A Beginner’s Guide to Relationship Planets

You may already know what zodiac signs are a great match for you in terms of Sun signs, but when it comes to relationship compatibility, it’s important to consider the Moon, Venus, Mercury, and Mars signs.

Don’t know your Moon, Venus, Mercury, or Mars sign? Find out how to get a free birth chart here.

In astrology, planets signify processes—how we do things. For example, the Sun represents how we live, create, and express ourselves. That’s why Libras are known for their aesthetic, diplomacy, tact, and socialization.

Understanding how each planetary energy is expressed can help us have a more holistic perspective of who we are in relationships and what an ideal match would be.

The Moon

While the Moon is technically not a planet, astrologers consider it one. It signifies how we emote and respond. Just like the Moon reflects the light of the Sun, in astrology, the Moon describes the reflective, responsive, and receptive parts of us.

The Moon represents how we feel inner support and security. It symbolizes our need for belonging and emotional peace. Our Moon sign comes out in our intuition, habitual behaviors, and prejudices—the things we know and feel without conscious thought. So when evaluating long-term compatibility with a partner, especially if you plan to live together, start with your Moon signs.

Mercury

Named after the messenger of the Gods, Mercury signifies how we establish connections with others and in our minds. We look to Mercury as responsible for our day-to-day communications and coordination. That’s why many of us can experience communication and logistical oddities and mishaps during Mercury Retrograde.

Our Mercury sign comes out in our style of communication, how we process, sort, and analyze information, and how we get our points across. In modern times, and especially on dating apps, we may “meet” someone’s Mercury first.

Venus

Named after the Goddess of Love, Venus signifies how we feel close to other people, establish comfort and harmony, and exchange emotions. Venus rules our sentiments, what we value, and the pleasure we get from life.

Our Venus sign describes what our tastes, pleasures, and artistic inclinations are, as well as our definitions of grace, charm, and beauty. Simply put, look to Venus to describe what makes you happy. In relationships, Venus offers valuable insights into how we approach matters of the heart—how we view and handle our romantic engagements.

Mars

Named after the God of War, Mars is the planet of energy, action, and desire. It signifies how we achieve what we want and our need for physical and sexual stimulation. This planetary energy can be thought of as our survival instinct and sexual desires.

Our Mars sign comes out in how we express anger, what makes us angry, and our first instincts before contemplation. In relationships, Mars illuminates sexual compatibility and the capacity for accomplishing things together.