Complete Roadmap to Become an Astrologer

1.1 Astronomy Basics for Astrologers

1.2 Historical and Cultural Context

1.3 Philosophical and Symbolic Foundations

1.4 Mathematics and Calculation Basics

2.1 The Twelve Zodiac Signs

Additional Sign Properties

• Sign Elements (Fire, Earth, Air, Water)
• Sign Qualities (Cardinal, Fixed, Mutable)
• Sign Polarities (Positive, Negative)
• Sign Rulerships and Dignities
• Sign Symbols and Glyphs
• Anatomical Correspondences
• Psychological Associations
• Seasonal Correlations

2.2 The Celestial Bodies (Planets and Luminaries)

Other Bodies & Dynamics

• Lunar Nodes (North and South)
• Chiron: The Wounded Healer
• Asteroids (Ceres, Pallas, Juno, Vesta)
• Fixed Stars and Their Influence
• Planetary Dignities (Domicile, Exaltation, Detriment, Fall)
• Planetary Speeds and Motion
• Retrograde Phenomena and Interpretation
• Planetary Stations and Shadows
• Planetary Cycles and Returns

2.3 The Twelve Houses

House Classifications

• Angular Houses (1, 4, 7, 10)
• Succedent Houses (2, 5, 8, 11)
• Cadent Houses (3, 6, 9, 12)
• House Systems Comparison (Placidus, Koch, Equal, Whole Sign, etc.)
• House Cusps and Interceptions
• Derived Houses Technique

2.4 Aspects and Angular Relationships

Advanced Aspect Theory

• Minor Aspects (Semisextile, Quincunx, Semisquare, Sesquiquadrate)
• Quintile and Biquintile
• Septile Series
• Applying vs Separating Aspects
• Orbs of Influence
• Aspect Patterns (Grand Trine, T-Square, Grand Cross, Yod, Kite, Mystic Rectangle)
• Harmonic Aspects
• Parallel and Contraparallel Aspects
• Antiscia and Contra-Antiscia
• Out-of-Sign Aspects

2.5 Chart Points and Sensitive Points

• Ascendant (Rising Sign)
• Descendant
• Midheaven (Medium Coeli)
• Imum Coeli (IC)
• Part of Fortune
• Part of Spirit
• Arabic Parts and Lots
• Vertex and Anti-Vertex
• East Point
• Equatorial Ascendant
• Aries Point

3.1 Birth Chart (Natal Chart) Creation

• Collecting Birth Data (Date, Time, Location)
• Handling Unknown Birth Times
• Rectification Techniques
• Converting Local Time to Universal Time
• Calculating Sidereal Time
• Determining Ascendant and House Cusps
• Plotting Planetary Positions
• Calculating Aspects
• Chart Wheel Construction
• Manual vs Computer Calculation
• Verification and Quality Control

3.2 Ephemeris Usage and Interpretation

• Understanding Ephemeris Tables
• Daily Planetary Positions
• Midnight vs Noon Ephemeris
• Interpolation Techniques
• Retrograde Indicators
• Declination Tables
• Void of Course Moon Tables
• Eclipse Tables
• Ingress Tables
• Digital Ephemeris Software

3.3 House System Selection and Application

3.4 Chart Casting Software and Tools

• Professional Astrological Software Options
• Free Online Chart Calculators
• Mobile Applications for Astrologers
• Atlas and Time Zone Databases
• Astronomical Calculation Engines
• Chart Drawing and Formatting Tools
• Database Management for Client Charts
• Backup and Data Security
• Software Comparison and Selection Criteria

4.1 Natal Chart Analysis Methodology

• Initial Chart Overview and First Impressions
• Chart Shape and Pattern Recognition
• Element and Quality Distribution
• Hemisphere Emphasis (Eastern, Western, Northern, Southern)
• Dominant Planet Identification
• Chart Ruler Analysis
• Stellium Interpretation
• Singleton and Focal Planet Analysis
• Preponderance Analysis
• Synthesizing Chart Elements
• Avoiding Cookbook Interpretations
• Developing Intuitive Reading Skills

4.2 Planetary Dignity and Reception

• Essential Dignities (Domicile, Exaltation, Triplicity, Term, Face)
• Accidental Dignities (House Position, Aspects, Speed)
• Debilities (Detriment, Fall, Combustion, Under Sunbeams)
• Mutual Reception
• Mixed Reception
• Peregrine Planets
• Almuten Calculation
• Dignities in Different Traditions
• Applying Dignities in Interpretation

4.3 Aspect Pattern Interpretation

4.4 Synthesis and Integration

• Combining Sign, House, and Planetary Meanings
• Weighing Contradictory Indicators
• Finding Chart Themes
• Identifying Life Purpose Indicators
• Psychological vs Event-Oriented Interpretation
• Client-Centered Reading Approach
• Ethical Interpretation Guidelines
• Timing Delivery of Difficult Information
• Empowerment vs Prediction
• Developing Personal Interpretation Style

5.1 Transits

• Current Planetary Positions to Natal Chart
• Outer Planet Transits (Jupiter through Pluto)
• Inner Planet Transits (Sun through Mars)
• Transit-to-Transit Aspects
• Return Charts (Solar, Lunar, Planetary)
• Transit Duration and Orbs
• Multiple Simultaneous Transits
• Transit Stations and Retrogrades
• Hard vs Soft Transit Aspects
• Transit Timing Windows
• Personal vs Collective Transits

5.2 Progressions

• Secondary Progressions (Day-for-a-Year)
• Progressed Sun Through Signs and Houses
• Progressed Moon Cycle
• Progressed Ascendant and Midheaven
• Progressed Planetary Aspects
• Tertiary Progressions
• Minor Progressions
• Solar Arc Directions
• Primary Directions
• Converse Progressions
• Combining Progression Methods

5.3 Solar Returns

• Calculating Annual Solar Return Charts
• Solar Return Chart Interpretation
• Solar Return Relocated Charts
• Solar Return House Emphasis
• Solar Return Planetary Positions
• Aspects Between Solar Return and Natal
• Solar Return Angles
• Lunar Returns
• Planetary Returns
• Pre-Natal Epoch Returns

5.4 Synastry and Relationship Astrology

• Chart Comparison Basics
• Interaspects Between Charts
• Sun-Moon Synastry
• Venus-Mars Connections
• Challenging Aspects in Relationships
• Composite Charts
• Relationship Charts (Davison Method)
• Synastry House Overlays
• Karmic Connections (Nodal Contacts)
• Vertex Contacts in Synastry
• Compatibility Assessment Methods
• Family Dynamics and Synastry

5.5 Electional Astrology

• Choosing Auspicious Times
• Business Launch Elections
• Wedding Date Selection
• Surgery and Medical Elections
• Real Estate and Property Elections
• Travel Timing
• Contract Signing Elections
• Avoiding Void of Course Moon
• Lunar Mansions in Elections
• Essential Dignity in Elections
• Combining Multiple Techniques

5.6 Horary Astrology

• Principles of Horary Practice
• Formulating Questions Properly
• Chart Considerations Before Judgment
• Radical vs Non-Radical Charts
• Significator Identification
• Applying Aspects in Horary
• Receptions and Mutual Receptions
• Prohibitions and Frustrations
• Collection of Light
• Translation of Light
• Timing in Horary Charts
• Yes/No Questions
• Lost Object Horary
• Relationship Questions
• Career and Business Questions

5.7 Mundane Astrology

• Astrology of Nations and Events
• Ingress Charts (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn)
• National Charts and Founding Charts
• Political Leader Charts
• Eclipse Cycles and World Events
• Outer Planet Cycles
• Jupiter-Saturn Conjunctions
• Economic Astrology
• Weather Astrology
• Natural Disaster Prediction
• Social and Cultural Trends
• Generational Planets

6.1 Vedic Astrology (Jyotish)

6.2 Chinese Astrology

6.3 Hellenistic Astrology

• Ancient Greek Techniques
• Sect (Day vs Night Charts)
• Lots and Parts
• Time Lords and Distributions
• Profections
• Zodiacal Releasing
• Bonification and Maltreatment
• Decans and Faces
• Traditional Rulerships
• Essential Dignities in Hellenistic System
• Planetary Joys
• Whole Sign Houses
• Classical Temperament Theory

6.4 Medieval and Renaissance Astrology

• Arabic Parts and Lots
• Fixed Stars Usage
• Antiscia and Contra-Antiscia
• Almutens and Hyleg
• Firdaria Timing Technique
• Profections in Medieval Practice
• Geomancy Integration
• Magical Astrology
• Astrological Medicine
• Alchemy and Astrology
• Christian Astrology Traditions

6.5 Uranian Astrology and Midpoints

• Hamburg School Methods
• Transneptunian Points
• Midpoint Trees
• 90-Degree Dial
• Planetary Pictures
• Symmetrical Planetary Pictures
• Axis Points
• Direct and Indirect Midpoints
• Antiscia in Uranian System

6.6 Evolutionary Astrology

• Soul-Centered Approach
• Pluto and the Nodes
• Past Life Indicators
• Karmic Patterns
• Soul's Evolution Through Signs and Houses
• Skipped Steps
• Jeffrey Wolf Green's Method
• Steven Forrest's Approach
• Evolutionary Purpose
• Spiritual Growth Through Challenges

6.7 Psychological Astrology

• Jungian Archetypes in Astrology
• Humanistic Astrology Approach
• Transpersonal Astrology
• Depth Psychology Integration
• Shadow Work Through Charts
• Planetary Complexes
• Therapeutic Application
• Counseling Techniques
• Psychological Aspect Interpretation
• Self-Actualization Focus
• Integration vs Prediction

6.8 Medical Astrology

• Body Parts and Zodiac Signs
• Planetary Rulership of Organs
• Disease Diagnosis (Historical Methods)
• Health Vulnerabilities in Chart
• Decumbiture Charts
• Surgery Timing
• Recovery Prediction
• Vitamin and Mineral Correspondences
• Herbal Astrology
• Critical Degrees in Health
• Modern Ethical Considerations

6.9 Financial and Business Astrology

• Market Cycle Analysis
• Corporate Chart Analysis
• Business Launch Timing
• Investment Astrology
• Stock Market Cycles
• Cryptocurrency and Planetary Patterns
• Commodity Astrology
• Economic Indicators
• Trader's Ephemeris
• Planetary Aspect Cycles in Markets
• Business Partnership Synastry
• Career and Vocation Indicators

7.1 Harmonic Charts

7.2 Composite and Relationship Charts

• Midpoint Composite Calculation
• Davidson Relationship Chart
• Composite Chart Interpretation
• Composite Houses and Angles
• Composite Aspects
• Comparing Synastry vs Composite
• Time and Space Midpoints
• Progressing Composite Charts
• Transits to Composite Charts

7.3 Relocated and Astrocartography

• Relocation Chart Principles
• Changing Ascendant and Midheaven
• Astrocartography Lines
• Planetary Lines on World Map
• Parans and Crossings
• Local Space Astrology
• ACG Maps
• Travel and Location Guidance
• Power Zones and Challenge Areas
• Cyclocartography

7.4 Fixed Stars and Constellations

• Major Fixed Stars (Regulus, Spica, Antares, Aldebaran, etc.)
• Star Magnitudes and Orbs
• Fixed Star Aspects to Planets
• Constellation Influences
• Precession of Fixed Stars
• Parans with Fixed Stars
• Cultural Star Lore
• Royal Stars of Persia
• Behenian Fixed Stars
• Modern vs Traditional Star Work

7.5 Lunar Phases and Nodes

• Eight Lunar Phase Types
• New Moon Personality
• Full Moon Personality
• Progressed Lunar Phase
• Nodal Axis Interpretation
• North Node Life Direction
• South Node Past Patterns
• Nodal Returns
• Eclipse Families (Saros Series)
• Prenatal Eclipse
• Nodal Degree Symbolism

7.6 Degree Symbolism

• Sabian Symbols
• Charubel Symbols
• Kozminsky Symbols
• Jones Pattern Analysis
• Critical and Anaretic Degrees
• Degree Areas
• Applying Degree Meanings
• Midpoint Degree Interpretation

7.7 Declination and Latitude

• Out-of-Bounds Planets
• Parallel and Contraparallel Aspects
• Declination Orbs
• Latitude Considerations
• Planets at Maximum Declination
• Declination Patterns

8.1 Professional Astrological Software

8.2 Calculation Algorithms and Methods

• Swiss Ephemeris Engine
• JPL DE Ephemeris
• Precision and Accuracy Standards
• True vs Mean Node Calculation
• True vs Apparent Position
• Geocentric vs Heliocentric Calculation
• Topocentric Positions
• Mathematical Precision Requirements
• Error Checking Procedures

8.3 Database and Research Tools

• Historical Birth Data Collection
• Astrodatabank Usage
• Research Methodology
• Statistical Analysis in Astrology
• Control Groups
• Gauquelin Research
• Michel Gauquelin Planetary Effects
• Correlation Studies
• Data Integrity
• Ethical Research Practices

8.4 Reference Materials and Ephemerides

• Printed Ephemeris Collections
• American Ephemeris
• Raphael's Ephemeris
• Swiss Ephemeris Tables
• Table of Houses Books
• Atlas Resources
• Time Zone Change Documentation
• Historical Calendar Systems
• Digital Reference Libraries

8.5 Chart Display and Presentation

• Chart Wheel Styles (Traditional, Modern, Vedic)
• Color Coding Systems
• Aspect Grid Tables
• Planetary Hour Tables
• Graphical Ephemeris Display
• Timeline Graphics
• Report Formatting
• Client-Friendly Presentations
• Educational Chart Materials
• Publishing Chart Graphics

9.1 Setting Up Astrological Practice

9.2 Client Consultation Skills

• Initial Client Contact
• Setting Expectations
• Creating Safe Space
• Active Listening Techniques
• Asking Clarifying Questions
• Reading Body Language
• Managing Difficult Conversations
• Dealing with Skeptics
• Handling Emotional Reactions
• Follow-Up Procedures
• Client Retention Strategies

9.3 Ethical Guidelines and Boundaries

• Code of Ethics Development
• Confidentiality Requirements
• Scope of Practice Limitations
• Medical Disclaimer Requirements
• Financial Advice Disclaimers
• Avoiding Dependency
• Empowerment vs Fatalism
• Cultural Sensitivity
• Informed Consent
• Professional Boundaries
• Dealing with Vulnerable Clients
• When to Refer to Other Professionals

9.4 Reading and Report Writing

• Chart Reading Structure
• Prioritizing Information
• Writing Clear Interpretations
• Avoiding Jargon
• Positive Framing Techniques
• Written Report Templates
• Audio Recording Consultations
• Video Consultations
• Email Readings
• Text-Based Readings
• Group Readings

9.5 Pricing and Service Offerings

• Setting Consultation Fees
• Package Offerings
• Sliding Scale Considerations
• Pro Bono Work
• Workshops and Classes
• Written Reports Only
• Subscription Models
• Compatibility Reports
• Annual Forecast Packages
• Specialized Services Pricing

9.6 Marketing and Building Clientele

• Website Development for Astrologers
• Social Media Presence
• Content Marketing (Blogs, Videos, Podcasts)
• Search Engine Optimization
• Email Marketing
• Networking with Other Astrologers
• Speaking Engagements
• Teaching Astrology
• Writing Articles and Books
• Testimonials and Referrals
• Online Advertising
• Local Community Outreach

9.7 Continuing Education

• Attending Conferences
• Advanced Certification Programs
• Specialized Training
• Mentorship Programs
• Peer Consultation Groups
• Reading Current Astrological Literature
• Research Projects
• Cross-Cultural Learning
• Modern Applications
• Integration with Other Modalities

10.1 Modern Astrological Research

• Statistical Astrology Studies
• Large-Scale Data Analysis
• Machine Learning Applications in Astrology
• Pattern Recognition Algorithms
• Correlation Studies
• Replication Studies
• Meta-Analysis of Astrological Claims
• Academic Approaches to Astrology
• Cosmobiology Research
• Emerging Research Methodologies

10.2 Technology Integration

• Artificial Intelligence Chart Interpretation
• Automated Report Generation
• Natural Language Processing for Readings
• Voice-Activated Astrological Queries
• Augmented Reality Chart Visualization
• Virtual Reality Astrological Experiences
• Blockchain for Birth Data Security
• Cloud-Based Calculation Platforms
• Mobile-First Astrology Applications
• Real-Time Transit Notifications

10.3 Contemporary Approaches

• Asteroids and Minor Bodies Discovery
• Newly Discovered Planets or Planet-Like Objects
• Heliocentric Astrology
• Galactic Center and Supergalactic Astrology
• Black Moon Lilith Studies
• Centaur Object Astrology (Chiron, Pholus, Nessus, etc.)
• Trans-Neptunian Objects
• Dwarf Planets (Eris, Makemake, Haumea, etc.)
• Hypothetical Planets
• Extra-Dimensional Astrology Theories

10.4 Integration with Other Fields

• Quantum Physics and Astrology
• Neuroscience Correlations
• Epigenetics and Astrological Timing
• Chronobiology Studies
• Biodynamic Agriculture
• Environmental Astrology
• Collective Consciousness Studies
• Morphic Resonance Theories
• Systems Theory Applications
• Network Science and Astrology

10.5 Social and Cultural Trends

• Astrology in Popular Culture
• Millennial and Gen Z Astrology Interest
• Meme Culture and Astrology
• Political Astrology Resurgence
• Identity and Astrology
• Decolonizing Astrological Practices
• Inclusive Language in Astrology
• Feminist Astrology
• LGBTQ+ Perspectives in Astrology
• Accessibility in Astrological Services

10.6 Climate and Ecological Astrology

• Planetary Cycles and Climate Patterns
• Environmental Prediction Techniques
• Astrology for Sustainability
• Agricultural Timing
• Biodynamic Planting Calendars
• Weather Forecasting Techniques
• Natural Disaster Correlation Studies
• Earth Changes and Outer Planets
• Gaia Hypothesis and Astrology

11.1 Sports Astrology

11.2 Entertainment and Media Astrology

• Celebrity Chart Analysis
• Film Release Timing
• Music Launch Elections
• Award Show Predictions
• Box Office Astrology
• Artistic Creativity Indicators
• Fame Patterns in Charts
• Entertainment Industry Cycles

11.3 Political Astrology (Detailed)

• Election Outcome Prediction
• Politician Birth Chart Analysis
• Inauguration Charts
• Policy Announcement Timing
• Political Party Charts
• International Relations Astrology
• Diplomacy Timing
• Revolution and Protest Indicators
• Power Transition Patterns

11.4 Educational Astrology

• Learning Style Indicators
• Academic Success Patterns
• Test-Taking Timing
• Educational Path Selection
• Teaching Approach Based on Chart
• Student-Teacher Compatibility
• School Start Date Elections
• Study Schedule Optimization

11.5 Legal Astrology

• Lawsuit Outcome Prediction
• Court Date Elections
• Legal Settlement Timing
• Judge and Jury Considerations
• Contract Signing Elections
• Legal Career Indicators
• Justice System Astrology
• Historical Legal Astrology

11.6 Travel and Aviation Astrology

• Safe Travel Timing
• Destination Selection
• Flight Delay Prediction
• Travel Accident Avoidance
• Tourism Industry Cycles
• Pilot and Crew Scheduling
• Transportation Systems Astrology

11.7 Technology and Innovation Astrology

• Product Launch Timing
• Software Release Elections
• Innovation Cycle Prediction
• Technology Adoption Patterns
• Startup Success Indicators
• Patent Filing Timing
• Research and Development Cycles
• Digital Transformation Timing

12.1 Theoretical Foundations

• Principle of Correspondence
• Principle of Vibration
• Principle of Polarity
• Principle of Rhythm
• Principle of Cause and Effect
• Holographic Universe Theory
• Interconnectedness Principle
• Energy Field Theories
• Information Field Hypothesis
• Morphogenetic Field Theory

12.2 Chart Architecture Understanding

• Radix Chart as Blueprint
• Multi-Layered Chart Systems
• Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Influences
• Chart Hierarchy and Priority
• Dominant Theme Identification
• Supporting and Contradicting Factors
• Chart Evolution Over Time
• Life Cycle Through Progressions
• External Influences Through Transits
• Integration of Multiple Techniques

12.3 Interpretation Framework

• Deductive Reasoning in Chart Analysis
• Inductive Pattern Recognition
• Intuitive Synthesis
• Logical Consistency Checking
• Multiple Technique Confirmation
• Contradiction Resolution
• Context Consideration
• Timing Precision Methods
• Probability vs Certainty
• Feedback Loop Integration

12.4 Symbol System Architecture

• Planets as Functions
• Signs as Styles
• Houses as Life Areas
• Aspects as Dynamics
• Multi-Level Symbol Meanings
• Contextual Symbol Interpretation
• Symbol Combination Principles
• Archetypal Symbol Core
• Personal Symbol Expression
• Collective Symbol Manifestation

13.1 Reverse Engineering (Deconstructing Predictions)

• Analyzing Past Accurate Predictions
• Identifying Technique Combinations Used
• Timing Window Determination
• Success Factor Isolation
• Failure Analysis
• Refinement of Personal Methods
• Documentation of What Works
• Pattern Recognition from Results

13.2 Chart Rectification Methods

• Event-Based Rectification
• Character-Based Rectification
• Solar Arc Directions for Rectification
• Primary Directions for Rectification
• Prenatal Epoch Method
• Trutine of Hermes
• Multiple Event Cross-Checking
• Computer-Assisted Rectification
• Narrowing Time Windows
• Final Time Verification

13.3 Historical Chart Analysis

• Studying Famous Astrologers' Methods
• Analyzing Historical Predictions
• Understanding Traditional Techniques
• Comparing Ancient and Modern Approaches
• Extracting Core Principles
• Adapting Historical Methods to Modern Context
• Cross-Cultural Technique Comparison
• Evolution of Astrological Practice

13.4 Personal Technique Development

• Experimenting with Different Approaches
• Creating Custom Synthesis Methods
• Developing Signature Interpretation Style
• Testing New Hypothesis
• Documenting Personal Discoveries
• Peer Review and Feedback
• Refinement Through Practice
• Innovation While Respecting Tradition

14.1 Beginner Projects

14.2 Intermediate Projects

14.3 Advanced Projects

14.4 Research and Development Projects

• Large Dataset Birth Chart Analysis
• Correlation Study Design and Execution
• Astrological Software Algorithm Development
• Writing Comprehensive Astrological Book
• Creating Online Astrology Course
• Development of New Aspect Pattern
• Cross-Cultural Astrology Comparison
• Integration with Modern Psychology Research
• Quantum Astrology Exploration
• Al-Assisted Chart Pattern Recognition

14.5 Community and Teaching Projects

• Start Local Astrology Study Group
• Create YouTube Channel for Astrology Education
• Write Regular Astrology Blog
• Develop Astrology Workshop Series
• Create Astrology Podcast
• Volunteer Readings for Community
• Mentorship Program Development
• Astrology Conference Presentation
• Peer Supervision Group Formation
• Online Community Building

15.1 Specialized Calculations

15.2 Specialized Timing Systems

• Profection Calculations
• Circumambulation Methods
• Firdaria Calculations
• Decennials and Periods
• Planetary Hours Calculation
• Planetary Days
• Electional Void of Course Calculations
• Critical Degree Timing
• Planetary Dignities Timeline
• Antiscia and Contra-Antiscia Tables

15.3 Chart Point Calculations

• Part of Fortune Calculation (Day and Night)
• Arabic Parts Formulas
• Vertex Calculation
• Equatorial Ascendant
• East Point Derivation
• Co-Ascendant
• Polar Ascendant
• Pre-Natal Epoch Chart
• Conception Chart Calculation

16.1 Developing Expertise Area

• Choosing Primary Specialization
• Deep Dive into Chosen Branch
• Advanced Certification in Specialty
• Publishing in Specialty Area
• Becoming Known Expert
• Conference Speaking on Specialty
• Advanced Training in Niche
• Mentoring Others in Specialty

16.2 Integration and Synthesis Mastery

• Combining Multiple Systems Seamlessly
• Developing Personal Astrological Philosophy
• Creating Unique Methodology
• Advanced Client Work
• Complex Case Studies
• Multi-Technique Confirmation
• Intuition and Knowledge Balance
• Wisdom Development

16.3 Contribution to Field

• Original Research Publication
• Teaching Advanced Students
• Software or Tool Development
• Writing Books and Articles
• Conference Organization
• Professional Association Leadership
• Mentoring Next Generation
• Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
• Public Education and Advocacy
• Archiving and Preserving Knowledge

16.4 Lifelong Learning Path

• Staying Current with Developments
• Continuous Skill Refinement
• Exploring New Branches
• International Astrology Study
• Sacred and Esoteric Studies
• Philosophical Deepening
• Personal Chart Evolution Tracking
• Elder Astrologer Wisdom
• Legacy Planning
• Knowledge Transmission