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North Node calculator
What is my North Node? Enter your date of birth to find your North and South Node.
What are the lunar nodes?
The lunar nodes are the two points where the Moon’s path crosses the Sun’s path across the sky. They are not objects; they are places in the sky. The North Node is one, and the South Node sits exactly opposite it.
In astrology the North Node points to the qualities you are growing toward in this life, and the South Node to what is familiar and comfortable. People often call the pair a “soul purpose” or “destiny” axis. That is the tradition, not science.
True node or mean node?
There are two ways to calculate the nodes. The mean node moves smoothly backwards around the zodiac. The true node follows the real position of the crossing, which wobbles around the mean by up to about 1.5 degrees. Most of the time both are in the same sign. Sometimes they are not, and this calculator shows both so you can see.
The nodes move backwards through the zodiac, taking about 18.6 years to go all the way around, so each sign lasts about a year and a half.
Frequently asked questions
How is my North Node calculated?
The true node comes from a table built from the Moon’s orbit using NASA JPL data. The mean node uses the standard formula from Jean Meeus, Astronomical Algorithms. Both are given in the tropical zodiac.
Which one should I use, true or mean?
Either is valid. Many astrologers use the true node; many apps default to the mean node. Use the one your chart software uses.
Why does the North Node move backwards?
Because of how the Moon’s orbit slowly turns. It is called retrograde motion, and for the nodes it is normal.
What is the South Node?
The point exactly opposite the North Node, in the opposite sign.
Do I need my birth time?
Usually not. If the node changes sign on your birth date, the calculator shows both signs and asks for a time.
What dates does the calculator cover?
Birth dates from 2 January 1900 to 31 December 2099. Outside that range the calculator will say so rather than guess.
Is this scientifically proven?
No. The position is an astronomical calculation; the meanings are astrological tradition. Use them for fun and reflection.