Astrology Aspects & Planets: How to Read the Major Aspects

The five major aspects

The major (Ptolemaic) aspects are defined by the angle between two planets and describe whether the energy is harmonious or tense. There's no absolute good or bad — what matters is how you use it.

Conjunction (0°)

Two planets sit together, their energies merging and reinforcing each other; a neutral aspect whose flavor depends on the planets involved.

Sextile (60°)

A harmonious aspect of opportunity and easy cooperation; the energy flows smoothly but needs initiative to realize.

Square (90°)

A tense aspect where two energies pull against each other, creating inner friction; often a spur to growth that forces you to face and adjust.

Trine (120°)

The most harmonious aspect; energy flows naturally and marks innate talent, though it can be overlooked precisely because it's effortless.

Opposition (180°)

An aspect of opposition where two planets face each other across the chart and the energy strains; themes often project onto relationships and call for balance.

Levels of planetary influence

Planets fall into three levels by speed and symbolism: personal planets (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars) shape daily life and personality most directly; social planets (Jupiter, Saturn) concern growth and responsibility, shaping mid-term life lessons; generational planets (Uranus, Neptune, Pluto) move slowly, so their sign reflects a generation, and you need their house and aspects to find personal meaning.

What orb is

Aspects are rarely an exact angle, and the orb is the margin of error allowed. The closer to exact the angle, the stronger the aspect; orbs are usually wider when the Sun or Moon is involved. Beyond the orb, two planets aren't considered to form that aspect.

The order to read aspects

First, look at aspects involving the big three (Sun, Moon, Rising) — they hit closest to the person.
Next, the aspects with the tightest angles (smallest orbs), which act more strongly than loose ones.
Treat aspects as a supplement to the big three and the house and sign placements — don't let one aspect drown out the chart's main theme.

This content is for astrology learning and reference only, not professional or life advice.