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Cycles and timing

What are astrology transits, and how are they read?

Transits compare current calculated planetary positions with a natal chart to describe timing themes; they work best as cycles and windows, not isolated event predictions.Reviewed · 2026-08-24 · Educational astrology content
Direct answer

A transit is the current or selected-time position of a planet compared with natal placements and houses. Astrologers read the transiting planet, the natal factor it contacts, the aspect, the houses involved, and the period of repeated exact contacts.

Key points

  • Slow planets create longer windows than fast planets.
  • Retrograde motion can produce multiple exact passes.
  • A transit to an angle requires accurate birth time.
  • A Sun-sign horoscope is not the same as a full natal transit analysis.

Method

  1. Calculate the natal chart and selected transit time.
  2. Prioritize tight contacts from slower planets.
  3. Track entry, exact passes, station periods, and separation.

Limits and responsible use

  • Transits do not establish one inevitable event.
  • Use practical context and professional advice for major decisions.