This applet simulates the solar system as seen from outside. The lines show the zodiacal planetary positions as seen from Earth. The positions shown to the left are heliocentrics, that is to say just as seen from the Sun. Observe that seen from Earth the position of the planets in the zodiac is very different.

The velocity and the helicentrics positions approximate are real, but the diameter of the orbits ARE NOT to scale. Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are draw in the same orbit to reduce size. We have drawn it so that the retrograde effect can clarity be seen.

You can also see the retrograde effect of Mars, just as seen across the Earth's sky HERE.   (click Trace on and Run)

Heliocentric co-ordinates refer to the planetary positions as seen from the Sun at the centre of the chart with all of the planets circling it, as opposed to geocentric with the earth at the centre as in a 'traditional' natal chart.

NOTICE: Planetary positions are calculated by approximation and are not very accurate.