What Are Orbs in Astrology?

An orb measures how close two planets (or points) are to forming a perfect aspect—the exact angle that links their energies.

When astrologers say “a 3° orb,” they mean the planets are 3 degrees away from being exactly conjunct, opposite, square, trine, sextile, or another geometric relationship.

An orb doesn’t create the aspect—it describes the tolerance around it. Think of it like a magnet: the closer the planets get to exact, the stronger the pull.

Every aspect is defined by geometry—a conjunction (0°), square (90°), trine (120°), opposition (180°), and so on.

But orbs decide how strongly that geometry operates. A square that’s exact is vivid and dynamic; one that’s 6° apart might still matter but fades in intensity.

Orbs help astrologers distinguish between main themes (tight or exact aspects) and background patterns (wider or looser ones). They also help keep readings clear by ranking aspects by impact.

• Exact aspects (0–1°) are the loudest—they define behavior and timing.
• Moderate orbs (2–4°) stay active but less dominant.
• Wide orbs (5–8°) describe mood or potential, more noticeable when repeated elsewhere.

Not all aspects are created equal—some are more visible in experience.

Major aspects like conjunctions, oppositions, and squares represent stronger angular relationships and usually deserve larger orbs, while minor aspects like sextiles or quincunxes use tighter ranges.

Orbs also depend on which planets are involved. The Sun and Moon—being visually dominant—allow broader orbs. Slower or dimmer planets (like Neptune or Pluto) have smaller, subtler spheres of influence.

Orbs apply differently when a moving planet (transit) connects with a natal planet. A transit’s effect begins when it enters orb and peaks at exactness—then fades as it separates.

• Faster transits (Moon, Mercury, Venus, Sun): 1–3° orb—events move quickly and fade fast.
• Moderate transits (Mars, Jupiter): 2–4° orb—effects last days to weeks.
• Slow transits (Saturn → Pluto): 3–6° orb—effects unfold over months or years.

An applying aspect means the faster planet is moving toward exactness—energy is building. A separating aspect means the aspect has just perfected and is fading.

In natal charts, applying aspects show tendencies still forming; separating aspects show skills already lived.

In transits, applying orbs often trigger events, while separating orbs mark integration or resolution.

1. Start wide (up to 8°) when scanning the chart, then narrow to 3° or less for precision.
2. Prioritize exact aspects between luminaries and angles.
3. When reading transits, note when an aspect enters orb, perfects, and leaves—these mark the story’s beginning, climax, and conclusion.
4. If the same pattern repeats (e.g., natal square + transit activation), it amplifies—use tighter orbs for cross-checking.

An orb simply measures closeness to exactness—how tightly two planets align. Wider orbs describe background energy; tighter orbs signal core patterns or events. In natal charts, orbs show intensity; in transits, they show timing.

Understanding orbs helps you read when energy is strongest, and how precisely two planets are speaking.

When you grasp orbs, you stop guessing if something matters—you can see exactly how much it does.

What Are Aspects in Astrology?

How to Read Transits