Glossary of Terms | Symbols | Planets | Aspects

PLANETARY ASPECTS

Aspects are pre-defined differences in degrees between two planets. The aspects most commonly used in astrology are set at increments of 30°. Each aspect is said to have an angle, which expresses its size in relation to the rest of the zodiac wheel. A square, for instance, has an angle of 90° (out of 360°); a trine has an angle of 120°, and so on. The major aspects in astrology are:

ASPECT	MEANING	IN NATAL	IN TRANSIT
CONJUNCTION Action: Positive	This is by far the strongest and most positive of all the aspects. It means simply that one planet is at the same location in the heavens as, or on top of, the other. A conjunction strengthens both planets involved; each planet helps the other in a positive way.	In a natal chart, a conjunction imparts positive character traits and strengthens the native's interest in the subject matter ruled by both planets.	When a transiting planet makes a conjunction with (i.e., conjoins) a natal planet, it brings a positive event into a person's life characterized by the planets, signs and houses involved.
SQUARE Action: Negative	A square exists when one planet is at a right angle to another planet. Both planets are separated by precisely three zodiac signs. A square is a negative, or stressful, aspect which imposes an obstacle in the native's path.	In a natal chart, the square can indicate a negative character trait or a recurring negative pattern characterized by the planets involved.	When a transiting planet squares a natal planet, it imposes difficulty in the native's life which is not easily resolved. Once the transiting planet passes the square's culminating point (at exactly 90°), however, a breakthrough, or release of pressure, may be experienced.
TRINE Action: Positive	A trine exists when the distance between two planets is one-third of the zodiac wheel. Both planets are separated by precisely four zodiac signs. A trine indicates harmony or a positive 'joining of forces' with regard to the planets involved.	In a natal chart, a trine indicates where talents may lie or where things may come easily to the native.	When a transiting planet trines a natal planet, it opens a window of opportunity or brings beneficial developments to the native characterized by the planets, signs and houses involved.
OPPOSITION Action: Negative	When two planets are precisely opposite each other, they are said to be in opposition. An opposition always indicates integration or resolution with regard to the planets involved.	In the natal chart, an opposition indicates where seemingly opposing influences have been integrated into the native's personality. This integration, or resolution of difficulties, creates atypical character traits or ways of looking at the world.	In the transiting-to-natal chart, an opposition presents the native with a test or challenge characterized by the planets involved. How the native meets the challenge and brings it to resolution determines his or her level of success.