#Transiting Ceres enters pre-retrograde shadow

[ms-m-astrologer]

Transiting Ceres enters Retrograde Zone

Timeline (current events in bold)

Monday, November 28, 2022, 18:38 UT - transiting Ceres enters pre-retrograde shadow, 23°49’ Virgo

Sunday, December 18, 2022, 23:26 UT - transiting Ceres enters Libra

Friday, February 3, 2023, 19:16 UT - transiting Ceres stations retrograde, 6°58’ Libra

Thursday, March 23, 2023, 03:52 UT - transiting Ceres retrogrades back into Virgo

Saturday, May 6, 2023, 19:28 UT - transiting Ceres stations direct, 23°49’ Virgo

Wednesday, June 21, 2023, 11:22 UT - transiting Ceres re-enters Libra

Saturday, July 15, 2023, 15:10 UT - transiting Ceres exits post-retrograde shadow, 6°58’ Libra

Unless Ceres is a player in your chart (closely in aspect to the Sun, the Moon, and/or an angle), you may not feel this very strongly. Which is a shame - so many of the challenges we face (namely, coping with and mitigating the ongoing and accelerating climate catastrophe) are specifically Ceres’ province. Maybe we should all try harder to integrate Ceres’ energy in our lives - there’s our collective 2023 New Year’s Resolution! - we don’t have much of a choice, really.

Looking at some of Ceres’ areas, then:

Procreative sexuality, parenting, children, family - people deciding whether or not to have children at all; looking for stronger familial ties (biological or found); concern about/for the tribe.

Child care, nurturing professions - schools, day care, nursing, elder care.

Agriculture, growing cycles, food - the big one IMO. When even the wealthiest country in the world is experiencing food shortages, this is trouble.

Concern for animals - specifically the domesticated kinds, like you’d expect to find on a farm; also our pets.

Over the next three weeks, while Ceres remains in Virgo, the “issues” we’ll need to deal with, will make themselves apparent. We may not see them as clearly as we think we do - opposing Ceres/Virgo are a whole slew of Pisces placements, not to mention some imminent squares from Mercury and Venus in Sagittarius.

We may also initially be overwhelmed by (what we percieve as) the numbers of the problems. Not so much the magnitude, just the sheer quantities. (To me, they all boil down to the same thing, though: the disrespect and trashing of Mother Earth.)

Check out the natal house(s) Ceres is transiting, too. In the 10th House? You’re taking public, visible action; you’re becoming an authority on Ceres. In the 3rd House? You’re learning everything you can about Ceres, with the ultimate intention of communicating and teaching that knowledge to others.

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: October 7-13, 2024

Lunar Phases

Thursday, October 10, 18:55 UT - First Quarter Moon, 17°58’ Capricorn

The key phrases for the First Quarter lunar phase are “take action,” and “build new structures to support our intentions.” It may feel like we’re preparing for a fight (namely, the Aries Full Moon next week). Be canny and wise, prepared for hard work, and looking out for the longer-term ramifications.

Monday, October 14, 06:30 UT - Gibbous Moon, 6°24’ Pisces

The key phrases for the Gibbous lunar phase are “tweak and adjust plans as necessary,” and “pour more energy and effort into our intentions.” A lot of agitation and urgency; we may feel like hiding instead of fighting. Don’t give up before you even get started.

Void of Course Moon

Wednesday, October 9, 05:54 UT (Sagittarius) - 09:38 UT (Capricorn)

Friday, October 11, 15:53 UT (Capricorn) - 16:31 UT (Aquarius)

Sunday, October 13, 14:11 UT (Aquarius) - 19:55 UT (Pisces)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Mars/Cancer, Jupiter/Gemini (until Wednesday the 9th)

Retrograde: Jupiter/Gemini (starting Wednesday the 9th), Saturn/Pisces, Chiron/Aries, Uranus/Taurus, Neptune/Pisces, Pluto/Capricorn (until Saturday the 12th), Eris/Aries

Post-retrograde shadow: Ceres/Capricorn

Transiting Jupiter stations retrograde on Wednesday, October 9, 07:05 UT, at 21°20’ Gemini. Support from others may seem to dry up; we’re more contemplative and philosophical.

Transiting Pluto stations direct on Saturday, October 12, 00:34 UT, at 29°38’ Capricorn. Time to show the hard work we’ve done on authenticity.

Ingress

Sunday, October 13, 19:23 UT - transiting Mercury enters Scorpio

Almost three weeks of our thoughts taking a darker turn. We’re looking for honesty and depth, but we need to be aware that not everyone is similarly inclined - or equipped.

Et Cetera

No Opportunity Periods this week. But hey, we’re at least out of the shadow of the eclipse!

It really is going to feel like we’re building up to some kind of fight, as the week progresses. Maybe we discover that healing is possible, but not just right now - maybe we keep surrendering before we try to fight - maybe overoptimism leads to a crash - however many people there are in the world, is how many possibilities there are.

It’s crucial to keep to those Capricorn traits as we navigate the days ahead. Prudence, caution, long-term strategies, discipline, hard work, self-reliance.

Most of the problems we face are not some brand-new issue, but rather something we’ve put off addressing - and perhaps we’ll learn a lesson about how “ignore it and it will go away” never works.

[ms-m-astrologer]

Cosmic Events: October 2024

Executive summary: eclipse season ends; stagnation.

Lunar Phases

Wednesday, October 2, 18:49 UT - New Moon/Solar Eclipse, 10°04’ Libra

A balancing act, trying to find the middle path - between wanting to defend ourselves and our loved ones; and wanting to establish ourselves for a long time. The nature of this eclipse family is on the valedictory side. Look for ideas and situations whose time has come and gone.

Sunday, October 6, 21:50 UT - Crescent Moon, 29°07’ Scorpio

Thursday, October 10, 18:55 UT - First Quarter Moon, 17°58’ Capricorn

Monday, October 14, 06:30 UT - Gibbous Moon, 6°25’ Pisces

Thursday, October 17, 11:26 UT - Full Moon, 24°35’ Aries

An angry Full Moon, bursting with ancient grievances. Women are especially enraged, and I think women’s issues (and our governments’ lack of interest in same) are going to be impossible to ignore.

Sunday, October 20, 17:21 UT - Disseminating Moon, 12°48’ Gemini

Thursday, October 24, 08:03 UT - Last Quarter Moon, 1°24’ Leo

Monday, October 28, 09:00 UT - Balsamic Moon, 20°25’ Virgo

Void of Course Moon

Tuesday, October 1, 21:39 UT (Virgo) - 22:20 UT (Libra)

Friday, October 4, 10:40 UT (Libra) - 11:22 UT (Scorpio)

Sunday, October 6, 22:52 UT (Scorpio) - 21:34 UT (Sagittarius)

Wednesday, October 9, 05:54 UT (Sagittarius) - 09:38 UT (Capricorn)

Friday, October 11, 15:53 UT (Capricorn) - 16:31 UT (Aquarius)

Sunday, October 13, 14:11 UT (Aquarius) - 19:55 UT (Pisces)

Tuesday, October 15, 20:00 UT (Pisces) - 20:34 UT (Aries)

Thursday, October 17, 19:26 UT (Aries) - 20:00 UT (Taurus)

Saturday, October 19, 19:33 UT (Taurus) - 20:07 UT (Gemini)

Monday, October 21, 21:00 UT (Gemini) - 22:50 UT (Cancer)

Thursday, October 24, 04:47 UT (Cancer) - 05:24 UT (Leo)

Saturday, October 26, 08:04 UT (Leo) - 15:47 UT (Virgo)

At 7 hours 43 minutes, this is the longest October void Moon.

Tuesday, October 29, 03:54 UT (Virgo) - 04:30 UT (Libra)

Thursday, October 31, 16:57 UT (Libra) - 17:29 UT (Scorpio)

At 32 minutes, this is the shortest October void Moon. (But notice how many are under 40 minutes!)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Transiting Mars enters its pre-retrograde shadow on Thursday, October 3.

Transiting Ceres is in her post-retrograde shadow all month.

Transiting Pallas begins October in her post-retrograde shadow, and exits that on Friday, October 4.

Transiting Jupiter starts October in its pre-retrograde shadow, and stations retrograde on Wednesday, October 9.

Transiting Saturn is retrograde all month.

Transiting Chiron is retrograde all month.

Transiting Uranus is retrograde all month.

Transiting Neptune is retrograde all month.

Transiting Pluto begins the month retrograde, and stations direct on Friday, October 11.

Transiting Eris is retrograde all month.

Ingresses

Transiting Mercury enters Scorpio on Sunday, October 13.

Transiting Venus enters Sagittarius on Thursday, October 17.

Transiting Sun enters Scorpio on Tuesday, October 22.

Transiting Vesta enters Libra on Sunday, October 27.

(If that doesn’t seem like a lot to you, I agree. Stagnant.)

Opportunity Periods

Sunday, October 6, 17:09 UT - 22:52 UT. “Take advantage of the only Opportunity Period for weeks.” (No kidding.) “Good for everything from deep romance to hard work.”

Tuesday, October 15, 06:38 UT - 20:34 UT. “Great for artistic activities, romance, or anything you want to see grow.”

Saturday, October 19, 14:11 UT - 20:07 UT. “Good weekend hours for either work or play; especially good for innovative artistic endeavors.”

Monday, October 21, 20:50 UT - 21:00 UT. “Use this short period to do the right thing; especially positive for networking and communication.”

Monday, October 28, 21:31 UT - Tuesday, October 29, 03:54 UT. “Excellent for cleaning up and getting organized during the Last Quarter Moon.”

Et Cetera

We emerge from the shadow of the eclipse on Saturday, October 5 - at 18:49 UT to be precise.

Libra season is going to be very feisty, let’s say. Once Scorpio season begins on October 22, tempers should slowly begin to calm down.

———————————

Venmo Mary_Brack

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Thank you!

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: October 14-20, 2024

Lunar Phases

Monday, October 14, 06:30 UT - Gibbous Moon, 6°24’ Pisces

The key phrases for the Gibbous lunar phase are “tweak and adjust plans as needed,” and “pour more energy and effort into our intentions.” It feels almost more intense than the Full Moon. Accept your own responsibility (but nobody else’s) without being defensive about it.

Thursday, October 17, 11:26 UT - Full Moon, 24°35’ Aries

The key phrases for the Full lunar phase are “culminate, fulfill, illumine, manifest;” and “pour all our energy and efforts into our intentions.” Might be an angry feeling of impending finality, as now Pluto/Capricorn is joining in. A Cardinal grand cross with an overall message “shit or get off the pot.”

Sunday, October 20, 17:21 UT - Disseminating Moon, 12°48’ Gemini

The key phrases for the Disseminating lunar phase are “teach, share, communicate;” and “ease up on efforts with our intentions.” We feel like talking - blabbing, more likely - and there’s a chance we’ll blurt out too much. (Or, conversely, not enough.) Vent, if you must, only to trusted partners.

Void of Course Moon

Tuesday, October 15, 20:00 UT (Pisces) - 20:34 UT (Aries)

Thursday, October 17, 19:26 UT (Aries) - 20:00 UT (Taurus)

Saturday, October 19, 19:33 UT (Taurus) - 20:07 UT (Gemini)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Mars/Cancer

Retrograde: Jupiter/Gemini, Saturn/Pisces, Chiron/Aries, Uranus/Taurus, Neptune/Pisces, Eris/Aries

Post-retrograde shadow: Ceres/Capricorn

Ingress

Thursday, October 17, 19:28 UT - transiting Venus enters Sagittarius

This is going to be a very fruitful transit for romantic break-ups - there’s a lot of desire to explore, artistically and financially as well.

Et Cetera

There are two Opportunity Periods this week:

Tuesday, October 15, 06:38 UT - 20:34 UT. “Great for artistic activities, romance, or anything you want to see grow.”

Saturday, October 19, 14:11 UT - 20:07 UT. “Good weekend hours for either work or play; especially good for innovative artistic endeavors.”

NGL, it’s a really difficult week. Everybody is angry, and defensive, and projecting, and seemingly wallowing in negativity. (It’s especially bad in the US as Election Day draws near.) It’s important to find the space/time to calm ourselves down - meditate or pray - acknowledge our own culpabilities with creating whatever mess we find ourselves in - and swapping out or transforming negative behaviors into constructive ones. Scorpio season starts next Tuesday (October 22), and there will be our chance to process everything.

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: November 4-20, 2024

Lunar Phases

Tuesday, November 5, 12:36 UT - Crescent Moon, 28°35’ Sagittarius

The key phrase for the Crescent lunar phase is “gather and mobilize resources.” The Moon happens to be void of course, so wait until she enters Capricorn (15:17 UT) to make far-sighted, practical plans.

Saturday, November 9, 05:55 UT - First Quarter Moon, 17°20’ Aquarius

The key phrases for the First Quarter lunar phase are “take action,” and “build new structures to support our intentions.” Can we bring our very lofty ideas into manifestation? There’s strong energy for community &/or group involvements. We have to be careful not to let the perfect be the enemy of the good (Voltaire, probably).

Void of Course Moon

Tuesday, November 5, 10:23 UT (Sagittarius) - 15:17 UT (Capricorn)

Thursday, November 7, 22:38 UT (Capricorn) - 22:58 UT (Aquarius)

Sunday, November 10, 00:23 UT (Aquarius) - 04:00 UT (Pisces)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Mercury/Sagittarius (starting Thursday the 7th), Mars/Leo

Retrograde: Jupiter/Gemini, Saturn/Pisces, Chiron/Aries, Uranus/Taurus, Neptune/Pisces, Eris/Aries

Post-retrograde shadow: Ceres/Capricorn

Transiting Mercury enters its pre-retrograde shadow on Thursday, November 7, 12:32 UT, at 6°24’ Sagittarius. What’s the big idea? Where do we need to stretch our brains a bit?

Et Cetera

There is one Opportunity Period this week: Saturday, November 9, 22:17 UT - Sunday, November 10, 00:23 UT. “During this short but very positive OP, you’re able to succeed at anything, from inspired creativity to romance.”

The Scorpio Cross-Quarter Day (when the transiting Sun reaches 15°00’00” of Scorpio) is Wednesday, November 6, at 22:20 UT. Looks promising for a focus on self-reliance and maturity.

This is going to be a tense week - of course - we have to wait patiently, see where the dust settles (and recognize that may take a few weeks), and then figure out what to do next. Election Day itself starts out with a void Sagittarius Moon, but at 10:17 EST the Moon moves into Capricorn. The Sun is separating from a trine Saturn, too, so there’s considerable Saturn/Cap energy. The Democratic Party is ruled by Capricorn….

I think there is a sizable chunk of the American populace which is sick and tired of the Dolt 45 freak show - we want maturity and responsibility. But there’s another chunk coming from a place of fear, and which will vote accordingly. US economist Robert Reich keeps describing himself as “nauseously optimistic” about the election, and I have to agree. Do what you have to do to keep calm, and if you’re a US citizen aged 18 and over, go vote!

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: October 28 - November 3, 2024

Lunar Phases

Monday, October 28, 09:00 UT - Balsamic Moon, 20°25’ Virgo

The key phrases for the Balsamic lunar phase are “let go of the past,” and “envision the future.” A great time to rest up, take your vitamins, eat healthy food, and hydrate - the whole Virgo agenda!

Friday, November 1, 12:47 UT - New Moon, 9°35’ Scorpio

The key phrase for the New lunar phase is “set a new intention for the month” - nothing drastic, just some good habit we think we can establish in one month’s time. Doing whatever it takes for us to remain calm, focused, and conscientious, is m suggestion. Lots of hype out there. Ignore it as best you can.

Void of Course Moon

Tuesday, October 29, 03:54 UT (Virgo) - 04:30 UT (Libra)

Thursday, October 31, 16:57 UT (Libra) - 17:29 UT (Scorpio)

Sunday, November 3, 04:51 UT (Scorpio) - 05:19 UT (Sagittarius)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Mars/Cancer-Leo

Retrograde: Jupiter/Gemini, Saturn/Pisces, Chiron/Aries, Uranus/Taurus, Neptune/Pisces, Eris/Aries

Post-retrograde shadow: Ceres/Capricorn

Ingresses

Saturday, November 2 - transiting Mercury enters Sagittarius

It spends a few days here before entering its pre-retrograde shadow next week, on November 7. We’ll probably get a terrific new idea to take into the retrograde zone.

Sunday, November 3 - transiting Juno enters Scorpio

Sexy! ‘Til death do us part! Transformative relationship work! This is also (like Mercury) leading up to Juno entering her pre-retrograde shadow on December 22.

Monday, November 4 - transiting Mars enters Leo

A “mulligan,” do-over ingress - because Mars stations retrograde on December 6, at 6°10’ Leo, and returns to Cancer on January 6.

Et Cetera

There is one Opportunity Period this week: Monday, October 28, 23:31 UT - Tuesday, October 29, 03:54 UT. “Excellent for cleaning up and getting organized during the Last Quarter Moon.”

If you live in the US, stupid fucking Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, November 3, at 2:00 am local time.

Currently fighting off my latest cold (occupational hazard: I work in a school), and I apologize for this brevity! Thought it was better to get something posted.

———————————

Venmo Mary_Brack

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Thank you!

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: August 26 - September 1, 2024

We’re in a waning Moon this week. This is not a good time to start anything, but it’s very supportive if you want to stop doing something. (Quitting a bad habit, for example.) While the Moon is in Cancer, it’s a good time to prune things that you want to grow back slowly (like a high-maintenance hairdo?); when it’s in Gemini and Leo, it’s a good time to weed (or get rid of unwanted body hair).

Lunar Phases

Monday, August 26, 09:26 UT - Last Quarter Moon, 3°38’ Gemini

The key phrases for the Last Quarter lunar phase are “turn away,” and “tear down old structures that no longer serve us well.” One way to determine what to do, is to look at what we have lost interest in. What bores us? What do we have a hard time focusing on? What are we using as a distraction? We’re probably mentally sluggish (Mercury rules Gemini, and is stationary), so we’ll be patient trying to sort through our thoughts.

Friday, August 30, 02:17 UT - Balsamic Moon, 22°12’ Cancer

The key phrases for the Balsamic lunar phase are “let go of the past,” and “envision the future.” This is a holiday weekend in the US, and if you have the extra time off, take the opportunity to nurture yourself. Even if you have to work*, you can still make sure you eat comfort food, hydrate, and rest.

* Ms M remembers long ago, when everybody had Labor Day off. We’d all remind ourselves to fill up our cars beforehand, as the gas stations wouldn’t be open on Labor Day. Sigh.

Void of Course Moon

Monday, August 26, 01:40 UT (Taurus) - 03:04 UT (Gemini)

Wednesday, August 28, 07:14 UT (Gemini) - 08:47 UT (Cancer)

Friday, August 30, 15:24 UT (Cancer) - 17:09 UT (Leo)

Monday, September 2, 00:25 UT (Leo) - 03:48 UT (Virgo)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Jupiter/Gemini

Retrograde: Mercury/Leo (until Wednesday the 28th), Ceres/Capricorn (until Monday the 26th), Saturn/Pisces, Chiron/Aries, Uranus/Taurus (starting Sunday the 1st), Neptune/Pisces, Pluto/Aquarius-Capricorn, Eris/Aries

Post-retrograde shadow: Mercury/Leo (starting Wednesday the 28th), Ceres/Capricorn (starting Monday the 26th), Pallas/Scorpio

Transiting Ceres stations direct on Monday, August 26, 07:38 UT, at 7°29’ Capricorn. As she re-retraces her steps in this sign, between now and November 11, we can implement structured plans, with more of an eye on the longer-term. October 10-17 should be an especially productive time.

Transiting Mercury stations direct on Wednesday, August 28, 21:14 UT, at 21°24’ Leo. We aren’t out of the “Storm” until September 3, though, so continue to be cautious!

Transiting Uranus stations retrograde on Sunday, September 1, 15:18 UT, at 27°15’ Taurus. Those parts of our lives that feel stuck in a rut (even if it’s a comfortable rut), are “encouraged” to change, Uranus-style. Look for sudden surprises and disruptions. Uranus stations direct on January 30, 2025, at 23°15’ Taurus.

Ingresses

Thursday, August 29, 13:23 UT - transiting Venus enters Libra

Lasting until Sept. 23, we need to work hard on being more Eleanor Roosevelt and less Lady MacBeth. We want connection, and we need to be honest and reciprocal about acquiring it.

Monday, September 2, 00:10 UT - transiting Pluto retrogrades into Capricorn

One final visit, until November 19. A final chance to work on choosing integrity and responsibility - as opposed to being a status-driven control freak.

Et Cetera

There is one Opportunity Period this week: Wednesday, August 28, 08:47 UT - Friday, August 30, 17:09 UT. “Very good opportunity to implement changes and return to projects that were stuck during Mercury’s retrograde period.” (The next OP happens on Monday, September 9, so if you work with these be prepared!)

Format change - due to health concerns, this week I’m going to cut back on writing posts. Hence I went into more detail with this forecast! After this week, I will probably continue with a “beefed up” weekly and limit other posts to lunar phases.

______________________

Venmo Mary_Brack

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[ms-m-astrologer]

Cosmic Events: August 2024

Executive summary: Mercury is either retrograde or in its Storm all month - but look at all those long Opportunity Periods!

Lunar Phases

Sunday, August 4, 11:13 UT - New Moon, 12°34’ Leo

Lots of energy and enthusiasm. We have the ability to achieve much, if we can only make up our minds about which way to go!

Thursday, August 8, 12:28 UT - Crescent Moon, 1°27’ Libra

Monday, August 12, 15:19 UT - First Quarter Moon, 20°24’ Scorpio

Friday, August 16, 09:51 UT - Gibbous Moon, 9°01’ Capricorn

Monday, August 19, 18:26 UT - Full Moon, 27°15’ Aquarius

Massive shake-ups possible. We’re called on to be as authentically ourselves as we can.

Thursday, August 22, 23:54 UT - Disseminating Moon, 15°21’ Aries

Monday, August 26, 09:26 UT - Last Quarter Moon, 3°38’ Gemini

Friday, August 30, 02:17 UT - Balsamic Moon, 22°12’ Cancer

Void of Course Moon

Thursday, August 1, 02:46 UT (Gemini) - 03:19 UT (Cancer)

At 33 minutes, this is the shortest Void Moon in August. (And for the US, technically, it’s all on July 31.)

Saturday, August 3, 10:31 UT (Cancer) - 11:10 UT (Leo)

For the US, this 39-minute void Moon is the shortest one in calendar August.

Monday, August 5, 15:16 UT (Leo) - 21:17 UT (Virgo)

Thursday, August 8, 08:40 UT (Virgo) - 09:31 UT (Libra)

Friday, August 9, 21:45 UT (Libra) - Saturday, August 10, 22:34 UT (Scorpio)

At 24 hours 49 minutes, this is the longest void Moon in August.

Tuesday, August 13, 09:01 UT (Scorpio) - 10:01 UT (Sagittarius)

Thursday, August 15, 16:52 UT (Sagittarius) - 17:51 UT (Capricorn)

Saturday, August 17, 20:43 UT (Capricorn) - 21:45 UT (Aquarius)

Monday, August 19, 18:26 UT (Aquarius) - 22:52 UT (Pisces)

Wednesday, August 21, 21:54 UT (Pisces) - 23:02 UT (Aries)

Friday, August 23, 12:44 UT (Aries) - Saturday, August 24, 00:01 UT (Taurus)

Monday, August 26, 01:40 UT (Taurus) - 03:04 UT (Gemini)

Wednesday, August 28, 07:14 UT (Gemini) - 08:47 UT (Cancer)

Friday, August 30, 15:24 UT (Cancer) - 17:09 UT (Leo)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Transiting Mercury begins the month in its pre-retrograde shadow (and in its Storm); it stations retrograde on Monday, August 5. Mercury stations direct on Wednesday, August 28, and is in its post-retrograde shadow (and its Storm) for the rest of the month.

Transiting Ceres starts the month retrograde. She stations direct on Monday, August 26, entering her post-retrograde shadow.

Transiting Pallas is in her post-retrograde shadow all month.

Transiting Jupiter is in its pre-retrograde shadow all month.

Transiting Saturn is retrograde all month.

Transiting Chiron is retrograde all month.

Transiting Neptune is retrograde all month.

Transiting Pluto is retrograde all month.

Transiting Eris is retrograde all month.

Ingresses

Monday, August 5 - transiting Venus enters Virgo

Friday, August 9 - transiting Juno enters Libra

Thursday, August 15 - transiting Mercury retrogrades back into Leo

Thursday, August 22 - transiting Sun enters Virgo

Saturday, August 24 - transiting Vesta enters Virgo

Thursday, August 29 - transiting Venus enters Libra

Opportunity Periods

Thursday, August 1, 03:19 UT - Saturday, August 3, 11:10 UT. “Use this exceptionally long OP for finishing up projects during the Balsamic phase of the Moon.”

Thursday, August 8, 09:31 UT - Friday, August 9, 21:45 UT. “This is a great time to get in touch with important people and to renew your connections.”

Thursday, August 15, 16:50 UT - 17:51 UT. “You can apply this fluid energy to both work and fun.”

Thursday, August 15, 17:51 UT - Saturday, August 17, 20:43 UT. “Take advantage of this long OP useful for practical matters that have to do with existing projects since Mercury is retrograde.”

Wednesday, August 21, 18:32 UT - 23:02 UT. “Good for anything, especially the arts and healing.”

Wednesday, August 21, 23:02 UT - Friday, August 23, 12:44 UT. “This OP is versatile, good for competition and sports, the dramatic arts, writing, and creativity.”

Sunday, August 25, 13:25 UT - Monday, August 26, 03:04 UT. “With Mercury still retrograde and the Moon in Taurus, use this OP for practical projects.”

Wednesday, August 28, 08:47 UT - Friday, August 30, 17:09 UT. “Very good opportunity to implement changes and return to projects that were stuck during Mercury’s retrograde period.”

(NB: I really hope everyone is happy with so many Opportunity Periods - because there will be only two in September!)

Et Cetera

The Leo Cross-Quarter Day falls on Wednesday, August 7, 00:09 UT. This is when the Sun’s travels take it to 15°00’00” Leo.

[ms-m-astrologer]

Transiting Mercury enters retrograde zone

Timeline (current events in bold)

Wednesday, July 17, 03:51 UT - transiting Mercury enters pre-retrograde shadow, 21°25’ Leo

Monday, July 22, 10:49 UT - transiting Mercury’s greatest eastern elongation, 27°02’ Leo

Thursday, July 25, 22:42 UT - transiting Mercury enters Virgo

Saturday, July 27 - transiting Mercury enters Storm

Monday, August 5, 04:56 UT - transiting Mercury stations retrograde, 4°06’ Virgo

Thursday, August 15, 00:16 UT - transiting Mercury re-enters Leo

Monday, August 19, 01:58 UT - Mercury-Sun inferior conjunction, 26°35’ Leo

Wednesday, August 28, 21:14 UT - transiting Mercury stations direct, 21°25’ Leo

Wednesday, September 4 - transiting Mercury exits Storm

Thursday, September 5, 02:33 UT - transiting Mercury’s greatest western elongation, 25°09’ Leo

Monday, September 9, 06:50 UT - transiting Mercury re-enters Virgo

Wednesday, September 11, 23:52 UT - transiting Mercury exits post-retrograde shadow, 4°06’ Virgo

Really, really hate when we begin a new academic year with Mercury Rx. So many plans and so much chaos….

Anyway, this is a two-sign Mercury Rx (which I also hate). This usually means that we all mess up part of the first sign’s process, in such a way that we can’t/don’t/won’t get the next sign right. How does that look with Mercury/Leo?

Thinking that talking louder than anyone else means you “win”

Too much arrogance and overconfidence about one’s own brain power (can also get competitive about being smarter)

Not listening to anything except the sound of your own voice

Too much emphasis on gossip and trivia

Plagiarism

This is all the pre-retrograde shadow, so simply be aware that those kinds of issues are bound to crop up - and pay attention when they do.

Don’t give a lot of leeway to these aspects - Mercury is still zipping right along. Maybe the afternoon before and the morning after.

Thursday, July 18:

Mercury/Leo semi-sextile Juno/Virgo, 22°52’

Mercury/Leo trine Chiron/Aries, 23°30’

These are nice, or can be - we’re aware that what we say and how we say it, has an effect on other people. We can speak our authentic truth in such a way that other people aren’t wounded. (The “how we say it” piece, in other words.)

Saturday, July 20 - Sunday, July 21:

Mercury/Leo (25°12’) sesquiquad North Node/Aries (10°52’), semi-square South Node/Libra (10°52’)

Mercury/Leo trine Eris/Aries, 25°29’

Mercury/Leo (26°09’) sesquiquad Ceres Rx/Capricorn (11°09’)

Mercury/Leo square Uranus/Taurus, 26°32’

What a mess! All these aspects are the first of three - although, luckily, we won’t have to deal with them, during the 2nd and 3rd times, in one big clump like this. Mercury-Eris is “fighting words,” and all their trine means is that their energies are flowing. There’s a lot of “open mouth, insert foot” spirit with the rest of them. Be careful not to piss off your elders. Save the “shock value” speech for another day.

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: July 15-21, 2024

Lunar Phases

Wednesday, July 17, 21:33 UT - Gibbous Moon, 10°46’ Sagittarius

The key phrases for the Gibbous lunar phase are “tweak and adjust plans as needed,” and “pour more energy/effort into our intentions.” It can go two ways: one, we completely overdo it; two, we completely neglect it.

Sunday, July 21, 10:17 UT - Full Moon, 29°09’ Capricorn

The key phrases for the Full lunar phase are “culminate, fulfill, illumine, manifest;” and “pour all our energy/effort into our intentions.” We’re tuned in to something we can’t quite discern. Feeling a little sorry for ourselves, too.

Void of Course Moon

Wednesday, July 17, 01:10 UT (Scorpio) - 01:25 UT (Sagittarius)

Friday, July 19, 07:58 UT (Sagittarius) - 08:14 UT (Capricorn)

Sunday, July 21, 11:26 UT (Capricorn) - 11:43 UT (Aquarius)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Mercury/Leo (beginning Tuesday the 16th), Jupiter (beginning Monday the 15th)

Retrograde: Ceres/Capricorn, Saturn/Pisces, Neptune/Pisces, Pluto/Aquarius, Eris/Aries (starting Sunday the 21st)

Post-retrograde shadow: Pallas/Scorpio

Transiting Jupiter enters its pre-retrograde shadow on Monday, July 15, 14:45 UT, at 11°17’ Gemini.

Transiting Mercury enters its pre-retrograde shadow on Wednesday, July 17, 03:51 UT, at 21°25’ Leo.

Transiting Eris stations retrograde on Sunday, July 21, 18:43 UT, at 25°29’ Aries

Ingresses

Saturday, July 20, 20:43 UT - transiting Mars enters Gemini

I remember reading a description of this placement as the “Mouth Warrior.” Fighting with our words and our intellect.

Monday, July 22, 07:44 UT - transiting Sun enters Leo

Leo season!

Et Cetera

There is one Opportunity Period this week: Sunday, July 21, 10:17 UT - 11:26 UT. “A short OP that works well for quick intuitive decisions.”

The planets are busy this week. On Monday, the Mars-Uranus conjunction matures (as the RepubliKKKans begin their quadrennial convention); and on the day of the Full Moon we also get a Mercury-Uranus square, Venus-Jupiter sextile, and Mars-Pluto trine. Exhausting. Take your vitamins!

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: September 23-29, 2024

Caution: we’re in the shadow of the eclipse until Saturday, October 5.

Lunar Phases

Tuesday, September 24, 18:50 UT - Last Quarter Moon, 2°12’ Cancer

The key phrases for the Last Quarter lunar phase are “turn away” and “tear down old structures that no longer serve us well.” We’re deeply sentimental and not completely crazy about letting go - and unfortunately this eclipse season has “letting go” as a theme. We can try to pick something we’ve outgrown, or we can let The Cosmos do the picking.

Saturday, September 28, 15:47 UT - Balsamic Moon, 21°01’ Leo

The key phrases for the Balsamic lunar phase are “let go of the past,” and “envision the future.” Spending time outside (weather permitting) and soaking up some sunshine is therapeutic. It helps our optimism and faith.

Void of Course Moon

Tuesday, September 24, 11:59 UT (Gemini) - 14:50 UT (Cancer)

Thursday, September 26, 22:12 UT (Cancer) - 22:47 UT (Leo)

Sunday, September 29, 03:36 UT (Leo) - 09:42 UT (Virgo)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Jupiter/Gemini

Retrograde: Saturn/Pisces, Chiron/Aries, Uranus/Taurus, Neptune/Pisces, Pluto/Capricorn, Eris/Aries

Post-retrograde shadow: Ceres/Capricorn, Pallas/Sagittarius

Ingress

Thursday, September 26, 08:09 UT - transiting Mercury enters Libra

Libra transits this year are challenging, and Mercury’s trip through the sign will not be an exception. Between now and October 13, when Mercury enters Scorpio, expect those Libran scales to be set a-jangle with contradictions, paradoxes, and confusion. We have to let ideas happen rather than force them. We need to listen to people who see things differently than we do. The downside is (in Steven Forrest’s words) “I am ambushed by the ignorance I chose to protect;” when we get it right, we’re fair, respectful, and diplomatic. This is also a good time to learn about something artistic.

Et Cetera

No Opportunity Periods this week.

Next Sunday (the 29th), very late, there’s a trine between Mars/Cancer and Saturn Rx/Pisces, at 14°24’. Because Mars is soon to enter its retrograde zone (Thursday, October 3), this is the first of three trines between the two planets. (Number two happens on February 8, 2025; number 3 on April 4, 2025.) Mars retrograde times show us how we sabotage ourselves through impatience, belligerence (the proverbial chip on the shoulder), and so on - I’m personally grateful for a flowing Mars-Saturn aspect! Pay attention over the weekend to “challenges to your integrity, moral temptation, and difficult decisions” (Steven again). Yes, even with a trine! This is the first of three, so we’re becoming somewhat aware of the problem. The work happens after Mars stations retrograde (December 6).

———————————

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[ms-m-astrologer]

Cosmic Events: November 2024

Executive Summary: Mercury retrograde, just in time for the holidays!

Lunar Phases

Friday, November 1, 12:47 UT - New Moon, 9°35’ Scorpio

The lunation itself is fairly benign, with the only major aspect being an applying trine to Saturn. The rest of the chart, though - yikes. Too many oppositions.

Tuesday, November 5, 12:36 UT - Crescent Moon, 28°35’ Sagittarius

Saturday, November 9, 05:55 UT - First Quarter Moon, 17°20’ Aquarius

Tuesday, November 12, 15:51 UT - Gibbous Moon, 5°45’ Aries

Friday, November 15, 21:28 UT - Full Moon, 24°01’ Taurus

More yikes, with that Full Moon conjunct Uranus. We’re having trouble wrapping our heads around something.

Tuesday, November 19, 06:16 UT - Disseminating Moon, 12°24’ Cancer

Saturday, November 23, 01:28 UT - Last Quarter Moon, 1°15’ Virgo

Wednesday, November 27, 04:58 UT - Balsamic Moon, 20°26’ Libra

Void of Course Moon

Sunday, November 3, 04:51 UT (Scorpio) - 05:19 UT (Sagittarius)

Tuesday, November 5, 10:23 UT (Sagittarius) - 15:17 UT (Capricorn)

Thursday, November 7, 22:38 UT (Capricorn) - 22:58 UT (Aquarius)

Sunday, November 10, 00:23 UT (Aquarius) - 04:00 UT (Pisces)

Tuesday, November 12, 06:13 UT (Pisces) - 06:26 UT (Aries)

Thursday, November 14, 05:50 UT (Aries) - 05:59 UT (Taurus)

Saturday, November 16, 07:03 UT (Taurus) - 07:09 UT (Gemini)

At six minutes in length, this is the shortest void Moon in November.

Monday, November 18, 04:09 UT (Gemini) - 08:50 UT (Cancer)

Wednesday, November 20, 11:20 UT (Cancer) - 13:51 UT (Leo)

Friday, November 22, 13:15 UT (Leo) - 23:01 UT (Virgo)

Monday, November 25, 05:35 UT (Virgo) - 11:20 UT (Libra)

Wednesday, November 27, 09:14 UT (Libra) - Thursday, November 28, 00:21 UT (Scorpio)

At 15 hours 7 minutes, this is the longest void Moon in November.

Saturday, November 30, 06:19 UT (Scorpio) - 11:53 UT (Sagittarius)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Transiting Mercury enters its pre-retrograde shadow on Thursday, November 7; it stations retrograde on Monday, November 25, and remains so for the rest of the month.

Transiting Mars is in its pre-retrograde shadow all month.

Transiting Ceres begins the month in her post-retrograde shadow, which she exits on Monday, November 11.

Transiting Jupiter is retrograde all month.

Transiting Saturn starts the month retrograde; it stations direct on Friday, November 15, and enters its post-retrograde shadow.

Transiting Chiron is retrograde all month.

Transiting Uranus is retrograde all month.

Transiting Neptune is retrograde all month.

Transiting Eris is retrograde all month.

Ingresses

Saturday, November 2 - transiting Mercury enters Sagittarius

Sunday, November 3 - transiting Juno enters Scorpio

Monday, November 4 - transiting Mars enters Leo

Monday, November 11 - transiting Venus enters Capricorn

Tuesday, November 19 - transiting Pluto enters Aquarius

Thursday, November 21 - transiting Sun enters Sagittarius

Saturday, November 30 - transiting Pallas enters Capricorn

Opportunity Periods

Saturday, November 9, 20:17 UT - Sunday, November 10, 00:23 UT. “During this short but very positive OP, you’re able to succeed at anything, from inspired creativity to romance.”

Monday, November 11, 13:07 UT - Tuesday, November 12, 06:26 UT. “Intuition is heightened, so use it to start new projects that spark your interests.”

Saturday, November 16, 01:32 UT - 07:09 UT. “Take advantage of this OP so close to the Full Moon for a good panoramic view and making sound decisions.”

Monday, November 18, 23:35 UT - Wednesday, November 20, 13:51 UT. “This OP is your last chance before Mercury turns retrograde. Use this family-oriented energy suitable for any project you’re involved with.”

Wednesday, November 27, 00:06 UT - 09:14 UT. “Excellent OP for communication and artistic activities, but with the waning Moon and Mercury retrograde, it’s better to review existing projects than to start new ones.”

Et Cetera

Here in the US, stupid fucking Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, November 3, at 2:00 am local time.

The Scorpio Cross-Quarter Day is Wednesday, November 6, at 22:20 UT.

[ms-m-astrologer]

Cosmic Events: September 2024

Executive Summary: the shadow of the eclipse begins on Saturday, September 7, and ends on Saturday, October 5. Also, probably due to this, we get only two Opportunity Periods all month!

Lunar Phases

Tuesday, September 3, 01:56 UT - New Moon, 11°04’ Virgo

“Think globally, act locally;” “Do what you can, with what you have, right where you are;”“I cannot do all the good that the world needs. But the world needs all the good that I can do.”

Saturday, September 7, 05:30 UT - Crescent Moon, 0°06’ Scorpio

Wednesday, September 11, 06:06 UT - First Quarter Moon, 19°00’ Sagittarius

Saturday, September 14, 20:39 UT - Gibbous Moon, 7°32’ Aquarius

Wednesday, September 18, 02:34 UT - Full Moon/Eclipse, 25°41’ Pisces

We are able to tune in to the Greater Cosmos - which we may not enjoy very much. There’s a tendency to let our imaginations run away with us.

Saturday, September 21, 07:26 UT - Disseminating Moon, 13°48’ Taurus

Tuesday, September 24, 18:50 UT - Last Quarter Moon, 2°12’ Cancer

Saturday, September 28, 16:47 UT - Balsamic Moon, 21°01’ Leo

Void of Course Moon

Monday, September 2, 00:25 UT (Leo) - 03:48 UT (Virgo)

Wednesday, September 4, 16:06 UT (Virgo) - 16:12 UT (Libra)

At six minutes, this is the shortest void Moon in September.

Saturday, September 7, 05:08 UT (Libra) - 05:18 UT (Scorpio)

Monday, September 9, 17:11 UT (Scorpio) - 17:26 UT (Sagittarius)

Thursday, September 12, 00:21 UT (Sagittarius) - 02:38 UT (Capricorn)

Saturday, September 14, 07:35 UT (Capricorn) - 07:53 UT (Aquarius)

Monday, September 16, 06:55 UT (Aquarius) - 09:39 UT (Pisces)

Wednesday, September 18, 09:02 UT (Pisces) - 09:24 UT (Aries)

Friday, September 20, 08:39 UT (Aries) - 09:03 UT (Taurus)

Sunday, September 22, 10:14 UT (Taurus) - 10:24 UT (Gemini)

Tuesday, September 24, 11:59 UT (Gemini) - 14:50 UT (Cancer)

Thursday, September 26, 22:12 UT (Cancer) - 22:47 UT (Leo)

Sunday, September 29, 03:36 UT (Leo) - 09:42 UT (Virgo)

At six hours, six minutes, this is the longest void Moon in September.

(Now that Pluto is back in the late degrees of Capricorn - and Neptune still in late Pisces, and Uranus in late Taurus - we won’t have any of those long slog void Moons for a while.)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Transiting Mercury starts September direct, but still in its Storm. It exits the Storm on Wednesday, September 4; has its greatest western elongation on Thursday, September 5; and exits its post-retrograde shadow on Wednesday, September 11.

Transiting Ceres is in her post-retrograde shadow all month.

Transiting Pallas is in her post-retrograde shadow all month.

Transiting Jupiter is in its pre-retrograde shadow all month.

Transiting Saturn is retrograde all month.

Transiting Chiron is retrograde all month.

Transiting Uranus stations retrograde on Sunday, September 1.

Transiting Neptune is retrograde all month.

Transiting Pluto is retrograde all month.

Transiting Eris is retrograde all month.

Ingresses

Sunday, September 1 - transiting Pluto retrogrades back into Capricorn

Wednesday, September 4 - transiting Mars enters Cancer

Sunday, September 8 - transiting Pallas re-enters Sagittarius

Sunday, September 8 - transiting Mercury re-enters Virgo

Sunday, September 22 - transiting Sun enters Libra

(Aka the Libra Equinox)

Sunday, September 22 - transiting Venus enters Scorpio

Thursday, September 26 - transiting Mercury enters Libra

Opportunity Period

Monday, September 9, 15:07 UT - 17:11 UT. “This is a good, fluid time when emotions run deep and imagination is fertile.””

Sunday, September 22, 07:50 UT - 10:24 UT. “Productive time. Keep it practical since we are between eclipses.”

Et Cetera

The Libra Equinox is Sunday, September 22, 12:44 UT.

The “shadow of the eclipse” is a time period beginning 10 days before the first eclipse, and lasting until three days after the final eclipse. This time, that time period is September 7 - October 5.

———————————

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[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: October 21-27, 2024

Lunar Phase

Thursday, October 24, 08:03 UT - Last Quarter Moon, 1°24’ Leo

The key phrases for the Last Quarter lunar phase are “turn away,” and “tear down old structures that no longer serve us well.” Letting go is very difficult for the stubborn fixed signs, usually due to pride or vanity or both. Try to get a little perspective on the problem. Mentors are useful here.

Void of Course Moon

Monday, October 21, 21:00 UT (Gemini) - 22:50 UT (Cancer)

Thursday, October 24, 04:47 UT (Cancer) - 05:24 UT (Leo)

Saturday, October 26, 08:04 UT (Leo) - 15:47 UT (Virgo)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Mars/Cancer

Retrograde: Jupiter/Gemini, Saturn/Pisces, Chiron/Aries, Uranus/Taurus, Neptune/Pisces, Eris/Aries

Post-retrograde shadow: Ceres/Capricorn

Ingresses

Tuesday, October 22, 22:15 UT - transiting Sun enters Scorpio

Happy Scorpio season! A lot of intensity and self-examination during the month. We have trouble letting go without the help of faith.

Sunday, October 27, 06:31 UT - transiting Vesta enters Libra

Several weeks of looking for balance in our personal integration and vocation. Some of us will find “study buddies” to do research with; be careful not to get competitive. Also, it’s study buddies, not study minions.

Et Cetera

There is one Opportunity Period this week: Monday, October 21, 18:50 UT - 21:00 UT. “Use this short period to do the right thing; especially positive for networking and communication.”

Life is still very volatile, especially as the week begins. We’re either too bossy, or we’re being bossed and we don’t like it. As the week moves on we’ll begin to see some calming down, as well as some opportunities for further future growth.

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: September 9-15, 2024

Caution: we’re in the shadow of the eclipse until Saturday, October 5, 2024.

Lunar Phases

Wednesday, September 11, 06:06 UT - First Quarter Moon, 19°00’ Sagittarius

The key phrases for the First Quarter lunar phase are “take action,” and “build new structures to support our intentions.” Some of us will feel overwhelmed with options, and find it difficult to decide which way to go. Others may feel that all the choices suck, so why bother? We need to be flexible, able to respond to anything thrown at us - and we need to recognize when it’s time to let something go.

Saturday, September 14, 20:39 UT - Gibbous Moon, 7°32’ Aquarius

The key phrases for the Gibbous lunar phase are “tweak and adjust plans as necessary,” and “pour more energy and effort into our intentions.” The pressure has eased a bit. We can take an emotional step back and consider things. Doing something fun gives us a fresh perspective.

Void of Course Moon

Monday, September 9, 17:11 UT (Scorpio) - 17:26 UT (Sagittarius)

Thursday, September 12, 00:21 UT (Sagittarius) - 02:38 UT (Capricorn)

Saturday, September 14, 07:35 UT (Capricorn) - 07:53 UT (Aquarius)

(Now that Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto are all in very late degrees of their signs, we won’t have any of those excruciatingly long void Moons for a while - there’s nothing over six hours until the end of October.)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Jupiter/Gemini

Retrograde: Saturn/Pisces, Chiron/Aries, Uranus/Taurus, Neptune/Pisces, Pluto/Capricorn, Eris/Aries

Post-retrograde shadow: Mercury/Virgo (until Wednesday the 11th), Ceres/Capricorn, Pallas/Sagittarius

Transiting Mercury exits its post-retrograde shadow on Wednesday, September 11, 23:52 UT, at 4°06’ Virgo. Finishing with more of a whimper than a bang, we have a lot of discontent over what the Rx wrought.

Ingress

Monday, September 9, 06:50 UT - transiting Mercury re-enters Virgo

Lasting Sept. 9-26. Mercury rules Virgo, and it’s generally comfortable here. We may discover a new scholastic interest around the 10th and will be raring to go with it, maybe too quickly though. Baby steps! There are some inconveniences along the way; be sure you’re flexible and adaptable, and have a few back-up plans. Around September 24-25, we’re rewarded for our hard work with some practical and profound insights.

Et Cetera

One of the two Opportunity Periods of September happens this week: Monday, September 9, 15:07 UT - 17:11 UT. “This is a good, fluid time when emotions run deep and imagination is fertile.”

This weekend may be a particularly social time - Venus/Libra trines Jupiter/Gemini, and the Aquarius Moon turns it into an Air grand trine on Sunday (most strongly between 14:05 UT - 21:09 UT).

Building up to next week’s lunar eclipse - we’ll be feeling it. Remember that during the “eclipse shadow” we shouldn’t do any more than we need to do. It may also be helpful (in the long run) to look for ideas and situations whose time has come and gone.

——————————

Venmo Mary_Brack

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Thank you!

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: July 22-28, 2024

Lunar Phases

Wednesday, July 24, 17:52 UT - Disseminating Moon, 17°18’ Pisces

The key phrases for the Disseminating Moon are “teach, share, communicate;” and “ease up on efforts with our intentions.” A lot of “poor poor me” going around.

Sunday, July 28, 02:52 UT - Last Quarter Moon, 5°32’ Taurus

The key phrases for the Last Quarter lunar phase are “turn away,” and “tear down old structures that no longer serve us well.” Comfort = complacency; we try to be a little more cold about what traits we don’t need any more.

Void of Course Moon

Tuesday, July 23, 09:58 UT (Aquarius) - 13:23 UT (Pisces)

Thursday, July 25, 14:31 UT (Pisces) - 14:52 UT (Aries)

Friday, July 26, 22:14 UT (Aries) - Saturday, July 27, 17:23 UT (Taurus)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Mercury/Leo-Virgo, Jupiter/Gemini

Retrograde: Ceres/Capricorn, Saturn/Pisces, Chiron/Aries, Neptune/Pisces, Pluto/Aquarius, Eris/Aries

Post-retrograde shadow: Pallas/Scorpio

Transiting Mercury has its greatest eastern elongation on Monday, July 23, 10:49 UT, at 27°02’ Leo.

Transiting Mercury also enters its Storm on Saturday, July 27 - “moving less than 40 minutes of arc per day … as it slows down before going retrograde.”

Transiting Chiron stations retrograde on Friday, July 26, 13:59 UT, at 23°32’ Aries.

Ingresses

Monday, July 22, 07:44 UT - transiting Sun enters Leo

Happy Leo season! To thine own self be true.

Thursday, July 25, 22:42 UT - transiting Mercury enters Virgo

But not for long - Mercury is thisclose to its retrograde station and will reenter Leo on August 14.

Et Cetera

There are two Opportunity Periods this week:

Wednesday, July 24, 20:31 UT - Thursday, July 25, 14:52 UT. “This is a great time to hone your intuition, meditate, and help others.”

Thursday, July 25, 14:52 UT - Friday, July 26, 22:14 UT. “This great OP ends with the Moon enclosed between benefics” (Jupiter and Venus) “which means you are set up to succeed. This is your last chance before Mercury enters its storm.”

Transiting Mercury is the main story this week, as we prepare for the latest Mercury retrograde session. We have a lot of physical and mental energy at our disposal, as the Sun and Mars are sextile all week - that will help us get our ducks in a row (or in as much of a row as we can manage!) before Merc enters its Storm on Saturday the 27th. It won’t technically be retrograde yet, but that’s when it will start to feel like it.