The Outer Planets and their Cycles
A Look at Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto in a Horoscope
The Outer planets
Jupiter – It takes 12 years for Jupiter to circle the zodiac and return to its natal position in a birth chart. People therefore experience their Jupiter Returns at the ages of 12, 24, 36, 48 and so on. Jupiter is linked with Zeus, the king of the ancient Greek gods. The largest planet that rules over the sign Sagittarius, it is associated with luck, good fortune, travel and philosophy. Jupiter’s day is Thursday and physically, it governs over the liver and the healing abilities of the body. Positive aspects of Jupiter include optimism, joy, generosity and expansion. As with all the planets, Jupiter also has its negative side and can be linked with over-confidence, impetuousness, carelessness and extravagance.
Saturn – Saturn takes almost 30 years to complete its journey around the zodiac. Because, at one time, Saturn was seen as the most distant of planets, this made the planet seem cold and slow-moving. Saturn was linked with the ancient Greek God Kronus, who was also known as Old Father Time. Saturn rules over old-age; it is the planet of caution and limitation. Saturn types are sometimes dark and dour in appearance: they are disciplined and mature with great self-control and determination. People in whose charts this planet is strong are hard-working and wise. Other positive qualities associated with Saturn are patience, cautiousness, thoughtfulness and perseverance. However negative links with this planet include loneliness, depression, sorrow, suffering and hardship. Saturn’s signs are Capricorn and Aquarius; its day is Saturday.
Uranus – The symbol for the sign Uranus looks like a television aerial which is appropriate as this planet is linked with invention and technology. Because it takes about 84 years to complete a circle of the zodiac, it has influence over generations rather than individuals. Uranus is the planet of change, rebellion and freedom and it rules over the sign Aquarius.
Neptune– If someone wanted to link a planet with the Astrology and New Age Section of Suite-101 Neptune would be the one. Neptune, the ruler of Pisces is the planet of mysticism and medium ship. It is associated with psychics, magicians, mystics, artists, musicians and writers.
Pluto – Pluto was not discovered until 1930 and it takes 248 years to travel around the zodiac. Pluto has been called the phoenix planet as it is linked with transformation. It is also associated with the deep levels of the subconscious, sleep and parapsychology. It rules over the sign Scorpio.
Further Reading:
Cycles of the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars
