Here are some of the major aspects:
Conjunction - 0°
The conjunction tends to be a harmonious aspect. Its quality depends greatly on the planets
involved, as well as on how close the aspect is. For example, a conjunction between the Sun and Mercury is generally regarded
as harmonious. If, however, the distance between them is less than a few degrees, Mercury is said to be “burnt”
or “in combustion”, with corresponding results. In general, the conjunction shows an immediate connection which
usually works in one way or another.
Opposition - 180°
Although the opposition is generally regarded as “disharmonious”or dynamic, it often has
quite a motivating and energizing effect. Here too, the quality of the aspect depends on the planets involved, and on what
one makes of it. On the whole, an opposition between two planets creates tension between them, often with positive results.
Square - 90°
The
square is regarded as a disharmonious aspect, the planets involved seem to be “blocked”. The problems that arise
from the square keep on turning up, like a bad penny. The difficulty lies in trying to reconcile two forces that are trying
to move in completely different directions. Usually this takes the form of desires and needs which are mutually exclusive.
Trine - 120°
The
trine is a harmonious aspect, the planets involved work together in a complementary fashion, enriching one another. Trines
show where our natural talents lie, whether we actually make use of them or not is up to us.
Sextil - 60°
The sextile tends to have a harmonious effect, depending of course on the planets involved.
Minor Aspects
Besides the major aspects mentioned above, there are also quite a number of “minor
aspects”. Most of these are subdivisions of the major aspects. The minor aspects add depth and detail to the general
picture. The orbs permitted for the minor aspects are much smaller than those used for the major aspects. (see table below)
The most common minor aspects are:
Semisquare - 45°, disharmonious
Sesquisquare - 135°, disharmonious
Semisextil - 30°, neutral
Quincunx or Inconjunct - 150°, neutral
Quintile - 72°, harmonious
Biquintil - 144°, harmonious
