Neptune

Origin and discovery

Neptune was astronomically discovered in 1846, when the French astronomer Urbain Le Verrier mathematically predicted its existence from irregularities in Uranus's orbit. It is the first planet found by mathematical calculation before direct observation. Its name, Roman god of the sea, was chosen for its blue colour and oceanic distance from the Sun.

Astrologically, before its discovery Pisces was ruled by Jupiter. After 1846, modern astrologers assigned Neptune the modern rulership of Pisces: the god of the sea well symbolised the Piscean qualities of dissolution, spirituality, dream and emotional ocean. Some classical astrologers still prefer Jupiter as ruler; others use both.

What Neptune rules

Neptune represents the dissolution of self-boundaries: mystical ecstasy, fusion with the transcendent, compassion without limits, creative imagination, inspired art, prophetic dreams, oceanic intuition. It is the planet of mystics, inspired artists, visionaries. Also of psychic phenomena, altered states, lucid dreams, parapsychological experiences.

In shadow: confusion, escapism, lying, self-deception, victimhood, addictions (to substances or fantasies), naive idealisation, blurred emotional boundaries. Neptune is the planet of the great saints and the great deceived — the line between the two depends on discernment. It takes 165 years to traverse the zodiac: it spends 14 years in each sign, which makes it a generational marker.

Neptune in your chart

Neptune is in the same sign for 14 years: that is why it describes shared energies with your generation rather than individual traits. The personal is in its house and aspects. Neptune in House I = blurred image, spiritual or artistic. Neptune in House VII = idealised or spiritual partner. Neptune in House X = artistic, medical, healing vocation. Its aspects to personal planets describe how the transcendent enters your life.