Mars
Rules Aries & Scorpio (traditional) · 2 years orbit · Exalted in Capricorn
Mars quick reference
Rules
Aries, Scorpio (traditional)
Exalted in
Capricorn
Detriment
Libra/Taurus
Fall
Cancer
Orbit
2 years
Tarot
The Tower (XVI)
What Mars Governs
Mars is the planet of action, desire, and physical energy — the cosmic engine behind your drive, ambition, and competitive instinct. It governs how you pursue what you want, handle conflict, and express anger. Mars retrogrades approximately every 2 years for about 10 weeks, a period associated with frustration, misdirected energy, and the need to redirect drive inward.
Mars in the Natal Chart
Mars's sign shows how you take action and assert yourself. Mars in Aries is direct and immediate; Mars in Cancer acts from emotional instinct and may be passive-aggressive when threatened. Mars's house shows where your energy and ambition are focused — Mars in the 10th builds career through action; Mars in the 7th brings intensity and sometimes conflict to partnerships. Mars-Venus aspects shape sexual chemistry; Mars-Saturn aspects create frustration but also disciplined achievement.
Mars Transits
Transiting Mars spends approximately 6 weeks in each sign (longer during retrograde). Mars transiting your 1st house increases physical energy and assertiveness; Mars transiting your 7th can trigger conflict or passionate intensity in relationships. Mars retrograde (every 2 years) is associated with frustrated action, mechanical failures, and the need to redirect rather than push.
Mars in Vedic Astrology
In Vedic astrology, Mars (Mangala or Kuja) represents courage, siblings, property, and the military. It is a natural malefic but a functional benefic for certain Lagnas. Mangala Dosha (Mars in 1st, 4th, 7th, 8th, or 12th house) is a significant marriage consideration in Jyotish. Mars is exalted in Capricorn (Makara) and debilitated in Cancer (Karka). Mangala Mahadasha lasts 7 years.
Body Parts & Health
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Mars represent in astrology?
Mars represents action, desire, physical energy, courage, and aggression. It governs how you pursue goals, handle conflict, assert yourself, and express your drive and ambition.
What is Mars retrograde?
Mars retrogrades approximately every 2 years for about 10 weeks. It is associated with frustrated action, mechanical failures, and misdirected energy. It is best to review and redirect rather than force new initiatives.
What sign is Mars exalted in?
Mars is exalted in Capricorn, where its drive is most disciplined and goal-directed. It is in detriment in Libra and Taurus, and in fall in Cancer.
See Mars in your birth chart
Arcanavana calculates Mars's exact position and aspects in your Western natal chart, Vedic Kundli, and BaZi Four Pillars.
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