The well known metaphysical axiom “as above so below” is an acknowledgment of how the happenings in the cosmos have a direct impact on man. From eclipses to planetary alignments, the movement of heavenly bodies has a direct effect on the circumstances within the lives of man. Specialized horoscopes created using the date and time of a person’s birth provide much information on the specific occurrences in a person’s life.

There are times when some influences are far more withstanding than others. Whether natally or by transit, the distant planets do in fact have a powerful effect on man. Understanding the meaning and significance of the distant planets is important for understanding the long-term influences in a person’s life. 

The Distant Planets

There are several planets that are considered the “distant” or outer planets in a horoscope. The planets that are located beyond the asteroid belt are considered the outer planets. These planets include Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Pluto.

Of all the planets, the outer planets are the slowest moving. The time it takes for each of these planets to complete one full orbiting cycle around the sun is a lot longer than the inner planets. The complete orbiting cycle time around the sun and the time spent through each zodiac sign is as follows:

• Jupiter-Orbiting cycle of 12 years spending 1 year in each zodiac sign

• Saturn-Orbiting cycle of 29 ½ years spending 2 ½ years in each zodiac sign

• Uranus-Orbiting cycle of 84 years spending 7 years in each zodiac sign

• Pluto-Orbiting cycle of 248 years spending 14-30 years in each zodiac significance

Slower Movement Stronger Effects

Because the distant planets take a longer time to orbit the sun and pass through each zodiac sign, the effects these planets have on an individual’s personal horoscope is pronounced. Whereas the effects of a fast moving planet will likely last for 2 months at the most, the effects of an outer planet can last for at least a year.

For example, if Saturn transits through a particular sign for 2 ½ years, each person will feel the specific effects of this transit quite strongly based on where Saturn is transiting in their natal horoscope as well as the aspects that Saturn is making to other planets.

In addition to the forward movement of the planets, there are times when the planets appear to be a move in a retrograde or backward motion. This actually intensifies the effects of the distant planet as it slowly moves over the same points in a horoscope two or three times before moving on to another sign. 

Distant Planets and Horoscopes

It is advised that people understand the movement and effects of the distant planets as these are energies that stay with people for years...sometimes decades. Knowing what each of the distant planets is and which zodiac sign they are passing through can offer a significant amount of insight on the various happenings in a person’s life and even within the universe.

Knowledge is power. Understanding the distant planets allows people to take advantage and prepare for these long term energies.