Solar Return — calculate online
Solar (Solar Return) is a chart built at the moment of the exact return of the Sun to the same position as at birth. The Solar shows the main themes and events for the year — from one birthday to the next.
Planetary positions in the solar system
| Planet | Sign | Degree |
|---|
Cuspids of houses
| Home | Sign | Degree |
|---|
What is a Solar Return
A Solar Return, or solar return chart, is a chart calculated for the moment when the transiting Sun returns to the exact degree it occupied in your natal chart. This occurs once a year, usually on your birthday or within a day before or after.
The Solar Return describes the themes of the coming year: the Ascendant sets the overall tone, while planets in the houses indicate which areas of life will be in focus.
When does the Solar Return begin and end?
The Solar Return is active from the moment of the solar return to the next one, meaning approximately one year. It does not coincide with the calendar year: if you were born in October, your astrological year also begins in October.
Does the location of your birthday celebration matter?
Yes. The chart is calculated for the coordinates of the place where you are at the moment of the Sun’s return. This is the foundation of the Solar Return relocation practice, where the birthday is intentionally celebrated in a different city to change the Ascendant and house cusps.
Is an exact birth time needed for a Solar Return?
Yes. The moment of the solar return is calculated based on the natal position of the Sun with precision to the minute, and the Ascendant of the Solar Return changes every two hours. Without an exact birth time, interpreting the chart is meaningless.