Equinox

An equinox (from Latin aequinoctium, "equal night") is a moment when the Sun crosses the celestial equator, making day and night approximately equal in length. In astrology, the March equinox marks the Sun's entry into Aries (0° Aries), beginning the astrological new year, while the September equinox marks the Sun's entry into Libra (0° Libra). These points are cardinal in the zodiac and are associated with major seasonal shifts.

How it works

The equinoxes are tied to the Earth's axial tilt and orbit. Around March 20–21 and September 22–23, the Sun aligns with the intersection of the ecliptic and the celestial equator. In a natal chart, the equinox points are not planets but sensitive angles; transits to these points can highlight themes of balance, beginnings, and endings. The March equinox (Aries ingress) is used in mundane astrology to forecast world events for the coming year.

In practice

When the Sun transits an equinox point, you may feel a push toward new cycles or a need for equilibrium. For example, the March equinox often brings a surge of initiative, while the September equinox invites reflection and harmony. In synastry, if someone's planet conjuncts your equinox point, they may trigger pivotal life shifts. Check your astrological calendar to see when the next equinox occurs and how it aligns with your chart.