Libra (astrology)

Libra
Zodiac symbolScales
Duration (tropical, western)September 22 – October 22 (2024, UT1)[1]
ConstellationLibra
Zodiac elementAir
Zodiac qualityCardinal
Sign rulerVenus
DetrimentMars
ExaltationSaturn
FallSun
AriesTaurusGeminiCancerLeoVirgoLibraScorpioSagittariusCapricornAquariusPisces

Libra (♎︎) (Ancient Greek: Ζυγός, romanizedZygós, Latin for "scales") is the seventh astrological sign in the zodiac. It spans 180°–210° celestial longitude.[2] The Sun transits this sign on average between September 22 and October 23.[3] The symbol of the scales is based on the Scales of Justice held by Themis, the Greek personification of divine law and custom.[4] She became the inspiration for modern depictions of Lady Justice. The ruling planet of Libra is Venus along with Taurus.[5][6] Libra is the only zodiac sign that is represented by an object; the other eleven signs are represented by either an animal or a mythological character though some depictions feature a man holding the scales with his hands .[7]

  1. ^ Astronomical Applications Department 2011.
  2. ^ Aaboe, Asger (2001). Episodes From the Early History of Astronomy. New York: Springer Science+Business Media. pp. 19. ISBN 9780387951362.
  3. ^ Libra n.d.
  4. ^ Atsma c. 2015.
  5. ^ Horoscopes n.d.
  6. ^ Libra Nature 2015.
  7. ^ Ridpath n.d.