CIRCLES OF POSITION, are circles passing through the common intersections of the horizon and meridian, and through any degree of the ecliptic, or the centre of any star, or other point in the heavens; and are used for finding out the situation or position of any star. These are usually six in number, cutting the equinoctial into 12 equal parts, which the astrologers call the celestial houses, and hence they are sometimes called circles of the celestial houses.