In astrology, planetary aspects describe the energetic relationships between planets in your birth chart. These angles are measured in degrees and reveal how different parts of your psyche work together or challenge each other.

Think of aspects as conversations between planets. Sometimes they’re in harmony. Other times, they’re in tension. But every aspect offers insight into your inner world, personality, and life path.

What Are Aspects?

Aspects are the angular relationships (measured in degrees) between two or more planets at the time of your birth. Each aspect carries a distinct energy some are flowing and easeful, while others create pressure or growth through friction.

The most commonly studied aspects are:

Conjunction (0°)

Sextile (60°)

Square (90°)

Trine (120°)

Opposition (180°)

The 5 Major Aspects and What They Mean

Conjunction (0°)

Keywords: Unity, blending, focus, intensity
When two planets are in the same sign and very close in degree, their energies fuse together. A conjunction amplifies whatever the planets represent, creating a strong theme in your personality.

Example: Sun conjunct Mercury → Strong communicator and thinker

Can feel powerful or overwhelming depending on the planets involved

Sextile (60°)

Keywords: Opportunity, support, potential
A sextile occurs when two planets are 60° apart, typically in complementary elements (like Earth + Water or Fire + Air). It creates an easy flow of energy and hidden talent that you can activate with effort.

Example: Venus sextile Mars → Easy charm, creativity in relationships

Positive and light, but requires conscious action to be fully used

Square (90°)

Keywords: Tension, conflict, growth
A square creates internal friction between two parts of you that want different things. It often shows up as life challenges—but these challenges are opportunities to build character and strength.

Example: Moon square Saturn → Emotional suppression, deep need for emotional security

Difficult at first, but powerful once mastered

Trine (120°)

Keywords: Harmony, ease, natural ability
Trines form between planets in the same element (Fire, Earth, Air, or Water) and create an effortless flow of energy. It often shows a gift or strength that comes easily, without tension.

Example: Jupiter trine Sun → Natural confidence, lucky and expansive personality

Can be so smooth that it’s taken for granted

Opposition (180°)

Keywords: Polarity, reflection, balance
Oppositions occur between planets directly across from each other in the zodiac. They represent externalized tension usually seen in relationships, projection, or inner contradictions. The goal is integration.

Example: Mars opposite Venus → Push-pull between love and desire, attraction through contrast

Learning to balance extremes is key

Why Aspects Matter

While zodiac signs describe what a planet expresses, aspects describe how that energy flows. For example:

Someone with Mercury trine Uranus may be a brilliant thinker with natural flashes of genius.

Another person with Mercury square Uranus might have disruptive thoughts, rebellious ideas, or struggle with anxiety until they learn to channel their energy constructively.

Aspects reveal your inner dialogue the harmony and dissonance between your emotions, desires, values, thoughts, and purpose.

Final Thoughts
Planetary aspects are the invisible threads connecting your chart into a dynamic, living system. They describe not just who you are, but how you experience and evolve through life.

Whether you’re exploring your strengths or navigating inner tension, understanding your aspects gives you clarity and tools to grow.