Synastry is the astrological technique of comparing two or more natal charts. This is done to assess how compatible or incompatible the individuals are with each other. Synastry also reveals the dynamics of the relationship and the potential challenges and opportunities that may arise.
One of the most important factors in synastry is the analysis of the planetary aspects, which are the angles formed by the planets in relation to each other. The aspects indicate how the energies of the planets blend or clash, and how they affect each other’s expression and function.
There are many aspects to consider in synastry, but some of them are more significant than others. These are the key planetary aspects that can make or break a relationship:
- Sun-Moon: This aspect shows how well the ego and the emotions of the partners are aligned. A harmonious aspect (such as a conjunction, sextile, or trine) indicates a strong emotional bond, mutual understanding, and support. A challenging aspect (such as a square, opposition, or quincunx) indicates a conflict between the needs and wants of the partners, emotional insecurity, and mood swings.
- Sun-Venus: This aspect shows how well the partners appreciate and value each other. A harmonious aspect indicates a strong attraction, affection, and admiration. A challenging aspect indicates a lack of appreciation, respect, or compromise.
- Sun-Mars: This aspect shows how well the partners express their will and assertiveness. A harmonious aspect indicates a healthy balance of power, passion, and excitement. A challenging aspect indicates a struggle for dominance, aggression, or impulsiveness.
- Moon-Venus: This aspect shows how well the partners nurture and comfort each other. A harmonious aspect indicates a deep emotional connection, tenderness, and loyalty. A challenging aspect indicates a lack of emotional fulfillment, sensitivity, or stability.
- Moon-Mars: This aspect shows how well the partners react and respond to each other. A harmonious aspect indicates a dynamic and stimulating relationship, with mutual respect and honesty. A challenging aspect indicates a volatile and unpredictable relationship, with emotional outbursts and arguments.
- Venus-Mars: This aspect shows how well the partners express their sexual and romantic desires. A harmonious aspect indicates a passionate and satisfying relationship, with mutual attraction and compatibility. A challenging aspect indicates a frustrating or incompatible relationship, with mismatched expectations or desires.
- Mercury-Mercury: This aspect shows how well the partners communicate and exchange ideas. A harmonious aspect indicates a fluent and stimulating conversation, with mutual understanding and curiosity. A challenging aspect indicates a difficult or boring conversation, with misunderstandings or disagreements.
- Mercury-Venus: This aspect shows how well the partners express their feelings and values. A harmonious aspect indicates a sweet and charming communication, with compliments and appreciation. A challenging aspect indicates a superficial or insincere communication, with criticism or manipulation.
- Mercury-Mars: This aspect shows how well the partners debate and argue. A harmonious aspect indicates a lively and constructive discussion, with respect and honesty. A challenging aspect indicates a harsh and destructive argument, with insults and anger.
These are some of the key planetary aspects in synastry that can reveal a lot about the quality and potential of a relationship. However, they are not the only factors to consider. The whole chart should be analyzed in detail to get a more accurate and comprehensive picture of the compatibility between two individuals.