Aspects
An aspect in astrology describes the angular relationship between any two planets or other sensitive points (such as the Ascendant or Midheaven) in the 360 degree circle of the zodiac. The number of degrees between points is significant, and each major angle or aspect has a particular meaning. Astrologers always measure the shortest distance (or the smallest angle) between points, making 180 degrees the widest aspect possible.
Aspects cause the astrological influence of the two planets to "mix together" in specific ways that affect the person. In addition to the 180 degree opposition, there are many other distances that also are considered meaningful, such as 0 degrees (conjunction), 60 degrees (sextile), 90 degrees(square) and 120 degrees (trine). Each of these angles is called an aspect. Some astrologers use many other aspects as well.
The orb of an aspect is how far from exact it is. For example, a square aspect is 90 degrees. If 2 planets are separated by 91 degrees (or by 89 degrees) then the 2 planets are in square aspect with a 1 degree orb. In other words they are 1 degree from being in exact square aspect. The larger the orb, the weaker the aspect. An aspect with a small orb is very powerful. Some astrologers consider much larger orbs than others. The allowable orb for a square aspect is believed by some astrologers to be as little as 2 or 3 degrees, and by some to be as large as 10 or 12 degrees. Although this difference of opinion may seem great, it does not have that great an affect on interpretation because virtually all astrologers agree that a narrower orb makes the aspect much more powerful. Therefore, narrow orbs factor much more strongly in chart interpretation.
Aspects cause the astrological influence of the two planets to "mix together" in specific ways that affect the person. In addition to the 180 degree opposition, there are many other distances that also are considered meaningful, such as 0 degrees (conjunction), 60 degrees (sextile), 90 degrees(square) and 120 degrees (trine). Each of these angles is called an aspect. Some astrologers use many other aspects as well.
The orb of an aspect is how far from exact it is. For example, a square aspect is 90 degrees. If 2 planets are separated by 91 degrees (or by 89 degrees) then the 2 planets are in square aspect with a 1 degree orb. In other words they are 1 degree from being in exact square aspect. The larger the orb, the weaker the aspect. An aspect with a small orb is very powerful. Some astrologers consider much larger orbs than others. The allowable orb for a square aspect is believed by some astrologers to be as little as 2 or 3 degrees, and by some to be as large as 10 or 12 degrees. Although this difference of opinion may seem great, it does not have that great an affect on interpretation because virtually all astrologers agree that a narrower orb makes the aspect much more powerful. Therefore, narrow orbs factor much more strongly in chart interpretation.
Types of Aspects
Conjunction: 0 degrees.
If two planets occupy the same degree or are very close to each other, they are said to be conjunct. Most astrologers believe that conjunctions are dynamic, but not as difficult and challenging as squares and oppositions. Planets that are conjunct tend to energize each other.
Opposition: 180 degrees.
If two planets are close to being opposite to each other in the sky, they are forming an opposition aspect. Most astrologers agree that oppositions are challenging and often emphasize challenges with other people. However, the challenges suggested by an opposition can be balanced and resolved with effort.
Squares: 90 degrees.
If two planets are close to being 90 degrees apart, they are said to be square to each other. Almost all astrologers agree that squares are motivating and challenging and can be difficult. Some astrologers emphasize the negative potential of a square, while others focus on the character-building potential inherent in this aspect.
Trine: 120 degrees.
If two planets are close being 120 degrees apart, they are said to be trine to each other. Most astrologers agree that trines are soft and easy, pleasant and harmonious, but sometimes lazy. But trines can provide relief from the tension inherent in more challenging aspects that also may be present in the person's chart.
Sextile: 60 degrees.
If two planets are close to be being 60 degrees apart, they are said to be sextile to each other. Sextiles are similar to trine aspects and considered favorable.
Semi-Square aspect: 45 degrees.
If two planets are close to being 45 degrees apart, they are in semi-square aspect. This minor aspect is similar to a square aspect, though often not quite as intense. Some astrologers feel that the semi-square creates very internal challenges or conflicts.
Sesquiquadrate: 135 degrees.
If two planets are close to being 135 degrees apart, they are in sesquiquadrate aspect. Generally regarded as being similar to a square, but some astrologers feel that this minor aspect is easier to release and express than a square aspect.
Semi-Sextile aspect: 30 degrees.
If two planets are close to being 30 degrees apart they form a semi-sextile aspect. Generally regarded as being a slightly harmonious or favorable minor aspect.
Quincunx: 150 degrees.
If two planets are close to being 150 degrees apart, they form a quincunx aspect. Most astrologers view the quincunx, a minor aspect, as being awkward, difficult and requiring adjustments from a person.
