Elongation

Definition

Elongation is the angular distance between a celestial body and the Sun as observed from Earth. It is measured in degrees along the sky, from 0° at conjunction to 180° at opposition. A body may have eastern or western elongation, indicating which side of the Sun it occupies. Mercury and Venus have limited maximum elongations because their orbits lie inside Earth’s orbit.

Astrological Meaning

In astrology, elongation helps describe a planet’s relationship to the Sun and its visibility in the sky. Small elongation may place a planet near conjunction with the Sun, bringing concepts such as combustion, under the beams, or cazimi into consideration according to the tradition and exact distance involved. Greater elongation generally makes Mercury or Venus more visible as a morning or evening star. For the Moon, elongation corresponds closely with lunar phase: conjunction marks the New Moon, about 90° indicates a quarter phase, and opposition marks the Full Moon.

Why It Matters

Elongation provides astronomical context for astrological interpretation. It helps an astrologer distinguish a planet hidden in solar glare from one that is visibly established in the morning or evening sky. In natal, electional, and mundane work, this information can refine assessments of planetary condition and lunar phase, though its significance depends on the astrological system, the planet involved, and other chart factors.

Related Encyclopedia Entries

• Traditional Astrology
• Astrological Terminology
• Natal Chart
• Combustion
• Cazimi
• Lunar Phases