The Square in Astrology: What a 90 Degree Aspect Means
A square is two planets 90 degrees apart, within about 7 degrees, usually three signs apart. The two planets want different things and neither can ignore the other, so a square creates tension that pushes for action. It is the aspect most linked with effort, conflict and growth.
| Angle | 90 degrees |
|---|---|
| Orb used on this site | 7 degrees |
| Sign relationship | Three signs apart |
| Nature | Tension: friction that pushes you to act |
How a square works
Squares join signs of the same modality but different elements: Aries squares Cancer and Capricorn, for example. The planets share a pace but disagree on what matters.
A square is not bad. Most achievements in a chart can be traced to a square, because the friction forces the person to work. Charts with no squares are often described as easy-going but short of drive.
A square in your birth chart
A natal square marks an inner conflict that keeps coming up until you find a way to use both planets. Sun square Moon, for example, describes wanting one thing and needing another.
A square in transit
Transiting squares are turning points in a cycle: pressure to adjust. Saturn square its own position around ages 7, 22 and 36 marks a check on what you have built.
A square between two charts
Squares between two charts create attraction and friction at once. Mars square Venus can be very magnetic; Mercury square Mercury can mean arguments over small things.
Three squares, worked through
Mercury square Mars: Sharp, fast speech and a quick temper in argument. Good for debate, hard on patience.
Sun square Saturn: Confidence earned slowly against pressure, often strong in later life.
Venus square Uranus: A need for freedom in love that clashes with the wish for closeness.
Find yours
Your chart lists every square between your planets, with the exact orb. Birth chart calculator
See the squares forming to your chart today
Transiting planets form aspects to your natal planets every day. A Precision Horoscope names each one, how exact it is and what it means for you. Get my free personal reading