Orb

An orb is the degree of flexibility allowed when deciding whether an aspect between two planets is active. A conjunction is exact at 0 degrees, but planets rarely land at the exact same degree. An orb of 8 degrees means planets within 8 degrees of each other still count as conjunct. Think of it like a bullseye: a hit dead-center (tight orb) is the strongest connection, while a hit near the outer ring (wide orb) still counts but feels more subtle. Major aspects like conjunctions and oppositions typically get wider orbs (6-10 degrees), while minor aspects like sextiles and semi-sextiles use tighter orbs (1-3 degrees). The luminaries (Sun and Moon) are usually granted the widest orbs. There's no universal standard -- different traditions use different orb tables, and some astrologers assign orbs to planets rather than aspects. The tighter the orb, the more powerfully the aspect is felt. An aspect within 1 degree is called partile and hits with unmistakable force.