The Zodiac Symbol for June: Cancer

The month of June is associated with the zodiac symbol Cancer, which is one of the most popular and widely recognized symbols in Western astrology. The construction of the zodiac, as described by Ptolemy in his 2nd century AD work, Almagest, shows that the zodiac was already in use during the Roman era.

The name 'Cancer' comes from the Latin word for crab, which is a nod to the mythological story behind this symbol. According to ancient Greek mythology, Cancer is associated with Karkinos, the giant crab sent by the goddess Hera to distract Hercules during his fight against Hydra.

In modern astronomy, the ecliptic coordinate system is still used to track Solar System objects, and the zodiac wheel remains a widely recognized symbol of horoscopic astrology. The English word 'zodiac' itself comes from the Latinized form of the Ancient Greek zōdiakòs kýklos, meaning 'cycle or circle of little animals'.

Interestingly, the time of year when the Sun is in a given constellation has changed since Babylonian times due to the precession of the equinoxes. As a result, the point of March equinox has moved from Aries into Pisces.

The Babylonians divided the ecliptic into 12 equal 'signs', which originated with their astronomy during the 1st millennium BC. These astrological signs form a celestial coordinate system, taking the ecliptic as the origin of latitude and the Sun's position at vernal equinox as the origin of longitude.

Each of these signs occupies approximately 30° of celestial longitude and roughly corresponds to the astronomical constellations with the same name. In Western astrology, the zodiac is divided into 12 signs: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.

The orbital paths of the Moon and major planets are within the belt of the zodiac, which is a region of the sky that extends approximately 8° north and south (as measured in celestial latitude) of the ecliptic. The zodiac remains an important part of Western astrology, providing a framework for understanding the movements and influences of celestial bodies on human affairs.

In conclusion, Cancer is one of the most iconic zodiac symbols associated with the month of June. Its origins date back to ancient Babylonian astronomy, and it continues to play an important role in modern astrology and astronomy.

Zodiac symbol for june