Astrology · Guide
Natal charts, synastry, composites and transits
Natal chart, synastry, transits or composite: which method fits your question? Compare the birth data and calculation used for each type of chart.
Editorial illustration.
In this lesson
One birth or two
A natal chart records celestial positions for one birth. Synastry compares two such charts. For a question about communication between two people, begin with clearly separated birth data; a shared Sun sign does not replace the comparison.
A chart for a moment or midpoint positions
A transit compares a position on a selected date with a natal placement. A composite combines corresponding points from two charts using circular midpoints. The first uses a particular moment; the second is a constructed chart.
Write the question beside the method
“What were the birth positions?” calls for a natal chart; “How do two charts compare?” for synastry; “When does a planet reach a degree?” for transits. This prevents each new chart from becoming another confirmation of a preferred answer.
Astrology · Guide