The Astrological Association Journal of Research in Astrology

The Braid of Time: Jupiter-Saturn-Neptune Cycles as Cultural Paradigms

by Robert Tulip

The Australian National University

The Physics of Astrological Ages (Tulip, 2022) presents a quintuple helix model of the temporal structure of the Solar System, based on the stable repeating pattern of the orbits of Jupiter (JU), Saturn (SA), and Neptune (NE). Five permanent conjunction families are formed by these planets, shown in Figures 1 and 2 below, revised from Tulip (2022). These five Family groups define a primary structure of Solar System time, as shown by their effect on the integral Solar System function of the distance from the Sun to the centre of mass. Every 178.9 years the relative positions of these three gas giant planets are almost identical. Almost every SA-NE conjunction occurs in the next zodiac sign from the previous conjunction in its Family, 179 years previously, skipping every seventh sign. Each triple conjunction in a Family group therefore builds upon the energy of its predecessor, like the annual path of the Sun through the signs. This model of time provides a powerful, simple and elegant framework for mundane astrological analysis, defining a primary cosmic structure of history. This paper explores how these conjunction families reflect major cultural paradigms throughout human history through classical, Christian and modern periods, while also indicating future trends.