Zodiac Systems

“The zodiac” can refer to several related but distinct systems. This hub helps readers identify which calendar, framework and claim type they are using.

Tropical zodiac

Twelve equal signs anchored to the seasonal equinoxes and solstices.

Astronomical zodiac

The actual constellations crossed by the ecliptic, with unequal boundaries.

Chinese zodiac

A twelve-animal cycle tied to a lunisolar calendar and combined with five elements.

Why systems should not be mixed

A tropical sun sign, a sidereal sign, an astronomical constellation and a Chinese zodiac animal answer different questions. Reliable explanations name the system before giving a date or interpretation.