Explaining Angles in Astrology

There are no more individual points in an astrological reading than the four main angles -- the Ascendant, the Descendant, Midheaven and the Imum Coeli. Today we're getting a little technical, looking at how each of these angles is determined and what they mean in a chart. Both budding astrologers and people interested in the theory behind their personal astrological reading should find today's introduction to angles in astrology useful!

The Ascendant

The Ascendant is defined as the angle which was coming up over the Eastern horizon at the exact time of one's birth. It is also known as the Rising sign. Every four minutes, the degree of the Ascendant changes, which is why personal astrological readings need to have an exact time of birth in order to be most useful to you.

The Ascendant is seen to be as important as the Sun Sign. It influences the appearance of a perons, both physically, emotionally and in general personality terms. In many charts, it also represents a person's goals in some form. It is an astrological angle that has a huge impact on personality, and you'll often find comments about it near the start of an astrology reading.

The Midheaven or Medium Coeli

The Midheaven is determined as the cusp of the tenth house at the moment you were born. This angle also affects how you present yourself to the world at large, like the Ascendant. It is also strongly associated with career choice.

The Descendant

The descendant is the opposite of the Ascendant - the angle that was descending over the western horizon at the exact time of your birth. The Descendant changes every four minutes also, and is more concerned with your inner or personal life. It also marks the cusp of the seventh house.

As well as going some way towards defining what your inner life looks like, the Descendant shows how you relate to those close to you. Since the seventhhouse is the house of partnerships and marriage, there is plenty of love compatibility information to be found in the Descendant.

The Nadir or Imum Coeli

This point is opposite the midheaven point - the point furthest north in an astrological reading. It is concerned with traditions, shelter, security, protection, and nurturing. It represents your most private activities.