What Is an Aspect?

An aspect is the angle between two planets (or points) as measured along the zodiac. When two bodies sit a meaningful distance apart, astrology says their energies begin to "talk" inside your chart.

Think of each planet as a character with its own temperament, and the aspect as the conversation between them. Some pairs chat easily. Others argue until they find a workable compromise.

Orbs: how close is close enough?

An aspect does not have to be exact. We allow a small margin called an orb. A trine is 120°, so two planets 117° apart still count, with an orb of 3°. The tighter the orb, the stronger and clearer the aspect feels; near the edge of the allowance, its influence fades. In the app you can adjust the orb for each aspect in your chart options.

Applying and separating

• Applying: the faster planet is still moving toward the exact angle. The theme often feels like it is building or approaching.
• Separating: the exact angle has just passed and the planets are drifting apart. The theme often feels familiar, already lived through and settling in.

Harmonious or challenging

Broadly, aspects come in three flavors. A conjunction fuses two energies into one. Harmonious aspects, such as the trine and sextile, let energy flow between planets with little effort. Challenging aspects, such as the square and opposition, create friction that pushes you to grow.

Do not read harmonious as good and challenging as bad. Easy aspects can make you comfortable enough to leave a talent unused, while tense ones often supply the drive that gets things done. Aspects are a symbolic language for looking at yourself, not a verdict on your fate.