For stargazers and amateur astrologists, this last year has been a time of changes. According to NASA, everything that you knew about astrology is about to change. NASA now says that there is actually a 13th zodiac sign to account for. Additionally, the signs are actually at different time periods than we traditionally think. According to NASA, the new sign is Ophiuchus. Apparently, this sign was always there, but the ancient astrologers excluded it because 12 signs fit the lunar cycles of the year better.
What’s With the 13th Zodiac Sign?
There are two essential types of astrology known as sidereal and tropical astrology. These two types of astrology use different techniques to determine a sign’s date range, which changes how you make predictions. Sidereal astrology uses the position of fixed constellations and star systems. Meanwhile, tropical astrologers use the sun’s position in relation to where the earth is positioned. As such, tropical predictions tend to look at the individual and their mental state while avoiding future predictions. Sidereal astrology predicts when and how a type of event may occur. Because of this difference, some people view sidereal astrology as the same thing.
While the two types of astrology may have different characteristics, the definition of each sign does not actually change. One of the biggest differences is that sidereal astrology can also include Ophiuchus as a sign. Western astrology does not include this sign. When it is included, it is placed between Scorpio and Sagittarius.
After 2,000 years of having the same astrological system, NASA recently updated the signs. Because of this, about 86 percent of people may have a different zodiac sign. According to NASA, the world changes fairly quickly. When astrology was developed 3,000 years ago, the astrologists did not really know how the sun, earth and stars actually navigate across the skies. The Babylonians created a 12-month calendar based on the phases of the moon and divided the sky into 12 constellations.
Unfortunately, the sky is completely different now than it was 3,000 years ago. Originally, the Babylonians left out Ophiuchus because they wanted the constellations to match their 12-month calendar. NASA updated this to include all 13 constellations as well as new dates to match up with them.
The 13 Zodiac Signs and Meanings
1. Capricorn
Dates: January 20 to February 16
Capricorn is represented by the Goat. Like the Goat, a Capricorn can be a bit hard-headed. They are steadfast in their relationships and ambitions. They can be fairly traditional and seek out stability. A Capricorn is also quite driven and likes to pursue his or her dreams. Some would even call a Capricorn an old soul because of their traditional, steadfast nature.
2. Aquarius
Dates: February 16 to March 11
Aquarius is the Water Bearer. They like to try new things and tend to take the less traveled path in life. An Aquarius is constantly on the move and loves new, original ideas. Some people may find it hard to connect to an Aquarius because they are constantly in movement. This is fine with the Aquarius because he or she doesn’t need followers to feel validated.
3. Pisces
Dates: March 11 to April 18
Pisces is represented by a Fish. Like the Fish, they like to go with the flow. Some accuse the Pisces of being lost in thought with their head in the clouds, and there is some truth to this. A Pisces is constantly dreaming up new ideas and is a font of creative imagination. He or she often experiences emotional highs and lows, which makes the Pisces a great person to turn to if you need emotional support.
4. Aries
Dates: April 18 to March 13
Represented by the Ram, the Aries is traditionally the first sign in the Zodiac. The Ram surges ahead fearlessly and occasionally recklessly. Rams are known for being courageous, bold and ready to take charge. They are the trailblazers of the Zodiac and possess a boundless energy.
5. Taurus
Dates: May 13 to June 21
In the Zodiac, Taurus is represented by the Bull. A Taurus enjoys the creature comforts in life and likes to enjoy their life. They can be stubborn at times and are known for being cautious. It can be hard to motivate a Taurus, so this sign can easily get stuck in a rut if they don’t switch things up. The Taurus is also well known for being faithful, loyal and steadfast.
.6. Gemini
Dates: June 21 to July 20
Represented by the Twins, the Gemini is the most adventurous sign in the Zodiac. She or he always has new ideas and places to go.
7. Cancer
Dates: July 20 to August 10
Cancer is represented by the Crab. They have a hardened personality on the outside, but a soft emotional nature within. A Cancer often finds it hard to open up, so many people around them do not realize how sensitive and empathetic the Cancer can actually be.
8. Leo
Dates: August 10 to September 16
Leo the Lion is the ruler of the Zodiac. They are natural protectors and can be intimidating. A Leo is good at expressing themselves and has a lot of energy.
9. Virgo
Dates: September 16 to October 30
Represented by the Virgin, the Virgo can be overly critical at times. They know what’s best and are more than willing to tell you that. A Virgo is also dedicated to their work and driven to make a difference in the world around them.
10. Libra
Dates: October 30 to November 23
Libra is represented by the Scales. They like to be on everyone’s good side and go to great lengths to empathize with everyone. A Libra loves to be everyone’s friend, even when this balance seems impossible.
11. Scorpio
Dates: November 23 to November 29
Symbolized by the Scorpion, the Scorpio is known for being dark, mysterious and quiet. Despite their quiet nature, they tend to draw people to them. Once someone becomes their friend, they are a trusted part of the Scorpio’s social circle for life.
12. Ophiuchus
Dates: November 29 to December 17
Represented by the Serpent Bearer, the Ophiuchus is the “new” sign that was added to the Zodiac. It basically incorporates the allure and mysterious nature of the Scorpio with the risk-taking enthusiasm of the Sagittarius.
13. Sagittarius
Dates: December 17 to January 20
The Sagittarius is symbolized by the Archer. A Sagittarius is a risk-taker who easily makes friends. People are drawn to your curiosity and high level of enthusiasm. While you might not be the most tactful sign in the Zodiac, your optimism and good nature help to smooth any misunderstandings.
