Astrology Guide

Rising Signs (Ascendant)

Your rising sign, or ascendant, is the zodiac sign that was on the eastern horizon at the moment of your birth. It shapes your outward personality, physical appearance, and the first impression you make on others.

What Is a Rising Sign?

The rising sign (also called the ascendant) is one of the three pillars of your astrological identity, alongside your Sun sign and Moon sign. While your Sun sign represents your core self and your Moon sign reflects your emotional nature, your rising sign governs the mask you wear and how the world perceives you.

Determined by the exact time and location of your birth, the ascendant changes roughly every two hours, making it one of the most personal points in your chart. It sets the stage for your entire natal chart by determining which sign rules each house.

Understanding your rising sign can explain why people sometimes guess your sign incorrectly -- they may be picking up on your ascendant energy rather than your Sun sign.

Rising Signs by Element

Fire Rising Signs

Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

Bold, energetic, and commanding in presence. Fire risings light up a room and are often perceived as confident and enthusiastic.

Earth Rising Signs

Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

Grounded, composed, and reliable in appearance. Earth risings project stability and are often seen as practical and put-together.

Air Rising Signs

Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

Social, approachable, and intellectually curious. Air risings come across as communicative and adaptable in new settings.

Water Rising Signs

Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

Intuitive, mysterious, and emotionally perceptive. Water risings have a magnetic presence that draws others in.