Planetary Aspects List; Astrology Aspects Meaning, Explained

So you’re an astrology newbie, but you want to get to the next level. Planetary aspects are v. imp. because they are “the conversations” happening in the sky. Whether you’re consulting a handy dandy birth chart (yours, your celebrity crush’s, your real-life crush’s, the potential new pal you met at the work mixer, etc.) or you just want to know what the current astrological weather is like, it’s crucial to take a peek at the planets for some insight into the overall MOOD.

So, what’s an aspect, exactly? First, some background: Astrology is the observation of the connections between the planets, the Sun, and the Moon, from our perspective on Earth. Each planet (which in astrology includes the Sun and Moon, aka the “luminaries”) represents an energetic force within us, or a component of life. (To put it simply, Sun = ego; Moon = emotions; Mercury = mind/communication; Venus = love; Mars = sex; Jupiter = luck; Saturn = discipline; Uranus = change; Neptune = spirit; Pluto = transformation.)

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When we’re looking at a 360-degree view of the sky, we divide the circle into 12 houses. 360 total degrees divided by 12 = 30 degrees in each house. Planets move through different houses and zodiac signs, and as they move, they send messages to each other when they link at certain mathematical angles. These angles are what we call planetary aspects. There are five common major aspects, created by dividing that 360-degree circle of the cosmos by 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Here’s a list of some of the most common aspects and what they do to our lives.

Conjunction

When two planets are close to each other in the sky (within a couple of degrees, usually in the same zodiac sign), this means that they form a conjunction, and their energy is blended in unison. This can create a perf alliance or bring intensity. In transiting astrology (“astro-weather”), we can expect this day to be especially potent.

Conjunctions in transiting astrology mark new beginnings, too: For instance, when the Sun and Moon form a conjunction, it creates a New Moon. If you have your Sun and Moon conjunct in your natal chart, it not only means you were born on a New Moon (or in some cases, a solar eclipse), but also that you will have an easy time synergizing your conscious and subconscious in the pursuit of your goals throughout your entire life.

Sextile

If two planets are separated by two zodiac signs and are roughly 60 degrees apart, we get one of the sweetest aspects of all—the sextile. Since these planets are in compatible elements two zodiac signs apart (earth + water or fire + air), they support one another and flow easily. Sextiles are often happy and chill, bringing good moods and camaraderie. An opportunity may present itself if we seize the day to take action and uncover it.

For instance, let’s say Venus and Neptune are sextile. If it’s taking place in your birth chart, you are blessed with creativity and a romantic demeanor. If the planets are linked in a sextile on a random day, we will be more openhearted at this time, likely pulled toward beauty, romance, or art. I’m…