The Physics of Astrological Ages

by Robert Tulip, MA (Hons), GDIA The Australian National University

Correlation, Vol. 34(2) 2022, pp 17-34

Abstract

Astrological Ages are periods of 2,147.6 years in which the equinox points move backward through successive zodiac constellations. Their physical effect on the Earth can be understood through analysis of three orbital movements. Firstly, the precession of the equinoxes marks the slow shift of the seasons against the stars, observed since ancient times. Secondly, precession combines with orbital cycles of the perihelion, axial tilt and orbital eccentricity to drive long-term climate change. Thirdly, the movement of the Solar System Barycentre (SSB) has a cycle with period of 179 years, one twelfth of an Astrological Age. Precession and its climate effects are well known in astronomy. The connection to the SSB is a new observation advanced in this paper to define the physics of Astrological Ages through a 179-year cycle of the Sun against the SSB caused by the triple conjunction cycles of the gas giant planets Jupiter, Saturn and Neptune. Successive triple conjunctions of these three planets every 179 years advance by 31° of arc, slightly more than one zodiac sign, providing a physical basis for what astrologers have called the Houses of the Astrological Age. These triple  conjunctions occur in five family groups, forming an orderly pattern of the solar system that is stable over billions of years. This data informs study of the mechanics and meaning of the New Age of Aquarius.