Tonight, look for Deneb, the brightest star in the constellation Cygnus the Swan. The night sky chart at the top of this post presents the view toward the northeast in mid-to-late evening during the month of May. It’s the view from mid-northern latitudes. It’s by looking in this direction that you can get a good look at the bright star Deneb, which should be visible even in tonight’s moon-drenched skies. This star is part of not one but two striking star patterns. And it’s one of the most distant stars we can see with the eye alone, well over 1,000 light-years away. Follow the links below to learn more.
Deneb is part of the Summer Triangle pattern. Deneb – along with the stars Vega and Altair – is part of the famous Summer Triangle asterism, which will be well up in the east in mid-evening next month. On these Northern Hemisphere late spring evenings, you might not be able to see the whole Summer Triangle until later at night. The star Altair will be the last of these three stars to rise. But you can see the bright star Deneb to the lower left of Vega, the Summer Triangle’s brightest star.
Deneb is also part of a smaller, cross-like pattern. Deneb is the brightest star in the constellation Cygnus the Swan. If you look at the cross-like pattern indicated on the chart at the top of this post, you might be able to imagine Deneb as the point marking the short tail of a long-necked swan flying toward the south. This is how early Arabian stargazers saw it. The name Deneb comes from the Arabic and means tail, and in skylore Deneb is often said to be the Tail of the Swan. The little star Albireo marks the Swan’s Head.
But there’s another way to see this pattern of stars that works equally well. In more modern skylore, this pattern is sometimes called the Northern Cross. It looks like a cross, right? If you prefer to see the Cross instead of the Swan, Deneb marks the head of the Cross. Cross or Swan … this is a lovely pattern to pick out on the sky’s dome.
Astronomers know that Deneb is one of the most distant stars we can see with the eye alone. The exact distance to Deneb can only be estimated, with estimates ranging from about 1,425 light-years to perhaps as much as 7,000 light-years. At any of these estimates distances, Deneb is one of the farthest stars the unaided human eye can see. It is so far, that the light that reaches the Earth today started on its journey well more than 1,000 years ago.
Bottom line: The star Deneb is part of the Summer Triangle asterism. And it’s part of the constellation Cygnus the Swan, which can also be seen as a Cross. Look for the star Deneb tonight! At well over 1,000 light-years away, it’s one of the most distant stars we can see with the eye alone.
The EarthSky team has a blast bringing you daily updates on your cosmos and world. We love your photos and welcome your news tips. Earth, Space, Human World, Tonight.
Four of Swords
A period of rest and restoration of energies. Tensions subside. Good changes are soon to come.
Sowilo
The Sun Rune, denotes power and strength. That which you want may be attained. Sowilo also denotes mental clarity and added warmth to your relationships.
The Hei Tiki
Now is an ideal time to learn. Your mind is particularly keen at this time for the study of witchcraft, divination and esoteric subjects. Knowledge affects this aspect.
Your Daily Influences represent events and challenges the current day will present for you. They may represent opportunities you should be ready to seize. Or they may forewarn you of problems you may be able to avoid or lessen. Generally it is best to use them as tips to help you manage your day and nothing more.
Today’s Meaning:
A course of events that cannot be altered has been set in motion within this aspect. Accept whatever happens in the near future and do not waste your time fretting about it–you can do nothing.
General Description:
This was a favourite charm in Egypt, worn in order to frustrate magicians, sorcerers and evil wishers from bewitching the wearer and stealing the soul from the heart; for it was the general belief that if the soul left the heart, the body would soon fade away and perish. The ancient Egyptians also believed that, after death, the heart was taken, in the underworld, and weighed against the symbols of the law; if found perfect, it was restored to the body, which at once came to life again and enjoyed everlasting felicity
I had a lady in the back ask me about the Witches Runes. She wanted to know if I could explain them to her. At that time, I didn’t take time to respond to her because the Runes are complicated. Well not complicated, just a lot to them. Their history, how to make them, how to consecrate them, how to use them for divination and much, much more. I could not begin to give you all the details involved in the Runes in that tiny comment section. So I posted the link to our Rune section below. It will give you a general idea of what they are. I believe mostly there is info about the Elder Futhark Runes is there. The Witches Runes only consists of 13 runes and there is very little known about them. Every time I run across anything about them, I immediately snatch it.
I didn’t want you to think I had ignored you. But there is way too much about the Runes for me to explain back there and this link will give you a better understanding than I ever could. After you look over, if you have any questions, please let me know.
Meaning: This is a rune of difficulty and negative influences will rule your life for a time, but as all difficulties are a learning experience it will lead to improved personal perspective and progress on your life’s path. Always consult the surrounding runes with this stone. If it lies with a positive stone, it indicates that the pain of this experience will lead to a beneficial change in circumstances
At its extreme Evil indicates a life force that embodies pure malevolence. Fortunately Evil in the extreme is very rare. Generally Evil suggests actions taken that challenge our morality and without regard to the harm that may be done to others. The appearance of Evil signifies a time in which someone is acting out of rage, selfishness, ignorance, or, sadly, sating a mean spirit.
As a daily card Evil is a warning that you or your group are the focus of someone’s malice. This is time for you to be very wary of the motives of those who haven’t earned your trust. It is likely you have something they want and they are willing to go to extremes to take it from you.
Uruz is the Rune of harmony, order and inner strength. Often it marks endings and beginnings of periods in our lives. Uruz also symbolizes your ability to tackle new challenges by confronting them with the powers that lie within you. Opportunities probably abound for you right now.
Your PresentCircumstances Naudhiz
Naudhiz may foretell needs unmet and friction in relationships. You may be in a time where you should be very careful in whatever endeavor you take on. Also it may be that you are about to learn some of life’s hard lessons and come out the other side of this period a stronger being.
A Glimpse of The Future Perthro
Mysteries will become known to you. You should be able to see your life’s path clearly at this time. Pethro is often thought of as “Gambler’s Rune.” You are in a lucky period right now. Chance is your ally. Take advantage of it.
The Emperor is blessed with the skills to successfully lead others. He can turn chaos into order and provide structure to that which is unbound. He is quick of mind and confident in his power and right to rule, and does so in a just manner. Although stern by nature, he truly is the ultimate father figure. He will provide as needed, teach those with unanswered questions, protect the vulnerable, set and maintain boundaries. His perfect world runs on schedule and is free of any disturbances. What the Emperor must be wary of is setting boundaries and rules where none are needed. If he isn’t careful not to over use his powers he may well become a tyrant.
This card represents immaturity and loss of control, spiritual weakness
Today’s Challenge
Prudence Reversed
Prudence reversed denotes folly and a lack of wisdom and insight. Beware of impulsiveness. Gather your courage and open your mind to see what is really going on around you.
Today’s Ally
Nine of Swords
Sorrow, loss and impossible burdens may be present or near
The Emperor is blessed with the skills to successfully lead others. He can turn chaos into order and provide structure to that which is unbound. He is quick of mind and confident in his power and right to rule, and does so in a just manner. Although stern by nature, he truly is the ultimate father figure. He will provide as needed, teach those with unanswered questions, protect the vulnerable, set and maintain boundaries. His perfect world runs on schedule and is free of any disturbances. What the Emperor must be wary of is setting boundaries and rules where none are needed. If he isn’t careful not to over use his powers he may well become a tyrant.
The Sun moves into your communications sector today, dear Aries, where it will transit for a month. This puts a spotlight on your daily affairs, as well as your needs to learn, connect, communicate, and commute. The Sun is encouraging you to take more interest in the world around you. This can be a busy time in which you take on quite a few projects and have many different things to do, but not necessarily focus on one thing in particular. Today, there can be some problems with objectivity, however, as a Mars-Pluto challenge that first occurred in March recurs now. Watch for unusual reactions to others’ opinions. Avoid letting out festering anger in the public eye or on the job. Take the high road, but also aim to confront any emerging anger or tension.
Taurus
Taurus
The Sun enters Gemini and your sector of finances and values today, dear Taurus, where it will continue to transit for a month. Your major focus is on material affairs and comfort issues during this cycle. Extravagance with your pocketbook is something you may want to look out for. If you find yourself itching to make unnecessary purchases, know that at the root of this urge is the desire to pamper and comfort yourself. Aim to take charge, build your resources, and rediscover or develop talents. Today there can be some building tension, particularly surrounding matters of intimacy and sharing, including financial support. Tricky power dynamics are possible now. Direct action may not be appropriate or successful now, and a more indirect or subtle approach could be more strategic and clever.
Gemini
Gemini
The Sun enters your sign today, dear Gemini, where it will stay until June 20th. This cycle gives you a personal boost of sorts – you feel a little more in charge of your life now. This is the start of your solar year, so be sure to give it your best. Your personality as well as your personal needs and plans are in strong focus. Others tend to follow your lead or they let you do your thing. This is a time for engaging in any confidence-building activity that helps to improve your appearance and manner. Mars is currently in your partnership sector – a position that tends to make you feel that others are more in charge than you are – but will leave this sector on the 27th. Today, there can be a tendency to withhold information or to keep your plans to yourself for now. People in your life may be playing games with you today, and it would be wise to avoid involving yourself in them. In the next couple of days, problems in relationships can surface for handling.
Cancer
Cancer
The Sun enters your privacy and soul sector today, dear Cancer, where it will transit for the coming month. You’re in the background now, and this may very well be by choice. You may need extra downtime, or you could be a little hard to reach. This is a period of rest and of physical and emotional replenishment – not the best time to push yourself or your plans, but an excellent time for getting your bearings and reflecting upon recent events and feelings. You may be closing matters that have run their natural course, and you may instinctively withdraw from the hustle and bustle of daily life in an attempt to get to know yourself, your goals, and your needs. There can be some tension building today, particularly related to work, routines, and well-being, and this can serve to push a problem area into your awareness.
Leo
Leo
You’re entering a generally pleasant solar cycle today that puts the focus on social activities, team work, friendships, dreams, and ideals for the coming month, dear Leo. It’s time to explore your place in the group – in your social circle or community. Friendships assume more importance now, and the need or desire to be part of a group is emphasized. Today’s energy can be intense, and it’s important to try to stay centered and focused rather than to allow others’ dramas to throw off decision making. In fact, something is building and tension experienced now can be released in the next couple of days. Circumstances or people can almost seem to be riling you up and stimulating hidden anger, particularly in your love and/or working relationships. You’ll soon be in the position to understand your feelings and desires more clearly.
Virgo
Virgo
The Sun begins transiting your sector of career and reputation today, dear Virgo, and much of your attention is drawn to these matters for the coming month. It’s a good period for taking charge of your life and for becoming clearer about your long-term goals. Mars is currently pulling your strong attention to your personal and home life, however, and there can be a bit of a tug of war to deal with in the coming days. Lingering and unresolved problems, particularly in your domestic life, can surface for handling. It will be important to clear things up – or clear the air. Today, it can take a bit of time to fully understand the source of inner conflicts, so it’s important to avoid allowing tension to rule your behavior or drive decisions.
Libra
Libra
With the Sun’s entry into your adventure sector today, dear Libra, you’re entering a month-long cycle in which you are likely to search for greater meaning and richer experiences. Anything that expands your understanding of the world around you appeals greatly now, and this theme only becomes stronger in the coming weeks. There can be a battle going on within today, however, with Mars in minor, challenging aspect to Pluto. This is a repeat influence that occurred in March and is recurring with Mars in retrograde. Triggers of frustrations can seem to be everywhere now, and in the next couple of days, buried anger or resentment can surface, at times disruptively. However, this is a revealing time as you learn what may be driving difficult behavior, and you get a chance to finally deal with it. If hidden anger is stirred, it can be a step forward to get it out in the open.
Scorpio
Scorpio
The Sun enters Gemini today, and this influences the eighth house of your solar chart for the coming month, dear Scorpio. Intimate matters assume greater importance in your life. Personal transformations, personal power, and intimate matters fulfill you most during this cycle. There may be a strong focus on other’s money, such as the resources of a partner. You are more intense in your mood and disposition, and perhaps even secretive, at this time of year. This can be a determined and personally powerful time of year if you apply the energy of this transit constructively. Face your fears! And, do so with self-honesty in order to make the best of this Sun cycle. Today, there can be some tension building that is likely to be released in the next two days, likely revolving around values, respect, and finances. You may be feeling a rather protective need to defend yourself and your self-respect.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius
The Sun enters Gemini and your solar seventh house today, dear Sagittarius, where it will transit for the month ahead. This puts the spotlight on your close relationships, and by extension, your own expectations from others. It’s a cycle in which your personal plans may need to take a back seat to those of another. After the 27th, when Mars moves out of your sign, you’ll experience an even stronger focus on others and less on your personal needs and plans. Today and in the next couple of days, however, you can be wrestling with getting your way, or with strong desires and compulsions. Try not to push others as you seek your own answers, but pay attention to what comes bubbling up to the surface.
Capricorn
Capricorn
The Sun enters Gemini and your solar sixth house today, dear Capricorn, where it will transit for the coming month. The Sun is turning your attention to practical matters, and especially your work, routines, and health. Focusing on self-improvement through self-care programs can be especially effective. You take more pride in, and are more equipped to take charge of, your health and wellness. Frustrations that you may have operating under the surface may emerge today, possibly in disruptive ways. Even issues that you may have thought were ancient history could surface under moments of duress. In the next couple of days, you could be discovering much about your inner workings, needs, and desires.
Aquarius
Aquarius
The Sun enters your romance and creativity sector today, dear Aquarius, where it will shine for a month. This is a time when expressive and pleasure-seeking activities come into focus and grab much of your attention. You are personally charming in a spontaneous, natural way during this solar cycle. This is a time of year when you are ready to perform and to express yourself creatively. It’s a very playful cycle, and in the coming weeks you can be quite inspired creatively and emotionally. A tense aspect between Mars and Pluto today can serve to pull up buried frustrations, particularly revolving around friends or long-term goals. The next couple of days can be illuminating in this respect, allowing you to get into better touch with what changes need to be made in order to improve your sense of fulfillment.
Pisces
Pisces
The Sun enters Gemini and your sector of home and family today, dear Pisces, where it will transit for a full month. While Mars is stimulating you to take on ambitious projects, the Sun is encouraging you to tend to your hearth. This is a good cycle for family activities, home improvement, and improving your sense of safety, security, and comfort. It’s also strong for reconnecting with your roots. Today, there is some tendency for people to take things quite personally. You may want to avoid power games with people in your life, and especially friends and those in authority. Keep an emotional distance if people seem to have an agenda.
You possess a regal manner, an exceptionally sharp intellect, and great independence. Others frequently turn to you for advice, and you make a gentle and effective leader. You follow your own belief system and are passionate about what and who you believe in. Your intuition is top-notch.
Famous people born today: Andre the Giant, Pete Townshend, Malcolm X, Nora Ephron, Polly Walker, Sam Smith.
Your Birthday Year Forecast:
You are likely to be popular with others when it comes to your ideas and communications this year, especially as you are communicating with optimism and cheerfulness, and this can bring rewarding experiences and opportunities into your life.
Your ability to express yourself and to solve problems is enhanced this year. You may have opportunities to travel, and matters related to publishing, teaching, and writing should go especially well. You may find that you have the right information at the right time this year. You could also have big ideas and plans, as your mind is filled with ideas. Work, especially in communications, goes well. Relationships with young people may be particularly rewarding and positive. An optimistic attitude serves you very well this year. The desire to expand your mind is strong, and this is a good year to take up studies or to further your education. It’s also excellent for teaching and speaking. With greater receptivity to new ideas and perspectives, you are more likely to attract positive energies into your life.
Something big may be in the works regarding your love or social life this year. You’ll have a chance to heal old wounds with regards to love and friendship this year. You’re also bound to find new ways of making money.
With Mars-Pluto energy in your Solar Return chart, channeled positively, you could move mountains when it comes to pushing your projects ahead. If mishandled, however, there could be some obsessive or compulsive behavior. Avoid taking extreme measures to make things happen your way, and avoid people who might be doing same. Deliberately trying to maneuver things in order to get the upper hand will likely be a lesson in frustration.
There may be a project, idea, or person that demands much of your attention or occupies much of your thoughts. It’s a strong year for any project or studies that require concentrated effort. You are especially resourceful. You are willing to put in the effort and dedication to a mental interest or project. Business and promotional efforts can thrive. You can experience a strong desire to master a subject or deepen your knowledge and skillset.
You are very likely to attract loving relationships and/or new warm social contacts into your life. Your popularity increases and efforts to smooth over challenges in partnerships are more likely to succeed. This is a strong period for negotiations, unions, and business partnerships.
This can be a good year for enjoying friendships and connections with others. It’s a fine period for teaching and learning, and is excellent for seeking advanced training or for furthering your education. You are likely to make good contacts with others, particularly in love and friendship. Your popularity soars this year, and your love or social life is especially meaningful and rich.
2016 is a Number Six year for you. Ruled by Venus. This is a year of relative contentment. It is a time when love is the easiest to attract, and partnerships formed under this vibration have a better chance for longevity. You are able to attract others, and material things as well, this year. This is a good year for establishing harmony in the family and in the home. Advice – develop existing relationships, be positive and receptive because these kinds of energies help you to attract what you desire.
2017 will be a Number Seven year for you. Ruled by Neptune. This is a year of preparation, chance, and refinement. It is not a time of dramatic changes. Instead, it’s a year when reflection on the past is helpful, and when refinements to your life path should be made. It’s a good year to study and analyze. Unexpected twists to your life story and “chance” meetings are probable. Advice – take stock of your life in order to prepare for more exciting years to come, examine the past and plan for the future, get in touch with your deepest needs and uncover your personal power, don’t strain yourself or actively try to expand
Four of Swords
Sowilo
Uruz
Naudhiz
Perthro
The Eastern Emperor Reversed
Prudence Reversed
Nine of Swords
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