Planetary Aspects Explained
An aspect is the angle between two planets as seen from Earth. Astrologers read certain angles as harmonious and others as tense, and watch tense aspects between major planets for market volatility.
The five major aspects
| Aspect | Angle | Nature | Traditional market reading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conjunction ☌ | 0° | Blending, new beginning | Start of a new cycle for the planets' themes |
| Sextile ⚹ | 60° | Harmonious | Opportunity; supportive conditions |
| Square □ | 90° | Tense | Friction, pressure, sharp moves |
| Trine △ | 120° | Harmonious | Ease and flow; trends continue smoothly |
| Opposition ☍ | 180° | Tense | Tug of war, climax, potential turning point |
Harmonious vs tense
- Harmonious aspects (sextile, trine) are linked to calm, trending markets.
- Tense aspects (square, opposition) are linked to volatility and reversals.
- Conjunctions take on the character of the planets involved.
Orbs
Planets rarely sit at the exact angle. The allowed margin is called the orb. Effects are considered strongest when the aspect is exact and fade as the planets move apart.
Which aspects matter most
- Aspects between slow planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto) are rare and define long cycles.
- Aspects involving the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars are frequent and used for short-term timing.
- Astrologers give extra weight when several aspects form at the same time.
Reading an aspect
- 1Identify the two planets and what each represents.
- 2Note the angle: harmonious or tense?
- 3Consider the signs involved and the sectors they rule.
- 4Check the chart: is price near a key level where a move could start?
Related guides
Aspects combine the meanings of the planets involved.
Educational information only, not investment advice. Market data may be delayed.
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