Glossary
Solar return: meaning in astrology
A solar return is the moment each year when the Sun comes back to its exact natal position, usually on or within a day of your birthday. Astrologers cast a chart for that moment and read it as a theme for the year ahead.
The chart depends on where you are at your birthday, and some people travel for a preferred solar return chart. It is a Western technique, comparable in spirit to the Vedic varshaphala.
Where does "Solar return" come up on this site?
It is used mainly in the calculators and the methodology page.
How we calculate
Is astrology a guarantee of what will happen?
No. These calculations locate celestial bodies; astrology is a reflection and timing tradition, not evidence of guaranteed health, financial or relationship outcomes.
How are these results calculated?
Positions come from Astronomy Engine, an open-source astronomy library, and are checked against Swiss Ephemeris in our methodology tests. Western readings use the tropical zodiac; Vedic readings subtract the Lahiri ayanamsa. Terms are defined in the glossary.
Next: compare your birth chart, see today's sky, or make a private vision board.