Horoscope Cusp

The Cusp Explained

Those born on a horoscope cusp are a true blend of both astrological signs. This is because the dates of demarcation between the signs change very slightly, depending on the exact moment the sun moves into a particular constellation, from year to year.

You may wonder why this happens. A horoscope cusp occurs because even though a year is 365 days long, it actually takes the sun 365 days, 4 hours, 35 minutes and 12 seconds to make a complete rotation through all twelve of the zodiac signs.

Every four years, this slight variance is corrected with leap years (with the added caveat that in centuries not divisible by 400 there are no leap years). What this means is that one year a sun sign might begin at 11:52 P.M, but in the following year that same sign might not begin until 12:02 A.M. Sticking to the most common demarcation is the easiest way for astrologers and astronomers to mitigate any concern.

How to Proceed

If you find yourself on the horoscope cusp, here’s what you need to know:

• The chart’s the thing: Are you familiar with the famous Shakespearean saying “The play’s the thing?" Well, in astrology, particularly when it comes to the cusps, the chart’s the thing. Having your chart done is one of the very best things you can do to try to figure out which sign you identify with the most.

• Don’t get stuck on the dates: Now that we know the reason why the horoscope cusp dates vary from year to year, don’t get stuck on them. The reality is they are just that: dates. Instead, incorporate the best characteristics of the adjacent signs and let those traits drive your personality.

The Horoscope Cusp Dates

As you read these horoscope cusp dates, keep in mind that they will fluctuate slightly from year to year. To counteract this fluctuation, and any ensuing confusion, astrologers dedicate a specific swath of dates for these cusp times. They are as follows.

Celebrities Born on the Cusp

Here are some famous faces to further illustrate the point that being born on a cusp date bequeaths a unique personality that can, under the right circumstances, become famous!

Sophia Lauren

Born on September 20, 1934, Sophia Lauren straddles the Virgo/Libra cusp. Her exceptional sensuous beauty brilliantly showcased the handiwork of Venus (Libra’s ruler), while her strong work ethic and dedication to her craft kept the roles coming long after her “prime”.

Maria Sharapova

Tennis star Maria Sharapova’s great athletic abilities clearly demonstrates what happens when you combine the fiery energy of Aries with the tenacity and “bullish-ness” of Taurus. Born April 1987, this Aries/Taurus cusp baby proves that blending the energies of two very different signs can yield fantastic results!

Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman, born June 20, 1967, is an excellent example of the Gemini/Cancer cusp. Multi-talented, Ms. Kidman has played a myriad of Oscar-worthy (and Oscar winning) roles. This chameleon-like (Gemini) quality has served well in such movies as Moulin Rouge and Eyes Wide Shut, while at the same time allowing her sweet, vulnerable side (Cancer) to shine through.

Larry King

Those suspenders. Those glasses. That backgournd! Larry King clearly exemplifies some of the very best traits of the Scorpio/Sagittarius cusp. Born November 19, 1933, Mr. King never shies away from asking the tough questions (Scorpio), and yet, manages to provide an affable charm that completely disarms and relaxes his guests.

Carlo Santana

Living Latin music legend Carlos Santana, born July 20, 1947, is a true product of his Cancer/Leo cusp. His most famous song, Black Magic Woman, clearly demonstrates the Cancerian’s need for love, while his unique guitar playing style pioneered (Leo) a new genre for Latin music.