Last
Quarter Moon on
Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010, at 12:59 AM EDT.
Early into the day on Tuesday, the Last Quarter Moon is exact, when the Sun
in Leo squares off with the Moon in Taurus. 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
July 11th. 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 10 degrees and 47 minutes of
Leo and Taurus, affecting people born with personal planets and points at
approximately 9 to 13 degrees of the Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and
Aquarius) most significantly.
Moon phase cycle: Bigger picture:
Jul 11, 2010 3:40 PM Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)
Jul 18, 2010 6:11 AM Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Jul 25, 2010 9:37 PM Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Aug 3, 2010 12:59 AM Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Aug 9, 2010 11:08 PM Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)
The Sun is in Leo; Mercury
is in Virgo; Venus is in Virgo until August 6th, when it enters
Libra; Mars
is in Libra.
The Sun is in Leo from July 22-August 23. In Leo, the Sun is proud, outgoing, and playful. The
Leo Sun is intensely individualnot content with simply being just one of
the team. It's time to shine, add a touch of color and drama to our lives,
and perform. Like the flowers and fruit of the seasonblossoming and
ripened--this is a time when we want to enjoy ourselves and express
ourselves. We are more generous and grand in our gestures and attitudes. On
the shadow side, we can also be self-centered and vain.
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 Virgo from July 10-August 6. This is a time when we
express our love through practical means and gestures--running errands, doing
detail work, or just being there for our lovers. Love needs to make sense and
have a purpose with Venus in Virgo. Virgo is an Earth sign, which is sensual but
also quite practical. Besides our romantic natures, what we decide to buy and
the types of entertainment we enjoy during this cycle is ruled by whether or not
things make sense. We could easily feel guilty if we are too self-indulgent at
this time. Rendering services to others can fill a need, and can be an
expression of love. The shadow side of this position is being overly critical of
our partners, picky, or worrisome.
Venus is in Libra from August 6-September 8.
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.
Romance & Relationships
Venus is in
Virgo from July 10-August 6. This is a time when we express our love through
practical means and gestures--running errands, doing detail work, or just "being
there" for our lovers. Essentially, we fuss over our partners, sometimes a
little too much! Our availability and accessibility is a sign of love. Love
needs to make sense and have a purpose with Venus in Virgo. Virgo is an Earth
sign, which is sensual but also quite practical. We could easily feel guilty if
we are too self-indulgent during this cycle. We can be a little shy and prone to
worry. We pick up on many different cues, attempting to analyze every detail of
our lovers' reactions and responses. We could worry ourselves sick agonizing
over details! In the process, we can miss out on the bigger and perhaps more
meaningful cues. As well, Virgo is a sign that can live very much in the mind in
the middle of an experience, failing to enjoy the moment. Self-consciousness can
get in the way of enjoyment. Rendering services to others can fill a need, and
can be an expression of love. The shadow side of this position is being overly
critical of our partners, picky, or worrisome.
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: The
Venus, the Goddess of Love: Highlights in the Coming
Week:
Venus in Virgo July 10-August 6. If it makes sense you love
it, and if it doesn't you feel guilty about it: that's what it's like now. A
loving attention to details and a sense of satisfaction in doing what is
right (especially with respect to your health) are some of the qualities
that come to the fore at a time like this.
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 semi-square Sun July 31-August 1. 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 parallel Saturn August 2-3. We may express our affection sparingly,
but also responsibly and in practical ways.
Relationships begun under this influence often feel burdensome over time, but
they may last longer than most.
Venus contra-parallel Mars August 3-4. Passions are stimulated and intense. Fine
line between love and hate. Competitiveness.
Venus quincunx Neptune August 4-5. Idealism and disappointments in love. Avoid
becoming blinded by what you want to see, rather than what really is. Doubts
about love.
Venus contra-parallel Uranus August 4-5.
Venus parallel Uranus August 5-9. We embrace all that is new, unusual, and
out-of-the-ordinary with regards to romantic involvements. We lose our fear of taking risks at this time. We are ready to experiment, but not
necessarily ready to
commit. Peculiar, sudden, or avant garde attractions. This is an exciting but
unstable energy. Friendship in love
relationships becomes more important.
Venus quincunx Chiron August 5-6. There may be vague feelings of discontent in
relationships; or a choice that needs to be made regarding personal
relationships, money, or possessions. Insecurity involving others might make it
awkward for us to express our affections naturally or flowingly.
Venus parallel Jupiter August 5-7.
Venus opposition Uranus August 6-7. Not a good time to start relationships.
Independence is the reigning need. Some fickleness. Uncertainty about the desire
to be close to someone. Freedom versus closeness.
Venus conjunct Saturn August 7-8. Affections stabilize and mature. Relationships are
stabilized and steady, although feelings are expressed reservedly, formally, or
sparingly. An air of formality is brought to personal and social relationships.
A new sense of realism in existing partnerships comes now. A sense of duty may
lead us to sacrifice a personal pleasure for a cause or for a loved one; thus we
may have to abstain from personal gratification for the time being. Problems in
personal relationships that have been swept under the carpet may surface now,
and we are ready to face them. Dissatisfaction with loved ones becomes more
glaring. Renewed ties to old friends or lovers are possible, or a new sense of
responsibility in existing relationships.
Venus contra-parallel Saturn August 8-9. We may express our affection sparingly,
but also responsibly and in practical ways.
Relationships begun under this influence often feel burdensome over time, but
they may last longer than most. Some pulling back can occur in relationships
now, as we are more self-conscious and cautious with our affections.
Venus opposition Jupiter August 9-10. We are easily bored with the everyday
responsibilities and routines of our love lives, and are now inclined to
dramatize our lives. As a result, our love natures are strong, but insatiable.
We may overstate our feelings as we temporarily overvalue someone; or we face
challenges in our relationships due to overblown expectations. We are itching
for adventure and fun, but the wisest course of action is to avoid ignoring our
responsibilities (and reality) in our efforts towards self-gratification.
Venus square Pluto August 9-10. Intense passions, but there's a hidden agenda.
Jealousy and possessiveness are high, in direct proportion to fear of losing
partnership. Avoid starting a new relationship at this time, because it can be
characterized by these energies.
Venus parallel Mars August 10-13. Favors romantic and sexual relationships. Intense
passions.
Venus contra-parallel Mercury August 11-12.
The Moon & Timing
The
Void of Course Moon is the period of time after the Moon has made its
last aspect in one sign until the Moon enters a new sign. During Void of
Course Moon periods, it is generally wise to stick to routine rather than to
begin new projects. The last aspect the Moon makes before changing signs is
indicated here, and is indicative of the "outcome" of the matter (whether
that is a new project begun before the void period, or the answer to a
question in Horary Astrology). Void of Course in Horary Astrology: If you
were asking a question and making a chart for the answer, as you do in
Horary astrology, it is said that since the Moon is not looking forward to
any more aspects in this sign, you would have to say that the answer is not
forthcoming; any questions asked at this time would not come to pass. The
Moon being Void is one of the Strictures against Judgment in Horary
Astrology.
The Void-of-Course Moon this Week:
Void-of-course Moon on Sunday, August 1st, from
11:55 PM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to
Neptune), until the Moon enters Taurus the next day, Monday, August 2nd, at 4:13
AM EDT.
VOC Moon on Wednesday, August 4th, from 8:44 AM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect
before changing signs (a square to Neptune), until the Moon enters Gemini at
12:54 PM EDT.
VOC Moon on Friday, August 6th, from 5:22 PM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect
before changing signs (a square to Venus), until the Moon enters Cancer at
5:50 PM EDT.
VOC Moon on Saturday, August 7th, from 2:46 PM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect
before changing signs (a sextile to Mercury), until the Moon enters Leo the next
day, Sunday, August 8th, at
7:23 PM EDT.
Void of Course Moon Table for August 2010:

Timing with the Moon - Better Periods this Week for Electing New Initiatives
The Moon is waning this week--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 Friday, July 30th, at approximately
11:20 PM EDT, until Sunday, August 1st, at approximately 11:50 PM EDT, while the
Moon is in Aries.
Planetary Stations & Sign Ingresses:
Jul 22nd: Sun enters Leo 6:21 PM
Jul 23rd: Jupiter Retrograde 8:03 AM
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.
 
Jupiter square Pluto. We can be quite ambitious now, feeling that if we set
our sights high enough, we can achieve anything. However, treading lightly
now, while it may not come naturally, is advised as it is easy to stir up
opposition. We may take on too many interests, activities, or desires under
this influence. Exaggerating our importance or power, either to ourselves or
others, should be avoided. Our belief system could be challenged now, and
the need for a major attitude change arises; or we might have to face
narrow-mindedness in others (or in ourselves). Trying to force our beliefs
on others will only lead to frustration. The tendency now is to push too
hard in general, and to ignore the important details. Thinking in big terms
is fine, as long as the more practical details of any pursuit are also
considered.
 
Mars opposition Jupiter. Over-estimating what we are capable of doing
characterizes this transit. What we want to do may conflict with what is
actually possible. We may get fired up over opposing viewpoints,
and we may need to adjust our plan of action. Errors in judgment made now
are likely due to impulsiveness and the overlooking of crucial details.
 
Mars square Pluto. Our desires are intense and difficult to
satisfy under this influence. A tendency to bully and confront may dominate.
Efforts to make changes could be thwarted, or power struggles emerge. The
trick is to remain flexible and to develop strategies for achieving our
goals. The desire to get the upper hand is strong, but it's unlikely to
happen under this influence. It would be wise to observe whatever powerful
feelings that confrontations or conflicts arouse under this influence, as
this transit has a way of pulling out suppressed matter, or emotional
"slush". Passions run high, and so does sexual energy.
 
Venus quincunx Neptune. Under this influence, we are apt to see what we want to see, rather
than what actually is, when it comes to both financial affairs and affairs of the
heart. Still, we tend to doubt our perceptions of perfection. The end result
is a feeling of insecurity on romantic and social levels. Avoid making large purchases and commitments at this time.
 
Venus quincunx Chiron. There may be vague feelings of discontent in
relationships; or a choice that needs to be made regarding personal
relationships, money, or possessions. Insecurity involving others might make it
awkward for us to express our affections naturally or flowingly.
 
Venus opposition Uranus. Sudden attractions that may not last come under
this influence. Similarly,
impulsive attractions to material items that later prove to be unappealing
occur now.
This is not a good time to start a new relationship nor for any significant
financial undertaking. Values and tastes may clash, and group activities may
suffer as a result. Impulsive attractions to both people and material goods
can lead us astray. Avoid impulse buys at this time. Some instability,
restlessness, and rebelliousness are probable in romantic relationships. We
may not see eye to eye, and we might be taken off guard by unexpected
events. This is not a favorable aspect for beauty treatments because they
could have unexpected results. We may struggle with freedom versus intimacy
issues at this time. It's wise to hold off on decision-making with regards to finances
and relationships. However, if we can separate rebellion from a sincere need
for change, we might open ourselves up to new ways of dealing with others.
 
Sun sesquiquadrate Uranus. During this transit, we feel the need for action,
but if we don't know where we're headed, we might take the wrong turn.
Unexpected changes in plans or events can test our patience, and we might feel a
bit out of control. However, they could stimulate us to try new approaches and
they certainly act to cut boredom. This transit could offer us the drive to do
something new, but avoid making hasty major decisions for the time being.
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
August 1
A void of course Moon occurs from 11:55 PM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect before changing signs (a
sextile to Neptune), until the Moon enters Taurus tomorrow, Monday, August 2nd, at
4:13 AM EDT.
August 2
The void of course Moon ends when the Moon enters Taurus at
4:13 AM EDT. August 3
August 4
A void of course Moon occurs from 8:44 AM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect
before changing signs (a square to Neptune), until the Moon enters Gemini at
12:54 PM EDT. August 5
August 6
A void of course Moon occurs from 5:22 PM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect
before changing signs (a square to Venus), until the Moon enters Cancer at
5:50 PM EDT.
August 7
A void of course Moon occurs from 2:46 PM EDT, with the Moon's last aspect
before changing signs (a sextile to Mercury), until the Moon enters Leo
tomorrow, Sunday, August 8th, at
7:23 PM EDT.
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.
This Week's Planetary
Positions By Sign (General Trends):
Sun in Leo "This I do for me" is your
motto at a time like this. This is your time to shine, like a swirl of
starstuff that has finally reached critical mass and suddenly starts to give
off more light than it receives. Issues of pride, mastery, and appreciation
become more and more central to your lifestream as this cycle progresses, as
does a very important lesson: it's not what you do so much as how you do it,
not who you are so much as how you make others feel about themselves. If it
doesn't come from the heart, it shouldn't matter now.
Mercury in Virgo Mental discipline and
patience are keynoted as you enter into a new cycle. Thinking things
through, accounting for all the details, making careful measurements: these
and similar experiences keep your mind active and involved. An interest in
health and work may come to the fore.
Venus in Virgo If it makes sense you love
it, and if it doesn't you feel guilty about it: that's what it's like now. A
loving attention to details and a sense of satisfaction in doing what is
right (especially with respect to your health) are some of the qualities
that come to the fore at a time like this.
Venus in Libra 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.
Mars in Libra "I'm giving you a definite
maybe" - that's the motto of the cycle you're now entering. It's a time of
refinement and tact, of an urge to please others that is so strong as to
make it hard to decide or act for fear of offending someone. You'll quickly
learn to balance this out, or you'll discover that there is no peace in
compromise - and this can be tough on close relationships. The trick is to
find the win-win solution to the no-win situation - and if anyone's ever up
to it, you are now.
Jupiter in Aries Faith in yourself and
your future is emphasized as you begin this new cycle. A feeling that
anything is possible leads to new ventures, a clean break from the past. At
its best, this is a very positive and optimistic new cycle in your life, but
at times, overconfidence can border on foolhardy bravery. Don't burn your
bridges behind you!
Saturn in Libra Relationships and fairness take on a special
importance in your life under the cycle you have just begun. An insistence
on principles that don't allow room for personal differences can be a
self-defeating tendency. True partnership means commitment and being
responsible to the other person - a lesson that takes on greater importance
as this cycle progresses.
Uranus in Aries A clean break with
the past in some respects is signaled by the cycle you have just begun. What
YOU need, YOUR freedom and independence, shattering old molds: these are the
things that energize you and take priority in your life. Uniqueness and
originality set you apart.
Neptune in Aquarius Humanistic ideals and
a belief that technology and social reform can create a utopia become
powerful and inspiring images at this time. Personal and selfish concerns
seem petty and ignorant - and all the more so if they are part of the status
quo. Liberty, equality, fraternity: are they the ultimate answers or only
the foundations for something that transcends them all?
Pluto in Capricorn As this new phase dawns for you, the
pursuit of social/political power and status has a way of seeming necessary
and inevitable - and let nothing stand in its way. It starts out small, but
has bigger consequences than you'd think. Ambition, responsibility, a place
for everyone and everyone in their place...
The interpretations in this box are from the
Day Watch
software.
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