Are Astrology Signs Changing?

We’ve been identifying with our zodiac signs for years—whether proudly owning up to the boldness of Aries, the sensitivity of Pisces or the determination of Capricorn. But every now and then a viral post or scientific discovery pops up and we wonder: Have the zodiac signs changed? Is my sign different now?

If you’ve ever wondered if your sign isn’t what you thought you were, you’re not alone! This is all fuelled by astronomy, precession (more on that later) and the occasional claim that there’s a 13th zodiac sign, Ophiuchus. But does this really mean astrology signs have changed? Let’s get to the facts.

Why Do People Think Zodiac Signs Are Changing?

Every few years, news headlines or social media posts make waves with claims like:

• “NASA says your zodiac sign is wrong!”
• “A 13th sign has been discovered—Ophiuchus!”
• “The stars have shifted, so astrology needs an update!”

At first glance, it sounds convincing. After all, astronomy does tell us that the positions of constellations have shifted over thousands of years due to something called axial precession. However, astrology isn’t the same as astronomy, and the way zodiac signs are determined has not changed.

Let’s break it down.

The Science Behind It: Precession and the Zodiac

Earth isn’t just spinning on its axis—it’s also wobbling slightly over a 26,000-year cycle. This movement, called axial precession, means that the position of the stars relative to Earth changes very slowly over time.

Because of this, if we look at the sky today compared to thousands of years ago, the constellations appear to have shifted. That’s a big deal in astronomy, but astrology works differently.

Western vs. Sidereal Astrology: Two Approaches

Astrology comes in different forms, with two major systems:

Western Astrology (Tropical Zodiac)

• This is the system most people follow.
• It’s based on the Earth’s seasons, not the stars.
• Aries begins at the March equinox, and all signs follow in a fixed cycle.
• This means the zodiac signs remain the same, even if the stars have moved slightly.

Sidereal Astrology (Used in Vedic Astrology)

• This system does follow the actual constellations in the sky.
• Since precession has shifted the stars, Sidereal signs appear almost one sign “behind” Western signs.
• If you’ve ever checked a Vedic astrology chart and found your sign is different, this is why!

So, if you use Western astrology, your sign hasn’t changed. If you follow Sidereal astrology, your sign may be different—but that’s always been the case.

The Ophiuchus Controversy: Is There a 13th Sign?

Every few years, Ophiuchus makes headlines as the “new” 13th zodiac sign. But here’s the truth:

• Ophiuchus is a real constellation that the Sun passes through from late November to mid-December.
• It was never part of the astrological zodiac, which is divided into 12 equal parts, not based on constellation shapes.
• Western astrology is built on the seasonal calendar, not star positions.
• Adding Ophiuchus would mean completely redefining astrology, which isn’t necessary.

So, despite its place in the sky, Ophiuchus does not belong to the zodiac system that Western astrology follows.

Does This Mean Your Zodiac Sign Has Changed?

If you’re using Western astrology—the one most people follow—your zodiac sign is still the same. The way Western astrology was designed means it doesn’t shift based on star positions. Instead, it follows Earth’s seasonal cycles.

However, if you explore Sidereal astrology, which follows the stars more closely, you might find your sign is different. But that system has always existed alongside Western astrology—it’s not a “change” but an alternative way of looking at astrology.

The Bigger Picture: Astrology is More Than Star Positions

Even though astronomy influences astrology, they are different systems. Astrology is about symbolism and personal insight, not just where the stars physically are. The traits associated with each sign—like Leo’s confidence or Scorpio’s intensity—are tied to archetypes that don’t rely on shifting star positions.

So, rather than worrying about whether your sign has changed, it’s more valuable to think about how astrology helps you understand yourself.

Final Thoughts

• Western astrology signs have not changed—they’re based on a fixed system tied to the seasons.
• Sidereal astrology follows actual star positions, but it has always been a separate system.
• Ophiuchus is a real constellation but not a zodiac sign in astrology.

At the end of the day, your zodiac sign is part of your personal journey—whether you follow Western or Sidereal astrology, what matters most is how you connect with it.