Over the course of the last decade as a practicing Astrologer, one of the most frequent questions and comments I’m routinely asked about is what it means to be born “on the cusp” of a particular Zodiac sign. 

On the one hand, while I understand the perceived importance of the question from the perspective of those asking it or bringing it to my attention, the short answer is? Well, nothing. 

The reason for this is simple: the Sun changes signs, moving from one Zodiac sign to the next, on 12 days each calendar year. So, as with most questions in Astrology, the answer boils down to the exact date and time of the person’s birth. For instance, based on the dates and times listed below, if you’re born on January 20, 2024 prior to 9:08 am? You’re a Capricorn Sun. If born on January 20, 2024 after 9:08 am? You’re an Aquarius Sun. And so on. 

So, there’s really no such thing as being born “on the cusp”—unless, of course, you happen to be born on 1 of the 12 days of the year when the Sun changes signs. It’s important to note here, however, that the exact times the Sun moves from one Zodiac sign to the next change slightly each year and, depending on how long ago you were born, the exact date the Sun changed signs may vary with it. 

For example, in 1957 the Sun moved from Virgo to Libra on September 23rd at 3:26 am. So, if you were born on September 22, 1957? That’s right—You’re a Virgo. So, if you’re looking at the timetable below for 2024 to establish what Sun sign you were born under, keep in mind that the list of cutoff dates below would be inaccurate for you. This is the only situation in which a person can actually be considered to be born “on the cusp,” although a simple Google search (and knowledge of your birth time, of course) is all that’s needed to clear this up. 

Sun Sign Ingresses 2024

• Sun enters Aquarius - Jan 20 @ 9:07 AM

• Sun enters Pisces - Feb 18 @ 11:13 PM 

• Sun enters Aries - Mar 19 @ 11:06 PM 

• Sun enters Taurus - Apr 19 @ 10:00 AM 

• Sun enters Gemini - May 20 @ 8:59 AM 

• Sun enters Cancer - June 20 @ 4:51 PM 

• Sun enters Leo - July 22 @ 3:44 AM 

• Sun enters Virgo - August 22 @ 10:55 AM 

• Sun enters Libra - September 22 @ 8:43 AM

• Sun enters Scorpio - October 22 @ 6:14 PM

• Sun enters Sagittarius - November 21 @ 2:56 PM

• Sun enters Capricorn - Dec 21 @ 4:20 AM

Along with the myth of the cusp, I often hear from clients that they “don’t feel like their Sun sign”—which, I believe, is often the reason many cling to the myth of the cusp: they don’t like the stereotypes associated with their particular Sun sign. 

This is fair; however, there is an explanation for this that doesn’t rely on the myth of the cusp. For one, the stereotypes of each sign are in many ways caricatures, if not gross generalizations, of who we are. Put simply? Your Sun sign is significant, but it’s only one facet of your birth chart! Your Sun sign in no way defines who you are as an individual—it’s your birth chart that does the talking. 

That said, the question of planetary rulership is a useful tool for looking at the different shades of each zodiac sign, as the degree of the sign you were born in alters the expression of its energy. More specifically, each sign of the Zodiac comprises 30 degrees of the circle, and within these 30 degrees there are 3 subdivisions, known as “decanates” or “decans,” that make up each sign. Each of these 3 decans has a “sub-ruling” planet, which colors how the energy of that sign is expressed. 

With this in mind, think of each of the 3 Decans like a different “flavor” of each Zodiac sign. For instance, those born with their Ascendant or Sun in the 1st Decan, or within the first 10 degrees, of a particular Zodiac sign tend to fit the more stereotypical portrayals of that sign relative to the 2nd and 3rd Decans. It’s important to note here that the breakdown of each sign into decanates can be applied to any personal planet (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars) but is really most useful when analyzing the degree of your Rising (Ascendant) sign.

Below I’ll go through each decan of each sign, explaining how its planetary sub-ruler modifies its expression. 

ARIES - The Ram (Cardinal Fire)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Mars

With the Ascendant (or Sun) in the 1st decan of Aries, the person expresses the truest, most intense form of Aries-ness: of all 3 decans, this is the most self-involved, active, honest and has the most physical energy. There’s a strong survival instinct here, with an unparalleled ability to bounce back from any hardship life throws at them. No obstacle can stop a Decan 1 Aries from reaching their goals. Impulsivity is strong in this Aries type, as is resilience.

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Sun

When the Ascendant falls in Aries Decan 2, the person exudes more of the qualities of the 2nd Fire sign of the Zodiac—Leo. Colored by the rulership of the Sun, Aries Decan 2 is the least impulsive Aries type and is not wont to gamble. This Aries type is ambitious yet generous, and expresses themselves in a more steadfast manner. Leadership qualities are strong in Aries Decan 2, as the individual is far less self-focused with the Sun or Rising here. 

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Jupiter

Ascendant in Aries Decan 3 is the most restless of the Aries types, but also the most optimistic and generous. With Jupiter ruling Decan 3, this type of Aries exudes more of a Sagittarius flavor, tending to be more easygoing and optimistic. Aries Decan 3 is the most carefree of the Aries types, and needs to travel, study and explore beyond the realm of their career life in order to feel fulfilled.  

TAURUS - The Bull (Fixed Earth)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Venus

Ascendant or Sun in Taurus Decan 1 is by far the most stubborn and fits the Taurus “strong and silent” stereotype. Ruled by Venus, this is the person who hates conflict and will avoid it at all costs. This type is the most naturally artistic and needs an outlet for their intense creative and sensual energy to be happy. Note the astrological aspects to the person’s Venus in the birth chart to determine where the problems lie.

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Mercury

Though Taurus is, generally speaking, not exactly a talkative sign, the person with their Ascendant or Sun in Mercury-ruled Taurus Decan 2 is the most chatty, social type of Taurus. Of all the types, Taurus Decan 2 is the most intellectually-oriented. Flows with the tides as long as Mercury is not afflicted and there aren’t too many Fixed signs in the birth chart.

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Saturn

Taurus, like opposite sign Scorpio, is known as the “money” sign of the Zodiac; however, when the Ascendant or Sun falls in Taurus Decan 3, the person is intensely materialistic and the drive to achieve material success is intricately linked to their need for social status. Ruled by Saturn, Taurus Decan 3 can be stingy and harsh at times, tending to have more of the stereotypical traits associated with Capricorn. 

GEMINI - The Twins (Mutable Air)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Mercury

The Ascendant or Sun in Gemini Decan 1 is supremely indecisive, restless and talkative, to the point where blurting can be a problem for the person if there are no other indicators of self-control in the birth chart. Changeability in nature is a product of insecurity, and relationships with family (especially siblings) will play a big role in life. This type does best when there’s a strong Saturn in the birth chart, though generally speaking they need to learn how to be quiet. Watch for gambling tendencies if there are multiple placements in Gemini Decan 1.

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Venus

With Venus ruling Gemini Decan 2, the person born with their Ascendant or Sun here is the calmest type of Gemini, despite having the same inner restlessness of Gemini. This quality makes them likable and popular among their peers, as they’re the most cooperative and creative of the Geminis. This type should have a career that deals with people on a personal level. This type can be lazy, though a strong Saturn in the birth chart will do wonders to offset this tendency.

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Uranus

Most Aquarius-like of the Gemini types, those with Ascendant or Sun in Gemini Decan 3 do best when dealing with large groups of people, and are the most scientific and intellectually-minded. This is the Gemini who’s practical in the day-to-day sense yet “thinks big” when it comes to life, especially when it comes to business or any enterprising effort. Those with planets in Gemini Decan 3 would have success in business or corporate life as they have a keen mind for what’s marketable or “what the people want,” so to speak.

CANCER - The Crab (Cardinal Water)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Moon

As the classical Cancer type, those with Ascendant or Sun in Cancer Decan 1 react to life as dictated by their subconscious, instinctual impulses rather than by conscious planning. Because the Moon is the most sensitive of planets, this type is most ruled by their emotions and gut feelings, and can be exceedingly timid, shy or introverted in early life. Needs to learn to respond based on intellect and not so much on feeling.

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Mars-Pluto

Most stubborn and tenacious of the Cancer temperaments, Cancer Decan 2 is ruled by Pluto, and is most Scorpio-like of the 3 types. Intense in their emotions, those with Ascendant or Sun in Cancer Decan 2 needs to learn to let go of resentment and anger more than any other Cancer type. Jealousy is unbecoming in this Cancer type, though positive astrological aspects between the Moon and Mars will do much to offset the tendency of this type toward anger and resentment. Remember: The grass isn’t always greener on the other side. 

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Neptune

Neptune sensitizes any part of the birth chart it rules, so those born with Ascendant or Sun in Cancer Decan 3 are by far the most sensitive of the Cancer types. The difference between the sensitivity of the Moon (Cancer Decan 1) and of Neptune is that the Moon is sensitive on a more personal level, whereas Neptune is more sensitive to the “vibes” of other people and their environment. So, like Pisces, Cancer Decan 3 is a psychic sponge, and as a result may exhibit Martyr tendencies.  

LEO - The Lion (Fixed Fire)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Sun

Those with their Ascendant or Sun in Leo Decan 1 are born to shine and naturally attract the spotlight. Many Leo Suns are famous, if only because of their natural charisma and love of attention. Ambitious, proud and sincere, Leo Decan 1 makes a loyal friend but a fierce competitor, and you don’t want to get on their bad side if you can help it. Physical vitality is strong when the Ascendant or Sun falls in Leo Decan 1, so this type has tremendous energy for achieving their goals. The only thing to watch for is excessive pride in Leo Decan 1, as this type is overly sensitive to any perceived slight to their dignity. Needs to learn detachment in this lifetime.

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Jupiter

Ruled by Jupiter, this Leo type is more philosophical than the other decans, and is more concerned with personal freedom than achievement of more materialistic goals. This type is the friendliest and most social relative to the other two Leo decans; however, those with their Ascendant or Sun in Leo Decan 2 can risk poor judgment if their Jupiter is poorly placed in the birth chart. Otherwise, this type is highly magnetic, open and exceedingly frank in their feelings and opinions. The comedians of the Zodiac.

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Mars

With Mars ruling Leo Decan 3, the willpower is strengthened with Ascendant or Sun here; however, impulsivity and independence are both highlighted in this decan of Leo. Naturally courageous, this Leo type will give more than they receive in this lifetime. The head and the heart work together rather than separately, and Leo Decan 3 is the least selfish of all the Mars-ruled types, as Leo’s natural spirit of generosity prevails. Note that astrological aspects to the person’s Sun in the birth chart will be of critical importance in determining the individual’s overall disposition.

VIRGO - The Virgin (Mutable Earth)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Mercury

Both Virgo and Gemini Decan 1 are ruled by Mercury; however, Ascendant or Sun in Virgo Decan 1 embodies the more introverted, practical side of Mercury. For instance, Gemini Decan 1 is more talkative, while Virgo Decan 1 is more studious. This is due to the fact that Virgo is an Earth sign, all of which are by nature quieter and more secretive than the Air signs. Virgo Decan 1 is typically shy and may lack self-confidence. 

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Saturn

As with all Saturn-ruled areas of the birth chart, Virgo Decan 2 is the harshest of the Virgo types. Those with Ascendant or Sun in Virgo Decan 2 need to watch for selfishness and becoming overly focused on business or practical interests without much care for how they conduct themselves in their personal lives. Ascendant in Virgo Decan 2 makes a great teacher, but can be overly critical and needs to avoid negativity. 

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Venus

Of the Virgo types, Virgo Decan 3 is the least selfish and most artistically inclined, and tends to be more loving and sociable relative to the other types. Unlike Virgo Decan 1, who embraces routine, those with Ascendant or Sun in Virgo Decan 3 are less practical in comparison, and chafe without some relationship (Venus) or creative outlet to channel their daily efforts into. Notably less compulsive in behavior relative to the other Virgo types.

LIBRA - The Scales (Cardinal Air)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Venus 

The embodiment of the stereotypical Libra, those with Ascendant or Sun in Libra Decan 1 are highly social, friendly and naturally refined in their mannerisms. As a result, this type attracts people (Venus) to them easily, and will never be without friends. Libra Decan 1 needs people around them, and works best in close contact with others, preferably in a profession that involves the arts or artistic expression. Beauty and aesthetic principles are valued highly by those with placements in Libra Decan 1, and these individuals do best when involved in the world of design and visual arts.

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Uranus

This is the most eccentric of the Libra types, as Uranus’ rulership sparks the intellect more than any other planet, making those with Ascendant or Sun in Libra Decan 2 incredibly cerebral and strong-minded. More stubborn than the other types, Libra Decan 2 can be overly concerned with organization, leading them to procrastinate projects or become overly fixated on perfection. 

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Mercury

Those with Ascendant or Sun in Libra Decan 3 are similar to Gemini Decan 1 in that they’re the most adaptable, yet extremely restless in their disposition. Their innately inquisitive nature makes them great journalists or reporters, though they may abandon projects before they can complete them. This type needs to learn to settle down and be more decisive when it comes to relationships and intellectual pursuits. 

SCORPIO - The Scorpion (Fixed Water)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Mars-Pluto

Symbolized by the Phoenix, Pluto is the planet of transformation and rebirth. So, those with Ascendant or Sun in Scorpio Decan 1 will consistently reinvent themselves in life. Scorpio Decan 1 is the most secretive and extreme type of Scorpio, so be aware that outer calm belies emotions seething underneath. Intensity is the hallmark of Scorpio Decan 1 along with a strong survival instinct, and can be a devil or a saint depending on the rest of the birth chart. 

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Neptune

Deeply sensitive to the moods and emotions of others, those with Ascendant or Sun in Scorpio Decan 2 are the most receptive, imaginative and suggestible of the Scorpio types. The context given by the rest of the birth chart is highly important for this type, as their lives will either be consumed by acts of self-service or self-destruction. Of particular importance for those with placements in Scorpio Decan 2 are the astrological aspects between Mars and Neptune in the birth chart, as these will determine the degree to which generosity and propensity to self-sacrifice will cause difficulty in the person’s life. This type must surround themselves with people who elevate their consciousness through wisdom and patience, not those who emphasize materialistic concerns. Otherwise, they’re likely to become surly and resentful.

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Moon

This is the most sympathetic and kind-hearted of the Scorpio types, and those with Ascendant or Sun in Scorpio Decan 3 are highly psychic in nature. It’s imperative to look at the astrological aspects between the person’s Moon and Mars in the birth chart to determine whether the psychic nature causes instability or not. Scorpio Decan 3 is typically stern on the outside but possesses a secret soft spot that belies their hard shell.  

SAGITTARIUS - The Archer (Mutable Fire)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Jupiter

Ruled by Jupiter, those with their Ascendant or Sun in Sagittarius Decan 1 are like magnets, drawing others into their orbit just by their presence. These people are often the envy of their peers, as they seem to attract people and opportunities without much effort. Highly sociable, this Sagittarius type is friendly, charming and loves to gossip, making them naturals when it comes to any enterprise that involves advertising or sales. Jupiter is also the planet of wisdom, making those born under this decan of Sagittarius both highly funny yet wise at the same time—a combination that’s endearing to those around them. On the flip side, this type can be quite flaky and is restless in the extreme. Boredom-proneness is major issue for those born in this decan of Sagittarius and, despite their intuitive nature, this type may lack depth without the presence of a strong Saturn to ground them. Often talk more than they listen, and aren’t content unless they’re on the move. Needs to learn the value of stillness.

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Mars

Speaking of stillness, Sagittarius Decan 2 is ruled by Mars, planet of action and energy. This is the “get up and go,” “3 shots of espresso” type who’s adventurous and courageous in equal measure. Daredevils of the Zodiac, this Sagittarius type hates to be fenced in and will rebel against any restrictions on their personal freedom. Extremely goal-oriented, these people are unafraid of taking risks, making them most apt to act now and think later. While this mindset can pose challenges, it’s advantageous in that their fearlessness makes them ideal for any vocation that involves the pioneering of a new concept, ideology or philosophy of life. Radical independence is the hallmark of Sagittarius Decan 2.

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Sun

Generally considered the “best” decan for Sagittarius, if only because the Sun’s rulership bestows a more sustaining, less restless quality to those born with their Ascendant or Sun in Sagittarius Decan 3. In contrast to the Salesman or Pioneer type exemplified by Sagittarius Decan 1 and 2, respectively, Sagittarius Decan 3 makes a great executive due to its natural leadership abilities. Intuitive, generous and kindhearted people unless Jupiter is in conflict with the Sun in the birth chart, in which case the disposition is likely to be extravagant and vain. If the intellectual faculties are cultivated, those with their Ascendant or Sun in this decan of Sagittarius can be of great help to others should they so choose.  

CAPRICORN - The Goat (Cardinal Earth) 

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Saturn

Those with their Ascendant or Sun in Capricorn Decan 1 fit the classical stereotype in that they’re by far the most ambitious of the Capricorn types, and are hungry for success starting at an early age. Similar to Aries, Capricorn—especially in Decan 1—is after not just material success but desires recognition for their achievements and nothing can stop them from attaining their goals. The difference between Aries and Capricorn is that Capricorn is more strategic and less impulsive in their approach to getting it. Decan 1 Capricorns by nature have incredible self-control and will readily delay gratification in the present if it means greater rewards later. As great as they are at compartmentalizing, Capricorn Decan 1 is so uncomfortable with emotions (both their own and those of others) that they’ll often bottle how they feel until it manifests physically. Interpersonal relationships can be challenging for this type, as they’re so consumed with work that people are seen either as a means to an end, or as too emotionally exhausting. If the latter, the person will spend most of their time alone to the point of exhibiting “hermit” tendencies. 

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Venus 

If you’re born with your Ascendant or Sun in Capricorn Decan 2, you’re a more creative and sociable type. Creative energy here manifests itself as talent in dance or music, and with the innate discipline for constant practice, there’s potential for great ability in these areas. This type of Capricorn is the most enduring and loyal and, because they place the highest value on long-term relationships, is most willing to work hard when it comes to their emotional expression. Capricorn Decan 2 is more self-indulgent than the other types yet are equally harsh on themselves whenever they “break the rules” (especially those they set for themselves). 

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Mercury

Because of Mercury’s rulership of Capricorn Decan 3, those with their Ascendant or Sun in these degrees are the most intellectually inclined, and have naturally scientific minds. Because of their innate detachment, they make great reporters or researchers, as they can present information without involving their personal feelings. This Capricorn type is more curious than the others, but can be overly critical or demanding in the way they communicate if not careful. 

AQUARIUS - The Water Bearer (Fixed Air)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Uranus

Decan 1 Aquarius Ascendant or Sun represents the person with a difficult early life who has the potential to rise to extreme power or fame in middle age or later life, not just because of their natural propensity for hard work but their innately original ideas. It’s this combination that gives Aquarius Decan 1 the association with “genius.” Naturally aloof, Aquarius is offended by nothing; however, they’d save themselves a lot of trouble if they took the time to see things from the other person’s point of view. Needs to learn that detachment and objectivity aren’t necessarily the lens through which others perceive things.

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Mercury

With your Ascendant or Sun in Aquarius Decan 2, mental energy is more scattered and curious. This Aquarius type vacillates between obsessive-compulsiveness on the one hand and lack of attention or periods of “spacing out” on the other. The imagination runs wild in Aquarius Decan 2, but this type can suffer if they live in their mind too much. Though highly social, this type of Aquarius is contradictory in that they often have an easier time talking to strangers than to those most familiar to them. Friendlier than Decan 1 Aquarius, Decan 2 Aquarius is just as inventive but more intuitive intellectually. They need to put their ideas into practice though, as this can be an area of difficulty for them. 

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Venus

The energy of Venus in those with Ascendant or Sun in Aquarius Decan 3 is elevated in personal relationships, as there’s a natural charm to this type’s intellect and style of verbal self-expression. This type of Aquarius makes a great writer, as they can easily create stories in their minds. However, the downside here is that they can suffer when not involved in service to others in some way. Though there’s innate refinement to this type, their aloofness can make others see them as “cold,” even if this isn’t the case. 

PISCES - The Fish (Mutable Water)

Decan 1 (0° - 10°) - Ruled by Neptune

Neptune-ruled Pisces Ascendants or Suns are the most mysterious of the Zodiac. Innately mystical, these people pick up on every feeling around them and, as such, in tune with how to please others. There’s always a hidden trick under their hats and, whether they’re aware of it or not, some form of lottery ticket to cash in on with the Ascendant or Sun in Pisces Decan 1. Ironically, though those born with this placement make highly successful people due to their instinctual understanding of how to captivate an audience, the more these people give of themselves in service to others, the more they thrive on a personal level. Self-sacrifice is highlighted here.

Decan 2 (11° - 20°) - Ruled by Moon

Because this decan of Pisces is ruled by the Moon, those born with their Ascendant or Sun in Pisces Decan 2 are most like fellow Water sign Cancer in their temperament in that they’re extremely sensitive to their subconscious moods, fears and desires. However, because Pisces is Mutable and not Cardinal, those with placements in this decan of Pisces are highly indecisive and changeable in their opinions and attitudes, which may frustrate those close to them. Stomach problems and/or Insomnia are common afflictions for those with Ascendant or Sun (or, in some cases Moon) in this decan of Pisces and are the direct result of constant, unexpressed worry. All Pisces are highly sensitive to their surroundings, but because this type is so sympathetic in nature, Ascendant or Sun in Pisces Decan 2 must watch who they surround themselves with to avoid absorbing the negative emotions of others. For those who are close to a Pisces Decan 2, it’s important to remember that this type is easily hurt and will quickly withdraw in the face of cutting words or hurtful comments. Watch what you say around Pisces Decan 2, as this type doesn’t forget easily.

Decan 3 (21° - 30°) - Ruled by Mars-Pluto

This is potentially the most volatile of the Pisces types, so those born with their Ascendant or Sun in Pisces Decan 3 need to watch themselves when it comes to the tendency to bottle their emotions, especially anger. Those who fall in this Pisces category have tremendous power for good or for evil, depending on the placement of Mars relative to Saturn and Neptune in the birth chart. If Mars is well-placed, the person can be a “Mother Teresa” of sorts, as there’s incredible potential for self-sacrifice. On the other hand, if Mars is afflicted to Saturn or Neptune, the individual can exhibit cruelty or dishonesty at the expense of others. Whether the power of Pisces Decan 3 is used for self-destruction or self-edification depends on the individual as well as the personality as indicated by the birth chart as a whole.