horoscopes

Horoscopes are predictions or guidance derived from the positions and movements of celestial bodies. In astrology, a horoscope is a chart or diagram that maps the positions of the Sun, Moon, planets, and sometimes other points at a specific time, such as a person’s birth. This chart is interpreted to infer character traits, relationships, and potential events. In popular media, horoscopes are commonly published as short forecasts for the twelve zodiac signs, often labeled as daily, weekly, or monthly horoscopes.

Astrology uses the zodiac wheel of twelve signs, with the Sun sign being the most familiar in general audiences; many horoscopes also consider the Moon sign and the ascendant (rising sign). A full reading may involve a natal or birth chart, calculated from date, time, and place of birth, and may track planetary transits, aspects (angles between planets), and house cusps that correspond to life areas. Horoscopes range from broad general statements to personalized readings produced with birth data or astrology software. Daily horoscopes in newspapers and websites are usually sun-sign based and emphasize mood, opportunities, and cautions.

Historically, astrology has roots in ancient civilizations, notably Babylon, and flourished in Hellenistic and Roman periods before spreading to Asia and the Islamic world. In modern times, horoscopes remain popular in magazines, apps, and websites and are often used for entertainment or spiritual contemplation. In the scientific community, astrology is regarded as a pseudoscience because its claims lack empirical support and repeatable predictive power.