Beginners Basics on Astrology & Chart Reading. A thread

A stellium: known in older forms of astrology as a “satellitium” is a cluster of 3 or more planets in a single sign or house... or, if the moon or sun are involved it’s 4 or more.

having a stellium doesn't automatically reduce your personality to a single note

ASPECT: The angular distance, (calculated in degrees) of the chart wheel, between 2 “celestial points” or planets. It shows the nature of the relationship between planets.

COMPOSITE CHART: Two individual charts which are merged to form one. It shows the relationship between two individuals. Many use this for love, but can be used platonically

CUSP: A line dividing the twelve houses. The midway point between two signs.

CONJUNCTION: Two or more planets sitting next to each other. A conjunction gives great strength to the energies of the planets that are interacting

CYCLE: The time it takes a planet or point to make one complete revolution in the heavens.

GRAND TRINE: When three planets meet each other to form a triangle. This is a harmonious configuration.

HARD ASPECT: Squares, oppositions and quincunxes. Aspects which create tension and/or friction.

HOUSES: The celestial sphere as a 360 degree circle is divided into twelve sections called “houses”. They are numbered by counterclockwise from the Ascendant (9:00 position). Each house represents certain aspects of life. Ex: communication, self, career

NODES: The north and south nodes of the moon are those points on the ecliptic where the moon crosses it going either north or south.

QUINCUNX (INCONJUNCT): An arc of 150 degrees. An uneasy aspect with karmic lessons.

RETROGRADE: When a planet appears to be traveling backwards from Earth's perspective. The energy of a retrograde planet is less assertive

SYNASTRY: Comparing natal charts to find strengths and weaknesses in the area of compatability.

DESCENDANT: The opposite point from the Ascendant Or rising: cusp of the 7th house. Describes one's interaction with another.

MUTABLE SIGNS: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces.

FIXED SIGNS: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius.

CARDINAL SIGNS: Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn.