This Week in Astrology

Last Quarter Moon on Wednesday, September 1st, 2010, at 1:22 PM EDT.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Last Quarter Moon is exact, when the Sun in Virgo squares the Moon in Gemini. The Last Quarter Moon phase points to some sort of crisis of consciousness. After basking in the awareness symbolized by the full light of the Moon at the time of last week's Full Moon, we disperse our knowledge and come to a point when we need to sort out what works for us--and what doesn't--in preparation for next week's New Moon, when something new is born once again. This is not the best time to start a major project, as the decreasing light of the Moon symbolizes a descent into unconsciousness. It's time to begin finishing up the details of that which was conceived at the last New Moon on August 9th. What revelations did you have last week? What did they mean for you? What can be done now?

This phase of the Moon occurs at 9 degrees and 10 minutes of Gemini and Virgo, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 7 to 11 degrees of the Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces) most significantly.

The Sun is in Virgo; Mercury is in Virgo; Venus is in Libra; Mars is in Libra.

The Sun is in Virgo from August 23-September 22. Our focus shifts to the pieces of the puzzle--the little details of our lives. It is now time to take care of practical concerns. Tending to the details of everyday life may not sound like loads of fun, but it can certainly free us from unnecessary stress that results from "collecting" odds and ends of unfinished business. This is an ideal time to get organized, to do detail work, and to improve communications on the job.

Mercury is in Virgo from July 27-October 3. When Mercury is in Virgo, precision in speech, thought, and process is now important to us. This is a time when we analyze and decide what is useful and what we deem to be impractical. Mercury feels right at home in Virgo, one of the signs that it rules. Dealing with details is natural and easy now. We need to be careful that we don't lose perspective if we find ourselves lost in details. We should also be aware of the possibility of expressing ourselves in a too factual manner, so much so that we come across as dry, critical, or unimaginative.

Venus is in Libra from August 6-September 8. We are more inclined to employ charm rather than aggressive behavior in order to get what we want during this cycle. Although Venus in Libra virtually lives for relationships, there is an air of cool detachment to this energy. We are very obliging with others--quite willing to negotiate and compromise. We can be especially idealistic about love. We prefer things be done the "right" way, and are turned off by aggressive or uncouth behavior. The shadow side of this position is dependency, inconsistency, and superficiality. In an attempt to avoid unpleasant situations, we could easily gloss over deeper issues at play in our relationships. It's probably best to avoid the trap of acquiescing to our partners but privately resenting the fact or thinking ourselves martyrs for doing so! This is also a time when we are more artistically inclined. We tend to seek balance in our personal environment.

Mars is in Libra from July 29-September 14. We tend to use our charm as a means to an end under the influence of this cycle. Because we can see many different sides to an issue, we can be vacillating and indecisive about how to act. We don't want to be the "bad guy", and rarely resort to force. Instead, we attempt to win arguments with style. We are indirect in approach and inclined towards engaging in mental debates, yet we also attempt to make the opposition comfortable! Passive-aggressiveness is the shadow side of this energy.

Jupiter entered Aries on June 6th, and will stay in the sign until September 8th. Read more about Jupiter's transit through Aries here.

Uranus re-entered Pisces on August 13/14th.

Romance & Relationships

Venus is in Libra from August 6-September 8. Venus rules Libra and thus is dignified in the sign. Venus feels right "at home" in Libra, where she seeks to balance and harmonize. With Venus in Libra, we can easily be in love with love. We are more comfortable with a close partner with whom we can seek to have a balanced relationship. We are more inclined to employ charm rather than aggressive behavior in order to get what we want. Although Venus in Libra virtually lives for relationships, there is an air of cool detachment to this energy. We are very obliging with others--quite willing to negotiate and compromise. We can be especially idealistic about love. We prefer things be done the "right" way, and are turned off by aggressive or uncouth behavior. The shadow side of this position is dependency, inconsistency, and superficiality. In an attempt to avoid unpleasant situations, we could easily gloss over deeper issues at play in our relationships. It's probably best to avoid the trap of acquiescing to our partners but privately resenting the fact or thinking ourselves martyrs for doing so!

This week: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Venus aspects Neptune, the Sun, and Mercury. We are more sensitive to and aware of the more romantic and imaginative elements of relating. Our pride also is a strong factor in our relations now, and the desire to communicate any feelings of unrest is strong. Saturday (and Sunday) are strong days for romance. Openness to romantic feelings can bring new insights and much learning from one another.

Venus, the Goddess of Love: Highlights in the Coming Week:

Venus in Libra August 6-September 8. As this new cycle takes hold in your life, romance and social interaction take on a greater importance for you. Harmonious ties to others are what you yearn for; refinement and elegance are what you seek. The ideal partnership, the perfect balance, the highest standards of truth and beauty - these are some of the things that quicken your pulse now.
Venus parallel Neptune September 2-3. Heightened sensitivity to, and awareness of, beauty and spirituality. We are easily influenced, seducible and seductive, and given to strong powers of imagination. We are more attuned to the world of beauty and romance. Gentleness with others is the best way to harness this energy. A "magical" time on a romantic and social level, but it could also be a confusing or illusory influence as well. Psychic openness and compassion.
Venus semi-square Sun September 2-3. Irritations that seem to stem from others could be the reflection of our own inner uneasiness. Do your best to control yearnings for more and search for a creative solution for your inner dissatisfaction.
Venus semi-square Mercury September 3. Communications between lovers are superficial and unsatisfying, and perhaps awkward. Superficiality in romantic expression may exist now.
Venus trine Neptune September 3-4. We perceive romantic situations as if they were "designed" just for us. A magical, romantic time. The pleasures of life are experienced fully. Romance is highly favored. We see the very best in people now, and this eases our interactions and takes the pressure off in personal relationships.
Venus trine Chiron September 4-5. A commitment-friendly transit. Love can heal old wounds. We are open to romantic feelings.
 

The Moon & Timing

The Void-of-Course Moon this Week:

Void-of-course Moon on Sunday, August 29th, from 4:48 AM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Neptune), until the Moon enters Taurus at 10:36 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Tuesday, August 31st, from 7:14 PM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Uranus), until the Moon enters Gemini at 8:20 PM EDT.

VOC Moon on Friday, September 3rd, from 1:41 AM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect before changing signs (a square to Uranus), until the Moon enters Cancer at 2:51 AM EDT.

Void of Course Moon Table for August 2010:

Void of Course Moon Table for September 2010:

Timing with the Moon - Better Periods this Week for Electing New Initiatives

The Moon is waning this week after the Full Moon on Tuesday--a period that is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings, with some exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details). 

A window of opportunity occur this week from Saturday, August 28th, at approximately 5 PM EDT, until Sunday, August 29th, at approximately 4:45 AM, while the Moon is in Aries. 

Planetary Stations & Sign Ingresses:

Jul 27th: Mercury enters Virgo 5:43 PM
Jul 29th: Mars enters Libra 7:46 PM
Aug  6th: Venus enters Libra 11:47 PM
Aug 13th: Uranus Retrograde enters Pisces 11:36 PM
Aug 20th: Mercury Retrograde 3:59 PM
Aug 23rd: Sun enters Virgo 1:27 AM
Sep  8th: Venus enters Scorpio 11:44 AM
Sep  9th: Jupiter Retrograde enters Pisces 12:50 AM 
Sep 12th: Mercury Direct  7:09 PM
Sep 14th: Pluto Direct  12:36 AM
Sep 14th: Mars enters Scorpio 6:38 PM
Sep 22nd: Sun enters Libra 11:09 PM
Oct  3rd: Mercury enters Libra 11:04 AM
Oct  8th: Venus Retrograde  3:05 AM

See also: The Astrology of 2010 - Overview

Note: Times given ET.

This Week's Calendar

Venus semi-square Sun. Irritations that seem to stem from others could be the reflection of our own inner uneasiness. Do your best to control yearnings for more and search for a creative solution for your inner dissatisfaction.

Mercury conjunct Sun. We are especially sharp, communicative, and open at this time, as our wants are aligned with our thoughts. It's a favorable time for solving problems. What we say or write now has impact, for better or for worse!

Mercury semi-square Venus. Difficulties in social or romantic communication are possible today. On the other hand, we may make more efforts to be polite and to communicate. Hypersensitivity, and lack of mental discipline. Our minds wander.

Venus trine Neptune. We are more attuned to the world of beauty, the arts, and the imagination. Compassion, harmony, kindness, and openness characterize this transit. Gentleness with others is the best way to harness this energy. This can be a "magical" time on a romantic and social level. The pleasures of life are experienced fully. We see the very best in people now, and this eases our interactions and takes the pressure off in personal relationships. Romance is highly favored.

Last Week

Note: Times given in the table/calendar above are Eastern Time (ET).

Daily Trends Calendar

See below for day-by-day forecasts and planets in signs.

What's In Store By the Stars - Daily Astrology Trends

(as featured on our site's main page and in our Daily Trends Calendar)

August 29
The Moon leaves independent, fiery Aries at 10:36 AM EDT, and enters grounded Taurus. Our basic impulses are to relax, resist change, and "stop to smell the roses" under the influence of a Taurus Moon. Life slows down a little, and we get comfortable. With the Moon trine Pluto in earth signs this afternoon, it's a good time for getting organized, downsizing, or otherwise improving our home environment. Starting a new fitness routine, kicking a bad habit, or anything that requires willpower is more likely to enjoy success. Towards the end of the day, the Moon trines the Sun, and cooperation comes naturally.

A void of course Moon occurs from 4:48 AM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Neptune), until the Moon enters Taurus at 10:36 AM EDT.

August 30
Under the influence of a Taurus Moon all day, we tend to preserve our poise if faced with external stresses and pressures. Earthy activities and sensual pleasures appeal now more than usual, and we find a sense of peace and contentment with that which is familiar and reliable. We instinctively know that patience is required for matters to naturally move forward. Finances and possessions might come into focus now. The Moon trines Mercury this afternoon, and articulating our feelings without upsetting anyone comes easily.

August 31
The Moon is in constant Taurus until 8:20 PM EDT, and we are more aware of our need to enjoy the sensual pleasures of life--eating, drinking, listening to music, and so forth. Our emotions are steady, and common sense rules when it comes to handling domestic matters, money, and work. We tend to resist change and to fall back on old habits and patterns under this influence. However, some level of discontent is likely in the hours surrounding the Moon's square to Neptune this afternoon, when issues from the past may come back to haunt us, or we may simply remember things that temporarily undermine our happiness. This transit's effects range from some feelings of wistfulness or confusion to emotional chaos. The Moon enters Gemini at 8:20 PM, and there can be a stronger need to communicate and to express our ideas.

A void of course Moon occurs from 7:14 PM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Uranus), until the Moon enters Gemini at 8:20 PM EDT.

September 1
The Moon is in busy, inquisitive, and communicative Gemini all day. The Last Quarter Moon is exact at 1:22 PM EDT, when the Sun in Virgo squares the Moon in Gemini. The Last Quarter Moon phase points to some sort of crisis of consciousness. After basking in the awareness symbolized by the full light of the Moon at the time of last week's Full Moon, we disperse our knowledge and come to a point when we need to sort out what works for us--and what doesn't--in preparation for next week's New Moon, when something new is born once again. This is not the best time to start a major project, as the decreasing light of the Moon symbolizes a descent into unconsciousness. It's time to begin finishing up the details of that which was conceived at the last New Moon on August 9th. The Sun contraparallel Mars today contributes to the tendency towards some strife, tension, and excess energy (or ego conflicts) today.

September 2
The Moon is in Gemini all day, harmonizing with Mars, Venus, Neptune and Chiron, offering us opportunities to socialize and learn quite successfully. There is likely to be a great deal of movement in our daily lives. Siblings, relatives, or neighbors and community involvement are especially important to our emotional well-being under a Gemini Moon. We adapt easily to change, and in fact we crave surprise, novelty, and intelligent responses in others. We learn quickly and adapt easily to change today. Our minds change frequently and, at times, chaotically, due to the number of thoughts we have simultaneously. The Moon in Gemini is light-hearted, breezy, and curious.

September 3
The Moon is in Gemini until 2:51 AM EDT, when it enters protective Cancer. With a Cancer Moon, we tend to respond to challenges or stress by retreating or withdrawing, and we are especially concerned with family and close loved ones. The Sun aligns with Mercury this morning, and both bodies semi-square Venus. The need to communicate is strong, but there may be a tendency to voice complaints rather than having productive conversations. We are likely to be feeling sociable and a little indulgent, perhaps lacking concentration when it comes to work or mundane tasks today.

A void of course Moon occurs from 1:41 AM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect before changing signs (a square to Uranus), until the Moon enters Cancer at 2:51 AM EDT.

September 4
The Moon is in soulful Cancer all day. Although insular, our feelings run deep, making it an ideal time to get in touch with what motivates us. A pleasing trine between Venus and Neptune is exact today. Under this influence, we are more attuned to the world of beauty, the arts, and the imagination. Compassion, harmony, kindness, and openness characterize this transit. Gentleness with others is the best way to harness this energy. This can be a "magical" time on a romantic and social level. The pleasures of life are experienced fully. We see the very best in people now, and this eases our interactions and takes the pressure off in personal relationships. Romance is highly favored. We are less focused on material affairs today, and more focused on spiritual matters.

Daily Trends Calendar

If it's your birthday today, see our feature, If Today is Your Birthday Forecasts, for a free forecast for the upcoming year.
 

Moon Signs This Week:
 

When the Moon is in Aries

We're motivated by a strong desire to start fresh. A gut instinct to start something new is with us now, as well as the gumption to do so. Our pioneering impulses are strong, and we feel energetic, spontaneous, and enthusiastic. We may also be tactless and impulsive now. Excess energy is best channeled into physical activity.

The Moon in Aries generally favors the following activities: Quick actions that yield immediate results. Undertakings that involve the self and the personality. (Staying power may be lacking). Self-assertion, taking on challenges, beginning short-term projects.

When the Moon is in Taurus

We are motivated by the desire for serenity, security, peace, and comfort. The Moon is at her most sensual and constant in Taurus. Our basic impulses are to relax, resist change, and "stop to smell the roses". Life slows down a little, and we get comfortable. We may also be inclined to stubbornness and materialism under this influence.

The Moon in Taurus generally favors the following activities: Substantial and material actions that yield solid results. Financial activities, and those involving personal possessions, applying for a loan, beginning a potentially long-term relationship, music, home decor.

When the Moon is in Gemini

Our basic instinct is to communicate, think, and learn under the influence of Moon in Gemini. We are motivated by a desire for variety and by an instinctive curiosity. The Moon in Gemini is light-hearted, breezy, and curious, but it can also be restless and fickle.

The Moon in Gemini generally favors the following activities: Mental and communicative actions, and more than one activity at once. Reading, learning, letters and emails, errands, writing, teaching, making connections, short trips.

When the Moon is in Cancer

The restlessness of the Gemini Moon gives way to an instinctive need for peace and quiet. A feeling of belonging and safety is what motivates us under this influence. The Moon feels right at home in the sign of Cancer, as it rules the sign. This Moon position has much healing potential. Although insular by nature, our feelings run deep, making it an ideal time to get in touch with what motivates us.

The Moon in Cancer generally favors the following activities: Domestic activities, those that involve awareness of personal needs. Home decor, family get-togethers.

When the Moon is in...Transits of the Moon through the Signs.

What's In Your Forecast?

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