Astrology · Planets
The lunar nodes in a natal chart
The north and south lunar nodes in a natal chart. Compare mean and true node calculations and learn how the nodes are used in karmic readings.
Editorial illustration.
Two points, not two planets
The lunar nodes are the intersections of the lunar orbit with the ecliptic plane. The north node is ascending and the south node lies opposite. A north node at 20° Aries has a south node at 20° Libra, 180° away.
Record the selected model
A program may show a mean or true node. These are different calculation models and their values can differ. Use one setting when comparing charts and record it.
How the symbolism is read
Karmic schools associate the south node with the familiar and the north with development. This is an interpretive tradition, not evidence of a past life. A familiar habit and a new skill can be discussed without biographical claims about another existence.