#054 The Aspects: Aspect Patterns: The Grand Cross

When looking at the patterns in the centre of the chart which are formed by the aspects, there are patterns that appear which are formed when the planets come together to form larger configurations. By coming together, I mean that they form patterns by sitting at degrees in the natal chart which form aspects which conjoin to make larger patterns which form a larger pattern in the chart. These patterns are usually formed with planets and asteroids, but not usually with hypothetical or calculated points like the Ascendant or Midheaven, the Lunar Nodes, or Black Moon Lilith. These patterns can be considered challenging or easy offering potentials for growth or good fortune in each of their expressions. Some are more commonly known than others. This week we are taking a look at the Grand Cross which is formed when there is a planet at the same degree, 90° apart in each of the related modes: Cardinal, Fixed or Mutable. For example, if you have a planet at 15° of each of the Cardinal signs each planet will be 90° or 180° apart. This forms an aspect pattern that looks like a big square with a cross going from corner to corner. As you may recall from the episodes on the square aspect and planets in opposition, there’s a lot of tension with planets that sit 90° apart. Oppositions are considered to have a tension as well, though not all oppositions have to be challenging, though they can be. The Grand Cross is a volatile aspect pattern which creates a great amount of tension in the natal chart. This tension can be expressed productively, or coater-productively depending on the self-awareness of the native. I think of it as a Catherine wheel, with each corner of the square being activated when lit, causing this pattern to spin out of control. It has to burn out before it can slow down and each point of the aspect pattern feeds into itself and can trigger the other points very easily. As with the opposition, relationships are implied, and with the square aspect there is an unavoidable internalised friction which cannot be ignored. Like my counselling skills teacher says “relationships are the vehicle to change” and this is exactly the type of challenge instigated by this aspect pattern. Do you have a grand cross in your chart? Let me know!   ➡️ Visit Stellium Astrology for episode links, charts, to apply to have your chart featured, and to see which episodes you've already been featured in! 💜 Subscribe to my YouTube Channel ➡️ Become A Patreon For Exclusive Access To: Discounted Rates & Priority Access to Readings Monthly Astrology Overviews Full & New Moon Monthly Interpretations Early Access to Interviews Patreon-Only Access to Part 2 of Interviews Behind the Scenes Content Astrology Resources & Additional Content Much More… 💜 www.patreon.com/stelliumastrology