Ascendant in the Complete Horoscope

The Key to Appearance in Classical Astrology

The appearance of a personality,
true for the first moment of encounter,
as one wants oneself to be seen.

The Ascendant (AC) is also called the Rising sign. It's the point on the Zodiac that is exactly at the east horizon in the horoscope. Its counterpart is the Descendant, at the west horizon.

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So, the Ascendant is not a heavenly body at all, but in astrology its function and meaning is quite comparable to the planets. It moves much faster, though. It passes through the whole Zodiac in 24 hours. Therefore it is important to know the exact birth time, in order to establish the correct position for the Ascendant.

In the horoscope the Ascendant shows how you want to present yourself to others, the impression of yourself that you consciously strive to project. So, it is the first impression others get of you.

The Ascendant is the cusp of the 1st House, i.e. its starting point. Whereas the Ascendant is the image of yourself that you project, the rest of the 1st House shows how others perceive you as they get to know you.

But the Ascendant is the role you play, and the way you prefer others to perceive you.

The Ascendant (AC) in the Zodiac

Here are short descriptions of how each Zodiac sign influences the Ascendant, the first impression of yourself that you intentionally give others, when that's where it is in your natal chart.

Aries brings some rudeness, and obvious impatience.

Taurus brings neutral behavior towards others, and an everyday appearance.

Gemini brings eloquence and a sense of humor appreciated by all, although regarded as superficial.

Cancer brings a pleasant way of behaving, with no fear of intimacy.

Leo brings an impressive appearance and the admiration of others.

Virgo brings a critical and demanding attitude, that might put others off.

Libra brings a diplomatic appearance, keen on not being misunderstood.

Scorpio brings a secretive, intriguing attitude.

Sagittarius brings an unattached appearance that many find fascinating.

Capricorn brings an attitude of authority, demanding the respect of others.

Aquarius brings an attitude of sincerity and thoughtfulness.

Pisces brings an attitude of humility and uncertainty.

Keywords

Here are the twelve Zodiac signs, and keywords for the character they give to the Ascendant, i.e. the first impression of yourself that you intentionally give others:

Aries challenging

Taurus trustworthy

Gemini spontaneous

Cancer caring

Leo pompous

Virgo reserved

Libra strict

Scorpio odd

Sagittarius distant

Capricorn demanding

Aquarius complicated

Pisces timid

The Planets

Here are the planets and other celestial points used in astrology, with links to the webpage of each:

Planets and Celestial Points

Sun

Mars

Neptune

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