39
For completeness, let me throw in Astro (old DOS program from Alexander Marr) and Polaris (from Isaac Starkman), as they calculate Topocentric Primary Directions.

Note that these operate differently (apparently) to the standard understanding of Primary Directions. ie. virtually exact aspects to planets or the relevant House cusps at events, rather than some longer, less-fixed-in-time processes

As for the evaluation/rating of the software....

Astro is an old DOS program, so is graphically limited, definitely not an all-in-one solution, but brings certain valuable tools that are rarely found elsewhere. Additionally, Astro can give a dated list of the dates of partility of directions. ie. a hit-list

Polaris is mainly aimed at rectification, but shows splendidly the particular in-orb Topocentric Primary Directions for any given date for the natal and/or epoch. (additionally it handles secondary progressions (for both natal and/or epoch), shows which planets are angular in many different styles of lunar returns for events.) It also allows the categorizing and storing of the entire list of events for any particular chart.

40
I use mainly the following primary directions

A. Ascendant/Midheaven as Significators (both direct and converse directions)
  • 1. Direction of planets (and their aspects) to the Ascendant (calculated by oblique ascensions)
    2. Direction of planets (and their aspects) to the Midheaven (calculated by right ascensions)
Planets/Lots as Significators - B. Interplanetary directions (both direct and converse directions)
- I focus mainly on the Sun, Moon, Lot of Fortune and Lot of Spirit as Significators
- Also important directions in this category is when the Promissor is Ascendant or Midheaven or their aspect.

The two ways that these interplanteary directions are calculated (that I follow)
  • 1. Ptolemy Interplanetary Directions (Robert Zoller's 'Alchabitius Method')
    2. Regiomontanus Interplanetary Directions (Regio Under the Pole)
Janus calculates all these specific directions and also has a rectification module using them. Hence I like Janus software.
Satya Astrology - Let the truth shine!
https://satyastrology.com/

41
I see. Well, it's been some years since I saw the Janus output (in fact, back in 2008, I was the one to point out to them that their existing PD module was in serious error, something they first denied but subsequently corrected), but I suspect that their so-called converse directions are still back to front from a traditional perspective -- that is, calculated contrary to time, or to the primary motion. The same goes for most software I've seen. It would be interesting to see a few sample directions to confirm or deny that, if you or anyone else would like to post them.

Unfortunately, Robert Zoller didn't really understand the mechanics of directions, so even as he tried to promote their traditional use, he perpetuated misunderstandings that had been gradually creeping in since the 19th century, particularly relating to converse directions. (As it happens, I'll be giving an online academic seminar on the history of converse directions in a few days.)

Incidentally, the Placidean method of proportional semi-arcs and the Regiomontanian method of position circles are mutually exclusive options, based on a correct and an incorrect understanding of Ptolemy's instructions, respectively (or, if you want to be diplomatic, on the original version and a modified version). I've never heard of anyone using both.
https://astrology.martingansten.com/

42
I am not too much into primary direction theory (especially the interplanetary directions) and tend to focus more on practical use. As such I like the empirical results of Dr.H and tend to follow that. Both converse primary directions (moving backwards in time) and Regio Under the Pole Interplanetary directions have merit.

Interested readers could peruse these resources:

Primary Directions: Towards a Uniform Presentation Standard
http://regulus-astrology.com/pdf/Primar ... tation.pdf

Primary Directions: Technical Notes
http://regulus-astrology.com/pdf/PD%20- ... ctions.pdf

Primary Directions: Example Files to accompany Technical Notes
http://regulus-astrology.com/pdf/PD%20- ... 0Files.zip

AIB - Excel Data Files
http://regulus-astrology.com/pdf/AIB%20 ... 0Files.zip
Satya Astrology - Let the truth shine!
https://satyastrology.com/

43
Well, if you don't understand the theory, your practice is going to be of very questionable value. Primary directions have been around for more than 2,000 years; the misunderstanding that converse motion means moving backwards in time dates to the late 19th century.

Of course, the more varieties of calculation you throw into the mix, the greater the chance of a 'hit', at least in retrospect. But people who are interested in understanding the subject properly would do better to read pre-19th-century sources.
https://astrology.martingansten.com/

45
satya7


welcome to skyscript! your post brings up the interesting question - " can everything work?" i think it is a question astrologers have to ask themselves on a regular basis...

46
satya7

welcome to skyscript! your post brings up the interesting question - " can everything work?" i think it is a question astrologers have to ask themselves on a regular basis...

if not everything, what gets omitted?

47
Hello James,

My thinking is that everybody (including me) view the world through their unique lens which could be gleaned through their birth chart. I have a heavy Saturn coloring my thinking as such I tend to favor data and empirical results. It doesn't mean how I view things is the right way. Everybody's truth is going to subjective and then "birds of same feather will flock together."

Having said that, there will be probably some time when the art (astrology) will meet Science and then many techniques will gain favor and many will drop out. Until then, each one of us (including me) can continue to hold on to their cherished techniques.

As to how the Art can meet Science, I suggest one possibility - physiognomy. It is very hard to ignore what you see with your eyes and facial features could be deciphered through computer algorithms as well. Subject them to tests using different astrological models and one should see the effect of astrology and tropical zodiac.

I favor the following model (using Ascendant decan sign and Ascendant decan ruler's sign)

http://regulus-astrology.com/pdf/WP%20o ... 100420.pdf

http://regulus-astrology.com/pdf/WP_on_ ... 8_2011.pdf

I have provided 3 examples in my post on the first house.
https://satyastrology.com/first-house/

I would like to open a thread on physiognomy and post lot of examples, but don't have time now, maybe in the near future. It is really fascinating.

Satya
Satya Astrology - Let the truth shine!
https://satyastrology.com/

48
satya7 wrote:Converse directions (backwards in time) may not be traditional but they do work, (at least to me).

And so does solar arcs (and converse solar arcs and converse transits); all modern techniques.
Oh, absolutely, especially when you stack them on top of each other. If you combine 10-12 different techniques, there won't be a single life event that you can't explain. In retrospect.
https://astrology.martingansten.com/