AstroWatch

*Any times indicated are for the Pacific Time Zone.

*Refer to “AstroCast” by Kimberly Maxwell for more detailed information as these events unfold.

*Remember, these are just transits and they too, like a kidney stone, shall pass.

Forecast for July

The current Moon Wobble continues as July gets off to a quick start on the 1st, with the first aspect being the Moon conjunct Mars.  On the 2nd, there will be six exact aspects, Neptune will station retrograde, Mercury will go void-of-course for about one hour and then enter Leo.  On July 4, the Earth will reach its aphelion, which is our farthest distance from the Sun for this year.  On the 5th, there will be the New Moon then on the 6th, we have another day with six exact major aspects.  Those are the highlights of the first ten days of July dominated by mostly waxing, expansive aspects.

07/01/24 – 9:19 am – slowing Moon fixed conjunction Mars

This conjunction is at 16 Taurus 27’.  Mars is about doing, He isn’t particularly happy with most fixed signs, Scorpio being the exception.  This is the beginning of a new Moon Mars cycle.  The natural tendency of Mars may want to push you to get what you want.  Be aware that He doesn’t care if it is right, legal, or something that you really need or is good for you, you may need to use your judgment and impulse control to stay out of trouble.

07/01/24 – 11:42 am – slowing Moon waning sextile Venus

Do you have anything left that should have been completed last month?  That could be what this aspect is about as it is the last aspect in sequence for this pair until their conjunction on the 6th.  Time to get things finished and make plans for what “new” thing you want to start next.  Perhaps something you desire, or some change or update you would like to make to your home or self.  The Moon in fixed Taurus provides the focus while Venus in cardinal Cancer, provides the impetus for action.

07/01/24 – 2:28 pm – slowing Moon waxing sextile retrograde Saturn

You may want to shift your focus to newer things that were started recently.  How are they developing?  Are they meeting your expectations?  Should you make any changes or additions to them?  Next aspect in sequence is the crisis of action square.  You better be ready for it.

07/02/24 – 1:29 am – slowing Moon fixed conjunction Uranus

This conjunction is at 25 Taurus 27’, conjunct the fixed star Beta Perseus, also known as Algol, sometimes called the “Demon Star,” considered to be one of the most maleficent stars in the heavens.  The Greeks associated Her with the head of Medusa, while the Hebrews associated Her with Lilith and difficulties during pregnancy, childbirth, and also the death of young children such as with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).  She may be symbolic of someone who “loses their head” over something figuratively or actually.  If something wakes you in the night, a dream, a noise, or sound, whatever, note it, what time it was and as much detailed information as you can.  Do it when it wakes you, don’t try to remember it until you get up to start your day.

This conjunction is the first of six exact major aspects today, four by the Moon and one each by Mercury and Venus.  It will be a busy morning with five of the aspects plus Neptune stationing retrograde and the Moon going out-of-bounds North before noon, with only the sixth aspect coming this evening.  However hectic or challenging the morning may seem, know that it will pass and by afternoon most may feel as if things are starting to seem more calm, manageable even.

07/02/24 – 3:40 am – Neptune stations Retrograde

Neptune is at 29 Pisces 56’ as He slowly begins His retrograde journey which will last until December 7, 2024, and take Him back to 27 Pisces 08’.  The Sabian Symbol for the last degree of Pisces (29 Pisces 56’) is “The Great Stone Face, being the projection of an ideal.”  Keep in mind that this system of symbols was created  almost 100 years ago (1925, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA).

The Great Stone Face, also called the “Old Man of the Mountain,” was a natural rock outcropping that formed and appeared from the side as the profile of a man’s face.  Located near Franconia, New Hampshire, it was an established landmark until it collapsed on May 3, 2003, less than two months after the beginning of the second Iraq War.  Whatever “He” may have represented, it would seem that the beginning of the second Iraq War and the “missing” (non-existent) weapons of mass destruction were more than He could stand.  This degree seems to symbolize a time of coming to terms with an old belief that may not be true and a new belief that also isn’t true.  Consider, what is it you believe and what new belief have you formed?  Do your research.  Can and does your belief stand up to the truth?  The sign Pisces represents our spiritual beliefs.  This Neptune retrograde period would be a good time to question, correct, or reaffirm them.  For some things, it is better and safer for you if you do your own research and don’t just accept what someone else says.  Time to solidify your beliefs, don’t “believe” just because you want to.

07/02/24 – 4:53 am – Mercury goes Void-of-Course

Following a waxing water trine to retrograde Neptune, the second aspect of the day, Mercury goes void-of-course for just under one hour.  The waxing trine follows the crisis of action square and offers us an opportunity to review any recent actions we have taken and how they are developing.  If you need to, make changes or corrections now before moving on.  With both in water signs, this could relate to an emotional issue or action taken or not taken when you should have.  With Mercury void-of-course, choose your words extra carefully.  Spell check, read and reread everything before posting or sending.  With Neptune involved, again, be sure to record any dreams, insights, “a-ha” moments, feelings or other sensations that may come to you.  Trust your intuition and what you “feel,” for Neptune may try to confuse or deceive you.

07/02/24 – 5:50 am – Mercury enters Leo

Now in the Sun’s fixed earth home, some may find themselves ready to boast about themselves or possibly gossip about others.  Alice Roosevelt supposedly said, “If you can’t say something good about someone, sit right here by me.”  However, it would be better to heed the words of Abraham Lincoln, who said “It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to speak and remove all doubt.”  When it is your turn in the spotlight of the Sun, use your time wisely.

07/02/24 – 6:22 am – slowing Moon goes Out-of-Bounds North

The Moon is at 28 Taurus 35’, when She goes beyond the boundaries of the Sun.  The North represents the future, the “unknown,” that which may be both enticing and scary.  Within the framework of astrophysics and astrology, there are many future events that can be readily determined, such as when will the next eclipse be and where will be the best location to see it.  We all know when our next birthday will be, but we don’t know what, if any, gifts we might receive or even what we may be doing.  We may know when our next doctor’s appointment is, but not what the outcome will be.  If you must concern yourself with the future, focus on things you can control, not those you cannot.

07/02/24 – 8:43 am – slowing (OOB) Moon goes Void-of-Course

Following  a waxing sextile to retrograde Neptune, the third aspect of the day and third event involving Him, the Moon goes void-of-course for seven minutes before entering Gemini at 8:50 am.  Just 26 minutes later, the Moon will make a waning sextile to Mercury for the fourth aspect of the day.  Some may feel as if they are being pulled in two different directions as the waxing sextile suggests you should take time to review any new things started recently, while the waning sextile suggests you should focus on those things that you need to and can finish.

07/02/24 – 11:11 am – slowing (OOB) Moon waxing air trine retrograde Pluto

This is the fifth aspect of the day, and it isn’t even noon yet.  It is another waxing trine, so take a pause and review any recent actions taken.  Did you do the right thing correctly?  Did you miss anything?  Fix them now while they are still fresh in your mind, rather than putting them off for later.

07/02/24 – 6:41 pm – Venus waxing water trine retrograde Saturn

This is the sixth and final aspect today.  It is the third waxing trine today, this time to Saturn, the detail oriented one.  Take time to review your day, even if it is just in your mind.  Did you miss any details or forget to do something?  If so, and you can’t correct it this evening, then put it at the top of your “to-do” list for first thing tomorrow morning.

07/03/24 – 12:05 am – slowing (OOB) Moon air conjunction Jupiter

This is their second of fourteen conjunctions in Gemini.  Their first was on June 5, 2024, at 2 Gemini 28’, and their last will be May 28, 2025, at 27 Gemini 14’.  What new thing do you want or need to start at this time?  It may be as if something you started or that happened around June 5, may not be completed or resolved until the end of May next year.

07/03/24 – 12:27 am – Mercury fixed opposition retrograde Pluto

This is the midpoint in the Mercury Pluto cycle, symbolizing the point of transition from waxing expanding to waning contracting aspects.  This cycle began with their first conjunction in Aquarius in over 200 years, February 5, 2024.  They will continue to meet in Aquarius, at least once each year until February 28, 2043, for a total of 26 times, after which their meetings will once again shift to Pisces.  Their previous meetings in Aquarius took place from January 1, 1779, to March 16, 1797, for a total of 27 meetings or conjunctions.  This was a “revolutionary” time in the world, a time of great words and great actions.  Is that what we have to look forward to in the next 20 years?  Consider where you are and what you are doing today.  How does that relate to where you were and what you were doing in early February?  Be sure to note any dreams, (good or bad), and anything else that might come to you in the night.  Treat everything as if it were an important clue for you.  This energy should carry you through the night and most of the day into the late afternoon as there won’t be another exact major aspect until this evening.

07/03/24 – 6:58 pm – slowing (OOB) Moon waxing mutable square retrograde Saturn

This is the crisis of action square.  It is time to put any plans into action.  With Saturn retrograde pay particular attention to details of any older things that you have been working on or it may be something that you forgot to do, or complete.

07/04/2024 – Happy 248th Birthday America.

07/04/24 – 1:44 pm – average (OOB) Moon goes Void-of-Course

Following a waxing mutable crisis of action square to retrograde Neptune, the Moon will go void-of-course for 7 minutes and then return to Her Cancer home at 1:51 pm.  Neptune is about many things, dreams, including daydreams, being one of them.  Perhaps there is an “old” dream that comes to mind, a dream that now seems to be at the right time to take action on and manifest it.

Just under 2 1/2 hours later, the Moon will make a waxing inconjunct/quincunx to Pluto.  This could shake up whatever plans you may have for the day.  It could be an unrelated event or something you hadn’t anticipated.  Be alert and stay flexible.  Keep a close eye out for the “other guy,” the one who causes accidents.

07/04/24 – 10:06 pm – Earth at Aphelion

The Earth is at 13 Capricorn 31’, exactly opposite the Sun at 13 Cancer 31’, and is now at Her Aphelion, which is the farthest distance from the Sun this year, 94,510,539 miles.  We may be farther away, but because the northern hemisphere is now tilted toward the Sun, we receive a more direct “hit” of the Sun’s rays causing us to be hotter in the summer.  In the days and weeks ahead, as the Earth moves closer to the Sun, come winter, we will find ourselves tilted away from the Sun and so receive less of the Sun’s warming energy as the cold returns.

07/05/24 – 12:02 pm – Mars waxing sextile retrograde Saturn

This is their first major aspect since their conjunction April 10, 2024.  The waxing sextile represents a time to look back and review things that we may have started, perhaps around that time or more recently.  Are they on track?  Do we need to make any changes or corrections?  Do we keep putting time and energy into it, or is it not developing as we expected, and do we need to let it go or set it aside for now?  These are some of the questions you may want to ask yourself.

07/05/24 – 3:57 pm – average (OOB) New Moon cardinal conjunction Sun

This New Moon is at 14 Cancer 23’.  The Sabian Symbol for this degree is “A group of people who have overeaten and enjoyed it.”  New Moon’s symbolize an opportunity to begin something new.  It could be an idea, a fitness program, an investment or something related to your family or work.  This symbol suggests that whatever it may be, we may be wanting to make more of it than we should.  Overeating is never healthy and while we may enjoy it at the time, we may find ourselves “suffering” for it later just as “adding” to many “bells and whistles” can ruin a great idea.

07/06/24 – 1:10 am – average (OOB) Moon waxing water trine retrograde Saturn

This is the first of six exact major aspects, all by the Moon today.  The first five of them will be from Her watery emotional Cancer home, so keep the tissue close as this could be a trying day for some.  Coming in the night, be sure to note any dreams, feelings, or other sensations as there will be clues in them to help you understand and make it through the day.

 Just 46 minutes later, the Moon will make a waxing sextile to Mars for the second aspect of the day.  This is the first major aspect since their conjunction.  Did you just remember something you forgot to do or is it something you want or need to do?  Whatever it may be, write it down so you won’t forget.  This may be how or where you want to start your day.

07/06/24 – 9:27 am – average (OOB) Moon cardinal conjunction Venus

This monthly meeting of the two grand ladies of the zodiac takes place at 23 Cancer 52’ and is the third aspect of the day.  All conjunctions represent an opportunity to start something new.  It is Saturday, and if it is your day off, it could be something for yourself, a family member, or loved one.  Whatever it may be, make it special.

07/06/24 – 1:24 pm – average (OOB) Moon waxing sextile Uranus

This is the fourth aspect and second waxing sextile of the day.  Uranus represents the unpredictable in our lives and our uniqueness, what sets us apart from others, even our siblings.  This could be your “step out of your box” card today.  Try something new, perhaps a different approach to a problem, or a new restaurant, a new lunch item, or a different movie or TV show that you have heard or been thinking about.  Get creative!

07/06/24 – 8:47 pm – slowing (OOB) Moon goes Void-of-Course

Following a waxing water trine to retrograde Neptune, the fifth aspect of the day, the Moon goes void-of-course for nine minutes until entering Leo at 8:56 pm.  With dream Lord Neptune involved, make sure you are prepared to note any dreams that you have, including daydreams, not just those that come to you in the night.  It will be a dark night so keep to the light.  Don’t let Neptune deceive you into straying from your safe space and friends.

07/06/24 – 11:16 pm – slowing (OOB) Moon fixed opposition retrograde Pluto

This is the sixth and final aspect today.  The next aspect won’t be until tomorrow afternoon, so you may find yourself waking up to this energy.  The opposition is the “balance point,” where we can look back on what we have done and now need to look forward to what we need to do.  Emphasis has been on waxing energy, creating and “growing” things.  Now as the Moon moves forward, we will gradually see a shift to waning energy, consolidating and finishing things.

07/07/24 – 6:22 am – slowing Moon returns In-Bounds

It is Sunday morning as the Moon, now at 5 Leo 00’, returns to the bounds of the Sun.  If things have been feeling a bit hectic, unusual, or just different, they may start to return to whatever your “normal” may be.  The future may become less important as our attention is drawn to the “now” which takes its place.

07/07/24 – 1:23 pm – slowing (OOB) Moon fixed conjunction Mercury

There are only two aspects today close enough that the energy from this may “bleed” over to the next.  This conjunction is followed by a waxing sextile from the Moon to Jupiter less than two hours later.  Considering the planets involved, perhaps a new idea (Mercury conjunction) “pops” into your head and now may be the perfect time to plan the whole thing out (Jupiter sextile).  If you have it, focus on it.  Don’t just think about it, write or record it, or draw it out so that no detail will be lost.

07/08/24 – 4:04 am – Venus waxing sextile Uranus

It is Monday and with a series of waxing, expansive aspects, it should be a good day to focus on newer work in progress.  With Uranus involved, don’t be afraid to get creative or get outside your comfort zone.  Note anything that you experienced in the night, particularly if it was unusual or out of the ordinary for you.

07/08/24 – 7:26 am – Mercury waxing sextile Jupiter

This is the second waxing sextile in a row suggesting you may want to focus on things started recently.  Make sure they are progressing as you expect.  Make any necessary adjustments.

About 2 1/2 hours later, the Moon will make a waxing inconjunct/quincunx to retrograde Saturn.  Saturn is the “time Lord,” so this could upset your plans as something from the past may come up and throw you off your game.

07/08/24 – 2:18 pm – slow Moon waxing fixed square Mars

This is the crisis of action square.  With both in fixed signs, confidence in your choices may be critical.  Believe in yourself, and don’t allow Mars’ “now” energy to lead you into making any rash decisions.

07/08/24 – 11:04 pm – slow Moon goes Void-of-Course

Following another waxing fixed crisis of action square, this time to Uranus, the Moon goes void-of-course for almost eight hours.  Most will sleep through much of this so it shouldn’t be too difficult to not start anything new until the Moon enters Virgo.  Best if you start your day tomorrow by sticking to your routine or whatever you may have planned.

07/09/24 – 6:48 am – slow Moon enters Virgo

There are no exact major aspects today; however, there will be two inconjunct/quincunx aspects.  If you have anything new that you have set aside, you should be good to get them started now.  In Virgo, be methodical, not impulsive.  Creative is good but play to your strengths.  You are your own best critic.

Just ten minutes earlier, the Moon made a waxing inconjunct/quincunx to retrograde Neptune to start the day.  Perhaps you woke up early or maybe you overslept.  Don’t allow that to upset your day.  Note any dreams, feelings or other sensations, especially at the time you woke up.

Less than 2 1/2 hours later, the Moon will make a waning inconjunct/quincunx to retrograde Pluto for the only other aspect today.  This could provide additional upset to your day if you allow it.  Focus on how and what you are feeling.  There is a message in that for you.  It isn’t even 9 am yet, and there are no more exact aspects by the planets.  The rest of the day should be yours to make of it what you will.

07/10/24 – 3:07 am – slow Moon waxing mutable square Jupiter

The energy of this crisis of action square should last most of the day as it is the only aspect until tonight.  Your primary focus today should be on things requiring action to keep them moving forward.

07/10/24 – 8:05 pm – Sun waxing water trine retrograde Saturn

The waxing trine naturally follows the waxing square.  Time now to review your day and any actions you have taken.  Did you miss anything?  Did you forget or overlook anything?  Do you need to make any corrections or adjustments to them?  If so, you may want to put them at the top of your “do first” list for tomorrow.

07/10/24 – 9:27 pm – slow Moon mutable opposition retrograde Saturn

Just seven minutes later, the Moon will make a waxing sextile to the Sun.  These almost simultaneous aspects could have your head spinning as you are “jerked” from the finding balance opposition to the what do I need to do to keep this new thing moving forward sextile.  Saturn demands that we follow the directions and the rules.  Being retrograde suggests that there may have been something that we overlooked or ignored when we were doing something before.  At the sextile, the Moon has now moved beyond the crescent and is approaching the half illuminated square.  The Sun’s light should help to bring focus to anything you may have overlooked, forgot, or chose to ignore that you are now being asked to do or correct.  Add it to your “do first” list for tomorrow.

Forecast for July 11-20

The next ten days start with six aspects, plus Venus going void-of-course and then entering Leo, all on the 11th.  On the 15th, Mars will conjunct Uranus.  On the 16th, Mercury will enter their shadow for their coming retrograde and Mars will go void-of-course for four days before entering Gemini on the 20th.  By then, the Moon will have shifted to predominantly waning aspects reminding us to focus on older work in progress and things that need to be completed by the end of the month.

07/11/24 – 5:51 am – slow Moon waxing earth trine Mars

This is the first of six exact major aspects today, three by the Moon from Virgo and later today, two more by the Moon from Libra.  With Venus making the other aspect and then going void-of-course, this could be a very emotional day for some.  Lest we forget, the current Moon Wobble will most likely continue for about another week.  While we are still experiencing a preponderance of waxing rather than waning aspects, don’t ignore your older work in progress or other things that need to be completed soon.  As the days pass, the energy will be shifting to waning, consolidating aspects and so your focus may also change.

The waxing trine follows the crisis of action square and provides an opportunity to pause and review any recent actions and how they are progressing.  With the earth element, the focus should be on keeping yourself grounded and aware of your surroundings.  You may also need to give more attention to any real tangible things that you are working on or using.

07/11/24 – 7:32 am – Venus goes Void-of-Course

Following Her waxing water trine to retrograde Neptune, the second aspect of the day, Venus goes void-of-course for less than two hours before entering Leo at 9:19 am.  The water element represents our emotions, so if you have had an emotional start to your day, this could be your chance to pause and reflect on the what and why of it.  With Venus void-of-course, avoid making any major financial or personal commitments.  Put them off at least until after Venus enters Leo.

With Venus in Leo, you may notice that some people have a new hairstyle or color.  Leo is the lion, and the male is recognized by his distinctive mane.  How is your “mane?”  Is there something about it or some other aspect of your appearance that you might want to change?  You may want to talk with a trusted friend or family member before committing to something that won’t be easily undone, after all, there are three planets in apparent retrograde motion, and we are still in a Moon Wobble so expect delays, obstructions, and some chaos, or maybe just hiccups in your life.

07/11/24 – 11:20 am – slow Moon waxing earth trine Uranus

This is the third aspect and third waxing trine of the day.  It might be a good idea to recheck everything before taking action and then to follow up on any action taken to make sure things are developing as you intended.

07/11/24 – 6:55 pm – slow Moon goes Void-of-Course

Following a mutable opposition to retrograde Neptune, the fourth aspect of the day, the Moon goes void-of-course for 11 minutes, entering cardinal air Libra at 7:06 pm.  Just over one hour later, She will make a waxing sextile to Venus and just over one hour after that, She will make a waning air trine to retrograde Pluto for the fifth and sixth aspects of the day.  It is getting late and so for some; these aspects may have something to do with your home environment or they may relate to tomorrow morning.

The waxing sextile follows the conjunction and symbolizes a time to review anything started recently to make sure they are still on track.  If changes are necessary, plan them carefully for the next aspect in sequence is the crisis of action square.

The waning trine follows the opposition and offers an opportunity to review work that is getting ready to be completed.  The next aspect is the crisis of consciousness square.  Consider, what, if anything, isn’t needed or doesn’t add “value” to the final product?

07/12/24 – 7:12 am – Venus fixed opposition retrograde Pluto

Oppositions are about finding balance in your world.  It could be about work or personal or both.  Here the Goddess of love, beauty and desire faces off with the Lord of the underworld and great abductor.  As with most things in life, there is a right way and a wrong way, or at least a more correct or proper way to do things.  Choose wisely and avoid impulsive or improper choices.  You will be happier if you do.

07/12/24 – 4:58 pm – slow Moon waxing air trine Jupiter

It is another waxing trine, this one involving the element of air, our communication and thought processes.  Review any recent plans made or communications you may have sent.  Did you miss something, forget to include someone, or perhaps you forgot to spell, or grammar check your documents?  The next aspect in sequence is the crisis of consciousness square so, take appropriate actions to prepare for that now.

07/13/24 – 5:18 am – slow Moon waxing sextile Mercury

It is another waxing sextile.  You may want to start your day by reviewing any new things started recently.  With Mercury involved, be sure to double-check anything you have or are writing such as an email, blog post, article, or such.  How are they progressing?  Did you find any mistakes or other issues?  If so, you may want to put them at the top of your “to-do” list for today.

About five hours later, the Moon will make a waning inconjunct/quincunx to retrograde Saturn.  The combination of retrograde and quincunx could be like pouring gasoline on a fire.  Any irritations, anxiety, or other discomfort could be amped up, so proceed cautiously.

07/13/24 – 3:49 pm – slow Moon goes Void-of-Course

Following a waxing cardinal crisis of action square to the Sun, the Moon goes void-of-course for just over 16 hours.  This square relates back to any new things started around the time of the New Moon of July 5, 2024.  On the longer scale, it could relate back to something started around the time of the New Moon Solar Eclipse of October 14, 2023.  Did you start something around either of those dates?  If so, how are they progressing?  What actions should you take now?  Or perhaps, this may be referring to something on a larger, even global scale.

This longer void-of-course will last until tomorrow morning.  Stick to your plans or routine.  Best not to try to “mix things up,” as it probably won’t work out to your satisfaction.  If any new things come up, make sure you don’t have a very short time frame to take care of it, before setting it aside.  If you must start something new during this time, pay close attention to the details.  Focus on it.  Don’t allow yourself to be distracted by other things.  Check and recheck your work frequently.  The danger of a void-of-course period is that you may not have everything you need.  It could be material or tools, or it may be instructions, requirements, or expectations so proceed with intent.

Tonight, about seven hours later, the Moon will make a waxing inconjunct/quincunx to Mars.  The naturally expansive energy of the waxing aspect could make whatever uncomfortable feeling, irritation, or anxiety that might come with the aspect stronger or more difficult to isolate or determine what it really is.  With Mars involved it may be something that comes on suddenly, maybe even “explosively,” so stay alert.

07/14/24 – 7:53 am – slow Moon enters fixed water Scorpio

The shift from cardinal, flowing, air Libra to the fixed, still waters of Scorpio, may be felt by some.  Others may realize that something has changed as the day progresses.  Scorpio, like deep still water, can be “deadly,” figuratively speaking.  Proceed with caution.  Resist any temptation to act out or make sudden changes.  They don’t work well with fixed energy.

Just a few minutes earlier, the Moon made a waning inconjunct/quincunx to retrograde Neptune.  Still earlier, just after midnight, the Moon made a waxing inconjunct/quincunx to Uranus.  This combination could have made for a difficult night’s sleep, if you were able too.  Note any dreams, insights, feelings, or other sensations that may have come to you in the night or on waking.  If you woke up in the night, note the time as well as other details.

07/14/24 – 10:01 am – slow Moon waning fixed square retrograde Pluto

This is the crisis of consciousness square.  Time to trim away, let go of, and make any last minute changes to whatever you may be working on whether on the job or at home.  Going on a picnic or out with family or friends, check your list to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything or anyone.

07/14/24 – 3:51 pm – slow Moon waxing fixed square Venus

This is the crisis of action square, a time for doing, for expanding and building.  With the two Grand Ladies involved, have you been working on something that they might be interested in?  Perhaps a makeover for yourself or repurposing or redecorating of something in your home or office space.  With Venus involved, relationships and finances may also be involved so be on your best behavior and stay within your budget.

07/15/24 – 1:57 am – Mercury waxing inconjunct/quincunx retrograde Saturn

The Moon orbits the zodiac every month and so we become accustomed to Her making this aspect.  However, the other planets move much slower and so this aspect is rarer, typically occurring only once per year for each combination of planets by Mercury and Venus.  Mercury represents how we think and communicate.  Saturn represents structure, foundation, following the rules.  But when He is retrograde, He may bend the rules or He may make them more restrictive, or He may do something out of “character” for Him.  Coming in the night, you might wake up and find yourself with too many things on your mind and unable to get back to sleep.  Or you may have that “nagging” feeling that you forgot to do something, spending hours trying to determine what it could be.  If so, note what is on your mind.  Good notes may help you answer these questions later.  Keep your tongue in check.  Avoid confrontations and arguments.

07/15/24 – 7:05 am – Mars conjunct Uranus

Their conjunction is at 26 Taurus 19’, also conjunct by zodiacal degree, the fixed star Algol, generally considered to be one of the most, if not the most, malefic star.  Algol represents the head of Medusa, held in the hand of Her slayer, Perseus, in the constellation that bears his name.  Algol, technically beta Perseus, is a trinary variable star visible to the unaided eye and the second brightest star in the constellation of Perseus.  Her variable nature is the result of a smaller companion star that orbits Her causing Her to dim and then brighten as if She is winking at you.

This combination of impulsive action Mars, God of War with Unpredictable Uranus meeting up with the Gorgon, snake-haired Medusa, and coming during a Moon Wobble, may not bode well for events on a large scale.  Be aware of your surroundings at all times.  Check your safety and emergency equipment and supplies.  Don’t have any!  You may want to rethink that as this could become a real “manic Monday!

The Sabian Symbol for 26 Taurus is “An old Indian woman, selling beads.”  This suggests perhaps a slower time, perhaps a difficult time as the old woman continues to work to support herself or her family.  It may suggest that we should all take time to slow down and appreciate the little things and the often “invisible” people or creatures around us.  After all, we are all made of star “dust,” that is the atomic particles (atoms) created in the birth, life, and death of the stars and are therefore related.

About 50 minutes earlier, the Moon made a waxing inconjunct/quincunx to Jupiter.  The expansive nature of a waxing aspect combined with that of Jupiter, may amp the discomfort level up a bit too much for some.  Soaking in Epsom salts may provide some relief; however, only time will heal whatever you are feeling.

07/15/24 – Republican National Convention Begins in Milwaukee, WI

While there are events scheduled for Sunday, July 14, Official Session #1, is scheduled to begin at 12:45 pm today.  Considering just the ten planets, Jupiter, the ruling planet of the Republican party makes no aspects.  Does He have “free rein,” or will He not “be heard?”  Will their platform be what they intend to do or what they want people to hear so they will vote for them, allowing them to then do what they have planned all along.  Ask yourself, is the Republican party of Lincoln, the same as the Republican party of today?

Just wait, next month it will be the Democrats turn.  What will their forecast look like and what will that say about them?

07/15/24 – 9:45 pm – accelerating Moon waning water trine retrograde Saturn

The waning water trine follows the opposition and waning inconjunct/quincunx.  It represents a time to review and plan for the next aspect in sequence, the crisis of consciousness square when sacrifices may need to be made to complete what you are working on and appease everyone.

Just over one hour later, and just before midnight, the Moon will make a waxing fixed crisis of action square to Mercury.  To be on the safe side, it may be best to remain silent and sleep on it, rather than confronting someone about “it,” whatever “it” may be.  Choose your actions, and any words with great care for tomorrow, Mercury will enter their Shadow and the rules may change.

07/16/24 – 8:04 am – accelerating Moon waxing water trine Sun

This is the first of five exact major aspects, four from fixed water Scorpio, by the Moon today so keep your tissue close, … in case someone needs one.  This is the pause and reflect on any recent actions you have taken aspect.  Ideally, you want everything to be moving and functioning as near perfectly as possible.  Make any necessary adjustments, changes, or additions to get and keep things on track.

07/16/24 – 11:31 am – accelerating Moon fixed opposition Uranus

Just over 1 1/2 hours later, She will repeat this aspect to Mars.  By first opposing unpredictable Uranus and then opposing “NOW” nature Mars, finding and maintaining one’s balance may be difficult.  Use the “do it” energy of Mars to help you tap into the creative, unpredictable nature of Uranus and guide you over the midpoints of both of these cycles.  Time to consider spending at least a portion of your day focusing on older work in progress and those things that need to be finished by the end of the week or month.

07/16/24 – 3:01 pm – accelerating Moon goes Out-of-Bounds South

The Moon is at 28 Scorpio 13’, as She ventures beyond the southern or lower boundary of the Sun.  The south represents the past, the known, where we tend to be more comfortable.  In the days ahead some will notice people, thoughts or other things from their past coming up or into their lives.  There is a purpose to everything, so don’t try to ignore who or whatever it may be.  Spend time with it and understand why they or it are back.  “Why are you looking back?  You’re Not going that way.  The past is written, the ink is dry.”  Reflecting on the past can be beneficial; however, you must deal with or handle them in the “now,” that is, today.

07/16/24 – 6:10 pm – accelerating (OOB) Moon goes Void-of-Course

Following Her waning water trine to retrograde Neptune, the Moon goes void-of-course for 15 minutes before entering Sagittarius at 6:25 pm.  It is getting late, and this could be a good time to pause and reflect on your day and what things you should or need to do next.  Plan your actions carefully so you don’t have to make corrections or do them over.

Less than two hours later, the Moon will make a waning sextile to retrograde Pluto.  This is the last aspect before the conjunction.  Consider making a list of those things you can finish tomorrow.  Then note some ideas for what new thing to start at the coming conjunction.

07/16/24 – 8:52 pm – Mercury enters their Shadow

As Mercury crosses 21 Leo 24’ 32”, they enter the Shadow of their coming retrograde which will begin late on August 4, 2024.  Those who are sensitive to Mercury retrogrades and those with planets or sensitive points in late Leo to early Virgo or late Aquarius to early Pisces may feel this the strongest.

07/17/24 – 11:08 am – average (OOB) Moon waxing fire trine Venus

This is the pause and review any recent actions trine.  Fire represents our spirit, the eternal flame that burns within each of us.  What have you done lately?  With Venus involved, it could be about relationships or finances, either work related or personal, about yourself or someone close to you.

07/17/24 – 1:01 pm – Moon Wobble ends???

The Sun is now more than 17 degrees beyond the square aspect to the Nodes.  Some areas of tension, strife, even conflict in the world may begin to settle down.  They won’t necessarily end, but they may seem to be less volatile.  Don’t let your guard down just yet as there may still be some residual effects coming.

07/17/24 – 4:20 pm – average (OOB) Moon mutable opposition Jupiter

It is another opposition signaling the shift from expansive waxing aspects to contracting, consolidating waning aspects.  With both in mutable signs, finding a balance may be easier as both are “willing” to adjust or adapt.

07/18/24 – 5:49 am – average (OOB) Moon waning mutable square retrograde Saturn

Today should be interesting.  It begins with three exact major aspects and then finishes with three inconjunct/quincunx aspects.  Fortunately, or perhaps unfortunately for some, the major aspects will occur during the normal workday while the irritating inconjunct/quincunxes will all occur this evening and tonight.  Starting with a waning crisis of consciousness square, today looks to be a good day to start paring things down, eliminating those parts or things that don’t add value to whatever you are working on.  Your primary focus should be on older work in progress and anything that is due to be completed soon.

07/18/24 – 7:00 am – Sun waxing sextile Uranus

As the Sun always moves “faster” than Uranus, their aspects only happen once each year.  This is their first major aspect since their conjunction May 16, 2024.  Did you start something new and important around that date?  If so, this may relate to that.  Have you been paying attention to it, or have you been ignoring it lately?  If it is important, keep at it, don’t forget about it.  Keep it moving forward.

07/18/24 – 1:24 pm – average (OOB) Moon waxing fire trine Shadow Mercury

Take time to review any recent actions you may have taken.  How are they doing?  Do they need extra attention now?  Consider what should your next course of action be to get or keep them on schedule?

07/18/24 – 6:56 pm – average (OOB) Moon waning inconjunct/quincunx Uranus

Coming about 5 1/2 hours after the last major aspect, this is the first of three consecutive inconjunct/quincunxes over the next 4 1/4 hours or so.  This could be very disruptive to your evening and may even relate back to things you did or didn’t do at work earlier today.  With Moon making all three from mutable fire philosophical Sagittarius, some may feel as if everything they know is being questioned.  With Uranus involved the level of irritation, angst, or discomfort may be rather extreme.

Less than one hour later, the Moon will make a waxing inconjunct/quincunx to the Sun and then about three 1/2 hours later, She will make a waning inconjunct/quincunx to Mars.  Both of these will probably add to the level of discomfort tonight.  Avoid impulsive actions or reactions.  Be sure to “relax” before going to bed as you should have a better chance of getting a good night’s sleep.  If you have difficulty getting to sleep or if it is disrupted, note as much detail as possible about the what and why of it.

07/19/24 – 12:58 am – accelerating (OOB) Moon goes Void-of-Course

Following a waning mutable crisis of consciousness square to retrograde Neptune, the Moon goes void-of-course for sixteen minutes and then enters the business sign, cardinal earth Capricorn.  Most will sleep through this.  If you aren’t one of them, remember, don’t start anything new until after the Moon enters Capricorn.

There are no more exact major aspects today so this energy should last at least until this evening.  Focus on the business at hand.  There will be two inconjunct/quincunx aspects tonight.  The first a waxing one to Venus just after 7 pm and then a waning one to Jupiter about 3 1/2 hours later.  Venus and Jupiter are the two ancient benefics and so one might anticipate that these inconjunct/quincunxes won’t be so bad.  Don’t bet on it.  By its contrary nature, the inconjunct/quincunx leads us into an unfortunate situation and forces us to make a choice, even if there seems to be no good choice to make.

07/20/24 – 8:17 am – Mars goes Void-of-Course

Following His waxing sextile to retrograde Neptune, Mars goes void-of-course for almost 5 1/2 hours.  When Mars is void-of-course, beware the “other guy,” the one who causes accidents as people’s tempers may flare, impulsive actions prevail, and carelessness in on the rise.  Be aware of your surroundings and stay safe!  Avoid arguments and confrontations.

The waxing sextile is the first aspect after their conjunction.  Did you start something new around that time, April 28/29, 2024?  If so, how is it developing?  Time to start planning your next “action” to keep it moving forward to completion.  If not, what new thing have you started recently that now needs your attention?  Their next aspect should be the crisis of action square.  Better get busy planning what action to take then.

07/20/24 – 10:15 am – fast (OOB) Moon waning sextile retrograde Saturn

With the Moon now moving fast and Saturn retrograde, it is as if they want to get together and get the new cycle started.  Until then, there are things that need to be completed and new plans to be made.  Be sure to recheck the instructions and expectations before calling something “Done!”

07/20/24 – 1:43 pm – Mars enters Gemini

The combination of impulsive Mars and mutable, changeable air Gemini could offer opportunities for great orations, or it may lead to exaggerations, even arguments and the end of some friendships.  So, choose your words carefully.  You don’t want a friendship or significant relationship to end because of a misunderstanding or words spoken in anger.

07/20/24 – 10:53 pm – fast (OOB) Moon waning earth trine Uranus

This is the time to focus on consolidating those things that you want to complete by the end of the week or this month.  Get creative.  Don’t limit yourself to new and unique approaches.  Sometimes the old way is the best way.

A little over one hour earlier, the Moon made a waxing inconjunct/quincunx to shadow Mercury.  This could be a “What were you thinking?” moment.  Did you think something and then happen to “blurt” it out to the consternation of your friends or horror of yourself?  If so, be quick and apologize.

Forecast for July 21-31

The last eleven days of July start with the Full Buck Moon on the 21st, the second Full Moon in Capricorn and the first of eight exact major aspects, after one of which the Sun will go void-of-course .  On the 22nd, Saturn will finally retrograde out of 19 Pisces back into 18 Pisces, the Sun will enter Leo and then oppose Pluto.  On the 23rd, Mercury will go void-of-course and then enter Virgo on the 25th, when there will also be eight exact major aspects.  On the 26th, Chiron will station retrograde and then July will wrap up on the 31st, with the Moon making a waxing inconjunct/quincunx to Pluto, perhaps, but let us hope not, foreshadowing chaos, confusion, uncertainty, and anxiety ahead.