Aspects

When planets are at a particular angle to each other in a birth chart, they are said to be in aspect. Most planets in the birth chart form aspects to other planets. They are usually modified through a complex system of interrelationships.  This is again another example of how each person’s chart is unique.

There are, on occasions, planets that do not form an aspect to another planet and these are simply referred to as unaspected.  Unaspected planets are known to either dominate the chart (for they are left unimpeded in expressing their energy) or the planets energies are left unexplored or undiscovered in the person life. 

The meanings of the six most prominent aspects are set out below:

conjunct

opposition

square

quincunx

sextile

trine

conjunct is when two planets come to a zodiacal point within a degree of each other – they inhabit the same position in the heavens.  Planets in conjunction blend or merge their energies into a new energy.  The uniqueness of each planet is lost and it no longer operates as an individual force. 

opposition is when two planets are at exact opposite points in the zodiac.  When planets are in opposition there is a push/pull (tug of war) effect between the energies, it is a state of constant conflict.  It becomes a situation of wanting to be one way and expressing it another.  The conflict seeks resolution through consensus and balance.

square is when planets form a 90 degree angle to each other.  By nature the square aspect causes stress or frustration within the person but it is a stress that forces us into action.  The square aspect is usually a personal problem but one that when worked on can be solved.  They are also about motivation and drive.

quincunx is when planets form a 150 degree angle to each other.  This aspect is between planets that have, in a sense, nothing in common with each other.  As a result the energies separate for there is no common ground, no bonding, no communication.  Therefore this aspect is about separation and usually it manifests with the person operating some facets of their personality independently.

sextile is when planets form a 60 degree angle to each other.  This is a fairly harmonious aspect for it brings together two like minded energies and together they can work to bring opportunities and benefits into a person’s life.  Sometimes the person needs to work with these energies and sometimes the benefits of this aspect simply present themselves.

trine is when planets form a 120 degree angle to each other.  This is also a harmonious aspect and so brings benefits and opportunities into our lives.  The difference between the trine and the sextile is that with the sextile you are aware of the advantages being granted whereas with the trine one is not necessarily aware of the benefits or ease some energies are working under.  The trine is usually a gift, a

natural ability one has and works with, without being conscious of its benefits.  

There are a number of other aspects used in astrological interpretation but the above six examples are the main ones used by astrologers.