Planetary Aspects 101
Aspects are angular relationships between two planets measured along the ecliptic. Below are the five major aspects, their classic angles, and quick reading notes. In your app, you’ll also see orb and direction (applying/separating) badges for better timing context.
Major aspects & angles
- ☌ Conjunction — ~0° (fusion, intensity, focus). Orbs often up to 8° for luminaries, tighter for others.
- ⚹ Sextile — 60° (opportunity, cooperation). Typical orbs ~3–4°.
- △ Trine — 120° (flow, ease, talents). Typical orbs ~5–6°.
- □ Square — 90° (friction, effort, breakthrough). Typical orbs ~4–6°.
- ☍ Opposition — 180° (polarity, integration). Typical orbs ~6–8°.
Note: Exact orbs vary by school and planet pair; use tighter orbs for fast bodies or minor aspects.
Applying vs. Separating
An aspect is applying when the faster planet is moving toward exactness; it’s often felt as rising momentum. It becomes separating after the exact hit, tapering off in strength. Your app shows this as ↑ (applying) or ↓ (separating), and includes a concise orb badge so you can judge closeness at a glance.
Reading tips
- Prioritize tight orbs and applying hits for timing.
- Combine with planetary dignity/retrograde to refine strength.
- Check the houses impacted for concrete life areas.