Aquarius
Sign 11 of 12 · 300°–330° of the ecliptic
Aquarius is a fixed air sign. Astrologers associate it with independence, ideas, community and innovation. In the tropical zodiac the Sun is in Aquarius from about 20 January to 18 February.
| Symbol | ♒ The Water-bearer |
|---|---|
| Element | Air |
| Modality | Fixed |
| Polarity | Masculine (active), diurnal |
| Ruler | Saturn (modern: Uranus) |
| Exaltation | — |
| Detriment | Sun |
| Fall | — |
| Opposite sign | ♌ Leo |
| Body (traditional melothesia) | Calves and ankles |
| Tropical Sun dates (approx.) | 20 January – 18 February |
Aquarius in a chart
Sun in Aquarius: identity expressed through independence. Moon in Aquarius: emotional needs coloured by air and a fixed rhythm. Aquarius rising: a first impression in the style of Aquarius, with Saturn as chart ruler.
Across traditions
| Tradition | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Western (tropical) | Aquarius | Measured from the March equinox. The Sun enters around 20 January. |
| Vedic (sidereal) | Kumbha (कुम्भ) | Lord: Shani (Saturn). With the Lahiri ayanamsa the Sun enters around 13 February. |
| Chinese | No equivalent | Chinese astrology has no Sun signs. The 12 animals count years, months and hours. |
Test yourself
Which element does Aquarius belong to?
Learn it properly in the courseBuilt from the Astrolysis facts table western/signs/aquarius.