The Astronomical Observatories of Jai Singh c20.s1.4

c20.s1.4

The Ascendant, or ‘horoscope,’ is the point of the ecliptic rising to the horizon at the given moment. Its determination is the first and most important astrological problem. By means of the Jai Prakāś (page 37), or the Kapāla, the ascendant could be determined by inspection. On the Jai Prakāś the shadow of the intersection of the cross wires shows, not only the position of the sun, but also the sign that is on the meridian, from which the rising sign could be deduced; while the Kapāla shews the rising sign itself.