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Forecasting Tips

Forecasting Tips

by

Author: Alison Price   –   Published: October 2024

Information Overwhelm

Of all the questions I get from aspiring astrologers, forecasting is one of the more common ones. People want to know where to start, what to do first, what’s more important in a chart than other things and so on. And I agree, It’s overwhelming.

With forecasting there is no end to the amount of information that you can generate with your software and apps. The trick, really, is to sift through and decide what’s important, where to start and also what to not look at and what to dismiss that you can leave for another day. So, if you’re suffering farm forecasting info overwhelm, I’ve got some ideas on how to focus onto what you’re supposed to be looking at first. I just like to share some of my ideas about getting started in forecasting.

Get Started

I’m just going to cover the main forecasting techniques which are the ones that I use and the ones I recommend you start with. Please be aware that there are other forecasting techniques and you are certainly encouraged of explore them as soon as you like.

If you are just getting started with astrological forecasting, then focus on transits first. Every astrologer needs to know how to work with transit and they are the backbone of your forecasting data. Even if you never learn the other forecasting techniques, always focus on transits first.

How to Spend Your Forecasting Time

Each Hour

Let’s just have a quick look at how much time you should spend on each forecasting technique. We’re going to suppose here that you’ve already worked on the natal chart and probably spent an hour or two interpreting that. Now you’re turning your attention to the forecasting. Perhaps you’re going to put an hour into your forecasting. The diagram below shows that if you have 60 minutes available for forecasting, you want to spend half your time or 30 minutes on transits, 15 minutes on secondary progressions, 10 minutes on solar returns and 5 minutes on solar arc directions. Clearly the emphasis that you ought to put in your energy expenditure on each of the forecasting techniques. It is evident that transits are far ahead, by a long chalk, the most important technique you can do.

forecasting-time-and-percentage

Percentage

It doesn’t really matter if you spend one hour, one day or one week on your forecasting. And in the beginning certainly you will put in more than one hour and I certainly did when I was starting out. The important thing is to pay attention to the percentage of time you spend on each of the forecasting techniques. This diagram clearly shows that solar arc directions are not as important as transits. And you should carefully expend your precious forecasting energy on the right things to start with.

Direct Forecasting

Direct forecasting refers to what is happening up there right now. There are several ways that you can work with direct forecasting techniques, but here I’m going to talk about a couple which I use and they are transits and solar returns. Let’s take a closer look at them.

Transits

Planets to Consider

When working with transits, always start from the outer planets and work in. So first look at Pluto, Neptune and Uranus and then move on to Saturn and Jupiter.

 

Transit Orbs

For all transit work, use a 1° orb applying and separating.

 

Transits What to Look For

With transits, need to know which natal house the transiting planet is in. Next you are going to look for any aspects that the planet is making to planets in the natal chart. Always look at the aspects in this order:

  • Neutral aspects: conjunctions.
  • Hard aspects: oppositions and squares.
  • Soft aspects: the trines and sextiles.

I like to call this aspect set, my “Fab Five” aspects.

 

Planets Changing Signs

For personal natal chart readings, there is not much value in discussing when a transiting planets changes signs, it will change signs for everybody. Unless the transiting planet makes a direct contact to their natal chart, either via an aspect or by a house cusp change, I would tend to ignore this in personal forecast readings

 

Planets Changing House

When a transiting planet changes house, it is hugely important for the person. The energy that was expressed by the planet in the old house will shift onto the new area of life which the new house represents.

 

Retrogrades

Transiting planets will retrograde back and forth over the chart. Each contact is important to show a main theme.

Solar Returns

The technique of solar returns is the second indirect forecasting technique which I use.

How to Cast a Solar Return Chart

For each solar return chart that you calculate, your software will work out the exact moment (time) for the chart. So, solar returns come into effect for each person around one month before their birthday and definitely by the time the transiting Sun has entered the birth Sun’s sign. What you need to do is put in the current place. The solar return place depends whereabouts you are in the world at the moment of the return. So, if you were born in New York and now you are living in Hong Kong, you will cast the solar return chart for Hong Kong.

Travelling on Your Birthday

If you happen to be away from home for your birthday, as I was one year when I went down to Mexico, use that place. I celebrated my birthday in Cancun, Mexico and so Cancun was my solar return chart place for that year.

What to Look for in Solar Return Charts

Sun’s House

The first thing I look for is the Sun’s house, because that will show the trend for the whole year. Each year the solar return Sun will be in a different house. It cycles through the chart in a specific pattern. The solar return Sun’s house is an indication of the types of things that there will be a focus on for the individual that year.

 

Sun’s Aspects

The second step is to consider all of the solar returns Sun’s aspects. You need to explore each solar aspect as it will have something to say about the solar return chart. On a side note, I never look at the other planets positions or aspects within the solar return chart, although you can if you have time.

 

Solar Return Ascendant.

The solar return Ascendant is always an interesting position in the solar return chart. I would always put the solar return Ascendant position degree into the natal chart to see which house it is highlighting Additionally, if you have time, you can do this the other way around as well.

 

Indirect Forecasting

Indirect forecasting covers all techniques where the chart is extrapolated through a time-based count forward. Secondary progressions are equal to one day per year. There are many ways of calculating indirect forecasted charts, but we’re just going to concentrate on two here today. They will be the secondary progressed chart and the solar arc directed chart.

Secondary Progressions

How to Cast a Secondary Progressed Chart

Your computer software will calculate your secondary progressed chart for you. You do not have to enter the time, but make sure the chart is set for the natal place of birth. For all progressed chart interpretations please use a 1° orb.

Note

And for more certainty, this means use 1° of for all the aspects, whereas in a natal chart you would use an 8° orb for a conjunction, when working with forecasting, you’re going to be using a 1° orb both applying and separating.

Progressed Chart What to Look For

There are three main things to look at in the secondary progressed chart, and they are:

  • House ingresses
  • Sign ingresses
  • Aspects

Progressed Planets to Consider

Typically, with progressed charts, you start with the inner planets at the Sun and work your way out through the five personal planets. So that would be the Sun, the Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars in order. Now you can if you wish, work on the outer planets too, but you would have covered those energies already in the transits section.

Progressed Planets Changing House

Look for progressed planets changing houses. When they are within 1° orb of the actual house cusp. In general and loosely, the personal planets will be moving at about 1° year, so one if you use an orb of 1° it will give you a run up to the actual house change as well. These are important as some planets are better placed in some houses than others.

Progressed Planets Changing Signs.

With a bi-wheel, look for any progressed planet changing sign in the natal chart. And again using 1° or applying and separating.

Progressed Planet Aspects

With progressed planets play attention to the aspect starting in sequence with the conjunction, opposition, square, trine and sextile. If you have time, you can work on to the lesser used aspects as well, but I never do.

Progressions Overview

Usually there is not much information that comes through in a progressed chart. You may have 3 or 4 planets changing sign or house and you will definitely consider those.

Solar Arc Directions

How to cast a Solar Arc Directed Chart

Your computer system will cast the solar arc directed chart for you. Make sure the place is set for the natal birthplace.

 

Directed Charts What to Look For

The directed Sun’s position will be the exact same position as the as the progressed Sun’s position. Directed planets only move forward, there is no retrogradation in a directed chart. With the directed chart, you are again looking for the three main things:

  • Directed planets changing signs
  • Directed planet changing houses
  • Directed planet aspects to natal planets.

 

Directed Planets Changing Signs

Look for any directed planets changing signs. Use a 1° orb.

 

Directed Planets Changing Houses.

Look for any directed planets changing house and again use a 1° orb to the house cusp.

 

Directed Planet Aspects

Look for any directed planets making aspects to the natal chart. You will use it 1° orb for this. Look at the aspects in sequence of conjunctions, oppositions, squares, trines and sextiles. Again, you could look at the lesser used aspects if you wish and if you have time, but I never do. Typically, there is not much information that pops up in a solar arc directed chart, but what does come forward is gold.

Overarching

Transits First

Forecasting is a vast subject and there’s always something new to learn, but if you’re just getting started, then begin with transits and fully understand them because this knowledge will benefit you even if you’re doing horoscope work in general as well. For every client’s chart which you ever look at, you will always consider their transits. Getting to know where each of the planets currently are placed is always a great thing for an astrologer.

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Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

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If you enjoyed this post, you may like some more astrology related articles from our blog.

 

Pluto Transits Change Lives

Pluto Transits Change Lives

Author: Alison Price   -   Published: November 2024 Pluto Transits Change Lives Often astrology jogs along with not much happening. Moons come and go, the Sun trots thorough the signs in a predictable manner and Mercury and Venus follow suit. But now and then big...

Forecasting Techniques

Forecasting Techniques

by

Author: Alison Price   –   Published: July 2024

Forecasting Techniques

Once you can read a chart you’ll want to get into forecasting.

Astrology has various techniques to forecast or predict future events and trends.

These techniques can be broadly classified into direct and indirect methods.

You don’t have to use them all.

Here’s a brief overview of the four main forecasting techniques which I use for every chart I interpret. 

Podcast Episode

You can listen to the full podcast episode with me and Arwyne by clicking below.

Direct Forecasting Techniques

Transits

Transits involve observing the ongoing movement of planets and how they interact with an individual’s natal chart.

As planets transit through the zodiac, they form aspects (such as conjunctions, squares, or trines) with the planets and points in the natal chart.

These interactions can indicate significant events, changes, or themes in a person’s life during the period of the transit.

Solar Returns

A solar return chart is cast for the exact moment the Sun returns to its natal position, which happens once a year around your birthday.

This chart provides insights into the year ahead, highlighting the major themes, challenges and opportunities.

Analyzing the solar return chart in relation to the natal chart can give a comprehensive view of the upcoming year’s potential.

how-much-time-to-spend-on-each-technique

Indirect Forecasting Techniques

Secondary Progressions

Secondary progressions are based on the “day-for-a-year” principle, where each day after birth represents a year in the individual’s life.

By advancing the natal chart forward one day for each year of life, astrologers can observe how the progressed planets and points interact with the natal chart.

This method reveals the internal, psychological, and developmental changes that occur over time, complementing the external events indicated by transits.

Solar Arc Directions

Solar arc directions involve moving every planet and point in the natal chart forward by the same amount, calculated based on the solar arc (the distance the Sun moves in a day, approximately one degree).

This method creates a chart that reflects the evolved positions of the planets and their aspects to the natal chart.

Solar arc directions provide a broad, long-term view of life’s significant shifts and transitions.

Other Forecasting Techniques

The following methods are ones which I never use, not because they don’t work, but becasue I prefer the first four methods I mentioned.

Firdaria

Firdaria is a time-lord technique used primarily in traditional astrology.

It divides a person’s life into distinct periods governed by different planets.

Each planet, known as a “time lord,” presides over a specific phase, influencing the themes and events of that period.

The sequence and duration of these periods vary according to the planet’s position and significance in the natal chart.

Profections

Profections is an ancient technique that advances the natal chart one house per year.

Starting from the Ascendant, each house represents a year of life, cycling through the entire zodiac every 12 years.

The sign and planets ruling the house of the current year become particularly significant, as they highlight the key themes and areas of focus for that year.

Primary Directions

Primary directions involve the symbolic (indirect) movement of planets and points through the sky, representing significant life events and developments.

This technique shifts the natal chart forward by a specific amount, usually one degree for each year of life, to see how the planets’ new positions relate to the original chart.

Additional Forecasting Techniques

Here are a few more techniques again that I do not use.

Lunar Returns

Similar to solar returns but focusing on the Moon’s return to its natal position, offering insights into emotional and domestic themes for the month ahead.

A lunar return is cast every month this makes it the most short lived method.

Planetary Arcs

Planetary arc directions, are where each planet and point is moved forward by an individual planet’s arc to identify long-term trends and transformations.

You choose the planet for the chart by its rulership of the topic in question.

For example for the lovelife use a Venus arc chart and for career use a Saturn arc chart

This one can be tricky and you may have to do it by hand (without a computer) as not many astrology software programs can calculate other planetary returns although good old Solar Fire does.

Transits to Progressed Chart

Analyzing how current planetary transits interact with the progressed chart is another way to forecast.

I’m not sure if this is a viable method becasue you are taking a transit which will be a progression one day, and applying it to an indirect movement of a planet.

Direct Forecasting Techniques

Transits and Solar Returns

The two main direct forecasting techniques I use are transits and solar returns.

Transits: What to Look For

Transits are a key tool in astrology, providing insights into how current planetary movements impact your client’s natal chart.

Here’s a quick look at what to consider when interpreting transits:

Planets in Transits

Pluto

Governs transformation, power and regeneration.

Pluto transits indicate deep, often intense changes and the need to confront and release what no longer serves.

Neptune

Associated with dreams, intuition, and illusion.

Neptune transits can bring inspiration, spiritual growth, but also confusion and deception.

Uranus

Symbolizes change, innovation, and upheaval.

Uranus transits bring unexpected events, breakthroughs, breakdownsa and breakouts and shifts in perspective.

Saturn

Represents discipline, structure and challenges.

Saturn transits often signify periods of hard work, responsibility and testing.

Jupiter

Brings growth, expansion and opportunities.

Jupiter transits indicate times of prosperity, growth, learning and new experiences.

Mars

Drives action, energy and ambition.

Mars transits can spark motivation, what you will fight for, conflict and assertiveness.

Venus

Represents love, beauty and harmony.

Venus transits influence relationships, aesthetics, money and your social interactions.

Mercury

Governs communication, intellect, trade and travel.

Mercury transits affect thinking, opinions, paperwork, information exchange and daily routines.

Aspects

The aspects formed by transiting planets to natal planets and points reveal the nature of the influence.

Conjunctions

Occur when a transiting planet is in the same position as a natal planet.

They bring intensified energy and focus on the qualities of the planet involved.

Pay close attention to conjunctions, as they signify major periods of activation and focus on the planets involved.

Hard Aspects (Square, Opposition)

Create tension and challenges that often require action and resolution.

Squares (90 degrees) and oppositions (180 degrees) indicate conflict, dilemmas, obstacles, or necessary adjustments.

Examine squares and oppositions to find areas of conflict, challenge and potential for growth through overcoming difficulties.

Many clients arrive in the astrologer’s consulting room when under a hard transit from an out planet.

Soft Aspects

Offer ease and opportunities. Trines (120 degrees) and sextiles (60 degrees) facilitate growth, harmony and beneficial developments.

Look for trines and sextiles to find periods of harmony, ease, and natural development, where things tend to flow more smoothly.

Personally I don’t bother with the soft aspect transits as they oftne just pass by. Whearas the hard aspects demand attention.

  • More on TRANSITS

Forecasting Technique: Graphic Ephemeris

I love working with a graphic ephemeris. It is a bit tricky to read to start with but well worth the effort to learn.

The Graphic Ephemeris is a powerful visual tool used by astrologers to track planetary movements and their interactions over time.

It give a graphical (visual) representation of the positions of planets and their transits relative to an your natal chart.

Understanding the Graphic Ephemeris

Graphical Representation

Unlike a traditional ephemeris, which lists planetary positions in a tabular format, the Graphic Ephemeris displays these positions on a graph.

Time is typically represented along the horizontal axis, while the zodiac degrees or signs are shown on the vertical axis.

Tracking Planetary Movements

The graph plots the daily positions of the planets, allowing you to see at a glance how planets move through the zodiac over days, months, or even years.

Being on a one page, it helps you to visualize the dynamic nature of planetary cycles.

Identifying Main Outer Transits

By overlaying the positions of transiting planets with key points in the natal chart (such as Pluto, Neptune and Uranus), the Graphic Ephemeris makes it easy to identify when transiting planets form significant aspects to natal planets.

Using the Graphic Ephemeris

Setting Up the Chart

To use the Graphic Ephemeris, one must first set up the chart for the individual or event in question.

This involves plotting the natal chart or any other relevant chart.

Overlaying Transits

Once the natal chart is set, transiting planets are plotted over time.

This can be done for specific periods, such as a month, a year, or several years, depending on the scope of the forecast.

Interpreting Patterns and Hot Spots

You then analyze the graph to interpret the patterns.

Look for when transiting planets cross important points in the natal chart and form aspects to natal planets.

These times are then interpreted for their potential impact based on the nature of the planets and aspects involved.

Eclipses

Eclipses are powerful astronomical events that hold significant astrological meaning.

In astrology, eclipses—both solar and lunar—are seen as harbingers of change, transformation, and pivotal shifts.

They occur in cycles, typically about every six months, and their influence can be felt for months before and after the event.

Here’s a detailed discussion on how eclipses serve as a forecasting tool in astrology:

Types of Eclipses

Solar Eclipses

Occur during a New Moon when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s light.

Symbolize new beginnings, fresh starts, and the initiation of significant changes.

Can highlight areas of life where new opportunities or challenges will emerge.

Lunar Eclipses

Occur during a Full Moon when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon.

Represent culmination, closure, and the revelation of hidden truths.

Often signal the end of a chapter or the need to release something that no longer serves us.

Astrological Significance of Eclipses

Trigger Points

Eclipses often act as trigger points for significant events and changes, especially when they closely aspect personal planets or critical points (Ascendant, Midheaven) in the natal chart.

They can catalyze shifts in areas such as relationships, career, health, and personal development.

Intensity and Unpredictability

The energy of eclipses is intense and can bring sudden, unexpected changes. This makes them powerful times for transformation but also periods of instability and unpredictability.

Long-Term Influence

The effects of an eclipse can unfold over six months to a year, making them useful for long-term forecasting.

The themes and events triggered by an eclipse can continue to develop and manifest well beyond the date of the actual event.

How to Use Eclipses in Forecasting

Identifying the House Placement

Determine which house in the natal chart the eclipse falls. This indicates the area of life where changes and significant events are likely to occur.

For example, an eclipse in the 10th house might signify major shifts in career or public life, while one in the 4th house could impact home and family matters.

Examining Aspects to Natal Planets

Analyze the aspects the eclipse makes to natal planets. Conjunctions, squares, and oppositions are particularly potent and suggest major turning points.

Trines and sextiles, while still significant, tend to facilitate smoother transitions and positive developments.

Consider the Nodal Axis

Eclipses occur near the lunar nodes (North Node and South Node), which represent points of destiny and karmic lessons.

Eclipses near the North Node suggest new opportunities and growth, while those near the South Node indicate the need for release and letting go of past patterns.

Reviewing Eclipse Cycles

Eclipses follow an 18.6-year cycle, returning to the same zodiac sign and degree roughly every 19 years.

Reviewing past events from the previous cycle can provide insights into the themes that might re-emerge.

  • More on ECLIPSES

Solar Returns

Key Elements to Consider

A Solar Return chart is a powerful forecasting tool in astrology, created for the exact moment the Sun returns to its natal position, which occurs annually around your birthday.

This chart offers insights into the themes and events that will be significant in the coming year.

Here’s a detailed guide on what to look for in a Solar Return chart:

Solar Return Sun’s House

The house in which the Solar Return Sun is placed reveals the main area of focus for the year. Each house represents different aspects of life, and the presence of the Solar Return Sun highlights the significance of that area.

1st House

Personal identity, self-expression, appearance, and new beginnings.

2nd House

Finances, possessions, self-worth, and values.

3rd House

Communication, learning, siblings, and daily interactions.

4th House

Home, family, emotional foundations, and private life.

5th House

Creativity, romance, children, and hobbies.

6th House

Work, health, daily routines, and service.

7th House

Relationships, partnerships, and significant others.

8th House

Shared resources, transformation, intimacy, and deep psychological matters.

9th House

Travel, higher education, philosophy, and belief systems.

10th House

Career, public life, reputation, and ambitions.

11th House

Friendships, social networks, goals, and aspirations.

12th House

Solitude, spirituality, hidden matters, and subconscious.

Solar Return Sun’s Aspects

The aspects the Solar Return Sun makes to other planets in the Solar Return chart provide additional layers of meaning, indicating how the themes of the year will play out.

Conjunctions

Intensify the influence of the involved planets, indicating major focal points.

Squares

Highlight challenges and areas requiring effort and adjustment.

Oppositions

Suggest balancing and integrating opposing forces or perspectives.

Trines and Sextiles

Indicate opportunities, ease, and harmonious developments.

The Solar Return Ascendant in Your Natal Chart

The Ascendant of the Solar Return chart, when compared to the natal chart, provides insights into how the year’s energy will manifest and where personal growth will be emphasized.

Ascendant in 1st House

Focus on self-development, personal goals, and self-image.

Ascendant in 2nd House

Emphasis on financial matters, resources, and personal values.

Ascendant in 3rd House

Increased communication, learning, and interactions with the immediate environment.

Ascendant in 4th House

Home, family dynamics, and emotional security are highlighted.

Ascendant in 5th House

Creativity, romance, and enjoyment take center stage.

Ascendant in 6th House

Health, daily routines, and work are key areas of focus.

Ascendant in 7th House

Partnerships and relationships play a significant role.

Ascendant in 8th House

Deep emotional transformations, shared resources, and intimate relationships are emphasized.

Ascendant in 9th House

Travel, education, and broadening horizons become important.

Ascendant in 10th House

Career and public life are highlighted, with potential for achievements.

Ascendant in 11th House

Friendships, social connections, and long-term goals are emphasized.

Ascendant in 12th House

A year of introspection, spiritual growth, and addressing subconscious issues.

Solar Returns: Additional Considerations

Planetary Emphasis

Note the planets that are prominently placed or heavily aspected in the Solar Return chart, as they will play a crucial role in shaping the year’s experiences.

Lunar Phases

The phase of the Moon at the time of the Solar Return can provide additional insights into the emotional tone and overall mood for the year.

Angle Activation

Pay attention to any planets located on the angles (Ascendant, Midheaven, Descendant, IC) of the Solar Return chart, as they will have a heightened influence.

Repeating Patterns

Compare the Solar Return chart with the natal chart to identify repeating themes or significant transits that may reinforce certain areas of focus.

Extend Yourself: Direct Forecasting

Below are a few questions to ask yourself when starting with forecasting. You will of course go deeper and explore every avenue for your paying clients.

Considering the period of the next 12 months and using an orb of 1° applying and separating, in your astrology journal please do the following:

 

Transits

 

  • List any outer planet (Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) conjunctions to your natal planets, Ascendant or Midheaven and note the date.
  • List any middle planet (Mars, Jupiter and Saturn) changing house and note the date.
  • Find the next retrograde periods for Mercury, Venus and Mars and note which natal houses they will be in for you.
  • Write one sentence to sum up the transit forecast.

 

Eclipses

  • Note if the next solar eclipse will conjoin any of your planets, Ascendant or Midheaven.
  • Note which natal house the next lunar eclipse will be in for you.

 

Extend Yourself Further: Indirect Forecasting

Below are a few questions to ask yourself when getting greater into forecasting. You will of course go deeper and explore every avenue for your paying clients.

Considering the period of the next 12 months and using an orb of 1°, in your astrology journal please do the following:

 

Secondary Progressions

 

  • State the progressed chart ruler.
  • List all natal retrograde planets that are now direct by progression. If there are any, go back and find the station direct dates.
  • List all natal planets that are now retrograde by progression. If there are any, go back and find the station retrograde dates.
  • List all progressed planets that will change signs and note the dates.
  • List all progressed planets that will change house and note the dates.
  • Write one sentence to sum up the secondary progressed forecast.

 

Solar Arc Directions

 

  • Find any solar arc directed planet conjoined a natal planet, the Ascendant or Midheaven and note the date.
  • Find any solar arc directed planet opposing a natal planet, the Ascendant or Midheaven and note the date.
  • Find any solar arc directed planet squaring a natal planet, the Ascendant or Midheaven and note the date.

 

Overall

  • Write one sentence to sum up the complete overall forecast.
  • Explore all the main themes that have come up through your examination of all the forecasting techniques. Write a brief summary (500 words).
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Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post, you may like some more astrology related articles from our blog.

 

Pluto Transits Change Lives

Pluto Transits Change Lives

Author: Alison Price   -   Published: November 2024 Pluto Transits Change Lives Often astrology jogs along with not much happening. Moons come and go, the Sun trots thorough the signs in a predictable manner and Mercury and Venus follow suit. But now and then big...

Solar Return Charts in Astrological Forecasting

Solar Return Charts in Astrological Forecasting

by

Solar Return Charts

A solar return chart is a chart cast for the exact time that the Sun reaches the same longitude (degree, minute and second) that it was placed at the time of your birth as shown in the natal chart.

Solar Return Place

A solar return chart is cast for the city you are in on your solar return date and not your birthplace. It is known as you solar return place or location.

Every year there will be a different solar return chart for you as the Sun will be in the same degree and sign, but the planets and angles will have moved.

Each of your solar return charts (year after year) will have the same sign, degree and minutes for the placement of the Sun as it is in your natal chart. In other words, your solar return Sun position on the zodiac is always the same as your solar return Sun every year.

When to Cast a Solar Return Chart

A solar return chart is cast every year on your birthday, or thereabouts, and can be used to predict the trends coming up for you each year.

A solar return chart is a direct astrological forecast method, which means it is based on transits, but it is crafted for you individually based on your natal Sun’s position.

If you can read a natal chart you can quickly interpret a solar return chart.

 

Solar Return Annual Forecasting Period

It is usual, and advisable, for clients to have a chart consultation on or near their birthday because of the power inherent in the solar return chart.

If you do a client consultation midyear you have to print the current and the next solar return chart.

Solar Return Charts can Stand Alone

A solar return chart is one forecasting technique that can be done alone and not combined with the other methods.

A solar return chart is useful for forecasting one year ahead which is a typical length of time for an astrological forecast for someone.

Relocate the Chart

Your birth chart is calculated for the town or city where you were born.

When the transiting Sun perfects the conjunction to its natal position you could be anywhere on Earth.

When using a solar return chart, it is necessary to cast the chart for the place that you are living in on that birthday.

As the potentials for the year are inhaled at the exact time of the Sun’s return.

If you move from your birthplace, each year’s solar return place can be different if you continue to move.

For example: If you were born in Toronto and now live in London then you would calculate the solar return chart for London for that year..

If you were born in Toronto and now live in London and are on vacation in Los Angeles on your birthday, then you would calculate the solar return chart for Los Angeles.

Solar Returns: Podcast Episode

Learn how to cast a SOLAR RETURN chart, what to look for and intrepret it.

In this episode, I (Alison) chat with Arwynne and discuss the direct forecasting technique of solar return charts.

We explain how to cast a new solar return chart, solar return travellers, and three key interpretation steps to understanding the message in the chart without being overwhelmed by too much data.

Date and Time Changes

All good astrology software such as Solar Fire and Astro Gold will calculate a solar return chart for you.

Check that the Sun’s position is the same as the natal Sun’s position and check the new location.

Solar Return Date

If you move extremely west or east of your birthplace then the solar return chart may end up being dated on the day before, or the day after, your actual calendar birthday.

Solar Return Time

The birth time for the solar return chart will be different to the natal time and different each year.

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Solar Return Chart Interpretations Interpretations

Interpretation of the solar return chart is not as complicated as re-analyzing a whole new chart.

There are specific details to look for and not every solar return chart will provide as much information as the next one.

How Often to Cast a Solar Return Chart

The solar return chart may come into effect one or two months before your birthday and last up to ten to twelve months after your birthday.

I find that it is best to start using the next solar return chart one month before your birthday.

That is when the Sun is at thirty degrees to its natal position, or one sign before.

This can be variable, and it depends on the placement of the planets that year.

 

When to Use a Solar Return Chart

You don’t just wake up one day under the effects of the new solar return chart.

It is a gradual process.

However, when the transiting Sun is in orb of a conjunction to your natal Sun (8 degrees) then the solar return chart begins its effect for sure and last year’s solar return chart fades away.

  

Using Two Solar Return Charts at Once Two Solar Return Charts

A situation may arise when you have to cast two solar return charts at once.

This would typically be the case if you were looking at the yearly forecast for someone and it was six months from their last birthday and therefore six months until their next birthday.

Previous Solar Return

You can use the previous year’s solar return up until the month before your next birthday.

Current Solar Return

The current solar return is cast for your last birthday and can be used for twelve months. You may begin to feel the effects of the next solar return chart when it is under one month to your next birthday.

 

Next Solar Return

The next solar return chart will come into effect around your next birthday. But the influences may start to develop at around one month before your next birthday.

If your birthday is in the next month use the next solar return chart.

Instances When to Cast Two Solar Return Charts

If you had a client who came for an astrological consultation and required a forecast between their two birthdays, then you would cast two solar return charts, the previous one and the next one.

 

Angles in the Solar Return Chart

Solar Return Angles

When reading a solar return chart, the four angles are very important.

The natal sign over the solar return Ascendant clues you into the year ahead.

Any planet conjunct an angle in the solar return chart will be prominent that year.

Planets Conjunct the Angles

  • Ascendant – A planet conjunct the solar return Ascendant may play a role in how your project yourself.

  • Descendant – A planet conjunct the solar return Descendant may play a role in your close personal relationships.

  • Midheaven – A planet conjunct the solar return Midheaven may play a role in the public persona you can project that year.

  • IC-A planet conjunct the solar return IC may play a role in what your private life looks like.

Solar Return Ascendant Sign

The Ascendant sign in the solar return chart indicates the way you will present yourself this year.

It may be that same as your natal Ascendant, but in years when it is truly different, it offers you a chance to express yourself through a different lens, or filter.

Solar Return Ascendant in Your Natal Chart

The natal house which contains your solar return Ascendant needs close inspection for it is through this portal that you will express yourself in that year.

The Solar Return Sun

“Happy Birthday and Many Happy Returns”

The Importance of the Solar Return Sun

The whole concept of solar return charts hinges on the Sun.

The Sun’s position in the natal chart dictates the Sun’s position in the solar return chart every year.

It follows that the Sun is the most important feature to be considered, not by sign (as it is the same as the natal) but by house and aspect.

Pattern of the Sun’s House Placement in Subsequent Solar Return Charts

Astrologers love patterns.

Having a pattern somehow makes astrology seem like it is part of a big plan.

Whose plan, we may not be sure, but a plan anyway.

The Solar Return Sun by House

Each year the solar return Sun will be in a different house of the solar return chart.

The solar return Sun moves through the houses in a particular pattern by type of house.

After around ten years, moves into the next kind of house (angular, succedent and cadent), eventually placed in each of the twelve houses in turn.

The pattern is loosely the angular houses (first, tenth, seventh and fourth), then the succedent houses (second, eleventh, eighth and fifth) and then the cadent houses (third, twelfth, ninth and sixth).

In this way the Sun may cover the whole twelve houses over a thirty year stretch.

This pattern is reliant on you not moving place.

The Solar Return Sun’s House Shift Pattern

This Sun house shift pattern works perfectly under three specific criteria:

  • If you live on the equator.
  • If you use the equal house system.
  • If you never move place.

But, if you use Placidus house system (which I do) or many of the other house systems, then the solar return Sun’s house shift pattern may be slightly out.

This is because the house widths are skewed by many house system cusps.

 

Relocating from Year to Year

Note: If you move place from one city to another for your solar return (that is your birthday) the pattern will be interrupted.

For around ten years the Sun is in angular houses and then it moves to succedent houses.

For example: You may have three returns with the Sun in the first house or only two returns.

It depends on your chart.

 

Solar Return Travellers

Therefore, the Sun could feasibly be in your solar return twelfth house for three years out of ten.

This twelfth house’s retiring and private position may or may not suit you.

For this reason, people travel for a better solar return Sun house position. 

 

First the Angular Houses

Sun in first house.

Sun in tenth house.

Sun in seventh house.

Sun in fourth house.

The Succedent Houses

Sun in the second house.

Sun in the eleventh house.

Sun in the eighth house.

Sun in the fifth house.

The Cadent Houses

Sun in the third house.

Sun in the twelfth house.

Sun in the ninth house.

Sun in the sixth house.

 

The Sun in the Solar Return Houses

The Spotlight is on Each House in Turn

The Sun’s house is very important as it shows which house has a spotlight on it for the forthcoming year.

It is where you can shine in your life.

 

First House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return first house it is a year to:

  • Focus on self-improvement.
  • Expect physical changes.
  • Let people get to know you.

Second House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return second house it is a year to:

  • Improve your self-esteem.
  • Improve your personal and core values.
  • Earn a good income.

Third House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return third house it is a year to:

  • Focus on short courses and learning skills.
  • Participate more in the neighborhood.
  • Allow self-expression to become important.

Fourth House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return fourth house it is a year to:

  • Spend time at home.
  • Stamp your personality on your home.
  • Identify with your family.

Fifth House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return fifth house it is a year to:

  • Fall pregnant
  • Enjoy children and play
  • Give birth to your creative projects.

Sixth House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return sixth house it is a year to:

  • Begin your own business
  • Go back to work
  • Attend to your heart health.

Seventh House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return seventh house it is a year to:

  • Consider marriage.
  • Feel an individual within a partnership.
  • Experience legal matters.

Eight House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return eighth house it is a year to:

  • Possibly inherit from your father.
  • Acquire individual debt.
  • Spend time on personal inward looking.

Ninth House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return ninth house it is a year to:

  • Expect to travel.
  • Be attracted to and identify with foreign things.
  • Begin a self-improvement courses.

Tenth House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return tenth house it is a year to:

  • Finally get your career to take off.
  • Gain public accolades for any previous endeavors.
  • Become known and have a reputation in the public domain.

Eleventh House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return eleventh house it is a year to:

  • Identify with a cause close to your heart.
  • Become humanitarian and concerned about humanity.
  • Begin a self-interest group.

Twelfth House

When the solar return Sun is in your solar return twelfth house it is a year to:

  • Retire and withdraw from life.
  • Reflect on your life path.
  • Recharge and replenish your inner self.

Planetary House Emphasis

Any house in the solar return chart that has more than three tenants needs special attention.

The areas of life indicated by the house will be of importance in the following year.

 

The Importance of the Solar Return Sun’s Aspects

The aspects the solar return Sun makes in the solar return chart (and therefore to the transiting planets at the time) are very important is showing the year’s identity and ego for the individual.

At the exact solar return, the Sun will be transiting the natal chart and triggering all the natal solar aspects that are in the natal chart.

This transiting Sun conjoined the natal Sun tends to recalibrate the meanings of the solar aspects.

The most important Sun aspects in the solar return chart in sequence are:

  • Conjunctions

  • Other Ptolemaic aspects; the square, trine, opposition and sextile

  • Minor aspects; the semi-sextile, quincunx, semi-square and sesquiquadrate

  • Lesser used aspects such as the quintile, septile and novile

  • Tip: I usually only consider the conjunction and the Ptolemaic aspects.

Transiting Sun Reinforces the Natal Sun’s Aspects

As the Sun moves into its natal position each year it remakes all the solar aspects that are in the natal chart.

For instance, if you have a natal Sun square Moon, then you will have a transiting Sun square natal Moon at the solar return.

Solar Return Videos on YouTube

There are 3 videos in this series.

 

Part 1: How to correctly cast a solar return chart

This gives you some specifics about the correct time, date, and place for your solar return chart.

 

Part 2: The solar return Sun’s house and the solar return Sun’s aspects.

This video explains what each house position of teh Sun means in your solar return chart.

It also explains the importance of the Sun’s aspects and which aspects to choose.

 

Part 3: Solar return chart retrograde planets and other planetary returns

This video looks at retrograde planets in your solar return chart. It also covers other types of planetary return charts that you may wish to use someday.

There is a checklist for when you work with solar return charts.

 

Have a prosperous day,

Alison ⭐️

 

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Author Bio

Alison Price: Astrology Coach

Alison specializes in guiding Aspiring Astrologers. Her aim is to help you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart, often sprinkled with a touch of humor.

To learn more about Alison’s journey, visit this page.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

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Astrological Forecasting Techniques

Astrological Forecasting Techniques

by

Astrological Forecasting: Overview

Astrological forecasting is a popular use for astrology and many people come to astrology exactly for the predictions you can get.

But not all forecasting techniques are created equal. Some are easy to understand and some are more complex.

Forecasting is in two broad sectors, the direct forecasting methods and the indirect forecasting techniques.

Direct Forecasting

Direct forecasting techniques use the current positions of the planets in the sky as we speak. You need an ephemeris for transit work.

Examples of direct forecasting techniques are:

Indirect Forecasting

The indirect forecasting techniques are often those that equate one day’s planetary movement to one year of life. They are also known as symbolic forecasting techniques.

Examples of indirect forecasting techniques are:

  • Secondary progressions
  • Solar arc directions (Venus arc directions etc.)

Forecasting Techniques You Need to Know

Most astrology students learn the forecasting techniques in the following order:

  1. Transits
  2. Secondary progressions
  3. Eclipses
  4. Solar returns
  5. Graphic ephemeris
  6. Solar arc directions
  7. Other (primary directions, firdaria etc.)

Learn to Love Transits

It is common to learn transits first.

Many astrologers only use transits as they are easier to learn. Every Sun sign horoscope column relies on transits only and this makes transits the most popular forecasting method in any astrologer’s repertoire.

 

“Transits are the most popular forecasting method.”

 

If you work on several charts and need to do the forecasting then if you know that Uranus will change signs into Taurus in May 2018 it will do so for everyone.

Once you know a transit movement you can use that knowledge for every single chart you every look at. This makes transits the go to astrological forecasting technique.

Everyone needs to know transits.

Secondary Progressions

The second most popular forecasting technique is conveniently called secondary progressions.

In this case, the movement of a planet for each day of life from birth is symbolised as the corresponding yearly movement.

If you are thirty-three then you will cast a secondary progressed chart for the thirty-third day after your birthday and use the planet’s positions that day to cast the secondary progressed chart.

Each person’s secondary progressed chart is different. No two are the same unless you were born at the same time, date and place.

This means it is more work for the astrologer because it is almost as another chart to read. Professional astrologers will probably use secondary progressions for your full forecasting picture.

Solar Returns

In a solar return chart you cast a chart each year for the exact time the Sun returns to its natal position.

If your birth Sun is at 15 degrees 45 minutes of Virgo then each year when the Sun returns to the precise position you cast another chart.

Each year you will have a new solar return chart.

People with the same birth date (but not the same year) will have similar solar return charts but not exactly the same.

So, everyone born on September 15th will have the Moon here and Venus there in their solar return chart but the ascendant will be different.

This makes solar return charts popular as they are based on the transits of the day and astrologers know where the Sun and Moon are and the other planets.

Graphic Ephemeris

The graphic ephemeris is a special diagram that has to be read by the astrologer and it typically shows the superior planets and their cycles over a year or two. See image.

This is probably the most useful tool I personally use in my astrological forecasting.

Eclipses

Solar and lunar eclipses are transits and are special due to the close alignment of the Sun, Moon and the Earth on the eclipse day.

Eclipses can be further broken down into:

  • General eclipse forecasts
  • Personal eclipse forecasts
  • Collective eclipse forecasts

Solar Arc Directions

In solar arc directed charts you take the progressed movement of the Sun (as found in the secondary progressed chart) and add the longitudinal measurement to all the planets positions at birth. From this you will create a new chart called the solar arc directed chart.

From this you will create a new chart called the solar arc directed chart.

If your natal sun is at 15 Virgo and you are 33 years old you add 33 to 15 Virgo and the result is 18 Libra. This is the position of your solar arc directed Sun.

You do the same for the other planets. Add the Sun’s movement to every planet in your chart and find the new placement which will be 33 degrees further in the zodiac.

In a solar arc directed chart the aspects between the planets remain the same but the planets change house and sign.

The solar arc directed chart changes slightly every day as you get older.

How Much to Learn in Forecasting

How much you have to learn about astrological forecasting depends on who you are now and who you want to be later. There are 5 levels of astrologer and you can see where you fit in.

Hobbyist Astrologer

If you are simply trying to learn some more about astrology to make your life easier and more understandable then stick to transits.

Student Astrologer

If you are a student astrologer and plan to be a professional astrologer one day then learn transits first and the work down the list, (secondary progressions, solar returns, solar arc directions, eclipses and other).

Professional Astrologer

To be a professional astrologer you really do need to know at least four forecasting techniques.

They will compliment each other and underline the trends in the clients forecasting picture.

You are a Client

If you are a member of the public and you are looking for a professional consulting astrologer then do yourself a favour and find one who does advanced forecasting techniques.

Ask your prospective astrologer, “Which forecasting techniques will you use when you do my predictions?” and see what their answer is.

 

“Which forecasting techniques will you use when you do my predictions?”

 

If they only use transits be wary as they may not be fully trained in the more complicated astrological forecasting techniques. This may imply they do not have a broad astrological education.

Creative Growth

If you have got this far then you will likely want to grow your astrological forecasting techniques and begin to understand the differences in each one. To be a better astrologer you need to know these things. Forecasting often separates the “men from the boys” in the astrology world.