Did Someone Say Crystal Ball?

Do you want a general idea of what will happen to you in the future? Do you prefer to let life unfold or do you want to plan for it?

Although astrology can never predict the future, it can give you clues. It offers up a glimpse into the kind of astrological weather you’re heading into over the next few months or years. You probably won’t know the exact way things will manifest, but you may be able to get a general flavor.

One of the most important astrological techniques for forecasting the future is called "transits". The key word here is “forecast.” It’s not an exact prediction. You won’t get the exact newspaper headline, but you may get an overall idea.

Transits work by comparing the planets in your birth chart to the planets at a specific date in time. That could be now, in the future, or even in the past. It's the astrological equivalent of a time machine.

Remember that your natal chart is a map of the sky showing the planetary placements at the time, date, and place of birth. Your natal chart never changes. But in reality, the planets do not stop moving. They continue their journey around the Sun.  By comparing the location of the planets in the sky today to the ones in your natal chart, astrologers can forecast what may be in store for you.

A transit chart looks like two concentric circles or dials – almost like a target. The outer circle or wheel contains the planets of the timeframe you’re interested in. Let’s say it’s next year. These are called “transiting” planets.

 The inner wheel is your birth chart and its planets. These are called your “natal” plants. By dialing the outer wheel forward in time and comparing it to your birth chart, you can see what aspects the transiting and natal planets are making to each other. Whenever there’s a connection, something will be activated. Chances are pretty good something will be happening in your life. While you won't know the exact outcome or situation that bubbles up, a transit chart may give you an idea of what it could be. What it is will depend on the aspects, signs, planets, and houses involved.

For more on transits, check out the Transits section.

Have you used astrology to forecast your future?