Author: Alison Price   –   Published: October 2025

On your Marks, Get set, Go!

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to process life in such a distinct way through thinking, feeling and expressing themselves almost in a rhythm of their own? The rising order of the Sun, Mercury and Venus offers a fascinating clue.

Finnish astrologer Raimo A. Nikula explored how the sequence of these inner planets shapes our ego, our communication style, and the way we connect with others.

In this article, we’ll explore the six possible sequences, uncover what each one reveals about perception, thought and relationships, and see how this insight can bring a fresh perspective to your own chart or the charts of those with whom you work. Alison

The Rising Order of the Sun and Inner Planets

Sun, Mercury, and Venus

Finnish astrologer Raimo A. Nikula has contributed important research on the rising order of the Sun, Mercury and Venus.

His article “The Rising Orders of the Sun and Inner Planets: Introduction to the Pattern of Ego Processing” (Nikula, Volume 52, Number 4, July/August 2010) explores how the sequence in which these three bodies rise can shape personality expression and ego development.

Six Sequences

Nikula outlines six possible rising sequences for the Sun, Mercury, and Venus. His focus is on cases where these planets rise consecutively, without being interrupted by the other planets in the chart. In such instances, their order of appearance reveals much about how the individual processes life experience.

Rising Order: General Meaning

First to rise

Represents original perception and how the individual initially encounters the world.

Second to rise

Builds upon and solidifies those first impressions, giving them form and structure.

Third to rise

Indicates the area that requires ongoing nourishment and attention in order to be fully integrated into the personality.

This sequence highlights how the Sun, Mercury and Venus work together in shaping one’s style of ego processing. It shows not only the order in which these planets rise but also the rhythm through which perception, understanding, and integration unfold in a person’s life.

Consecutively

Without Interruption

Nikula studied how the rising sequence of the Sun, Mercury and Venus can illuminate the way we process life experiences, form impressions and integrate our ego. When these three planets rise consecutively and without interruption from other planets, their order can be seen as a kind of “ego processing pattern.” There are six possible sequences and each one has a distinct characteristic

1. Sun → Mercury → Venus

First to rise (Sun)

Original self-expression is confident and visible. The person projects their identity naturally.

Second to rise (Mercury)

Thoughts and communication solidify the first impression. The individual thinks through their self-expression clearly.

Third to rise (Venus)

Relationships and values require attention and integration. Social and emotional connections are developed gradually.

Example: Someone with this sequence might appear self-assured and articulate but slowly learns to harmonize with others emotionally.

Maxie’s Chart

Sun – Mercury – Venus

Below is a copy of Maxie’s chart whom we did an interpretation for earlier this year.

You can see the full interpretations here.

Maxie has her rising order as Sun – Mercury – Venus with no interference from other planets.

2. Sun → Venus → Mercury

First (Sun)

Core self-expression is strong and central.te

Second (Venus)

Social grace, charm, and aesthetic awareness reinforce their identity.

Third (Mercury)

Communication and intellectual integration take longer to fully develop.

Example: This person may be socially engaging and likable, yet may take time to articulate thoughts or make decisions verbally.

Liza Minelli

Sun – Venus – Mercury

Below is a copy of Liza Minelli’s chart.

She has her rising order as Sun – Venus – Mercury with no interference from other planets.

3. Mercury → Sun → Venus

First (Mercury)

Initial perception is analytical, curious, and mentally alert.

Second (Sun)

Self-awareness grows, giving clarity and confidence to ideas and personal identity.

Third (Venus)

Emotional and relational integration develops gradually.

Example: Quick-thinking individuals who gain self-confidence over time but need to nurture relationships carefully.

Super Jupey’s Chart

Mercury – Sun –Venus

Below is a copy of Super Jupey’s chart whom we did an interpretation for earlier this year. You can you can see the full interpretation of Super Jupey’s chart here.

Super Jupey has her rising order as Mercury – Sun – Venus with no interference from other planets.

4. Mercury → Venus → Sun

First (Mercury)

Mental activity and communication dominate initial impression.

Second (Venus)

Social skills, harmony, and aesthetic sense solidify early perceptions.

Third (Sun)

Ego expression and personal authority need further nurturing.

Example: Highly social and charming people who may initially undervalue their own identity until later in life.

Kandinsky’s Chart

Mercury – Venus – Sun

Below is a copy of Wassily Kandinsky’s chart whom I referenced in this article on Artist’s charts and Venus and Neptunewhich I did earlier this year.

Kandinsky has his rising order as Mercury – Venus – Sun with no interference from other planets.

5. Venus → Sun → Mercury

First (Venus)

Approachability, charm, and relational awareness are immediately evident.

Second (Sun)

Self-expression and core identity strengthen early impressions.

Third (Mercury)

Intellectual integration and communication skills require ongoing development.

Example: Warm and likable individuals whose confidence and voice develop after establishing social connections.

Julian Assange

Venus – Sun – Mercury

Below is a copy of Julian Assange’s chart. Assange has his rising order as Venus – Sun – Mercury with no interference from other planets.

6. Venus → Mercury → Sun

First (Venus)

Social grace and relational awareness are primary.

Second (Mercury)

Thoughts and communication refine the initial impressions.

Third (Sun)

Self-expression, personal authority, and ego integration take the most time to mature.

Example: People who are outwardly charming and articulate but spend more of life discovering their true identity and confidence.

Sam Altman’s Chart

Venus – Mercury – Sun

Below is a copy of Sam Altman’s chart the face of ChatGPT. We spoke about ChatGPT in this podcast episode.

Altman has his rising order as Venus – Mercury – Sun with no interference from other planets.

Recap

First

The first planet indicates initial perception and instinctive approach to life.

Second

The second planet solidifies and supports those first impressions.

Third

The third planet reflects areas that need attention and ongoing “feeding” to integrate fully into the personality.

Overarch

Simplicity

I like that this simple check of the inners rising order can provide you as the astrologer, so much information right at the start. It seems to me to be an easy way to get a grip on the inner workings of yourself or the person in question.

Interaction

To understand this simple rising order offers a deeper lens into how your clients process experience, interact socially and develop their ego over time. It also helps us to see the rhythm between intellect, relationships and self-expression in your client’s chart.

Natural Rhythm

By exploring the rising order of the Sun, Mercury and Venus, it gives you such a fascinating window into how you can process life, form impressions and grow your sense of self.

To look at which planet rises first, second and third, you can see the natural rhythm of perception, communication and emotional integration in someone’s chart.

Layers of Personality

This technique is a reminder to us all that personality unfolds in layers and each planetary rising sequence offers a unique path to understanding and self-expression.

If you read your own chart or someone else’s chart, if you pay attention to this rising order can bring you a deeper insight into how thoughts, feelings and identity come together over time.

Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

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