Astrological aspects
The angular relationship, meaning the distance in degrees between two planets in the chart, is called the "astrological aspect."
These relationships affect the way in which individual planets operate within the personality of each individual. Some astrological aspects are called major aspects and others minor aspects. The major aspects are the astrological aspects in which the distance between two planets is either 0° or 360° , called the conjunction, 60° or 300° , called the sextile aspect, 90° or 270° , called the square aspect, 120° or 240° the trine aspect, 180° the aspect of opposition.
There is a tolerance that varies depending on the type of aspect - An astrological aspect is active or operating when is within the tolerance limits, the more the aspect is precise, the more it becomes crucial to a proper analysis of planetary influences.
The astrological aspects are also considered harmonic or dynamic aspects. The reason for this distinction is analysed below.
0 ° coincides with the first zodiac sign of the zodiac, Aries. The distance between Aries and Gemini and Aquarius is 60°, which corresponds to the aspect of sextile, which therefore is formed between signs that have compatible elements. Fire, in fact, is similar to the Air.
The distance that separates Aries from Cancer and Capricorn is 90°. Thus the square aspect is formed between signs that do not have compatible elements. In fact, Fire is not similar to either Water or Earth.
The distance between Aries and Leo and Sagittarius is 120°. The trine aspect is then formed between the signs that have the same element. The distance between Aries and Libra is 180°. The opposition aspect is formed between opposite signs that have compatible elements. This aspect is viewed as dynamic as it is formed between opposite signs but it is more correctly viewed as complementary.
Finally, conjunction is between planets that are in the same sign and is considered harmonious or dynamic according to the affinity between the joined planets. Thus we could say that a conjunction of the Sun and Jupiter is a harmonious aspect since Jupiter contributes confidence and optimism to the expression of the Sun, its individuality, while a conjunction between Saturn and the Moon is regarded as a dynamic aspect as Saturn, planet of cynical realism and cold logic, hinders the expression of the Moon, its moodiness.
THE MAJOR ASTROLOGICAL ASPECTS
THE CONJUNCTION
The conjunction is absolutely the most important aspect as it indicates the fusion of two planetary energies whose result is not equal to the sum of the two, but to a third and new energy. The more powerful conjunctions are those involving personal planets or the Ascendant. They represent particularly strong energy flows and characterise and emphasize those areas in which the conjunction takes place.
THE SEXTILE
The sextile aspect is considered a harmonious aspect and is perhaps the most balanced aspect overall. Among the planets involved, there is a mutual and harmonious exchange, without one dominating the other. Moreover, the diversity of the elements involved, but at the same time related, allow the planets to enrich each other with an energy not their own.
THE SQUARE
The square aspect, called a dynamic aspect, indicates that there is a relationship of constant tension and conflict between the planets involved whose result is that both are "stuck" in their expression. This implies the person's continuous attempt, most often frustrated, to reconcile two forces that move in completely different directions. The energy generated by this continuing tension, if properly channelled, can be a source of great genius.
THE TRINE
The trine aspect is considered a harmonious aspect and indicates that the energy of the planets involved is expressed with great naturalness and harmony. In the sectors of life in which these forces operate, everything comes easy, sometimes even to the point that you discover the huge potentials that the planets involved in this issue offer. The risk, in contrast to the square, is, in fact, the classic will to settle.
THE OPPOSITION
The aspect of opposition, although considered a dynamic aspect, often has a stimulating and enlightening effect, because the planets involved are in opposite signs which in many ways are similar and complementary. From a Zodiac perspective, the opposite sign often shows us those qualities that we are missing. Thus this aspect forces us to confront ourselves with new energies in order to integrate them into a more balanced and complete personality.
