lodestarA chart may draw a square even when two positions are not exactly 90° apart. The allowed gap from that exact angle is called an orb.
Start with the exact angle
A square is exact at 90°. If two chart positions are 88° apart, they are 2° away from an exact square. Compare that 2° gap with the orb the chart allows.
Why two apps may draw different lines
An app that allows a 3° orb for squares may draw a line at 88°. With a 1° limit, it will not. Some methods set the limit by aspect; traditional methods may use the planets involved. The measured 88° angle does not change.
Check the setting before the meaning
If two charts disagree, make sure their birth details match, then look for an aspect or orb setting. The number may explain the missing line. A line's presence or absence is not a verdict about your personality or future.
A few common questions
Is an 88° angle always a square?
No. It is 2° from an exact square. Whether a chart shows it as a square depends on the orb rule in use.
Sources & further reading
Astrology sources describe their own traditions and methods; they do not establish predictive accuracy. The writing exercises are original Lodestar editorial material.