Aspects
In astrology, when two planets are positioned at a specific angle (give or take), they form an aspect. These angles usually result from dividing the circle by a whole number or a multiple thereof. Aspects can also be formed between other chart elements such as a planet and the Ascendant or Midheaven.
There are traditionally considered to be five major aspects, and some astrologers include the quincunx, making a total of six. These are the most commonly used aspects in astrology.
Other aspects are classified as minor and are less frequently used in general astrological practice. Some special types of astrology, however, do make use of these lesser-known aspects.
On this page:
Major Aspects
The Zodiac can serve as a reference when considering aspects:
The Conjunction ☌
The conjunction occurs when two planets or chart elements are aligned and close to each other, within an orb of 8 degrees. This means that they are positioned at nearly the same degree within the same sign or house.
When two planets are in conjunction, their energies combine and reinforce each other. This creates a unique and powerful influence in the individual’s astrological chart.
Even though the planets are in close proximity, they may still be in different houses or signs, which adds another layer of complexity to the conjunction’s influence.
Identifying a conjunction is straightforward as the planets are in close proximity to each other.
For example, if Venus and Saturn are in conjunction, it signifies a harmonious blending of the energies of “pleasure seeking” and “control.” This could manifest as an individual seeking to enjoy themselves in a controlled and structured manner, or exerting control in a gracious and fair way.
Trine △
A trine occurs when two planets are positioned approximately 120 degrees apart, with a margin of error of 6 degrees (the orb). To locate trines, one should look for planets that are 4 zodiac signs away from the planet in question.
Typically, trines occur between planets in the same element. For example, a planet in a fire sign (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) would be in trine with other planets in fire signs. However, due to the allowed orb of 6 degrees, trines can also occur between planets in different elements.
For example, a planet at 1 degree Aries could be in trine with a planet at 26 degrees Cancer, and a planet at 29 degrees Sagittarius could be in trine with a planet at 2 degrees Taurus.
When the moon is in trine with Mercury, it signifies that the energies of “emotional reactivity” and “communication” are flowing harmoniously. This could mean that an individual instinctively communicates well and expresses their feelings with ease.
Sextile ⚹
Planets in sextile are positioned approximately 60 degrees apart, with a margin of error of 3 degrees. To locate sextiles, one should look for planets that are two zodiac signs away. Sextiles tend to occur between planets in supportive elements, such as fire and air or earth and water. However, it is possible for sextiles to occur between planets in non-supportive elements.
For example, a planet at 1 degree Scorpio could be in sextile with a planet at 29 degrees Sagittarius.
When Jupiter is in sextile with Mars, it signifies that the energies of “expansion” and “assertion” are harmoniously aligned. In other words, this aspect could indicate that an individual is successful due to their positive and dynamic approach, and that their growth is supported by their enterprising nature.
Opposition ☍
Two planets or a planet and a part are said to be in opposition when they are located 180 degrees apart in the chart, with an orb of plus or minus 6 degrees. Planets in opposition often have conflicting energies, as they are in opposing elements. For instance, a planet in Aries (fire) may be in opposition to one in Libra (air).
When interpreting an opposition, it’s important to consider the dynamic tension between the planets involved. For example, an opposition between Pluto and Mars can be interpreted as “the transformation process challenges assertiveness”. In other words, the way you assert yourself can change things dramatically and you may have a determined and direct approach to life.
Square □
When two planets or a planet and another part of the chart are at a 90-degree angle, with an orb of plus or minus 6 degrees, they form a square aspect. The square aspect is known for bringing tension and internal conflict, which can lead to transformation.
A square aspect can be formed when two planets are separated by three signs. The two planets in square are often in opposing elements, such as air and earth. For example, the moon in Gemini (air) in square aspect with Mars in Virgo (earth).
When the moon and Mars form a square aspect, this creates conflict between emotions and assertiveness. This tension can manifest as inner conflict about the way in which one asserts themselves or takes direct action, with their emotional state causing problems for their peace of mind.
Quincunx (Inconjunct) ⚻
Planets that are 150 degrees apart (within a margin of error of 3 degrees, known as the orb) form a quincunx aspect. Two planets that are 5 signs apart may be in quincunx, such as a planet in Aquarius in quincunx with another in Cancer or Virgo.
The quincunx aspect is one sign shy of a full opposition. It creates a sense of “disconnect” between two energies in a person’s life and can result in feeling pulled in opposite directions.
For example, Jupiter in Cancer in quincunx with the Midheaven represents a tension between the desire to expand and the need to maintain a certain public image. The individual may feel restricted in their efforts to grow due to the impression they wish to convey to the world.
Keywords For The Aspects
Minor Aspects
