Foundational Astrology Articles

“He who shall lean the nature of the planets and signs without exact judgment of the houses is like an improvident man that furnishes himself with a variety of household stuff, having no place wherein to stow them.”

-William Lilly, Christian Astrology

The Medieval Universe

Explore the geocentric universe and how this concept of reality continues to inform the practice of astrology into the present day.

Medieval Astrology FAQ

New to medieval astrology? Not sure what the term means or how it’s different from “regular” astrology? Find out as we answer some frequently asked questions.

Medieval Astrology for the Modern Astrologer

If you’re familiar with astrology but new to traditional forms of the practice, check out this resource hub for more information about how to use these time-tested techniques to get more out of your practice.

Aristotelian Cosmology

Aristotle was the most prolific philosopher in history. He wrote about almost every topic imaginable and his approach to science and philosophy impacted everything. See how Aristotle’s views on nature and physics impacted astrology after his time.

The Astrological Dictionary

Come across some term in your reading you’re not familiar with? Find out what it means in our astrological dictionary! Updated frequently!

Essential Dignities

One of the four main pillars of traditional astrology, the essential dignities are qualitative assessments of planetary conditions. Find out more about them and how to use them in your practice!

Astrology Infographics

Check out our collection of infographics!

A Tale of Three Zodiacs

The zodiac is perhaps the most central piece in astrology, but having this sort of an exalted status does not save it from being victim of misunderstandings. Explore the concept of the zodiac and different methods used to measure it.

Placidus Houses

The default house system for many astrological programs and the introductory house system for many emerging astrologers. Many “outgrow” this house system as their practice develops, but should they? Let’s explore how Placidus is a great choice for a house system.

The Fixed Stars

While astrologers normally emphasize the planets in their practice, the stars can play a pivotal role as well. Here, we’ll discuss the fixed stars and take a look at historical methods of their use as well as tips on how to weave them into the narrative of a chart.

Outposts in the Sky

The lunar mansions are a complex system of dividing the sky. In this article we explore some of the possible origins of the mansions, compare the mansion systems of the Arabic, Jyotish, and Chinese traditions, and talk through some of the issues attempt to divide and define the mansions brings!

Heliacal Rise Dates of Fixed Stars

The dates of the heliacal rise of fixed stars are an ancient consideration that were historically used to determine the dates of holidays, rituals, agricultural processes, and seasonal changes. As a calculation that is very sensitive to location, finding accurate information about when these occur can be difficult. This page details the heliacal rise date for 19 fixed stars for various locations across the world.