Inner planets are planets whose orbit is within the asteroid belt. They are the closest to the sun. In astrology, they are associated with our individual concerns, personality, and identity expression.
The Sun
Represents: the Self, the Will, Intelligence, and vitality, it’s how our energy shines to others. Light, consciousness, recognition, creativity, drive, libido, and influence. Sometimes the Sun can be represented as Ego and that of the higher self. It may also represent the father figure and/or masculinity. It energizes the House that it lands in and the planets it aspects.
Day: Sunday
Type: Luminary. Inner and/or personal planet.
Orbit Cycle: 365.25 days or 1 year.
Retrograde Cycle: None. The Sun always moves direct.
Rulerships: The Sun rules the zodiac sign of Leo and is exalted in Aries. Detriment in Aquarius. Fall in Libra.
Sect: Diurnal
Tarot Correspondences: Major Arcana, the Sun.
The Moon
Represents: the Emotional Self, Inner feelings, and reflections. It’s how our internal energy permeates within self. The unconscious, instincts, habits and patterns, security, intuition, the nurturing aspect of ones self, and the relatability with others.
Sometimes the Moon can be represented as the soul and that of the persona. It may also represent the mother figure and/or femininity.
It also bestows its lunar phase and luminescence to the natal House that it lands in and planets that it aspects.
Day of the Week: Monday
Planet Type: Luminary. Inner and/or personal planet.
Orbit Cycle: 27.33 days or roughly 1 month.
Retrograde Cycle: None.
Rulerships: The Moon rules the zodiac sign of Cancer and is exalted in Taurus. Detriment in Capricorn. Fall in Scorpio.
Sect: Nocturnal
Tarot Correspondences: Major Arcana, The High Priestess.
Mercury
Represents: The mind, intellect, commerce, technology, and communication. It’s how we communicate to others. Thoughts, words, perceptions, rhetoric, trade, and expression.
Day: Wednesday
Type: Both Benefic or Malefic, depending on condition. Inner and/or personal planet.
Orbit Cycle: 88 days.
Retrograde Cycle: occurs about 3 times a year for about 3 to 3 ½ weeks each time.
Rulerships: Mercury rules the zodiac sign of Gemini and Virgo. Exalted in Aquarius. Detriment in Sagittarius. Fall in Pisces.
Sect: Both Diurnal and Nocturnal
Tarot Correspondences: Major Arcana, the Magician.
Venus
Represents: Aesthetics, arts, beauty, refinement, luxury, romance, love, affection, and sensual pleasure. How you are receptive to and comfortable with love. Sometimes referred to as the Morning Star or the Evening Star.
Day: Friday
Type: Benefic. Inner and/or personal planet.
Orbit Cycle: 225 days.
Retrograde Cycle: Once per 18 months for about 6 weeks.
Rulerships: Venus rules the zodiac sign of Taurus and Libra. Exalted in Pisces. Detriment in Aries and Scorpio. Fall in Virgo.
Sect: Nocturnal
Tarot Correspondences: Major Arcana, the Empress.
Mars
Represents: Outward activity and animal passions. Sexual drive, aggression, and anger. How you assert yourself. Courage and volition. What will stimulate your physical energies.How you are comfortable asserting yourself. Sometimes referred to as the Red planet.
Day: Tuesday
Type: Malefic. Inner and/or personal planet.
Orbit Cycle: 685 days.
Retrograde Cycle: Once per 2 years for about 2 months.
Rulerships: Mars rules the zodiac sign of Aries and Scorpio. Exalted in Capricorn. Detriment in Taurus and Libra. Fall in Pisces.
Sect: Nocturnal
Tarot Correspondences: Major Arcana, the Tower.
