Aquarius is the eleventh Sign of the Zodiac, and Aquarians are the perfect representatives for the Age of Aquarius. Those born under this Sign have the social conscience needed to carry us into the new millennium. These people are humanitarian, philanthropic and keenly interested in making the world a better place. This is why they focus much of their energy on our social institutions and how they work (or don't work). Aquarians are visionaries, progressive souls who love to spend time thinking about how to improve the world around them. They are also quick to engage others in this process, which is why they have so many friends and acquaintances. Making the world a better place is a collaborative effort for Aquarians.

The Sign of Aquarius is symbolised by the Water Bearer. In much the same way that the Water Bearer brings that precious liquid as a gift, Aquarians shower the world with their thoughts and new ideas. Luckily for Aquarians (and the rest of us), they are at a near-genius level, so their minds churn out some amazing things. Their thought process is also inventive and original. While Aquarians are happy to bestow these ideas as a gift, with no strings attached, they are much happier when the rest of the world agrees with them. Aquarians can be impatient, even temperamental, with those who disagree. There is a Fixed Quality attached to their sign, which may explain why some Aquarians are so steadfast in their opinions.

Even though Aquarians are happy to give, and they do, it is often on their terms. Generally, this means allowing them some space. These people love their freedom, are individualistic and need to roam (and yes, they do enjoy travel). While Aquarians are generally sympathetic and compassionate, they like it when things go their own quirky way. Some might call their behaviour eccentric (and they would be right), but when you consider that the Aquarian's heart is definitely in the right place, a few oddities should be overlooked. In their own way, Aquarians appreciate their many friends and acquaintances and will always want to give back as much as they can.

Aquarius is ruled by the Planets Saturn and Uranus. Powerful Saturn was considered the father of many gods in ancient Roman times, and was the original ruler of Aquarius. Uranus is the oldest of the gods in Roman mythology. This Planet was discovered much later than Saturn, and was only more recently assigned to the Aquarius Sign. The combination of these planetary energies is strong and vibrant. Saturn's force field is that of the stern taskmaster, which is one reason why Aquarians love to think and put their ideas out to the world. They also love to think they're right.

It's Uranus that instills Aquarians with their visionary spirit. Aquarian's love anything new, radical and rebellious. The fact that these people can think so creatively and inventively is one of their greatest assets. Water Bearers are all about progress and technology - they love the latest gadgets, computers and next-generation technologies. Thanks to a genius that borders on the loony, those born under this Sign have the unique ability to present ideas that will revolutionise the world. Their approach may be unpredictable, impersonal and sometimes even cold, but that's a mad scientist Aquarian for you.

The Element associated with Aquarius is Air, and that means the rarefied air of the intellectual. Aquarians will accomplish much with their broad and logical minds, entertaining complicated ideas for the improvement of everyone. That said, they are also artistic and inventive. It's all in the spirit of creating a better world, hopefully one in keeping with their broad-minded beliefs.

Aquarians believe that their offbeat, original approach will win the day, and that new thought is what is needed to change the world. Those born under this Sign are altruistic, humane people who are determined to make a difference.

At play, Aquarians like to surround themselves with many people; preferably, family and friends. That said, if they don't know the 'players,' they soon will. Aquarians enjoy team sports (though they should be wary of weak ankles), and a daily swim might also be nice. Aquarians favour watery colours, like a shiny silver or an aqua blue. When it comes to love, Aquarians can be playful, even flirtatious. While they are deeply faithful, it won't necessarily feel that way, since these people are the opposite of jealous.

The great strengths of the Aquarius-born are their vision, intellect and humanity. They are determined to make the world a better place and to help everyone they can, along the way. They are truly the trailblazers of the Zodiac.