Glossary
Aspect
A geometric angular relationship between two planets, measured in degrees along the ecliptic. Aspects describe how planetary archetypes interact — whether through tension, harmony, or fusion. The major aspects are conjunction, opposition, trine, square, and sextile.
Related terms
- ConjunctionAn aspect formed when two planets occupy the same degree of the ecliptic (0° separation). Conjunctions represent fusion, intensification, and new beginnings — the two archetypes merge into a single amplified force.
- OppositionAn aspect formed when two planets are 180° apart on the ecliptic. Oppositions represent polarity, awareness, and the tension of holding two competing principles simultaneously. They demand integration rather than choosing one side.
- TrineAn aspect formed when two planets are 120° apart. Trines represent flow, natural talent, and effortless integration between two archetypal principles. They indicate where energy moves freely — sometimes so freely it goes unnoticed.
- SquareAn aspect formed when two planets are 90° apart. Squares represent friction, creative tension, and the pressure that forces growth. They are the engine of development — uncomfortable but productive.
- SextileAn aspect formed when two planets are 60° apart. Sextiles represent opportunity, skillful exchange, and latent potential that requires conscious effort to activate. They are collaborative but not automatic.
- OrbThe allowable margin of deviation from an exact aspect angle. A conjunction with a 2° orb means the two planets are within 2° of exact alignment. Tighter orbs indicate stronger, more precise aspect relationships.