To understand astrocartography clearly, it’s important to learn the key concepts that form the foundation of this method. These concepts explain how planetary energies are mapped onto the Earth and how they influence your experiences in different places.

1. Planetary Lines

Each planet in your natal chart creates a line on the map. These lines show where that planet’s energy is strongest.

• Sun Line: Confidence, vitality, visibility.
• Moon Line: Emotions, family, inner life.
• Mercury Line: Communication, learning, networking.
• Venus Line: Love, relationships, beauty, harmony.
• Mars Line: Action, energy, ambition, sometimes conflict.
• Jupiter Line: Growth, luck, travel, opportunities.
• Saturn Line: Responsibility, discipline, limitations.
• Uranus Line: Change, freedom, sudden events.
• Neptune Line: Dreams, spirituality, illusions.
• Pluto Line: Transformation, power, deep change.

2. Angular Power

Planetary lines are drawn where planets were rising, setting, culminating, or at the nadir at the time of birth. These positions make the planetary influence more visible in those areas.

• Ascendant (Rising): How you express yourself outwardly.
• Descendant (Setting): Relationships and partnerships.
• Midheaven (MC): Career, reputation, life goals.
• Imum Coeli (IC): Home, family, inner foundation.

3. Crossings and Intersections

Where two or more planetary lines intersect, the influence of both planets is activated. These areas can bring powerful opportunities or challenges depending on the planets involved.

4. Orb of Influence

The strongest influence is felt directly on the line, but planetary energy can still be experienced within a certain distance (commonly around 200–300 km on either side).

5. Relocation Context

Astrocartography works best when combined with relocation charts. The lines show where energies are strong, while the relocation chart shows how these energies manifest in daily life.

By learning these basics, students can begin to read astrocartography maps and understand why certain places feel supportive, challenging, or transformative.