Methodology of Astrology

The input data an astrologer needs are the date, place and exact time of birth. These will provide the material for the calculations needed to construct the individual’s horoscope. A horoscope is nothing more than a map or diagram of the various planets’ positions at any one point in time, with respect to the earth. The word “horoscope” is derived from the Greek word “horoskopos”, meaning “hour watcher”. Basic ingredients of the horoscope include the sun-sign, the Ascendant, information on the Houses, the Aspects, etc. The astrologer will then proceed to interpret the horoscope, and hence offer advice.

The heliocentric model places the Sun at the centre of the solar system. The geocentric model places the Earth at the centre of the solar system. Technically, it is not wrong to adopt the geocentric model, as we would be merely
considering different frames of references. We live in a geocentric world. Astrology is preoccupied with how the planets relate to an individual on Earth, and hence their relative positions. Generally, the heliocentric model is good for explaining how things work in the solar system, in accordance with the laws of physics. By contrast, the geocentric
model is suitable for descriptive purposes.