What synastry compares
Synastry compares placements in two natal charts, often looking at inter-chart aspects and house overlays. The quality of the calculation depends on both sets of birth data. House overlays are especially sensitive to time and location.
Start with a question
A useful discussion might concern communication, affection, conflict, or differing rhythms. Mercury, Venus, Mars, and the Moon supply symbolic vocabulary for those questions. Avoid treating one apparently difficult aspect as a verdict on the relationship.
Sun-sign compatibility is limited
Two Sun signs represent a tiny portion of two full charts. They cannot establish attraction, trustworthiness, shared values, or long-term compatibility. Percentage scores often hide arbitrary weighting behind a number that appears more objective than it is.
Composite charts are different
A composite chart commonly uses midpoints between corresponding placements to create a symbolic chart of a relationship. It is a separate technique from synastry and is not the sky at an actual birth moment. Methods and interpretations vary.
Let behavior lead
Consent, respect, safety, communication, and practical compatibility are directly observable. Astrology should never excuse controlling behavior or pressure someone to stay in a relationship. A useful symbolic exercise leaves both people free to disagree with it.
This guide describes symbolic conventions and traditions. Astrological interpretations are not scientifically established predictions about personality or events. Our sources and editorial approach.