| Aspects & Symbols |
| Due to the placement of planets in the houses, geometric angles are created between the planets and the angles of the houses. These angles are called *aspects*. Each aspect has a particular function, meaning, and symbol. Conjunction A separation of 0 - 10 degrees (depending on the planets involved) .. the influence of a conjunction will also vary depending on the planets involved. This aspect can be read as "more of," and each planet's function is colored by the other. The affect of Saturn, for example, in conjunction to the Sun may be restrictive, while Mars conjunct the Sun adds the quality of activity or action. Symbol .. circle on bottom with line shooting up and right. Sextile A separation of 60 degrees. This seems to be an easy aspect, but it can indicate so much ease that it may never really be put to use. It has been suggested that it indicates undeveloped talent. The sextile can be of help in the process of finding constructive outlets or when trying to alleviate tension caused by more difficult aspects in the chart. Symbol .. (Asterisk) * Square A separation of 90 degrees. The square is one of the most difficult aspects for it indicates frustration. It causes excessive energy to be directed against one or both of the planets involved in the square. The blocks symbolized by this aspect may remain as stumbling blocks or be rechanneled into stepping stones. The square signifies where personal energy needs to be channeled differently. Each person chooses to use the square energy, for it can be used constructively or destructively. Squares signify internal tension; two parts of the personality are at war with each other within the individual. Symbol .. Square Trine A separation of 120 degrees. This aspect has been considered the easiest of aspects. Some feel it indicates good luck; others feel that it signifies an easy expression of talents or facets of life that are symbolized by the planets involved in the trine. The energy is "so" easy that it can be indicative of other kinds of problems. The trine may place an element emphasis in the personality as well. Fire signs may become overly idealistic and therefore more easily hurt, etc. Perspectives may become distorted because of the cooperation between the planets. Symbol .. Triangle Opposition A separation of 180 degrees. Many astrologers see this as one of the most difficult aspects. Because the opposition includes the idea of polarity (Aries always opposes Libra, for example), it could be that it is more easily compromised and worked out than the square. When two planets are in opposition, there is a need to compromise, to alleviate tension, to develop temperance. This aspect does create great internal dissatisfaction, but once it is understood, the aspect carries enough energy so that it can be converted into more constructive expression. Symbol .. line shooting up and right, with a circle on *both* the top and bottom. Quincunx A separation of 150 degrees. This aspect indicates strain and has been considered the classic health aspect. Two ideas or two life activities are straining against each other, but not in as difficult an angle as that of the square of opposition. Because the tension is not clearly visible, two facets of personality may conflict while the owner does nothing to bring them together. Time and energy may be wasted, and eventually the body rebels. The energy can be released as it is understood and allowed to function in some kind of perspective. Symbol .. Q. Orbs Each aspect has an orb of influence. For example, the conjunction aspect indicates two planets 0 degrees apart, or in the same degree. An orb is allowed to affect this relationship so that a planet at 15 degrees Aries is said to be conjunct another planet at 17 degrees of Aries. Orbs are a hotly debated issue between astrologers. Some use very small orbs, while others use large ones. Some using the smaller orbs, also use the minor aspects (such as the semi-square, the semi-sextile, etc.) Astrologers using the larger orbs often use only the major aspects (above). Each astrologer will work with an orb of influence that feels comfortable for him or her. There is no *set* rule! Other symbols Ascendant or rising sign, AS the sign and degree of the zodiac rising at the time of birth. Descendant, DC opposite the Ascendant, cusp of the seventh house. Midheaven or Medium Coeli, MC the highest point of the zodiac at the time of birth. Imum Coeli or Nadir, IC the zodiac point opposite the midheaven. Equatorial Ascendant Eq the ascendant of the chart if you'd been born at the equator. Symbolizes who you think you are. Vertex Vtx a point of fate or destiny. |
| Aspect Degrees Apart Energy Keyword Conjunction 0 More of/a blending Sextile 60 Facilitative Square 90 Frustrating Trine 120 Easy/cooperative Opposition 180 Compromising/tension Quincunx 150 Straining |
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