desire to satisfy everyone.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 Nov. 22) is a courageous, passionate, loyal, and resourceful sign. They are a wonderful leader because they are aggressive, decisive, and determined. Scorpios, on the other hand, are more inclined to be jealous, secretive, and distrustful. They could be violent or seek for adrenaline rushes.
(F) The archers, Sagittarius (Nov. 23 Dec. 22), are known for their strong sense of humor as well as their idealistic and charitable view on life. These folks are considered adventurers, with a strong desire to learn and explore new things. Sagittarius, while a delightful companion, can sometimes be impatient, distant, or unfair in order to establish their point.
The goats of Capricorn (December 23 January 22) are disciplined, responsible, and goal-oriented. They are naturally solemn individuals who value tradition, independence, and success. These realistic people, on the other hand, may come out as condescending, unforgiving know-it-alls.
(A) The water-bearers, Aquarius (Jan. 23 Feb. 22), are unique, compassionate, and inventive. Depending on how well you know them and how old they are, they may appear shy and quiet or lively. Aquarius are deep thinkers with a passion for teaching others, while being temperamental, unyielding, and terrible at expressing feelings. They are incredibly intelligent and excellent conversationalists.
The fish, Pisces (February 23 March 22), is a peaceful, artistic, empathetic, and wise sign. Pisces is another perceptive sign that is extremely pleasant, helpful, and unselfish in their compassion for others. They have ties to music and art, as well as creative brains. On the other hand, these individuals may be depressed, too trusting, afraid, or desirous of escaping reality.
People believe in astrology for a variety of reasons.
Self-Discovery It’s likely that people study astrology in order to gain a better understanding of themselves and increase their self-awareness. Astrology has been shown in studies to significantly impact and even validate a person’s self-concept, as well as improve their confidence in their unique characteristics.
What are the origins of the zodiac signs?
Early astronomers witnessed the Sun passing through the Zodiac signs in a year’s time, spending roughly a month in each. As a result, they determined that each constellation covers 30 degrees of the ecliptic.
However, due to a phenomenon known as precession, the positions of the constellations we see now have changed.
The zero point of the Zodiac used to designate the beginning day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. The vernal equinox happens when the ecliptic and celestial equator collide, according to astronomers.
The zero point existed in Aries around 600 BCE, and it was known as the “first point of Aries.” (See Figure 1). The constellation Aries covered the first 30 degrees of the ecliptic; Taurus covered the next 30 degrees; Gemini covered the next 60 degrees; and so on for all twelve constellations of the Zodiac.
The Earth wobbles around its axis in a 25,800-year cycle, which ancient astrologers were unaware of. The gravitational attraction of the Moon on Earth’s equatorial bulge causes this wobble, which is known as precession.
This wobble has led the junction point between the celestial equator and the ecliptic to migrate west along the ecliptic by 36 degrees, or nearly one-tenth of the way around, over the past two and a half millennia. This indicates that, in relation to the stars beyond, the signs have moved a tenth of the way across the sky to the west, or about a month.
For example, persons born between March 21 and April 19 are considered Aries. During much of that time, the Sun was no longer in the constellation of Aries. The Sun is actually in the constellation of Pisces from March 11 to April 18! (See Illustration 2) See also Figure 3, which depicts the equinox precession from 600 BCE to 2600 CE.
The dates when the Sun is truly within the astronomical constellations of the Zodiac, as defined by contemporary constellation borders and corrected for precession, are listed in the table below (these dates can vary a day from year to year).
When precession is taken into consideration, your zodiac sign will most likely be different. And if you were born between November 29 and December 17, your zodiac sign is one you’ve never heard of before: Ophiuchus! After Scorpius, the eliptic crosses across the constellation of Ophiuchus.
Check out your “actual” zodiac sign below, and visit the Birthday Sky program to see what the sky looked like on your birthday.
Are zodiac signs genuine or fictitious?
Is astrology accurate? Reading horoscopes is a popular pastime, but is there any scientific evidence that they are accurate?
When you’re enticed by a familiar interruption and your willpower weakens, problems can occur.
Every day, up to 70 million Americans consult their horoscopes. At least, that’s what the American Federation of Astrologers claims. According to a Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life poll conducted twenty years ago, 25% of Americans believe that the positions of the stars and planets have an impact on our daily life. In 2012, the General Social Survey indicated that 34% of Americans think astrology is “extremely” or “kind of scientific,” and that the percentage of individuals who think astrology is “not at all scientific” has decreased from two-thirds to about half.
Astrology is the concept that astronomical phenomena, such as the stars over your head when you were born or the fact that Mercury is retrograde, have the potential to influence our daily lives and personality traits. Of course, this is distinct from astronomy, which is the scientific study of celestial objects, space, and the physics of the cosmos.
A particular branch of astrologyforecasting a person’s future or providing advice on everyday activities through horoscopesis gaining in popularity. The Cut, for example, recorded a 150 percent rise in horoscope page views in 2017 compared to 2016.
Clearly, a lot of people are trying to figure out how to read the stars for guidance. Understanding the positions of the stars is the foundation of astrology, which appears to be a scientific discipline in and of itself. Is there any scientific evidence that astrology has an impact on our personalities and lives?
But, since I still have five minutes of this six-minute podcast to fill, let’s take a look at how astrology has been put to the test.
What makes you think astrology isn’t true?
Astrology is a collection of belief systems that assert that there is a connection between astrological phenomena and events or personality traits in the human world. The scientific community has dismissed astrology as having no explanatory power for describing the universe. Scientific testing has discovered no evidence to back up the astrological traditions’ premises or alleged effects.
Is astrology considered a science?
Astrology isn’t the most scientific method of answering queries. Although astrologers endeavor to explain the natural world, they rarely attempt to critically examine whether those explanations are true despite the fact that critical evaluation is an important aspect of science.