Heliocentric astrology

Heliocentric astrology literally means 'Sun-Centred' astrology. 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 with the earth at the centre as in a 'traditional' natal chart. Therefore heliocentric placements can be quite different from the ones we are used to, especially for the faster moving planets. Often the sign as well as the degree is quite different, even for the slower moving planets.
Usually, we include the position of the earth in a heliocentric chart, and the Earth is always exactly opposite the natal Sun. As a result, any aspect made to the Sun geocentrically (in a normal natal chart) will automatically form a heliocentric aspect to the Earth - these aspects are extremely important.
Calculation of a heliocentric chart is not difficult, especially with today's software, but even by hand the process is not especially complicated. The interpretation of it, however, requires a thorough understanding of traditional astrological principles. The sign of the planet heliocentrically is as important as geocentrically, and rulerships remain the same. The difference in interpretation is that a heliocentric placement in a sign indicates matters of public interest; geocentric positions are more concerned with private, subjective matters. Heliocentric planets describe our more public activities, alliances and actions.
The traditional planetary and sign meanings are appropriate in both heliocentric and geocentric charts. For instance, Jupiter in either chart will be concerned with expansion, optimism and education, but heliocentric Jupiter will be more important if those qualities lead us into public action. Geocentric Jupiter would be apparent on a more personal level, and may not be apparent to others.
The heliocentric system tells us a lot about our status, whether local, national or international, and is especially related to our public life, career and experience of recognition or criticism in the world at large.
The house position of heliocentric planets is always important, especially if there is any contact with the Ascendant or Midheaven. Also, the heliocentric system opens up the possibility of aspect patters that could never happen in the geocentric system - such as Venus in major aspect to the Sun. As Mercury and Venus are closer to the Sun than to the earth, and move around the Sun much faster than the earth does, they have the widest variations between the geocentric and heliocentric positions.
When using both systems together, it is important to use tight orbs, else matters become very confusing. 5 degrees is usually the maximum orb allowable for aspects to the Sun.
We can calculate day-for-a-year progressions in the heliocentric system, just as in the geocentric one, and this is worthwhile for several things: progressed helio to natal geo, progressed helio to progressed helio, progressed geo to natal helio, and progressed geo to progressed helio. The progressed natal Ascendant and Midheaven are very important, and an orb of only 1 degree should be allowed for progressions. There is no such thing as a helio Ascendant or Midheaven.
Transits in the heliocentric system are also important. We can use helio positions as transits to geo natal planets, or geo positions as transits to helio natal planets. When a heliocentric planet progresses to a new sign, there will be a corresponding change in outlook, experience or activities, especially in the more public arena of life.

http://www.sign-astrology.com