How to Find Aspects in an Astrology Chart
This section explains what is usually the final step in chart erection which is finding the aspects that exist between the planets. When we say that a planet is in aspect to another planet, it is referring to the angular distance which may exist between two planets in a chart. This section will show you a method for finding out if an angular distance exists between the planets in the chart you are working on. If two planets are found to be in aspect to each other, you will then enter that information in the form of a symbol into the aspect graph found on the same page as your chart wheel. Now, in order for two planets to be considered in aspect to each other, a certain number of degrees will separate the two planets in question.
Below is a chart of these angular distances. This chart lists major aspects. There are other aspects which exists known as minor aspects, but, for now these are more than enough to deal with in the beginning of your studies. Aspects are not always exact. Astrology allows some leeway, known as orb of influence. The orbs given below are a starting point.
See also: The Easy Aspect Finder.
NOTE: Many astrologers do not consider the quincunx and especially the semi-sextile to be major aspects. They are not considered major when considering the Moon void of course.
When planets aspect each other the two energies are now combined to produce another type of interaction. This section deals with chart set up. Later during chart interpretation I'll go over this in more depth. The following are simple definitions of the type of interaction produced by the different aspects.conjunction - power
semi-sextile - response, reciprocal action
sextile - opportunity, reaching out
square - irritation, challenge
trine - easy flow
quincunx - making adjustments
opposition - conflict, seeks balance
Once the planet positions have been adjusted and placed in your wheel, you are ready to find the aspects between the planets. First you should round the degrees and minutes of each planet to the nearest degree. If you desire more accuracy, you may include degrees and minutes, however, there is so much difference of opinion between astrologers concerning the orbs of aspects, that for now we are going to simplify the process. Later as you gain experience, you may want to widen the orbs yourself. The table of reference for aspects has fairly tight orbs, which I feel is recommended in the beginning. See the Easy Aspect Finder Table which will make the process of discovering aspects much easier in the beginning.Major Aspects
| Name of Aspect | Number of Degrees or Signs Apart |
Symbol | Orb |
| Conjunction | 0 (same sign) |
 |
10 |
| Semi-Sextile | 30(1 sign apart) |
 |
2 |
| Sextile | 60(2 signs apart) |
 |
4 |
| Square | 90(2 signs apart) |
 |
8 |
| Trine | 120(4 signs apart) |
 |
6 |
| Quincunx | 150(5 signs apart) |
 |
3 |
| Opposition | 180(6 signs apart) |
 |
10 |
At some point in time you may be able to eyeball the aspects like a seasoned astrologer but, I wouldn't recommend attempting it in the beginning!Take your time and shoot for accuracy. Speed will come from experience.
You may note some minor differences in the adjusted planets minutes as compared with your own results. This is due to slight variations in log tables or diurnal tables and also the fact that sometimes you have to just choose the closest figure. I wouldn't worry about it too much. After all we're dealing with celestial bodies that are millions of miles away in a space that has no end. As long as the degrees are correct, that is enough accuracy for this natal application.
Whether you choose to use the equal house system or the unequal house system, the planet positions and the aspects they make to each other will remain the same.
