For centuries the Moon has been an object of observation, belief and worship. Almost every ancient civilisation had a Moon deity in its pantheon. A trace of this fascination survives in the calendar: in many languages Monday is the Moon’s day – dies Lunae in Latin, Monday in English, lundi in French.
It has long been known that the Moon causes the ocean tides, and folk tradition linked its phases with mood, sleep and the rhythm of work in the fields. In astrology the Moon governs the world of emotions: it shows what you need in order to feel safe, how you react instinctively and how you experience your feelings. That is why, alongside the Sun sign, the Moon sign is regarded as one of the most important elements of a horoscope.
How to find your Moon sign
The Moon moves across the sky much faster than the Sun – it passes through each zodiac sign in roughly two and a half days. To pin down your Moon sign accurately, you need your date of birth, and ideally your time and place of birth as well. From these, your Moon sign is read from an ephemeris (tables of planetary positions) or from a calculated birth chart. Simplified tables based only on the year and month of birth can be unreliable, especially if you were born on a day when the Moon changed sign.
Moon in Aries
The Moon in Aries promises a life full of excitement and important events. Aries is ruled by Mars – the planet of action, energy and combat. People with this placement throw themselves into their work and spend even their free time actively. They can be impulsive and full of vigour, reacting quickly and spontaneously. With age they learn not to fret over trifles. Tradition advises them not to confide too hastily at the Full Moon and not to provoke situations that could end in a quarrel with loved ones.
Moon in Taurus
The Moon in Taurus brings self-assurance and a sense of being in control. Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of love and devotion, so people with this placement often experience many romantic highs and heartfelt declarations. They are faithful and often truly love only once. Under the Moon’s influence they are balanced, sensitive and optimistic about life, yet they are also surrounded by an air of mystery and a certain aloofness. For them, understanding is what matters most in love – they would do well to listen to their partner and not criticise the way they think.
Moon in Gemini
The Moon in Gemini bestows many talents. This sign is influenced by Mercury, which favours creativity and quick thinking. Such people act fast and are extremely inventive, and when they make the effort they can find the means to bring their ideas to life. With their knowledge and sharp minds they can charm almost anyone – though they must remember to let their partner have a say from time to time. Contrary to appearances, in the long run they are not after fleeting romances but stability.
Moon in Cancer
Cancer is the sign ruled by the Moon itself, so people with this placement feel its rhythm especially strongly. Astrological tradition suggests they take the lunar phases into account when making important decisions. At the New Moon and first quarter they often have more energy than usual; at the Full Moon they feel sluggish; in the following phase they find it easier to carry out their plans; and towards the end of the cycle they are less assertive. People with the Moon in Cancer can be changeable and sensitive, sometimes melancholy and given to daydreaming. When they disagree with someone, they are easily drawn into an argument – it is worth their remembering that dialogue is the best way to calm a dispute.
Moon in Leo
Leo is ruled by the Sun, and the Moon in this sign bows to its power. This placement gives the strength to overcome obstacles – for these people, few problems are insoluble. They are proud, talented and know what they want. When they choose to, they can win anyone over. In love they can be passionate, and at the same time they adore being admired and praised by their partner.
Moon in Virgo
The Moon in Virgo, a sign ruled by Mercury, combines sensitivity with a need for order. Such people feel safe when everything is well thought through and in its proper place. They show care through practical help rather than grand words. They can be modest and critical – especially of themselves – so they benefit from a kindly environment that appreciates their conscientiousness.
Moon in Libra
Libra, like Taurus, is under the patronage of Venus. People with the Moon in this sign readily throw themselves into important life projects and have many creative abilities, which they usually know how to put to good use. They are cheerful, family-minded and sociable, though they can also be talkative and curious, and they avoid awkward situations. They have high expectations of a partner, so in a relationship they can be both heaven and hell for their other half.
Moon in Scorpio
This is a strong, intense placement. Scorpio is traditionally ruled by Mars, an explosive and warlike planet. People with the Moon in Scorpio often have to confront their past and come to terms with old failures – thanks to their strong personalities, they usually succeed. They are energetic and attached to their loved ones, have the strength to keep going and rarely give up. The Moon heightens their already well-developed intuition. In love they are capable of great sacrifice, but they remember hurts for a very long time and can return to them even years later. The Moon gives them both toughness and deep emotional intensity.
Moon in Sagittarius
Sagittarius is ruled by mighty Jupiter, which symbolises the pursuit of knowledge and the need for self-improvement. It is Jupiter that, over time, helps people with this placement find satisfaction in their work. They have very interesting personalities and have no trouble finding a partner. Their appeal lasts well into later life – not so much thanks to their looks as to their unique character.
Moon in Capricorn
The Moon in Capricorn is supported by Saturn. To Saturn these people owe their stern, determined and prudent character. They see life realistically and harbour no illusions. Memories rank very high in their hierarchy of values. In love they are constant and faithful, although they find it hard to show tenderness and say little about their feelings – they believe actions mean more than words.
Moon in Aquarius
The Moon in Aquarius strengthens the influence of the two planets that rule this sign – Saturn and Uranus. It brings loyalty in friendship, an ease in making contacts, independence and tolerance. People with this placement stand out for their intelligence and ingenuity, and when necessary they can summon vast reserves of energy and enterprise. Their moods, however, can be changeable. They are individualists who follow their own paths, which others do not always understand.
Moon in Pisces
The Moon in Pisces is strongly supported by Neptune, which – like the Moon itself – has a powerful effect on the subconscious and intuition. Feelings are what matter most in these people’s lives. They often take a long time to find the right partner, and they feel best among those closest to them. Professionally, many of them gravitate towards the arts. Sometimes they remain alone by choice, because they find it hard to decide between two people.
First published (Polish original): 27 December 2010. Written by astrologers and esoteric specialists working with our editorial team; edited and translated for HOROSCOP.SPACE. © All rights reserved.
