Do you understand what the Ascendant sign is?

1. What is the Ascendant sign? The Ascendant sign is determined by our birth time and place (specifically, the latitude and longitude). The official definition in astrology textbooks is: it’s the zodiac sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the time of our birth. It is one of the twelve signs of the zodiac system (not the astronomical system) and is represented by the symbol ASC on the birth chart. Some people’s Sun sign may coincide with their Ascendant sign, but for most people, their Ascendant sign differs from their Sun sign. This is perfectly normal.

2. What is the difference between the Ascendant and the Sun sign? I often explain the difference between the Ascendant and the Sun sign this way: the Ascendant is like a mask we wear—it’s the part of our personality we display when interacting with society, facing strangers, or setting up “defensive” measures. The Sun sign represents the most authentic, core, and essential self. For example, when dealing with a situation, your true thoughts (Sun sign) might be one way, but you could be driven by your Ascendant sign to react differently. This is influenced by various factors, some of which are principles, others environmental. To simplify, when we face strangers, we don’t know them, so we instinctively protect ourselves, hiding much of our true emotions and thoughts, and thus present our “official attitude” — and this official attitude is the reaction of the Ascendant sign.

3. When reading horoscopes, should we refer to our Sun sign or Ascendant sign? I always say: both should be considered. Horoscopes describe events and feelings. The Sun sign tends to focus on “what we feel” and “what we think” when something happens, while the Ascendant sign is more about “what events will happen,” such as meeting people, encountering opportunities, or experiencing certain situations. So, both the Sun and Ascendant signs are important to consider and refer to.

4. Is it only after the age of 25 or 30 that the Ascendant sign becomes more relevant? This theory is wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong. I have mentioned this many times. This idea circulated online for a long time. I’ve also discussed it with astrologers abroad, and most of them were surprised that such a theory exists. From my perspective, I always give a metaphor to those who ask me this question: the Ascendant and Sun signs can both be compared to two organs in our body; these organs start functioning at birth, not after a certain age. Some people say that as they age, they feel they resemble their Ascendant sign more, which is quite normal. The Ascendant sign is shaped by “guidance” and “education.” We develop stress responses and learn from our life experiences. When we discover a viable way of solving problems, we start to record it, and over time, it becomes a habit, making the Ascendant sign more prominent. However, the Sun sign represents your essence and core, and it doesn’t change. Moreover, every person’s birth chart contains all twelve zodiac signs, which influence different life areas, so we cannot measure whether the Sun or Ascendant sign is more important. Both are important and irreplaceable—they are both part of us. The difference is that the Sun sign is more about what we desire to have, like qualities or ideals, while the Ascendant sign represents the “guided” or “taught” aspect of our personality.

What do the 12 Ascendant signs look like? (Note: The following characteristics are based on an analysis without considering the influence of the Sun sign and other chart factors.)

• Ascendant Aries: Straightforward, sometimes naive, very simple and pure. They tend to be impatient, decisive, and have strong execution skills. Their temper can flare up quickly, and they don't use much cunning. They may also show a tendency to bully those they’re familiar with and depend on them more.

• Ascendant Taurus: Slow, refined, very defensive, and finds it difficult to trust or accept others easily. They tend to get immersed in their own world and can sometimes be even more stubborn than Sun Taurus.

• Ascendant Gemini: Strong social skills, lively, wide network, excellent communication, dislike monotonous routines, enjoy adventure and stimulation. These individuals are usually well-liked and tend to stand out in appearance.

• Ascendant Cancer: Very nurturing and tends to take on others' problems. Usually kind and gentle but not weak—this sign understands things clearly but may not act on them immediately. Sometimes they can be passive-aggressive.

• Ascendant Leo: Loves to be in charge, has style and presence, straightforward, dislikes manipulation, and avoids small talk. They are often attracted to people with a “bad-boy” or “bad-girl” charm and enjoy conquering others.

• Ascendant Virgo: Often thin or with noticeable bone structure. More reserved than Sun Virgo, they tend to worry a lot and have clear symptoms of obsessive-compulsive tendencies. Without other air or fire elements to balance it, this can sometimes lead to stress. However, they are usually diligent and can achieve success in their chosen fields.

• Ascendant Libra: Appears easygoing, like the ideal “good person,” but they actually have a lot of rules and tend to act according to their mood. They might procrastinate or work with great efficiency. They often have a baby face or a fuller waist. Ascendant Libras may also fear close relationships and can feel the urge to escape when others get too close.

• Ascendant Scorpio: Decisive, cool, and bold—these individuals are not afraid to challenge authority and live life on their own terms. They may have captivating eyes. They tend to excel at work and have a unique presence in a group.

• Ascendant Sagittarius: Easygoing, brave, carefree, and unconcerned with rules. They enjoy freedom but may become lazy or make excuses. Generally, they are easy to get along with and gain trust quickly.

• Ascendant Capricorn: Serious, reserved, and have a “scholarly” aura. Their demeanor can be intimidating, and their poker face gives off a sense of authority. They deeply need affirmation and compliance from others, often displaying leadership qualities.

• Ascendant Aquarius: Unpredictable, enjoys disappearing, socializes based on mood. Loves new experiences and is an excellent communicator with natural sales abilities. Aquarius Ascendants are often nostalgic and have many acquaintances but only a few close friends. They can feel internally isolated.

• Ascendant Pisces: Has a unique charm, often comes from a prestigious background or has refined taste. They typically love art or things related to art. Appearing docile, but actually adventurous and rebellious. They may hide their true selves well.