Astrology basics

Exaltation

Exaltation is the sign where a given planet operates exceptionally strongly and positively, without formally ruling it — the Sun is exalted in Aries, for example, and the Moon in Taurus.

It's the second-strongest planetary dignity, traditionally described as a placement where the planet is an "honored guest" — operating almost as freely as in its own domicile, though with a slightly different flavor of meaning.