Sun

In astrology, the Sun represents your core identity, ego, vitality, and conscious self. It's the center of your personality, much like the Sun is the center of our solar system. Your Sun sign is determined by the zodiac sign the Sun was in at the moment of your birth, and it reveals your basic character, motivations, and the areas of life where you shine brightest.

How it works

In a natal chart, the Sun's placement by sign and house shows where you naturally express yourself and seek recognition. For example, Sun in Aries suggests a bold, pioneering spirit, while Sun in the 10th house often indicates a strong drive for career success. The Sun also rules the sign Leo and the 5th house, which govern creativity, self-expression, and romance. Aspects to the Sun from other planets modify how your ego operates—for instance, a Sun-Mars aspect can add assertiveness, while a Sun-Neptune aspect may bring idealism or a tendency to blur boundaries.

In practice

When interpreting a chart, the Sun is one of the first things to look at. It points to your fundamental nature and what makes you feel alive. In a reading, you might notice how the Sun's house placement highlights a key life arena—like relationships (7th house) or home (4th house)—where you need to shine. The Sun also represents the father or authority figures in traditional astrology. Understanding your Sun sign is a starting point for self-awareness, but remember it's just one piece of a complex chart.

To see your Sun sign and its full meaning in your own chart, build your natal chart here.