Chart Structure – Hemispheres of the Horoscope

The Horoscope can be loosely defined as a snapshot of the heavens at a specific moment in time. An individual’s natal chart is exactly that, as determined by the exact time and location of birth. Horoscopes can be erected to reflect many other types of moments such as the ‘birth’ of a country, incorporation of a company, auspicious occasions, or even the start of a conflict, each pegged by the date, time and location that marks the event. The chart itself is constructed on the basis of the related numerical coordinates that identify the degrees, minutes and seconds representing the longitude of the Ascendant/Descendant axis and the MC/IC axis, establishing the four main angles of the chart.

Astrological Chart PointsThe four chart angles divide the horoscope into hemispheres, shown as East, West, South and North, each angle (or direction) relating to a time of day. The Ascendant (Rising sign) is the exact degree of the constellation appearing on the horizon at the time of birth in the natal chart, and its opposing position (the Descendant) is the location and sign 180 degrees from the Ascendant. For example, if the Ascendant is 23° Libra 19’ (23 degrees and 19 minutes of the constellation Libra), the Descendant will be 23°Aries 19’. The MC/IC are also in exact opposite positions, though not necessarily 90 degrees from the Asc/Dsc Axis, except in the case of the Equal House System, as their location will depend on the house system being used.

Astrological Chart Hemisphere 1The position of the Sun in the chart is indicative of time of day. For example, if the Sun is near the top of the chart in the vicinity of the MC, the time of birth (or the event reflected by the chart) would be around mid-day. If near the IC, the opposite would be true, and the time of birth around midnight. The quadrant within which the majority of the planets (including luminaries) lie can be considered prior to a detailed analysis of the chart and is viewed without any consideration of the signs the planets occupy, providing some indication of the general personality structure of the individual.

Astrological Hemispheres 2If the majority of the planets are below the horizon, in the North hemisphere, a subjective personality is suggested, indicating a more personal or instinctual approach to life. Conversely, should the majority of planets reside above the horizon, in the South, an objective personality with more of a social approach to life is suggested.

Location of planets within the East/West hemispheres adds further definition to how one engages with life. The majority of planets in the East tends to indicate a strong desire for initiating the various activities of life.  These reflect the take-charge type of individual with the capacity for self-reliance, but perhaps needing to learn the art of cooperation. The majority of planets in the West, on the other hand, offers more of a naturally cooperative sense and some degree of dependence on the activities and participation of others.

When considering the chart as a whole, each quadrant represents an aspect of the individual’s life as suggested by the three houses contained within. The first quadrant (North/East) relates to the development of personal identity: birth; physical body; learning to walk and communicate. The second quadrant (North/West) reflects personal expression: awareness of one’s roots and playmates; what gives us pleasure; talents; self-care; romance; and work. In the third quadrant (South/West) we step outside of ourselves and begin to relate to others and consider the larger questions of life. Here we find develop our social identity: cooperating with others; relationships; sex; death; and exploring the world. The fourth quadrant (South/East) represents our social expression and is about making a place in the world and contributing towards society.

I invite you to consider the two diagrams below against your own chart.  In which hemisphere do the majority of your planets reside? What do the hemispheres and location of your planets suggest about your own approach to life? By considering planetary placement within the hemispheres and quadrants, the chart interpretation, and thus personality,  begins to take shape.
Astrological Houses 1Astrological Houses 2