No matter what you’ve heard or read, NASA maintains they didn’t change your zodiac sign. They just did the math.
- NASA says ancient Babylonians omitted one constellation
- Constellation omitted named Ophiuchus
- Astrology experts insist change doesn't apply to most Westerners
NASA researchers, who of course study Astronomy, as opposed to Astrology, explained that there are actually 13 astrological signs, instead of 12. About 3,000 years ago, the Babylonians divided the zodiac into 12 equal parts and picked one constellation for each.
The Babylonians had a 12 month calendar, so each month was supposed to get its own slice of the Zodiac. NASA said Babylonians messed up when, according to their own ancient stories, they left once constellation out to fit with their calendar: Ophiuchus
When the difference was explained on a website aimed at kids, people with zodiac sign tattoos everywhere got nervous.
NASA also points out that the idea that astrology can affect your life or predict your personality is just make believe.
Before you get too upset, astrology experts say this shift in the zodiac signs does not apply to most Westerners, who follow the tropical zodiac, which is fixed to the seasons.
For more information on Ophiuchus and its place among the stars, visit spaceplace.nasa.gov.