An astrocartography map can contain many lines at once. Starting with a particular location, planet and line type makes it easier to keep track of what you are comparing. Hermes provides a workspace in which you can examine the map through separate layers.
This guide starts with the map of Türkiye and adds layers in sequence. The images show the product with sample data. They are not a personal relocation recommendation or a prediction of what will happen in a particular city.
1. Start with planetary lines and Cards closed
The What is astrocartography? article explains the method and the meaning of the ASC, DSC, MC and IC lines; this guide shows the Hermes layers step by step.
In the example screen, Cards are closed so the map of Türkiye has room to breathe. The Planets layer displays the selected planets’ ASC, DSC, MC and IC lines. Choose the planet and line type you want to research, then follow the line together with its planet and axis label.
When returning to a map, check that you are using the same person, calculation context and layer selection. Zooming helps you read the map. Visual density alone does not establish that a location is more suitable for you.
2. Read orb bands alongside the lines
The Orb layer lets you inspect distance bands around the lines in kilometres. Read the line itself separately from the surrounding band. In this view, opening the bands does not move the planetary lines on the map.
Make a note of the orb range when comparing locations. A region looking busier at a wider range does not mean that additional planetary lines have appeared. Begin with a fixed range, then change the width to make the difference between the views easier to follow.
3. Check the Treasure profile and density together
In the Treasure map, choose a purpose profile and visible density to inspect combination cells and weighted lines. Changing the profile changes which indicators receive emphasis. Read the displayed area together with the profile name and density setting.
Open the relevant information for a cell rather than relying on its colour alone. The map is a tool for investigating your selected indicators. A coloured area should not be treated as a guarantee of success, a relationship or another life outcome.
4. Explore eclipses, Dual AstroMap and intersections
The eclipse view displays central paths and approximate bands of solar eclipses within a selected date range. Check that range before reading the map. An eclipse-path layer and natal planetary lines represent different kinds of information.
Dual AstroMap compares the solid and dashed lines, axes and geographic intersections of two natal charts. In the Intersections tool, select planets and line types, then open the information card for the point where two lines meet. Following the names of both lines helps preserve context on a dense map.
5. Work with one research question at a time
Find the region you want to investigate. Make a limited selection in the Planets layer and read the labels. Then open Orb and examine the same region. Before adding a Treasure profile or a second chart, note your previous selection and calculation context.
This makes it clear which setting changed with each view. After reading this guide, use the six-step tour on the Features page to compare Planets, Orb, Treasure, Eclipses, Dual AstroMap and Intersections in sequence.
Questions about this workflow
Does opening Orb move the lines?
No, not in this view. Orb displays distance bands around the existing lines; the lines themselves remain in the same positions.
What does Dual AstroMap compare?
It compares the planetary lines, axes and geographic intersections of two natal charts. Solid and dashed lines distinguish the two people.
Can I calculate my own map on this page?
This is a guide to the Hermes desktop application. The product images do not perform a personal calculation. Check Programs for installer availability.