Question 1

What does the ascendant mean?

Accepted Answer

The ascendant is the degree of the zodiac rising on the eastern horizon at your birth. It rules the first house and shapes your outward style and approach to new situations.

Question 2

Is 'ascendant' the same as 'rising sign'?

Accepted Answer

Yes. 'Rising sign' is the everyday name; 'ascendant' is the technical astrological term for the same point.

Question 3

How precise does my birth time need to be?

Accepted Answer

The ascendant moves about one degree every four minutes, so a birth time accurate to within 10-15 minutes is usually enough for a reliable sign and ballpark degree.

Question 4

What is the ruling planet or chart ruler?

Accepted Answer

Every zodiac sign has a traditional ruling planet. Whichever planet rules your ascendant is called your chart ruler, and its placement is especially important in interpreting your chart.

Question 5

Why is the first house important?

Accepted Answer

The first house begins at your ascendant. Any planets in the first house are colored strongly by your personality and affect how others perceive you.

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