Ophiuchus

There has been a great deal of controversy over the 13th sign of the zodiac, Ophiuchus (pronounced oh-FEW-kuss), also known as Serpentarius. In 2011, an astronomer from the Minnesota Planetarium Society brought Ophiuchus back into the spotlight when he pointed out that the Earth’s alignment with the constellations has shifted since the ancient Babylonians originally mapped the zodiac some 3,000 years ago.

Ophiuchus is depicted as a man grasping a serpent. The constellation is located between Scorpio and Sagittarius and would cover those born between November 29 and December 17 under the proposed new system. However, it is important to note that most Western astrologers do not recognize Ophiuchus as a valid zodiac sign and continue to use the traditional twelve-sign system based on the tropical zodiac.

Characteristics of Ophiuchus

Those who identify with Ophiuchus are said to be seekers of wisdom and knowledge, with a flamboyant and colorful personality. They are described as interpreters of dreams and have a vivid premonition ability. They are attracted to and lucky with numbers. Ophiuchus individuals are said to achieve high positions of authority and garner favor from those in power. They possess a strong sense of justice and desire for peace and harmony.

Positive traits: Ambitious, Magnetic, Creative, Passionate, Wise, Insightful, Charismatic and Visionary

Negative traits: Jealous, Secretive, Arrogant, Restless, Sarcastic and Temperamental

Proposed Zodiac Dates with Ophiuchus

If Ophiuchus were to be accepted as the 13th sign, the dates for all zodiac signs would shift as follows:

Sign	Proposed Dates
Capricorn	January 20 – February 16
Aquarius	February 16 – March 11
Pisces	March 11 – April 18
Aries	April 18 – May 13
Taurus	May 13 – June 21
Gemini	June 21 – July 20
Cancer	July 20 – August 10
Leo	August 10 – September 16
Virgo	September 16 – October 30
Libra	October 30 – November 23
Scorpio	November 23 – November 29
Ophiuchus	November 29 – December 17
Sagittarius	December 17 – January 20