[February 1, 2006] QUESTION: How is the discovery of a tenth planet going to affect your studies? Also, does this discovery in any way invalidate your prior astrological predictions? (Alias: Buscador)
ANSWER: Sorry, I was out of town a couple of days. Absolutely nobody informed me that a new planet had been discovered. Thank you for this information. I always appreciate exciting notifications from those who apparently are on the planetary "cutting edge." Well, I guess I will just have no choice other than to contact all my clients, recall their horoscopes, and re-do all their readings. (This task may require several years of non-paid time.)
However, I lucked out on the "predictions" part of your question because I have never and do not now make predictions. Thanks for the update.
[January 22, 2006] QUESTION: [Question edited for space] Why can't astrologers agree on the significance of the Rising Sign/Ascendant? Some believe it represents 'real self,' 'inner you'; [others] believe it's 'persona,' 'mask, 'outward appearance,' as opposed to Sun, which represents 'real you.' Derek and Julia Parker hold former view; it was their book I bought; they are reputed as famous astrologers. This is the fourth email I have sent pertaining to this matter; have had no reply. What does the Rising Sign represent? (Alias: Maxiboy)
ANSWER: A better question: Why can't astrologers agree on ANYTHING? Too many are like toads who sit on and actively defend their very personal "nesting rock" -- a major reason that Astrology lacks a broader acceptance. If fifty "astrologers" were in a room with one clock most would disagree vigorously about whatever time it showed. It seems many are intent on stuffing down the throats of the public their personal "take" on the science-art. It's often obvious they choose to ignore completely the proven astrological basics, while adding useless "trivia" to suit their own interests (and to sell their books) -- such things as pointless aspects, asteroids, new "planets" -- and on and on. If Derek and Julia Parker (I have not read this book) actually claim the ascendant/rising sign represents the 'real self,' 'inner you,' they are wrong. And, "famous astrologers" are a matter of one's personal perception, as influenced importantly by their publicity agents and greedy book publishers.
If you sent four emails and received no reply, the first three were not sent to me. For comments about ascendants, please see: Keys to Your External Self: ARIES Rising and Decans. (One of a series of 12 articles), and All 12 Signs Rising -- Which Is Your Ascendant?
[January 18, 2006] QUESTION: Is astrology fortune-telling? Please give me an honest answer. (Alias: curious1)
ANSWER: No, Astrology is not fortune-telling; however, a very large percentage of those claiming to be astrologers are in fact fortune-tellers. Why? Because they know very little about the science-art Astrology. And they can make easy money from those who don't know the difference between Astrology and fortune-telling either -- while bypassing all the hard work necessary to prepare and actually read an accurate horoscope. It's a win-win situation for the self-proclaimed astrologer fortune-teller and more likely than not a total waste of money for those they dupe with their misrepresentations and dishonesty.
[January 18, 2006] QUESTION: Which house is the house of marriage and what does it mean if it is empty? (Alias: snezana)
ANSWER: The seventh house is the house of marriage, close associates and associations, as well as contracts (marriage, for example) and other mutually-agreed-to and binding agreements which typically would be subject to action in a court of law.
If the house is empty (has no planets) it usually means that marriage (and other matters mentioned in the first paragraph) is/are not likely to be as important or as "active" if the seventh house had one or more planets. This does not mean the person would never marry one or more times but it does tend to indicate that being married would not be the most important thing in the life -- and that whether married or not, life would likely go forward as usual.
To evaluate the prospects for marriage it's necessary to note the house placement of the planet which rules the sign on the cusp (beginning) of the seventh house, and the number and type of aspects (positive and negative) to it. There would also be a need to consider as well several other factors not necessarily related to the seventh house in the individual's horoscope.
[December 13, 2005] QUESTION: What signs are most compatible with Aries? (Alias: 1ariez)
ANSWER: The 'cookie-cutter' answer is the other fire signs: Leo and Sagittarius -- and possibly another Arian. Why? Because all are the same element -- fire. Next would be the air signs: Gemini, Libra (doubtful since Libra is in opposition -- directly across from -- the sign Aries), and Aquarius. Why? Because fire is compatible with air; fire requires air to burn, and fire warms air. Continuing with the 'cookie-cutter' explanation, earth signs (Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn) might not be very compatible with Aries or any other fire sign. Why? Because earth can be used to put out fire, and fire applied to earth can melt it and change it into glass. Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces) might not match because water can put out fire, and fire applied to water creates a vapor -- steam.
The fact is compatibility based solely on Sun-Signs is totally flawed. Why? Because nobody is pure Aries, or any other sign. The Sun may be in Aries but the ascendant, Moon and the planets are likely to be in signs other than Aries. In effect, we each are somewhat like a tossed salad or vegetable stew or a mixed drink.
QUESTION: Chiron is a healing planet so.....what does it mean and how does it affect you if you have Chiron opposite Mercury, Uranus and MC in your natal chart? (Alias: Babyangel)
ANSWER: (No flippancy intended)
First, Chiron was discovered in November of 1977, and has received little or no respect from astronomers. At best, it’s classified as a minor planet similar in size to those in the asteroid belt. Chiron's estimated diameter is 100 to 400 miles, comparable with Ceres, the largest asteroid with a diameter of about 600 miles. Chiron ends up as the 16th largest minor planet -- hardly in the same league as the traditional eight planets -- Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. [Astrologically, Sun, a star, and Moon, a satellite, are included in horoscopes.] Even Chiron’s minor planet status has been questioned by some astronomers who have observed what they suspect might be a tail attached to Chiron -- thus implying that the so-called planet may be merely a comet.
Considering its size and great distance from Earth, and questionable planetary status, and, most importantly, the fact that its discovery is so very recent (only some 18 years ago), I personally and professionally do not believe there is any reliable way to even begin to speculate as to its "influence" [if indeed there is any] in any natal or other horoscope. [Asteroids: Small "planetary" bodies (large rocks) Ceres, Juno, Pallas, Vestra whose orbits usually lie between those of Mars and Jupiter -- except Chiron which orbits between Saturn and Uranus. Important astrologically? Absolutely NOT. Why? Because the TOTAL MASS of all the major asteroids is LESS than that of the MOON! Some 6,000 asteroids have already been discovered; several hundred more are discovered each year. There are hundreds of thousands more that are too small to be seen from Earth.]
However, the International Space Station is much closer (some 250 nautical miles from earth). Does this mean that astrologers should also take into consideration its position by sign, degree and aspects, and then speculate on its 'influence' in birth (or other) charts? :)
QUESTION: Is astrology a science? (Alias: justgemini)
ANSWER: No. Astrology could more accurately be described as a science-art because astrologers use the science of astronomy (star measurement and analysis) for casting (drawing) horoscopes and the art of Astrology to delineate (explain/read) what is indicated by planetary placements in the 12 signs of the zodiac and their relationships (aspects) to other planets/points, as well as their concentrations in houses, elements and modes -- and what all this means to you personally as a unique individual. You might find this short article Is Astrology a Science; Is Astrology an Art; Is Astrology a Language? of interest.
QUESTION: What does it mean if all of the planets are in the bottom half of the my horoscope? (Alias: loner)
ANSWER: Look at the 'alias' you used; that fairly well describes what it means! But seriously, it tends strongly to indicate a very private person who shuns the limelight, lives mainly within the self and generally is very difficult for other to get to know. Usually they are very guarded and tend to distrust others, and may be uncomfortable in careers or situations which require extensive contact with others. You can get more information about planetary concentrations both in the bottom and top half of a natal horoscope here.
QUESTION: Look at my birth details: (not for publication). My question is, over the last couple of weeks I've noticed an extremely positive change in how I look at the past, present and future. It's amazing. I'd like to know if this is due to any particular planetary thing, and if the momentum is to keep up? (Alias: SagCan)
ANSWER: Unfortunately this nice person did not consider the "Question Guidelines: Before submitting, ask yourself: 'Would the answer to my question be of general interest to others -- as well as myself?'." (Sorry but this type of question likely would be of interest only to one person, and would require hours of work to answer.)
QUESTION: The Chinese horoscope states Taurus and Libra match but if you check Astrology reports the say no? (Alias: Mistified)
ANSWER: Good question. However my answer may not be satisfactory. First, I have not studied Chinese Astrology since learning it assigns rulerships to monkeys and dragons. However in Western Astrology, Taurus and Libra are "ruled" by the same planet, Venus, perhaps the reason for the "match." (The word "match" is used by you in your question and is not based on anything resulting from my research, mainly because I have no interest in Chinese Astrology.)
QUESTION: My son was due on January 25, 2005 full term nine lunar months from conception. However, he was born on December 17, 2004. In situations like this, is the sign determined by birth date Sagittarius, due date Aquarius, or some mix of the two? (Alias: leokitten)
ANSWER: This actually is a two-part question. Yes the normal human gestation period is 9 lunar (29.322 day) months, or 263.988 days. First question: Why was your son born apparently several days early? Well, it is very unlikely that he was. Two possibilities: You and/or your doctor miscalculated the date of conception (most likely); or your son was born premature by several days. The second part of the question is easy to answer. The Sun-Sign is determined totally by the date of birth (and time) -- regardless of anything else. His birth occurred on December 17, 2004 -- so he is Sagittarius. (On that date, Sun, Mercury, Venus (depending on birth hour), and Pluto were in Sagittarius; Moon in Pisces; Saturn in Cancer; Jupiter in Libra; Mars in Scorpio; Uranus in Pisces; and, only Neptune was in Aquarius.)
QUESTION: Saturn, Venus, Chiron and the North Node are in my 11th house. I know what impact Saturn has being there with Venus, but what do Chiron and the NN do there? Thanks! (Alias: Ann)
ANSWER: Moon's North Node (NN), sometimes called 'Dragon's Head' is thought to bring positive energies and "good fortune" to matters associated with its house location in a horoscope; in this case, the eleventh house of friends, hopes, wishes, plans/planning, social life, income related to career/profession and/or benefits resulting from one's "fame" and social position. Perhaps North Node might tend to lessen some negatives of Saturn also being in this house. (In effect they might tend to neutralize one another, but this could only be determined by how each is aspected.) Chiron being there (or anywhere else) is of absolutely no consequence or importance. Neither is all this other minor planet and asteroid madness introduced by some modern-day so-called astrologers who seem to want to impress with how smart they are; however, most of these "scientifc" idiots can't even do a satisfactory real horoscope reading. Apparently they prefer continuing to speculate rather than to delineate (actually read horoscopes -- which is what astrologers by definition and 'job description' are supposed to do).
QUESTION: On 07-26-1974 at 9:41 PM a frontal presentation or breach birth is the circumstance of my birth. It wasn't until 9:58 AM on 07-27-1974 that I was finally delivered by emergency C-section. How would I calculate my exact birth time? I am told by my family that the delivering doctor wrestled me in an attempt to turn me around in the womb for 12 hours. How can a soul incarnate at its own time when C-section births interrupt? (Alias: None given)
ANSWER: Astrologically, birth time is defined as that moment when the infant first inhales oxygen, thereby making the transition from a liquid to a gaseous (air) environment. You would calculate your birth time based on this consideration.
"How can a soul incarnate at its own time when C-section births interrupt?"
To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under the sun.
A time to be born and a time to die; ...
-- Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
(Even birth by whatever "unnatural" means.)QUESTION: Hi: A while back, my grandmother had my charts done and the woman told her I wasn't going to live past the age of 20. I am 21 now, and was just wondering what else this could have meant other than actual death? Is there room for interpretation on such an extreme level? I had one instance around 19 where I had severe alcohol poisoning, but other than that haven't really had any close calls, and passed the age of 20! Wondering what else could have been going on here? Does it necessarily mean physical death, or perhaps something else. (Alias: Ryan)
ANSWER: Ryan, I am glad you sent this question. First, your grandmother made a very poor choice in selecting an "astrologer." That person was/is not an astrologer -- perhaps a fortune-teller and no doubt a bad one at that. Secondly, your grandmother exercised extremely poor judgement in telling you what she was supposedly told by this idiot "astrologer." (However I have to perhaps consider your grandmother's concern -- real or overblown -- about your drinking and her wish to shock you into quitting. But she could have offered something a bit more constructive than a "death sentence.") NO legitimate astrologer would ever make such a prediction simply because there is absolutely no certain way to glean this type of information from a natal or other horoscope. It is people like this fortune-teller who do great harm to their "clients" and also are guilty of a disservice to the science-art Astrology.
QUESTION: What are intercepted planets ? Thanks. (Alias: Gemini)
ANSWER: Planets are never intercepted. Perhaps you are thinking of intercepted signs. While it is very common for planets to occupy signs that may be intercepted, the planets themselves are never treated as intercepted. Any horoscope (a "scope" of the "hour") has twelve 30-degree houses, equaling 360 degrees -- a complete circle. However, for those not born on the Earth's equator (imaginary line drawn around Earth separating it into two equal parts, the northern and southern hemispheres), the further the birthplace is north or south of the equator, the greater the liklihood some of the horoscopes houses stretching beyond 30 degrees thus causing other houses to contract to less than thirty. When more than 30 degrees are in a house it's possible that an entire sign (one or more) will be submerged within it. This applies to the house systems of Placidus (the 'standard'), Campanus and Regiomontanus. (Intercepted signs would not be an issue for those using the not-so-common 'Equal-House' system.)
QUESTION: Can you explain -- a mother having Saturn conjunct Moon, a sister having a Saturn-Moon conjunction; my daughter having a Saturn-Moon conjunction, and myself with a Saturn conjunct Moon, all of course in different signs . Karma? (Alias: joy)
ANSWER: Let's just call it a part of heredity (the quality and potentialities [genes/DNA] derived from one's ancestors) same as inheriting eye and hair color. This is not at all unusual. I frequently find similar "matching" examples when doing horoscopes for several same-family members. Frequently the son's Moon will be the same sign as his mother's Sun and/or his ascendant sign will be the same sign as his father's Moon -- sometimes the same degree. [Personal example: My father was Sagittarius -- my Moon is Sagittarius; my mother was Leo -- my Mercury in Leo is the same degree as my mother's Sun.] Does the content of your question support this as 'karma'? Well, Saturn conjunct Moon tends to indicate difficulty with either giving or receiving love. Perhaps it is 'karma' and/or an indication of three generations of "cold-hearted" women. ;-)
QUESTION: How does the position of the Moon affect your zodiac sign and personality? (Alias: Jackie)
ANSWER: The natal position of the Moon (by sign/house placement) has no particular -- except possibly by aspects -- influence on anyone's Sun-Sign ('inner/basic self'). As to personality ('outer self' -- ascendant/rising sign) it is of little consequence -- unless: (1) It is in the first house and/or; (2) Is ruler of the first house, meaning the sign Cancer is rising. The Moon's sign, house placement, and aspects relate to one's innate emotional nature and how he/she deals with matters that challenge/stimulate/affect individual and unique emotions/feelings -- both outgoing (active) and incoming (passive).
QUESTION: Which is the most psychic Astrological signs? My friend who is a Scorpio claims her sign is; I am a Pisces and think mine is. Are either of us right? (Alias: Angie)
ANSWER: Angie, perhaps I am not the person to ask this question. I think some 99.9% of those who claim to be psychic are total frauds. I have no interest or confidence in psychics and have never known any person claiming to be psychic (which I have actually met or seen on television) I'd recommend to anyone for anything. IF someone is truly psychic it would be a gift and I doubt their birth sign (Sun-Sign) would make any difference whatsoever.
QUESTION: If one of two planets in conjunction is retrograde, how does it affect the other one? I.e. my (natal?) Venus(R) is conjunct Mercury. (Alias: kriause)
ANSWER: In a natal chart, which is a 'snapshot' of planetary positions at a precise date/time, it is of no particular significance as it relates to a conjunction or any other aspect. Example: If you take a still picture of a group of people it matters not whether someone then backs out of the camera's focus. However in a transits chart it might be more important. Retrogradation is an 'illusion' since all planets move forward consistently as they circle the Sun. All the 'planets' (except the Sun -- a star, and the Moon -- Earth's satellite) at times seem to be in reverse motion (retrograde) when viewed from an Earth perspective -- if the Earth, during the periods, is moving foward faster than they are. (Note: Astrologically considered, any planet that is retrograde is considered to be on the wane, or "weak.") The answer to your question is the retrograde Venus does not affect the direct Mercury conjunction because it is apparently retrograde.
QUESTION: What does it signify/mean when your Venus moves out of your sign? (Alias: Axel)
ANSWER: Answering questions such as this (and I get many of this type -- most of which I do not attempt to answer) is about as easy as performing major surgery remotely via the internet. It is assumed you mean by progression (one day for each year following the birth). There are at least two major possibilities: (1) "Love" of and "approval" of one's self is diminished and is likely to be more directed to others; (2) One's physical appearance (beauty) could fade somewhat. Of course the amount of "influence" would depend importantly on the aspects to the natal Venus, and the aspects it may form immediately before, during and shortly after progressing to another sign.
QUESTION: What is the Chinese Sign equivalent of Leo's Sun-Sign? (Alias: Larry)
ANSWER: These are the Chinese Signs with their maybe right, maybe wrong Western Sign equivalents. Dragon = Aries --- Snake = Taurus --- Horse = Gemini --- Goat = Cancer --- Monkey = Leo --- Rooster (Cock or Phoenix) = Virgo --- Dog = Libra --- Pig (or Boar) = Scorpio --- Rat = Sagittarius --- Ox = Capricorn --- Tiger = Aquarius --- Rabbit (or Cat) = Pisces. OR: Aries = Rat --- Taurus = Ox --- Gemini = Tiger --- Cancer = Cat --- Leo = Dragon --- Virgo = Snake --- Libra = Horse --- Scorpio = Sheep --- Sagittarius = Monkey --- Capricorn = Rooster --- Aquarius = Dog --- Pisces = Boar (Take your pick.) By the way, this site is banned in China. Determine your possible Chinese Sign and actual Western Sun-Sign here.
[Your question could be answered next -- if it is not completely personal (of no interest to anyone but you), and does not require "fortune-telling." Send it now. Click here.] [Read more Astrology-related Questions & Answers here.]Or, go or return to Site Contents Site Visits This Page Only -- Visits Since 7/12/09: