Using Astrocartography Charts to Choose Your Ideal Living Location
Finding the perfect place to live involves numerous factors like climate, cost of living, job opportunities but what if the stars themselves could guide this life-changing decision?
Astrocartography (also called locational astrology or astrogeography) offers a unique perspective on how different geographic locations might influence your life path, relationships, career, and overall well-being.
What Is Astrocartography?
Astrocartography is a specialized branch of astrology that maps the planetary influences across Earth’s geography based on your natal chart.
Developed in the 1970s by astrologer Jim Lewis, this technique creates a personalized world map showing where specific planetary energies are most potent for you.
Unlike traditional astrology that focuses primarily on time (when you were born), astrocartography adds the crucial dimension of space examining how different locations interact with your birth chart’s planetary positions.
Dr. Louis Turi, a renowned astrocartographer, explains:
“The planets’ energies manifest differently depending on where you physically position yourself on Earth. By strategically choosing your location, you can amplify beneficial aspects or minimize challenging ones.”
The Science Behind Astrocartography Charts
Astrocartography works by projecting your natal chart onto Earth’s surface, creating lines that indicate where specific planets would be angular (most influential) in your chart.
These angular positions occur at four key points:
- Ascendant (AC) – Eastern horizon; affects your identity, appearance, and approach to life
- Descendant (DC) – Western horizon; influences relationships and partnerships
- Midheaven (MC) – Highest point; impacts career, reputation, and public image
- Imum Coeli (IC) – Lowest point; affects home, family, and emotional foundations
When you stand on a planetary line, that planet’s energy becomes more prominent in your life experience.
For example, standing on a Venus line might enhance your relationships and artistic sensibilities, while a Mars line could amplify your drive, energy, and potential for conflict.
Reading Your Astrocartography Chart
An astrocartography chart typically presents as a world map overlaid with colored lines representing different planets.
Each planetary line comes in four variations corresponding to the angular positions mentioned above.
Key Elements to Identify:
- Planetary Lines: Each planet creates four lines (AC, DC, MC, IC) across the map
- Crossings: Where two or more planetary lines intersect, creating potent energy centers
- Paran Lines: Horizontal lines showing where planets were angular simultaneously at your birth
The interpretation requires balancing both the planets involved and their angular positions. For instance:
- Sun lines often indicate places where your core identity and vitality are enhanced
- Moon lines suggest locations where you’ll feel emotionally at home
- Venus lines highlight areas favorable for relationships, pleasure, and financial ease
- Jupiter lines point to locations where expansion, growth, and opportunity flourish
- Saturn lines indicate places where discipline, responsibility, and challenges manifest
How to Use Astrocartography for Relocation Decisions
Step 1: Obtain Your Personalized Chart
To create an accurate astrocartography chart, you’ll need precise birth information:
- Date of birth
- Exact time of birth
- Location of birth
Several online platforms offer astrocartography services, including Astro.com, AstroClick Travel, and Astrology University.
Professional astrologers specializing in relocational astrology can provide more in-depth analysis.
Step 2: Identify Beneficial Planetary Influences
Consider what aspects of life you want to emphasize in your new location:
- Seeking career advancement? Focus on Jupiter or Sun MC lines
- Looking for romantic opportunities? Venus lines might be promising
- Need emotional stability? Examine Moon IC lines
- Want creative inspiration? Neptune lines could be beneficial
Remember that each planet carries both constructive and challenging potentials. Even traditionally “beneficial” planets like Jupiter can manifest excessive qualities if not balanced.
Step 3: Consider Line Crossings and Parans
Astrologer Moses Siregar III notes:
“The most powerful locations on your astrocartography chart are often where multiple planetary lines intersect, creating what we call ‘crossings.’
These represent areas where several planetary energies converge, creating multidimensional influences.”
Pay special attention to:
- Harmonious crossings: Beneficial planets like Venus and Jupiter intersecting
- Challenging crossings: Difficult planets like Mars and Saturn overlapping
- Balanced crossings: A mix of beneficial and challenging influences
Step 4: Research Real-World Factors
While astrocartography provides valuable insights, combine this cosmic guidance with practical considerations:
- Visit potential locations before committing to a move
- Research practical matters like housing costs, employment opportunities, and climate
- Consider proximity to family and existing social networks
- Factor in visa requirements and immigration laws if looking internationally
Case Study: Finding Success Through Relocation
Historical astrocartographer Arielle Guttman documented numerous cases of individuals who experienced profound life changes after relocating to favorable planetary lines.
One notable example involves a struggling artist who moved to a Venus-Jupiter crossing in the southwestern United States.
Within two years, they established a successful gallery, met their spouse, and experienced unprecedented creative inspiration.
The location’s planetary influences aligned perfectly with their goals for creative and relational fulfillment.
Interpreting Common Planetary Lines
Sun Lines
- Ascendant (AC): Places where your personality shines brightly; good for leadership and recognition
- Midheaven (MC): Excellent for career advancement and finding your purpose
Moon Lines
- Imum Coeli (IC): Creates a sense of emotional belonging and comfort
- Descendant (DC): Places where emotional connections with others deepen
Mercury Lines
- Ascendant (AC): Enhances communication skills and intellectual pursuits
- Midheaven (MC): Favorable for careers involving writing, teaching, or commerce
Venus Lines
- Ascendant (AC): Enhances your attractiveness and aesthetic sensibilities
- Descendant (DC): Ideal for finding romantic partners and harmonious relationships
Mars Lines
- Ascendant (AC): Increases energy, assertiveness, and physical vitality
- Midheaven (MC): Boosts career drive but may create conflict with authority
Jupiter Lines
- Ascendant (AC): Expands personal opportunities and optimism
- Midheaven (MC): Creates professional growth and recognition
Saturn Lines
- Imum Coeli (IC): Can create feelings of isolation but also stability
- Midheaven (MC): Places where hard work leads to long-term achievements
Limitations and Considerations
As with any astrological tool, astrocartography has limitations. Dr. Glenn Perry, psychological astrologer, reminds us:
“Astrocartography isn’t deterministic. It reveals potentials and tendencies rather than guaranteed outcomes. Your free will and conscious choices remain paramount.”
Other important considerations include:
- Orbs of Influence: Planetary effects typically extend approximately 300-500 miles from each line
- Temporary vs. Permanent Relocation: Even short visits to powerful locations can activate their influences
- Personal Chart Factors: Your natal chart’s inherent strengths and challenges remain relevant wherever you go
Navigating Your Personal Geography
Astrocartography offers a fascinating framework for considering how location influences your life experience.
Whether you’re seeking career advancement, emotional fulfillment, relationship opportunities, or creative inspiration, your astrocartography chart provides a unique navigational tool for life’s journey.
Combined with practical research and intuitive guidance, it can help you find not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.
