Natal Astrology

Aspects are what astrologers call the relationships between planets in a natal chart. While there are many more aspects, I will focus on the five most prominent ones. These here focus on relationships between two planets. It is important to note that aspects should be counted by signs, not by house. Please also note that aspects can be applied to other portions of the natal chart, such as the Mid-heaven or the Ascendant.

Conjunct - this aspect has an orb of 0-10°. It is considered by many astrologers (myself included) to be the most important relationship(s) in the natal chart. The energies are close, therefore powerful. However, the aspect isn’t necessarily a harmonious one. The planet that is most comfortable within the sign of the aspect will have a stronger influence.

Opposition - this aspect has an orb of 180°. These are opposing energies that must make peace. They literally divide the circle and can cause a feeling of inner conflict. Oppositions seek others out to reconcile the conflict within. As Isabel M. Hickey states regarding oppositions versus conjunctions: “In a conjunction you do something; in an opposition the other fellow does.”

Sextile - this aspect has an orb of 60°. The planets in this aspect work together quite beautifully - they reveal potential for many opportunities of success. This relationship is typically very harmonious and indicative of talents we see in ourselves.

Trine - this aspect has an orb of 120°. Another harmonious aspect, trines are protective and accepting aspects. Unlike sextiles, however, the energies that trines offer us come with such ease that they may be completely unconscious and therefore never developed.

Square - this aspect has an orb of 90°. This is often considered to be a “hard” aspect because the planets create an energy of tension. However, it is dynamic (unlike the trine) and it’s obstacles are what builds our characters and helps us evolve spiritually.

In the next installment, I will discuss aspects that involve more than two planets.

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