In Electional Astrology, aspects are the channels of energy flow between planets. Your goal is to select a time where the aspects actively support your endeavor. You are not just interpreting them, as in Horary, but choosing which ones will be in effect at the start of your activity.

Core Principles of Electional Aspects:

1. Applying vs. Separating: An applying aspect (planets moving toward an exact angle) is strongly preferred. It means the supportive or challenging energy is building and will manifest as your event begins. A separating aspect means the main energy has already passed.
2. Harmonious vs. Dynamic Aspects:
   • Conjunction (0°): A fusion of energies. Can be very powerful if the planets are compatible (e.g., Venus conjunct Jupiter). Avoid if they are not (e.g., Mars conjunct Saturn).
   • Sextile (60°) & Trine (120°): Harmonious and supportive. These are the most desirable aspects for most elections, indicating ease, opportunity, and natural flow. Trines are often considered "luckier."
   • Square (90°) & Opposition (180°): Dynamic and challenging. These create friction and obstacles. They are generally avoided unless your goal requires conflict, intense effort, or confrontation (e.g., starting a competitive lawsuit or a rigorous training regimen).

Examples in Practice:

• Example: Electing a time to sign a business partnership agreement.
  • Goal: Harmony and mutual benefit.
  • Ideal Aspects: You would want the rulers of the 1st (you) and 7th (partner) houses applying to a trine or sextile. A applying Venus trine Jupiter would be excellent for profitable harmony.
  • Aspect to Avoid: The rulers of the 1st and 7th in an applying square or opposition, which would indicate future disputes and friction.
• Example: Electing a time to launch a competitive sports brand.
  • Goal: Energy, aggression, and the drive to win.
  • Ideal Aspects: A strong, well-placed Mars applying to a square with the Sun or Jupiter could provide the necessary competitive edge and dynamic energy. The challenge is the point.
  • Aspect to Avoid: A VOC Moon or Mars retrograde, which would sap the necessary initiative.
• Example: Electing a time to lay the foundation for a new building.
  • Goal: Long-term stability and permanence.
  • Ideal Aspects: Saturn (structure) applying to a trine with Venus (beauty, value) or the Sun (vitality). This suggests a beautiful, valuable, and enduring structure.
  • Aspect to Avoid: Saturn applying to a square with Mars, suggesting accidents or structural conflicts during construction.