What is Synastry?

Synastry, from the Greek "syn" (together) and "astron" (star), is the astrological method of comparing two individuals' birth charts to assess their compatibility and relationship dynamics. By examining how one person's planets interact with another's, synastry reveals areas of natural harmony, potential friction, and opportunities for growth within any type of relationship — romantic, platonic, familial, or professional.

How Synastry Analysis Works

Synastry uses three primary techniques:

• Cross-aspects: Examining the angular relationships between Person A's planets and Person B's planets. A trine between one person's Venus and the other's Mars, for example, suggests strong romantic attraction
• House overlays: Determining which houses in Person B's chart are activated by Person A's planets, revealing which life areas the relationship most affects
• Sign compatibility: Assessing how the key placements (Sun, Moon, Venus, Mars) relate by element and modality

Key Synastry Aspects to Watch

• Sun-Moon contacts: Fundamental compatibility indicators. Harmonious aspects suggest an intuitive understanding between partners
• Venus-Mars aspects: Gauge romantic and physical chemistry. Conjunctions and trines indicate strong mutual attraction
• Moon-Moon aspects: Reveal emotional resonance — whether two people feel comfortable and safe together
• Saturn aspects: Indicate relationship longevity and commitment, but also where challenges and hard lessons arise
• Pluto aspects: Signal intense, transformative connections that can be profoundly growth-inducing but also overwhelming

What Synastry Reveals

• Whether natural chemistry exists between two people
• Which dimensions of the relationship (emotional, intellectual, physical) are strongest
• Potential conflict areas and how to navigate them
• The long-term stability and growth potential of the relationship

Synastry vs. Composite Charts

While synastry examines the interaction between two separate charts, a composite chart creates a single chart from the midpoints of both individuals' planetary positions. The composite represents the relationship itself as an entity, while synastry focuses on how two distinct individuals affect each other. Both techniques are commonly used together for comprehensive relationship analysis.