Orb
Orb in Astrology
An orb is the allowable deviation in degrees from the exact angular measurement required for an aspect to be considered active. No two planets are ever at precisely the exact degree of a conjunction, trine, or square — so orbs define how close is close enough.
Orb Standards by Aspect
Different aspects are traditionally allowed different orb sizes:
| Aspect | Traditional Orb | Tight Orb |
|---|---|---|
| Conjunction (0°) | 6–10° | 0–3° |
| Opposition (180°) | 6–10° | 0–3° |
| Trine (120°) | 5–8° | 0–3° |
| Square (90°) | 5–8° | 0–3° |
| Sextile (60°) | 3–6° | 0–2° |
| Quincunx (150°) | 2–4° | 0–2° |
Tight vs. Wide Orbs
Tight orb (0–3°): The aspect is precise and strong. Its themes are distinctly felt and clearly expressed.
Medium orb (3–6°): The aspect is moderately active. Its influence is present but less sharply defined.
Wide orb (7–10°): The aspect is weak. Many astrologers question whether orbs this wide carry meaningful influence.
Sun and Moon — Larger Orbs
The luminaries (Sun and Moon) traditionally receive larger orbs because their energy radiates more broadly. A Sun-Mars aspect with a 9° orb may still register meaningfully; a Neptune-Uranus aspect at 9° would be considered negligible by most astrologers.
Applying vs. Separating
Applying: The faster planet hasn't yet reached exact — the aspect is building. Applying aspects tend to describe developing themes and future potentials.
Separating: The exact aspect has passed — the faster planet is moving away. Separating aspects describe themes in the process of resolving or completing.
Related Terms
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