Orb

In astrology, orb refers to the maximum number of degrees two planets can be apart and still be considered in aspect. When an aspect is exact (e.g., Moon at 15° Aries exactly opposite Sun at 15° Libra), the orb is zero. As the planets move away from exactness, the aspect weakens until it reaches the orb limit, beyond which it is no longer considered active.

How it works

Each aspect has a standard orb range. Conjunctions, oppositions, squares, and trines are considered major aspects and typically have wider orbs (up to 8–10° for the Sun and Moon, 6–8° for other planets). Minor aspects like sextiles and quincunxes use tighter orbs (2–4°). In a natal chart, the closer the orb, the stronger the aspect’s influence. For example, a Sun-Mercury conjunction with a 1° orb is very potent, while one with a 7° orb is much weaker.

In practice

When reading a chart, astrologers first note aspects with the tightest orbs — these are the most impactful. An orb of 0–3° is considered exact or very strong; 4–6° is moderate; beyond that, the aspect becomes subtle. Some astrologers also consider “out-of-sign” aspects (where planets are within orb but in different signs), which can add nuance. In synastry (comparing two charts), tight orbs often indicate strong, noticeable connections between people.

Explore your own chart’s aspects with Astraly’s natal chart tool.