Main Components of an Astrological Chart
An astrological chart is composed of three major elements: the planets (including the Sun and the Moon), the zodiacal signs, and the twelve houses. The chart represents a full circle of 360 degrees, with each zodiacal sign covering 30 degrees.
The planets are positioned around the chart according to their exact degree at the moment of birth. For example, the Sun may be located at 19 degrees in Virgo, the Moon at 24 degrees in Pisces, or Venus at 6 degrees in Leo.
Mathematical Basis of the Birth Chart
An astrological chart is calculated using precise mathematical formulas based on the local time of birth, as well as the latitude and longitude of the birthplace. These calculations determine the exact placement of planets within the chart.
The zodiacal signs do not represent the actual astronomical constellations. Instead, they form a fixed zodiacal belt projected around the Earth, reflecting planetary movement as observed from a geocentric perspective.
Planets, Signs, and Houses: Symbolic Roles
In astrological interpretation, planets represent individuals and the emotional, spiritual, and mental aspects of the inner self. Zodiacal signs describe how planetary energies are expressed—whether they are limited, expanded, restrained, or intensified.
The houses of the chart indicate where these energies manifest, corresponding to different areas of life such as personality, home, marriage, and career. In summary:
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Planets represent who or what
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Zodiac signs represent how
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Houses represent where
Angles and Planetary Relationships
This article builds on the foundational concepts introduced in Astrology: Origins, Definition, and Meaning, expanding them to a symbolic structure of the birth chart.
The angular distances between planets, known as aspects, play an important role in chart interpretation. Certain angles are traditionally associated with specific meanings:
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90 degrees (square) is considered challenging or tense
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60 degrees (sextile) is interpreted as harmonious or flowing
There are several types of aspects, each contributing to the overall complexity of the chart.
Methods of Astrological Interpretation
Astrology interprets present and future influences by comparing current planetary movements with the natal chart, a method known as transits. Another method, called the progressed chart, equates one day after birth with one year of life. This process is often referred to as chart actualization.
Types of Astrological Charts
There are three main types of astrological charts:
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Personal charts, created for individuals
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Mundane or terrestrial astrology, applied to events, public figures, states, or cities
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Horary astrology, designed to answer specific questions such as career decisions or personal relationships, based on the exact time the question is asked
Although these chart types are based on similar principles, their methods of interpretation differ.
This article represents Part II of a series on astrology , focusing on the structure and interpretation of astrological charts.
Once the structure of the chart is understood, astrology's philosophical shift becomes clearer. This evolution is discussed in Astrology and The Shift from Fatalism to Spiritual Interpretation.
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