Andromeda DavisIf you have an interest in astrology, you’ve probably heard terms such as trine, conjunct, sextile, squares and others… but what do these terms mean?
In this article, we’re going to give you a quick breakdown on what these terms mean and how they relate to your horoscope.
What are aspects in astrology?
In astrology, the word aspect is synonymous with angle. An aspect is the angle planets form between each other in the zodiac. They represent angular distances in degrees and minutes of ecliptic longitude between two points as viewed from Earth.
The ecliptic is the apparent path or plane the sun follows in the sky over the course of a year.
What is an orb?
An orb in astrology defines the angle of separation. It also identifies how much of an angle made by two points differs from the exact angle required for an aspect.
For example, a trine is a distance of 120 degrees. If two points were 124 degrees, they would be said to be in trine within orb of 4 degrees.
The major aspects
There are five major aspects in astrology: Conjunction, sextile, square, trine and opposition.
Conjunct (same sign):
An orb of approximately 10 degrees. However, when involving the Sun or Moon, the maximum orb is between 0 ± 8 degrees. A conjunction represents the strongest blend of energies represented by the two planets.
Sextile (2 signs apart):
Represents an angle of 60 degrees, with an orb of 180 ± 8 degrees. These planetary energies smoothly flow together, and bring new connections and opens new possibilities in the life of the individual.
Square (3 signs apart):
Represents an angle of 90 degrees, with an orb of 90 ± 8 degrees. This represents a conflict of planetary energies, bringing about internal and creative tensions. However, through continued effort over time, these tensions ultimately bring deep rewards.
Trine (4 signs apart):
Represents an angle of 120 degrees, with an orb of 120 ± 8 degrees. This represents a smooth flow of planetary energies, where their connection is beneficial and one of ease.
Opposite/opposition (6 signs apart):
Represents an angle of 180 degrees, with an orb of 180 ± 8 degrees. This creates a polarization of planetary energies.w the
The minor aspects
There are seven minor aspects in astrology: Quincunx (or Inconjunct), semi-sextile, quintile, septile, semi-square, novile and sesquiquadrate.
Quincunx/Inconjunct (5 signs apart):
Represents an angle of 150 degrees, with an orb of 150 ± 4 degrees. These planetary energies do not flow together smoothly and one or the other will dominate, therefore some discrimination must be utilized.
Semi-sextile (1 sign apart):
Represents an angle of 30 degrees, with an orb of 30 ± 2 degrees. These planetary energies are attracted to one another but will require some effort, ultimately allowing new information to enter your life.
Quintile:
Represents an angle of 72 degrees, with an orb of 72 ± 2 degrees. These planetary energies combine to create a positive link, although subtle and could involve spiritual effects.
Septile:
Represents an angle of approximately 51.5 degrees.
Semi-square:
Represents an angle of 45 degrees, with an orb of 45 ± 2 degrees. These planetary energies will conflict with one another, it will require calmness on the part of the individual to reduce tensions.
Novile:
Represents an angle of 40 degrees, with an orb of 40 ± 2 degrees.
Sesquiquadrate:
Represents an angle of 135 degrees, with an orb of 135 ± 2 degrees. These planetary energies will bring conflict, which reveals itself in subtle tensions, requiring the individual to assert control over them.
Multi-planet aspects
Multi-planet aspects occur when 3 or more planets align. There are four multi-planet aspects in astrology: T-square, grand trine, yod, and Grand Cross (or Grand Square).
T-Square (3 planets):
Two planets will be at 90-degree angles with one another, with one planet in the center of the other two. These energies are unstoppable and force us to quit avoiding things that demand our attention.
Grand Cross/Grand Square (4 planets):
Four planets will align at 90-degree aspects. These will all share the same mode, whether cardinal, immutable or fixed. The energies represented call for the individual to direct these energies through negotiation and balance so that they work together instead of in opposition.
Grand Trine (3 planets):
This is when three planets align at 120-degree angles, forming a perfect equilateral triangle. All planets will share the same element: Earth, fire, air or water. They represent energies which create harmony, good communication, and new openings that allow us to break down barriers and lift others up.
Yod (sextile-quincunx-sextile):
Two planets align 60 degrees apart, and both are 150 degrees to the third planet, forming an isosceles triangle. This represents energies that force hidden elements to rise to the surface. It may represent a time when we need to fulfill our ultimate destiny and may remind us that time is running out to do so.
Shea Lee
