Because of the nearness to the ecliptic (2º), Spica can be hidden by the Moon and sometimes by planets. In November 2009, Venus came very close to Spica (3.5º); the last occultation occurred in November 1783. Between 1966 and 1970, there were important photometric observations.
It has a declination of -11º and it is located at the degree 23º of Libra (-2º of celestial latitude).
The name Spica derives from Latin spica virginis (virgin ear of grain). Due to its separation from the closest stars, in Arabic was called Azimech, السماك الأعزل al simak al a'zal, which meant 'the Undefended'. In Egypt was known as 'the bearer of the Lute'; and in China, as 'the horn' or 'the pointer'.
The quality of the star Spica reminds the planet Jupiter. It is related with the inner strength that allows to cope with the difficult moments in life, overcoming despair with patience and hope.
In traditional astrology, the quality of the star Spica is associated with the planets Venus and Mars, due to the fact that relationships can overcome couple crisis, reaching maturity and fullness, like in the movies "The Painted Veil" (2006) and "The Longest Ride" (2015).
Nicholas Sparks, author of the book "The Longest Ride" (2013), has Spica in Libra in the 8th Moon-Node House, in trine with Jupiter in Gemini in the 12th Moon-Node House, and in trine with the Black Moon in Aquarius in the 4th Moon-Node House.
Naomi Watts, actress of the movie "The Painted Veil" (2006), has Spica in Libra in the 6th Moon-Node House, in opposition to Saturn in Aries in the 12th Moon-Node House, whom it is in quincunx to Pluto in Virgo in the 7th Moon-Node House, and whom it is in sextile with Neptune in Scorpio in the 5th Moon-Node House.
