Ascendant (confusing!) / Sacred space

[AstraSkye]

I browse this forum randomly, and I just get more and more confused ;) So, I have a couple of questions, and I'd be very grateful for ANY help... :) I'm completely new to Astrology, though very interested.

I keep running into the word "ascendant". What does it mean exactly? Someone once told me it was "the opposite of my Zodiac sign", or something along the lines of that. I also keep hearing about "sun and moon signs", and I am mad confused. Where can I read more about this - anyone feel like giving me a quick explanation?

And... I'm planning to make myself a sacred space. I want to place something there that symbolizes my Zodiac sign (Aquarius - Feb. 4th, 1984). Any ideas, or do I sound completely crazy? ;)

Thanks.

:)

[moon-in-libra]

The ascendant is the sign that was on the horizon when you were born.

These signs change cusps(rulers) to the earth's axis every hour and a half or so, going through the zodiac in a day.

For example, if you were born at sunrise, your ascendant would be Aquarius. A hour or so later, it's turn to Pisces, then Aqarius, and so on.

To find out more, go to www.astro.com, to free charts, and input your birth data. The "AC", on the left side of the chart will be your ascendant.

The ascendant is just what you appear to others. It's what I'd guess your sun sign to be if I just met you somewhere. It's what you project to others.

Other good sites are www.mountainastrology.com, www.astrolog.com, www.astroinsights.com, www.bobmarksastrologer.com, www.esoterism.com.

[moon-in-libra]

Forgot to say that the astrological symbol for Aquarius is an eagle. The eagle represents air, as Aquarius is the fixed sign of air. A huge feather could be used for your altar...

[AstraSkye]

Wow... thanks!! :D These answers really helped!!