What is a Natal Chart?
A natal chart is more than just a horoscope. It's a snapshot of the universe at the moment of your birth, a blueprint of your soul. Start here to understand the language of the cosmos.
A Slice of Time
“Imagine, the moment you took your first breath in this world, someone pressed the shutter of a cosmic camera. This photo captured the precise positions of the Sun, Moon, and all planets in the sky.”
This photo is your 本命星盘 (Natal Chart)。 Within this celestial wheel, each symbol signifies a facet of your inherent energy. Together, they interweave to craft the unique individual you are.
Anatomy of a Natal Chart
How to Read This Chart?
A standard natal chart typically contains four core layers, from outer to inner:
The Cosmic Theater: Four Cornerstones
Without understanding its structure, a natal chart can look like a jumbled mess. In fact, you can imagine it as a grand play.
Symbol Quick Reference
Beginner's Guide Trilogy
While most people are familiar with 'What's your sign?' (which refers to the Sun sign), in professional astrology, your **Ascendant** is often a more crucial starting point.
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1. Ascendant (ASC)
Your persona, how the world first sees you.
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2. Sun Sign (Sun)
Your core self, who you aspire to be.
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3. Moon Sign (Moon)
Your inner child, the source of your security.
Common Beginner Misconceptions
“我是狮子座，但我一点也不像。”
What we commonly refer to as 'sign' is just the Sun sign. If your chart has a stellium in Pisces, or your Ascendant is Virgo, your personality will be vastly different. **You are defined by your entire birth chart, not just your Sun sign.**
“占星能算出我什么时候结婚/发财。”
Astrology is not crystal ball fortune-telling. It reveals **cycles and potentials of energy** (Weather), rather than specific events (News). It tells you when conditions are ripe for planting, but the harvest depends on your actions.
Ready to get started?
The first step in natal chart interpretation is to get acquainted with the actors of the 'Cosmic Theater' - the planets.
Chapter One: The Ten Planets