How to Calculate a Grand Trine

Assess the chart for indicative patterns of a grand trine. As the planets are connected to one another with straight lines, most commonly from planet to planet going clockwise around the chart's circle, they can form shapes like squares, triangles, diamonds, crosses and kites. Simple grand trines look like equilateral triangles, whereas more complex grand trines that have an extra "significator" planet have an extra spike that makes the kite shape. The energy of the fourth planet exerts a subtle force upon the characteristic of the grand trine.

Calculate the possible grand trines to see if they are legitimate. Differently shaped triangles with more acute or obtuse angles are a common occurrence. Measure the degrees between the planets in the potential grand trine, making note of the validated aspect if each planet is exactly 120 degrees apart. These measurements can be taken with the help of a simple protractor, which will ensure accuracy. Some of the same energies may be at work in a chart with lesser triangular aspects, but the symbolism of a true grand trine is significant in interpretation. If the grand trine has a kite design, the extra planet should be sextile, or exactly 60 degrees, from each of the neighboring planets in the formation.

Calculate the energy signature of the grand trine. Most, but not all, grand trines are formed by planets that are all within the same element designation. The wheel is divided in sections by the signs of the zodiac, each of which is associated with an element, either water, earth, fire or air. Water signs include Pisces, Cancer and Scorpio; earth signs include Capricorn, Virgo and Taurus; the fire signs are Leo, Aries and Sagittarius, and the air signs are Libra, Aquarius and Gemini. Determining which sign each of the planets in the grand trine is located in and then noting which element the planets are associated with can tell you the characteristic energy signature of the grand trine. Most true grand trine aspects are formed by planets that are of the same element.

Apply the energy signature to the overall interpretation of the grand trine aspect. Fire grand trines are often implicit of busy, quick-moving personalities who tend to overexert themselves on occasion. Earth grand trines usually indicate a personality that is dependable and comfortable moving at a slower pace. Air grand trines are associated with those who are intensely idealistic about personal philosophies and relationships. Lastly, water grand trines usually indicate a profound creativity and sensitivity. There are numerous other characteristics that can be inferred from grand trines and other astrological aspects. If interested, consult a reference book on the topic.