Question 1

What is astrocartography?

Accepted Answer

Astrocartography is an astrological technique developed by Jim Lewis in the 1970s that maps the angular positions of planets at the moment of a person's birth onto a world map. Each planet produces four lines — its Midheaven (MC), Imum Coeli (IC), Ascendant (AC), and Descendant (DC) — that trace the longitudes and curves where that planet was on a key angle of the local sky at birth. Astrologers interpret these lines as places where the symbolism of each planet is most pronounced in a person's life.

Question 2

How does astrocartography work?

Accepted Answer

Astrocartography uses the right ascension and declination of each planet at the moment of birth, combined with Greenwich Sidereal Time, to compute four lines per planet: a meridian where the planet was directly overhead (MC), one where it was directly underfoot (IC), and curves where it was rising on the eastern horizon (AC) or setting in the west (DC). These lines are projected onto a map of the world.

Question 3

What do MC, IC, AC, and DC lines mean in astrocartography?

Accepted Answer

MC (Midheaven) lines mark where a planet was culminating directly overhead at birth and are associated with career, public identity, and reputation. IC (Imum Coeli) lines mark where a planet was at the lowest point of the sky and are associated with home, family, and inner foundations. AC (Ascendant) lines mark where a planet was rising on the eastern horizon and are associated with personality, self-expression, and identity. DC (Descendant) lines mark where a planet was setting in the west and are associated with relationships and partnerships.

Question 4

What information do I need to create an astrocartography map?

Accepted Answer

You need three pieces of information: your date of birth, your time of birth (as accurate as possible — even fifteen minutes off can shift lines by several degrees of longitude), and your place of birth. The location is used to determine the correct historical timezone, which is essential for accurate calculations.

Question 5

Is Map Astrology free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Map Astrology is a free astrocartography tool. There is no signup, no payment, and no account required. Birth data is processed in your browser and is not stored.

Question 6

How accurate does my birth time need to be?

Accepted Answer

As accurate as you can get it. A 15-minute error shifts the MC and IC lines by approximately 3.75 degrees of longitude, which is roughly 250 miles at the equator. Birth certificate or hospital records are ideal.