Semi-Sextile (30) aspect [missing on astroseek] - Discussions, questions

An aspect of 30 degrees between two planets. It has an orb of 1 to 2 degrees. The semi-sextile is considered to be a minor aspect. It is rarely included in interpretations, perhaps because units of 30 degrees are the undifferentiated building-blocks of major aspects that have different meanings. It is often interpreted as some type of potential, according to the planets´ nature, signs, and houses; but one that is difficult to realize due to the signs´ incongruent natures.

A semi-sextile normally connects two consecutive signs. However, a dissociate aspect can be formed when one of the planets is situated in the first couple of degrees of a sign and the other at the very end of the same sign, although this can only be the case if a relatively large orb is used.

A connection between two consecutive signs indicates a connection between two opposing energies, because consecutive signs always belong to different elements and have different qualities. For this reason semi-sextiles are often thought of as connecting two planets that have difficulty working together; or indicating difficulties or challenges because two energies that feel alien to one another need to be integrated.

An alternative view is that the sequence of signs in the zodiac is not arbitrary but contains a deep logic. The energy inherent in each sign of the zodiac is a prerequisite for the following one. For this reason, two planets connected by a semi-sextile can work constructively together while retaining their clearly defined roles. The planet in the preceding sign paves the way, as it were, for the following one. This understanding can help to create opportunities out of the difficulties associated with semi-sextiles.

This interpretation of semi-sextiles can be useful when comparing two different horoscopes (see Synastry, Comparative Astrology). For example, a responsible and considerate Sun in Virgo can help and support a partner´s Venus or Sun in Libra to realise their potential.

Bibliography
Epstein, Alan, 1996, Understanding Aspects: The Inconjunct, Trines Publishing.
Hand, Robert, 1981, Horoscope Symbols, Whitford Press.
Tierney, Bil, 1993, Dynamics of Aspect Analysis, 2nd ed. CRCS Publications.