T-Square:

The T-Square is identical to the Grand Cross, except that one of the ‘arms’ of the cross is missing – the pattern forms a T-shape, with two or more planets in opposition, both squaring a third planet. As with the Grand Cross, a T-Square typically involves planets in Signs of the same Quality. Some astrologers maintain that the missing arm of the T-Square softens the ‘hemmed in’ effect of the Grand Cross … the degree of the Sign at the end of the missing arm offers an escape route for the energies locked in the T-Square, effectively making it easier for the tension created by the planets involved to be resolved. Other astrologers feel this theory isn’t born out by experience … they believe that it is more like the situation of cutting a leg off of a 4 legged chair, the empty quarter of this configuration has a destabilizing effect, making the T-Square more volatile than the Grand Cross.

Regardless, this is considered to be a very powerful aspect pattern, because it demands considerable strength of purpose before the potential benefits symbolized by the planets in the T-square can be reaped. It is only when the issues at stake are avoided or suppressed that the tension generated by this aspect pattern causes serious problems, usually in the form of events which the individual feels are totally beyond his or her control. The same sort of dilemmas apply to the different Quality T-Squares as to those of the Grand Cross. Dissociate T-Squares are softer versions of their ‘pure’ forms, toning down the overall tension.

The T-Square is exactly the same as a Grand Cross except that one of the four arms of the cross is missing, so the formation looks like the letter T. It shows much dynamic force that is often frustrated unless the qualities of the open end are adopted. Close aspects to any planets involved by a planet outside the T-Square will alleviate the tension and make it possible to express the dynamic potential satisfactorily.