Aspect
A geometric angle between two points in the zodiac. The five major aspects are conjunction (0 degrees), sextile (60 degrees), square (90 degrees), trine (120 degrees) and opposition (180 degrees). Each creates a different quality of interaction between the planets involved.
Ascendant (Rising Sign)
The degree of the zodiac rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of birth. It governs self-presentation, physical vitality and how others perceive you. Requires an accurate birth time to calculate.
Conjunction
An aspect of 0 degrees where two planets occupy the same zodiac degree. The most powerful aspect, merging the energies of both planets into a single concentrated point.
Descendant
The degree directly opposite the Ascendant, governing close partnerships, committed relationships and the qualities you seek in others.
IC (Imum Coeli)
The lowest point of the chart, opposite the Midheaven. Governs home, family, roots, ancestry and psychological foundations.
Midheaven (MC)
The highest point of the chart, governing career, public role, reputation and life direction. Requires an accurate birth time to calculate.
Natal Chart
A map of the sky at the exact moment and location of your birth. It shows the positions of all planets and calculated points, forming the fixed reference against which transits are measured.
Natal Point
Any planet, angle or calculated point in your birth chart. The 19 natal points used on this site include the 10 planets, 4 angles, Chiron, Black Moon Lilith, the lunar nodes and the Part of Fortune.
North Node (True Node)
The point where the Moon's orbit crosses the ecliptic heading northward. Represents your evolutionary growth direction - the qualities and experiences you are developing in this lifetime.
Opposition
An aspect of 180 degrees where two planets sit at opposite ends of the zodiac. Creates awareness through polarity, often manifesting through relationships and external encounters.
Orb
The number of degrees by which an aspect can deviate from exact and still be considered active. A conjunction with a 6-degree orb means the aspect is active when the transiting planet is within 6 degrees of the natal point.
Part of Fortune
A calculated point derived from the positions of the Sun, Moon and Ascendant. Represents the area of natural abundance, joy and fulfilment in the chart.
Retrograde
The apparent backward motion of a planet as seen from Earth. An optical illusion caused by orbital mechanics, but significant in transit astrology because it can cause a planet to pass over a natal point up to three times.
Sextile
An aspect of 60 degrees. A gentle, supportive angle that presents opportunities but requires initiative to activate.
South Node
The point opposite the North Node. Represents past patterns, inherited habits, natural talents and the comfort zone you are outgrowing.
Square
An aspect of 90 degrees. Creates friction and forced growth. Uncomfortable but productive - the aspect most associated with genuine development.
Swiss Ephemeris
The astronomical calculation engine used by this site and most professional astrology software worldwide. Provides planetary positions accurate to fractions of a degree.
Transit
The movement of a planet through the sky as it forms aspects to points in your natal chart. A transit activates the themes of both the transiting planet and the natal point it touches.
Trine
An aspect of 120 degrees. The most harmonious angle, creating natural flow and ease between the planets involved.
Black Moon Lilith
A calculated point representing the lunar apogee - the Moon's farthest point from Earth. In the natal chart, it governs exiled instincts, suppressed desires and the untamed dimensions of your nature.
Chiron
A small body orbiting between Saturn and Uranus. In the natal chart, it represents the core wound that gradually transforms into healing wisdom and the capacity to help others.