The Major and Minor Aspects

The Major Aspects

Conjunction - 0 Degrees

Two or more planets positioned together within 8° of each other. Neither harmonious nor inharmonious, this aspect merges, intensifies and strengthens the energies of two planets. However, inner tension can arise if the planets have conflicting natures.

Whether the union is to be regarded as negative or positive depends upon what planets are involved: the most unfavourable configurations involve Mars, Saturn, and the Moon in any possible combination, whilst Venus, Jupiter and the Sun is considered the most favourable scenario.

Sextile - 60 degrees, 2 signs apart

Two or more planets positioned 60° apart with an allowable orb of 4° in either direction. This is a harmonious aspect that allows energies to flow toward achievement of our goals, provided we make some conscious effort to accomplish them ourselves. It is the aspect of opportunity.

Square - 90 degrees, 3 signs apart

Two or more planets positioned 90° apart with an allowable orb of eight degrees in either direction. This is an inharmonious aspect causing obstacles and tensions for us to overcome. The square is said to indicate strain, tension, frustration, inhibitions, disruption and inner conflict. It makes us choose between our conflicting inner needs and urges, causing us to grow and become productive. It can thus become a source of energy and activation to a person determined to overcome limitations, presenting challenges to achievement and an opportunity to develop strength of character.

Trine - 120 degrees, 4 signs apart

Two or more planets positioned 120° apart with an allowable orb of 8° in either direction. This is a harmonious aspect that creates beneficial consequences, bringing us ease and comfort. The trine is a source of artistic and creative talent, which is innate. However, too many trines are said to make a person weak and unable to cope with adversity.

Opposition - 180 degrees, 6 signs apart

Two or more planets positioned 180° apart with an allowable orb of 8° in either direction. This is an inharmonious aspect creating inner tensions between our planetary urges, and dynamic tensions with others. We must reconcile these if we want to maintain harmonious relationships. Stress arises when one of the elements is used over the other, causing an imbalance; but the opposition can work well if the two parts of the aspect are made to complement each other in a synthesis.

The Minor Aspects

Semi-Sextile - 30 degrees, 1 sign apart

Also known as the confinis and inconjunct.

This is a minor harmonious aspect, allowing energies to flow toward achievement of our goals, it also can diminish other inharmonious aspects. This aspect can signify a weak strain connected with making decisions, and indicates an area of life where a conscious effort to be positive will have to be made.

Semi-Square (45 degrees, 1.5 signs apart)

Also known as an octile or semiquartile.

A minor inharmonious aspect, causing friction and irritation between planets in aspects. This produces mild stress and tension.

Sesquiquadrate (135 degrees, 4.5 signs apart)

Also known as a sesquisquare, square-and-a-half, quartile-and-a-half or trioctile.

A little more minor than Semi-Square, causing irritation, frustration and conflict.

Quincunx (150 degrees, 5 signs apart)

Another minor inharmonious aspect, suggesting a need for adjustment. It indicates difficulty and stress due to incompatible elements being forced together. It can mean an area of self neglect in a person's life (especially health), or obligations being forced on a person.