Astrology studies the symbolic relationship between the positions of the Sun, the Moon, the planets and the relevant points of the sky, and human life. On Tarotsi we gather free tools to calculate and read your main astrological elements: natal chart, ascendant, sun sign, moon sign, zodiac compatibility, lunar calendar and biorhythm. For ethnic horoscopes (Chinese, Mayan, Egyptian, Japanese, Tibetan) check the horoscope section.
Basics of the Western system
Western astrology works with twelve zodiac signs (Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces), ten traditionally considered planets (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto), twelve astrological houses describing life areas (identity, money, communication, home, love, work, relationships, transformation, travel, career, friends, inner life) and four elements (Fire, Earth, Air, Water). The geometric relations between planets are called aspects: conjunction, opposition, square, trine and sextile are the main ones.
Natal chart and ascendant
The natal chart is the map of the sky at the moment of birth: it requires date, time and place. The ascendant is the sign rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of birth and describes how you present yourself to the world. On Tarotsi you can calculate both with dedicated tools and receive a brief reading of the most relevant planetary positions.
Sun sign and moon sign
The sun sign is the one you read in daily horoscopes: it depends only on the date of birth and indicates the basic qualities of personality. The moon sign also requires the time of birth and describes the emotional sphere, sensitivity and deep needs. Knowing both (together with the ascendant) helps you read your astrological profile more completely than the sun sign alone.
Zodiac compatibility
Classic compatibility compares the sun signs of two people and evaluates their symbolic affinities. On Tarotsi you can get a brief reading of the couple. Keep in mind this is a symbolic comparison: no astrological calculation can predict the real quality of a relationship, which depends above all on how the people communicate and respect each other.
Lunar calendar and biorhythm
The lunar calendar shows the phases of the Moon (new, waxing, full, waning) and is traditionally used as a compass for cycles, rituals, planting or introspective practices. Biorhythm is a popular early-twentieth-century theory, now considered pseudoscientific, that maps three cycles (physical, emotional, intellectual) starting from the date of birth. It should be read with awareness of its scientific limits and used as a hint, not as a diagnosis.
Astrology and science
Astronomy studies celestial bodies as physical objects; astrology reads them as symbols. The two disciplines share common roots but have different methods: astrology is not recognized as a science by the contemporary scientific community. On Tarotsi the underlying astronomical calculations are accurate, but interpretations have symbolic and introspective value, not clinical.
FAQ
Do I need the exact time of birth?
For natal chart, ascendant and moon sign yes: even ten minutes of error can move the ascendant to another sign. For the sun sign alone the date is enough.
Difference between astrology and astronomy?
Astronomy is the science studying stars, planets and galaxies. Astrology is a symbolic system attributing psychological and archetypal meanings to the same configurations. Only astronomy is a scientific discipline.
Is newspaper horoscope serious astrology?
It is popular astrology based only on the sun sign. For a more articulated picture also consider ascendant, moon sign, planetary positions and houses. The complete natal chart is the richest tool.
Can astrology predict the future?
No, not literally. It can describe symbolic trends and cycles (transits, solar return) that some interpret as inner seasons. Decisions and concrete results depend on people and context.
