Frequently Asked Questions | North Node Astrology | RainbowMoon
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the Nodes of the Moon, birth chart calculations, relationship compatibility, and personalized astrology readings.
About the Nodes of the Moon
What is the North Node in astrology?
The North Node is not a planet but a mathematical point where the Moon's orbit crosses the Sun's path (the ecliptic). It represents your soul's growth direction, life purpose, and the qualities you're here to develop. The North Node is always exactly opposite the South Node, which represents your comfort zone and past-life patterns. Learn more on our Nodes of the Moon guide.
Are the Nodes of the Moon actual planets?
No. The North Node and South Node are calculated points in space, not physical celestial bodies. This is one reason they're considered karmic or spiritual in nature — they represent energetic patterns rather than tangible forces. In Vedic astrology, they're known as Rahu (North Node) and Ketu (South Node).
How long do the Nodes stay in one sign?
The Lunar Nodes spend approximately 18 months (1.5 years) in each sign, completing a full cycle through all twelve signs every 18.6 years. Everyone born within about 18 months of you shares the same Nodal axis and is learning similar soul lessons.
What is a Nodal Return?
A Nodal Return happens approximately every 18.6 years when the Nodes return to the same position they occupied at your birth. These periods (around ages 18–19, 37–38, 56–57, and 74–75) often coincide with significant life turning points and shifts in direction.
What's the difference between the North Node and South Node?
The North Node represents qualities you're growing toward — your future direction and life purpose. The South Node (always in the opposite sign) represents your comfort zone, past-life talents, and familiar patterns. The goal is to integrate both, using South Node strengths to support North Node growth. Read our in-depth guide for more detail.
Is the North Node the same as my Sun sign?
No. Your Sun sign is based on the Sun's position at your birth and changes monthly. Your North Node is based on the Lunar Nodes' position and changes roughly every 18 months. They represent different things: your Sun sign reflects your core identity, while your North Node reveals your soul's growth direction.
Using the Calculator
Do I need my exact birth time?
Not necessarily. Your North Node sign can usually be determined with just your birth date. If you don't know your birth time, use noon (the default) in our North Node calculator. The main planetary positions will remain consistent, though your Ascendant (rising sign) and possibly Moon sign may vary. Knowing your exact birth time reveals the house placement of your Nodes.
What if my city isn't listed?
If you can't find your exact birth city in the calculator, use the closest city to your birthplace. Small geographic differences typically don't change your North Node sign — only precise Moon and Ascendant calculations are affected by exact location.
What will my results show?
Your results include your North Node sign, South Node sign (always opposite), and a personalized interpretation of what these placements mean for your life purpose, karmic patterns, and growth direction, along with your complete planetary positions. You can then explore your specific sign in our North Node sign guides.
Is the calculator free?
Yes, completely free. Enter your birth details and get your North Node and South Node signs with a personalized interpretation instantly.
Relationships & Compatibility
How does relationship compatibility work in astrology?
Relationship compatibility goes far beyond Sun signs. By comparing two complete birth charts (synastry), you can understand emotional dynamics (Moon signs), love languages (Venus), passion and drive (Mars), communication styles (Mercury), and karmic purpose together (Lunar Nodes). Try our relationship compatibility chart to compare two birth charts, or read more about astrology and relationships.
What is a composite chart?
A composite chart merges two birth charts into a single chart that represents the relationship itself as its own entity. It reveals the shared purpose, strengths, and challenges of the relationship. You can generate one using our compatibility tool.
Personalized Readings
What is a personalized astrology reading?
A personalized reading is a one-on-one consultation where an astrologer explores your complete birth chart — all 10 planets, 12 houses, and the dynamic aspects connecting them. It provides deeper insight than a free calculator, covering career, relationships, life purpose, and current transits. Request a reading to get started.
How much does a reading cost?
The initial one-hour consultation is $150. Follow-up sessions are available in flexible 15-minute increments. Visit our reading request page for details and to get in touch.
Explore Your North Node Sign
Select your sign to learn about your unique soul mission, challenges, and growth path.