Asteroids play a fascinating yet often overlooked role in astrology, particularly for those just starting their journey in the field. Early in my studies, my instructor advised us to set aside the modern outer planets during our initial year. By doing so, we learned to interpret charts using the classical seven planets without relying on Uranus for “innovation,” Neptune for “spirituality,” or Pluto for “transformation.”

In those early days, asteroids weren't part of the picture, largely due to the limited solar system knowledge available to ancient astrologers. They operated within a smaller celestial framework, focusing solely on the main planets.

As my weekly forecasts might suggest, I do incorporate asteroids into my practice, but they are not the primary focus during client sessions. Typically, I center my consultations around the ten traditional planets, mentioning fixed stars only when they significantly influence a chart. Yet, in my personal astrological work, I find transiting asteroids to be remarkably insightful—like a sprinkle of celestial magic that adds unique detail to a standard natal chart. However, the challenge lies in their tendency to reflect the intimate and unusual aspects of our lives that aren’t usually addressed in a typical astrological reading.

I firmly believe that asteroids reveal the hidden nuances within our astrological charts—those personal secrets and life aspects that often remain concealed. Last year, I delved into the writings of the Venerable Bede, an eighth-century monk whose contributions were critical in shaping medieval European timekeeping. To enhance my Latin skills, I translated his work, De Natura Rerum (On the Nature of Things), during the transit of his namesake asteroid through my third house, where Jupiter is positioned.

The connections between learning, language, reading, and spirituality struck me as the asteroid traversed that part of my chart. Presently, the asteroid Daniel is moving through my sixth house, squaring its natal position in my third, as I explore the life of the medieval scholar Daniel of Morley, who also has ties to the history of astronomy. At the same time, the retrograde asteroid Astronomia is approaching an opposition with my natal Astronomia across my fourth and tenth houses. This extended transit aligns with a pivotal moment in my personal and professional life, prompting significant adjustments in my astrological approach to incorporate more astronomical and cosmological elements.

What Are Asteroids?

Looking back, I realize there was a certain arrogance in my initial hesitation to include asteroids in my practice. My strict adherence to traditional principles seemed beneficial at first, but it ultimately created a rigid framework for my understanding of the cosmos—much like my natal Mercury in a fixed sign, resistant to the magic and mystery inherent in the universe.

Asteroids, often dismissed as mere space debris, actually represent the remnants of celestial creation. If skeptics are dubious about the influence of planetary alignments on Earth, they might be even more skeptical about attributing archetypal meanings to these floating fragments.

According to NASA, there are approximately 1.3 million asteroids, which adds a staggering layer of complexity to the celestial entities influencing our birth charts. Most of these asteroids are ancient remnants orbiting the Sun between Mars and Jupiter. While Vesta is considered the largest, the size and significance of asteroids vary greatly, as does our understanding of their names and astrological meanings.

Asteroids and Astrology

Any discussion about asteroids in astrology would be incomplete without acknowledging Demetra George, the pioneer of the Asteroid Goddesses. Her 1986 work, Asteroid Goddesses, co-authored with Douglas Bloch, revived the recognition of powerful female archetypes in astrology, challenging the traditional roles defined by Venus and the Moon.

While George and Bloch laid the groundwork for reclaiming the divine feminine in both society and astrology, the number of asteroids now included in astrological software far exceeds the initial focus on four key goddesses. There are asteroids named after individuals, like 12561 “Howard,” and even pop culture references, such as 22521 “ZZ Top.” Place names and philosophical figures are also represented, with asteroids like 11803 “Caracas” and 12696 “Camus.”

Despite the vast array of asteroids, not all will hold significance for everyone. However, there are a few that I consistently monitor for their impact on my chart's transits. Here are five asteroids worth exploring, but I encourage you to experiment with other asteroids on astro.com’s extended chart selection feature.

1. 10 Hygeia Hygeia’s status as an asteroid may be debated, yet her influence on health and wellness is crucial for interpreting sixth house transits and ascendant placements. With a diameter over 400 kilometers, Hygeia is the fourth-largest asteroid, taking just over five years to complete an orbit around the Sun. Its current position in Aquarius could provide insights into health areas to focus on, particularly concerning blood circulation and potential injuries to lower limbs.

2. 1866 Sisyphus I often recall a Red Bull commercial that reimagines Sisyphus successfully rolling his boulder uphill, a twist on his enduring struggle. Smaller than Hygeia, Sisyphus has a diameter of just seven kilometers and an orbital period of approximately 2.6 years. The asteroid’s mythological connections to hubris and persistent challenges can align with personal experiences during its transits, often signaling a need to start anew on significant projects.

3. 4450 Pan Measuring just 1.1 kilometers, Pan takes nearly two years to complete its zodiacal journey. In mythology, Pan represents the untamed aspects of our psyche and is linked to panic. Notably, when Pan transits my natal Mercury, I often experience heightened anxieties related to communication. This asteroid's influence can encourage us to explore our deeper desires for change and spontaneity.

4. 9499 Excalibur Currently, I am tracking Excalibur as it traverses my sixth house, anticipating breakthroughs that will help dislodge any stagnant areas of my life. It takes around five years for Excalibur to transit the zodiac, symbolizing the pursuit of destiny and overcoming obstacles. Its position in our charts can signify a transformative journey toward empowerment.

5. 76 Freia One challenge in astrology is the tendency to prioritize Greco-Roman deities over others, like Freya from Norse mythology. Freya's associations with fertility, beauty, and magic resonate deeply, particularly as she transits my third house—the realm of communication and learning. This dynamic connection enriches my writing and teaching, revealing the often-overlooked significance of this astrological sector.

Do any of these asteroids intrigue you? Are there specific ones you incorporate into your practice? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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Disclaimer: All astrological insights provided are for entertainment purposes only. Any decisions made based on this or any other astrological writing are solely your responsibility. For legal matters, consult an attorney; for medical advice, speak with a healthcare professional. The content presented here does not constitute professional advice and is intended for entertainment only!