What an aspect is
Draw a line from the centre of the chart to two planets and measure the angle between them. Certain angles are considered meaningful "aspects." A tight aspect (close to exact) is loud; a wide one is subtle. The orb is how far from exact you still count it.
The major aspects
- Conjunction (0°) — two planets fused; their energies merge and amplify.
- Sextile (60°) — easy opportunity and cooperation.
- Square (90°) — friction that drives growth; the classic "get to work" aspect.
- Trine (120°) — natural flow and talent, sometimes taken for granted.
- Opposition (180°) — tension between two poles seeking balance, often via other people.
The minor aspects
Subtler angles add nuance: the semi-sextile (30°), semi-square (45°), sesquiquadrate (135°), and quincunx (150°). The quincunx in particular describes two drives that don't naturally understand each other and need conscious adjustment.
How to read aspects in your chart
Identify the two planets (the what), then let the aspect describe their working relationship. A Mars–Venus square, for example, is desire and affection in productive tension; a Mars–Venus trine is the same pair in easy flow. Start with your tightest aspects — they describe your most defining inner dynamics.
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Calculate your natal chart →Frequently asked questions
What are the five major aspects?
The conjunction (0°), sextile (60°), square (90°), trine (120°), and opposition (180°). These are the strongest and most commonly read aspects in a natal chart.
Are squares and oppositions bad?
No. So-called 'hard' aspects like squares and oppositions create tension, but that tension is what drives effort, growth, and achievement. Many high-achievers have prominent hard aspects.
What is an orb in astrology?
The orb is how many degrees away from exact an aspect can be and still count. Tighter orbs make an aspect stronger; wider orbs make it fainter.