Zodiac signs are very popular among conversations. There’s Capricorn (Jan 20 – Feb 16), Aquarius (Feb 16 – March 11), Pisces (March 11 – April 18) Aries (April 18 – May 13), Taurus (May 13 – June 21), Gemini (June 21 – July 20), Cancer (July 20 – Aug 10), Leo (Aug 10 – Sept 16), Virgo (Sept 16 – Oct 30), Libra (Oct 30 – Nov 23), Scorpio (Nov 23 – Nov 29), Sagittarius (Dec 17 – Jan 20), and now the new Ophiuchus. (Nov 29 – Dec 17).

 So why change the signs? Well, according to Nasa, around 3,000 years ago ancient Babylonians were perceptive skywatchers and thought that the patterns of how constellations changed their position affected some of the events and actions that happened on earth. They had named all the original 12 and left out Ophiuchus. It is believed that the reason is “the sky is divided into 12 sections, one for each of the 12 months or moon cycles in the year. They then chose 12 constellations, one in each of those sections. And as the year progresses and the Earth rotates around the sun, the sun appears to pass through each of the 12 sections and 12 constellations.” (bustle.com) 

 Each sign allegedly has its specific way in which they act, feel, think, ect.. Although it is not completely backed up on science, many people believe that the zodiac’s characteristics play a key role in people’s lives. Capricorns are responsible, disciplined, self-control, good managers. Aquarius’ are progressive, original, independent, humanitarian. Pisces’ are compassionate, artistic, intuitive, gentle, wise, musical. Aries’ are courageous, determined, confident, enthusiastic, optimistic, honest, passionate. Gemini’s are gentle, affectionate, curious, adaptable, ability to learn quickly and exchange ideas. Cancer’s are tenacious, highly imaginative, loyal, emotional, sympathetic, persuasive. Leo’s are creative, passionate, generous, warm-hearted, cheerful, humorous. Virgo’s are loyal, analytical, kind, hardworking, practical. Libra’s are Cooperative, diplomatic, gracious, fair-minded, social. Scorpio’s are resourceful, brave, passionate, stubborn, a true friend. 

  The reason why Ophiuchus was originally left out was that there are 12 months in a year, and there were originally 12 zodiacs until they were changed.

Works cited:

 “History of Astrology.” American Federation of Astrologers, www.astrologers.com/about/history. 

“Zodiac Signs and Astrology Signs Meanings and Characteristics.” Astrology Zodiac Signs, www.astrology-zodiac-signs.com/. 

Braiker, Brian. “So, Now What’s Your Sign?” ABC News, ABC News Network, 13 Jan. 2011, https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/zodiac-signs-2011-zodiac-sign-wrong/story?id=12609264