Libra is the seventh constellation of the zodiac. Its name is the Latin word meaning “measuring scales.”

Astrologically, the Sun resides in the house of Libra from September 23 to October 22 each year.

The astrological symbol for Libra is ♎, and the constellation sits in the sky between Virgo to the west and Scorpius to the east. Other nearby constellations include Ophiuchus, Hydra, Lupus, and Centaurus.

Libra Constellation

Libra is a relatively faint constellation, containing no first magnitude stars. Some of the more prominent stars within its boundaries include Zubenelgenubi, Zubeneschamali, Zubenelakrab, and Brachium. By far, the most notable Libran star is Gliese 581, which has at least four planets, two of which are Earth-like planets within the star’s habitable zone.

In Greek mythology, Libra represents the scales held by Astraea, the goddess of justice (the constellation Virgo). It is the only sign in the zodiac that is an inanimate object, rather than an animal or person. To the Babylonians, Libra was known as “the claws of the scorpion” and considered part of the neighboring constellation, Scorpius.

Traits of Libras

People born during this period have Libra as their Sun sign. Proponents of astrological determinism believe that people born under the same Sun sign share certain character traits. Libra people are most often described as fair-minded, idealistic, easygoing, charming, compassionate, diplomatic, intelligent, and sensitive.

Jaime McLeod is a longtime journalist who has written for a wide variety of newspapers, magazines, and websites, including MTV.com. She enjoys the outdoors, growing and eating organic food, and is interested in all aspects of natural wellness.

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