Astrology Calendars Current

Monday, AUGUST 31

Jupiter forms a trine with Saturn today, and it’s the first of three perfections of this aspect, the next two to occur in April and July 2027.

With this outer-planet transit with longer-term influence, we’re ready to put in the effort to achieve our practical goals. We are pragmatic, realistic, and our judgment is especially sound–and we derive much satisfaction from practical accomplishment.

The key to harnessing this incredible energy is to identify and find pleasure in the simple things that make us happy. At the same time, we may notice areas where small, incremental improvements can be beneficial. We see opportunities where we previously saw limits, but we’re not going overboard. It’s a fine time for setting and pursuing reasonable goals. Being even-tempered can be a successful approach now.

Even so, the Moon spends the day in forward-looking and sometimes impatient Aries. While our affections are a little more complicated around the Moon-Venus opposition this afternoon, this Moon is straight to the point. We’re seeking a fresh start.

We’re heading toward a Mars-Saturn square that’s exact tomorrow morning, and energies shift considerably. Ambitions and accomplishments are firmly on our minds, but there may be obstacles to surmount. We could feel blocked from asserting ourselves or pursuing our desires.

The Moon is void from 3:48 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (an opposition to Venus), until the Moon enters Taurus the next day, Tuesday, September 1st, at 4:02 AM EDT.

Main Astrology Calendar

Jupiter trine Saturn.

Jupiter, at 13° Leo 41’, forms a trine aspect with Saturn at 13° Aries 41’ in August 2026. This is the first of three such aspects while Jupiter is in Leo and Saturn is in Aries. [Note: Often, aspects formed between outer planets and slow-moving points occur three times in a set due to retrograde motion.]

When Jupiter and Saturn connect, we tend to make things happen. This combination favors concrete accomplishment.

With Jupiter trine Saturn, we’re ready to put in the effort to achieve our practical goals. We are pragmatic, realistic, and our judgment is especially sound–and we derive much satisfaction from practical accomplishment.

The key to harnessing this incredible energy is to identify and find pleasure in the simple things that make us happy. At the same time, we may notice areas where small, incremental improvements can be beneficial. We see opportunities where we previously saw limits, but we’re not going overboard. It’s a fine time for setting and pursuing reasonable goals. Being even-tempered can be a successful approach now. Read more about the Jupiter trine Saturn aspect.

Jupiter trine Saturn dates:

• on August 31st, 2026, Jupiter at 13º Leo 41′ and Saturn at 13° 41′ of Aries (first)
• on April 3rd, 2027, Jupiter at 17º Leo 08′ (second)
• on July 11th, 2027, Jupiter at 27º Leo 10′ (third)

Main Astrology Calendar

Tuesday, SEPTEMBER 1

Mars forms a square, and Mercury forms a quincunx with Saturn this morning. Obstacles may stand in the way of pursuing our desires, or we could feel blocked from asserting ourselves. Mental anxiety can interfere with making good, practical choices.

It’s a time to slow down and make adjustments and edits, as we may encounter resistance if we push ahead. It can seem like more effort than usual is required to complete tasks. We might face disapproval or a dip in confidence, and we should draw on patience and build our endurance.

It’s a better time for maintenance than it is for moving forward. Recognizing our limits and adjusting our speed accordingly is key. We might decide to conserve our energy for more flowing times. In fact, doubts might slow down our movements and initiatives. Still, however annoying, taking a break from pushing ahead to check in with our objectives can work in our favor.

The day advances with more certainty. Mercury forms a sextile with Mars, exciting our senses. This influence is forthright and forthcoming! Jupiter is at the midpoint of this aspect. It can be a time of animated discussions and/or thoughts. We want to learn, teach, debate, and do something with our ideas.

Our conversations are enthusiastic, and we feel excited about our interests and discoveries, which comes across well to others. We are exceptionally alert, resourceful, and aware, although possibly self-focused.

We also benefit from a Sun-Pluto biquintile, and we’re employing more strategic approaches and being more creative in our problem-solving, opting for innovative solutions rather than the easiest ones.

The Moon is void until it enters Taurus today at 4:02 AM EDT.

Main Astrology Calendar

Tuesday, SEPTEMBER 1

Mars forms a square, and Mercury forms a quincunx with Saturn this morning. Obstacles may stand in the way of pursuing our desires, or we could feel blocked from asserting ourselves. Mental anxiety can interfere with making good, practical choices.

It’s a time to slow down and make adjustments and edits, as we may encounter resistance if we push ahead. It can seem like more effort than usual is required to complete tasks. We might face disapproval or a dip in confidence, and we should draw on patience and build our endurance.

It’s a better time for maintenance than it is for moving forward. Recognizing our limits and adjusting our speed accordingly is key. We might decide to conserve our energy for more flowing times. In fact, doubts might slow down our movements and initiatives. Still, however annoying, taking a break from pushing ahead to check in with our objectives can work in our favor.

The day advances with more certainty. Mercury forms a sextile with Mars, exciting our senses. This influence is forthright and forthcoming! Jupiter is at the midpoint of this aspect. It can be a time of animated discussions and/or thoughts. We want to learn, teach, debate, and do something with our ideas.

Our conversations are enthusiastic, and we feel excited about our interests and discoveries, which comes across well to others. We are exceptionally alert, resourceful, and aware, although possibly self-focused.

We also benefit from a Sun-Pluto biquintile, and we’re employing more strategic approaches and being more creative in our problem-solving, opting for innovative solutions rather than the easiest ones.

The Moon is void until it enters Taurus today at 4:02 AM EDT.

Main Astrology Calendar

Wednesday, SEPTEMBER 2

This morning, Mercury’s minor square to Chiron can highlight insecurity, making it awkward for us to express ourselves naturally. Communication doesn’t readily flow. This could lead to minor misunderstandings if we’re not grasping or reading the meaning behind the words.

The Moon is in practical Taurus all day. It harmonizes with Mercury and Mars, and we’re more inclined to discuss matters of personal importance. We especially enjoy making, building, and developing things with these transits. It’s natural to draw on common sense today. We’re not particularly happy with ambiguity as the day advances.

The Moon is void from 6:47 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Mercury), until the Moon enters Gemini the next day, Thursday, September 3rd, at 7:48 AM EDT.

Main Astrology Calendar

Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3

The Moon continues its transit of Taurus until 7:48 AM EDT, when it enters Gemini, and we’re interested, curious, and adaptable, but we can also be somewhat scattered. The Moon’s harmony with Neptune and Pluto gives us a sense of mission, however.

Today’s Mercury-Pluto minor square can produce a somewhat suspicious way of looking at how things work. If others don’t agree with or adopt our ideas, we may take it as a personal affront. Some irritability is likely as we sort things out.

The Moon continues its void period until it enters Gemini today at 7:48 AM EDT.

Main Astrology Calendar

Uranus now turns retrograde at 5° Gemini 42′. Each year, Uranus is retrograde for approximately 5 months. Today, Uranus begins its retrograde phase, which will continue until February 8th, 2027.

Uranus Retrograde September 10, 2026, to February 8, 2027

• Uranus enters retrograde zone/shadow on May 25, 2026, at 1° Gemini 41′
• Uranus stations and turns retrograde on September 10, 2026, at 5° Gemini 42′ Rx
• Uranus stations and turns direct on February 8, 2027, at 1° Gemini 41′
• Uranus leaves retrograde zone/shadow on May 25, 2027, at 5° Gemini 42′

 

What does Uranus Retrograde mean?

During this cycle, our desire to make changes in our lives can turn inward as we get in touch with what may be holding us back from living more spontaneously and authentically.

We may be less overtly rebellious and more inclined to follow the rules while Uranus is retrograde approximately five months a year. As the shift occurs this week, however, Uranian energy is more challenging, and we can experience some tension until we acclimatize to the directional change.

Return to the main astrology calendar.

The Moon is New in Virgo on September 10, 2026, at 11:27 PM EDT.

This phase of the Moon occurs at 18 degrees and 26 minutes of Virgo. This New Moon in Virgo harmonizes with Mars.

The New Moon occurs as the Moon aligns with the Sun in the sign of Virgo.

A time of new beginnings, this New Moon presents an excellent opportunity for us to formulate some goals regarding “all things Virgo.” We’d do well to concentrate on new ways to get our day-to-day life organized. We might think about the keywords for this particular and earthy sign — such things as analytical, intelligent, reserved, critical, helpful, conscientious — and consider ways to enhance, develop, or incorporate these traits into our personalities.

Please note that Virgo is found somewhere in every person’s chart, and these are the areas of our lives most affected now.

The New Moon in Virgo is an excellent time to commit to personal goals that express the positive energies of the sign of the Virgin. These include:

• building our powers of healthy, constructive discrimination;
• rolling up our sleeves and getting down to some serious work;
• beginning a new project that requires attention to details;
• making lists, actively ticking off completed activities, and taking pride in our “little” accomplishments;
• starting a health regime, researching nutrition and nourishment, and paying attention to our diet;
• setting up specific routines that will help us manage our lives in constructive and mindful ways;
• and handling the finer details of our day-to-day life in an organized, step-by-step fashion so that we can free our minds of clutter.

We’re ready to make something special of our work, routines, or tasks. It’s a powerful time to transform our jobs, health, self-care programs, and habits. We’re filled with energy and courage to make improvements. It’s a spontaneous, creative, forward-looking time. There can be some roadblocks to manage, largely related to responsibilities to others or to our spiritual or mental health, but we’re determined to start fresh.

The above chart is excellent for seeing the fundamental influences and chart pattern of this New Moon. The chart below adds more details with additional points. Click to enlarge:

Neptune sextile Pluto.

Neptune, at 3° Aries 16’Rx, forms a sextile aspect with Pluto at 3° Aquarius 16’Rx in September 2026. This is the second of many such aspects while Neptune is in Aries and Pluto is in Aquarius. [Note: Often, aspects formed between outer planets and slow-moving points occur three or more times in a set due to retrograde motion.]

With Neptune sextile Pluto, we are especially able to see the layers of a situation. We’re intrigued by what makes things work and by people’s motivations, as well as economics, natural resources, parapsychology, and politics. It’s a time of rich experiences and cultural movements, transformative scientific thought and advancement, and of paying more sensitive attention to human rights. Psychic energy is intense but not overwhelmingly so during this phase of spiritual unclogging.

We seek a sense of purpose or magic now, wanting to elevate what’s mundane or ordinary in our lives. We might work on deepening our intuition, imagination, or compassion, or we might feel more compelled to act on these things to make a change.

Neptune sextile Pluto dates:

• on July 25th, 2026, at 4º Aries 20′ and 4° 20′ of Aquarius (first)
• on September 15th, 2026, at 3º Aries 16′ (second)
• June 28th, 2027, at 6º Aries 38′ (third)
• October 16th, 2027, at 4º Aries 45′ (fourth)
• June 9th, 2028, at 8º Aries 37′ (fifth)
• November 7th, 2028, at 6º Aries 30′ (sixth)
• May 22nd, 2029, at 10º Aries 25′ (seventh)
• November 30th, 2029, at 8º Aries 26′ (eighth)
• May 4th, 2030, at 12º Aries 03′ (ninth)
• December 26th, 2030, at 10º Aries 35′ (tenth)
• April 12th, 2031, at 13º Aries 25′ (eleventh)
• February 10th, 2032, at 13º Aries 28′ (twelfth)
• February 29th, 2032, at 14º Aries 01′ (thirteenth).

Main Astrology Calendar

The Moon is Full in Aries on September 26, 2026, at 12:49 PM EDT.

A Full Moon, a time of intense emotional energy, occurs when the Sun in Libra forms an opposition to the Moon in Aries early afternoon on September 26th. This celestial event marks the culmination and the promise of fulfillment of what we started at the New Moon. It is a time of heightened emotions, romance, fertilization, and relationships.

The Aries-Libra polarity is a relationship axis, where Aries represents ‘self,’ and Libra represents ‘other.’ Aries is about self-assertion, while Libra is about the power of compromise. Understanding this balance can empower us in our relationships.

Through the energy of the Libra Sun, we are reminded of the importance of relationships and the effort required to maintain them–compromising, negotiating, graciousness, and balancing. The Aries Moon, on the other hand, is self-assertive, leading, and personally courageous.

This Full Moon urges us to strike a balance between meeting our personal needs and attending to the needs of a significant other–and between independence or autonomy and dependence or companionability.

The Libra Sun is diplomatic, equality-minded, and fair-minded. The Aries Moon, however, values authenticity over tact and is energized by independent efforts. The Full Moon illuminates this conflict. Neglecting either end of the Aries-Libra axis will surely backfire on us. Ideally, we find a balance between the two energies, which the Full Moon invites us to do.

This Full Moon is about emotional declarations. Something has been building inside of us, likely of a personal nature, and now is the time when the energy of the cosmos fairly demands that we let it out. Over the upcoming weeks, we will discover what this declaration means for us. For now, we can’t sit on our feelings. We need to express them.

The Full Moon illuminates the conflict between “me” and “you,” and between autonomy and sharing. With the Moon full and bright in the sky, symbolic illumination occurs in our own lives.

However, these new feelings and revelations are emotional ones, as there is a sense of emotions bursting forth into our consciousness. It’s time to express ourselves and to let things out of our systems.

Of course, we might want to exercise some care while doing so, knowing that what is coming out of us is new and not particularly rational.

This lunation reminds us to consider how we are honoring ourselves in the context of our close relationships. New revelations can occur now, particularly in the areas of our physical bodies, leadership skills, our ability to initiate and begin new things, and our close partnerships. We’re brave, determined, and resourceful.

The Moon aligns with Neptune and harmonizes with Pluto and Uranus at the time of this Full Moon.

This phase of the Moon occurs at 3 degrees and 37 minutes of Aries, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 0 to 8 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) most significantly.

Venus now stations and turns retrograde at 8° Scorpio 30′.

 

Venus stations and turns retrograde on October 3rd in the sign of Scorpio, enters Libra on October 25th, and continues in retrograde motion until November 13th.

Venus Retrograde Cycle October to November 2026

Venus Retrograde Dates in the year 2026:

• Venus shadow period begins/enters Rx zone: August 31, 2026, at 22° Libra 52′
• Venus stations and turns retrograde: October 3, 2026 at 8° Scorpio 30′ Rx
• Venus stations and turns direct: November 13, 2026, at 22° Libra 52′
• Venus ends its shadow period/leaves Rx zone: December 15, 2026, at 8° Scorpio 30′

Venus is retrograde from October 3rd to November 13th, 2026. Venus’s shadow period begins August 31st and ends December 15th. Note that the shadow period begins before Venus turns retrograde, when Venus first passes over the degree that Venus later returns to in retrograde motion. The shadow period ends when Venus again passes over the degree at which it first turned retrograde.

As the planet of love and values, Venus retrograde periods are times when we re-assess what—and who—we value. It is a period that many astrologers consider inopportune for getting married or starting a new relationship. Major financial undertakings are not advised during this period either.

What are Venus retrograde cycles good for? They are useful periods for creating budgets and financial plans, and for re-thinking our personal relationships. Taking final action in the areas of finance and love, however, is not advised until Venus turns direct again.

Because Venus rules beauty and aesthetics, Venus Retrograde is a less than ideal time for beautification processes (new hairdos, enhancements, purchasing a new wardrobe, cosmetic surgery, and so forth), renovations, redecorating, and the like. Because Venus is associated with social events, parties may not go as planned.

On the subject of love, past lovers may re-appear, and some relationships may end. With Venus retrograde in Scorpio for part of its retrograde cycle, our needs for intensity may be high but frustrated. We may question the level of intimacy or passion we have in our relationships.

With Venus in Libra towards the end of the cycle, the tendency for romantic disillusionment may be strong. The equality, fairness, or balance we’re seeking may be more glaringly missing now.

Old friends and lovers may re-appear, perhaps complicating current relationships. We are called upon to deal with relationship issues from the past during this Venus retrograde cycle. Events occur that seem fated or predestined. It can be a real challenge getting close to a lover during this period. Unorthodox, experimental, and non-intimate relationships may be favored.

Venus is in its detriment in the sign of Scorpio (Scorpio is opposite Taurus, which Venus rules). Some of the more negative associations of Venus in Scorpio may be particularly prominent and/or hard to take, and these include jealousy, possessiveness, suspicion, control, or intrusiveness. Those who have Scorpio strong in their charts may be more introspective, distant, or hard to reach during this cycle. They may not be in a very favorable light just now, and they may be reconsidering things.

Relationships that have been especially challenging may come to an end during this cycle. However, strong relationships will survive it, even if there are a few bumps and bruises along the way.

This can be a good time for “eyes wide open” or experimental dating, although opinions and assessments may change at a later date. It is not a time when people recognize the need for another person to “complete” them. Some people may be questioning whether they are with partners who actually fulfill them.

We may, however, be especially in touch with our deeper, less obvious, and less superficial needs and wants. This makes it a good time for re-evaluating our relationship needs; but, again, major love decisions are best saved for after the cycle ends on November 13th, and better yet, beyond the shadow phase as well (after December 15th). Our perceptions may be skewed, and we can come out of the retrograde cycle with regret if we’ve acted hastily, as the tendency to change our minds later is strong.

Affection is difficult to express in a natural or spontaneous manner. We might find others are lacking in sincerity or genuineness in their expressions of social niceties. (We may be inclined to do the same!).

On the subject of money, finances, and possessions, do try to hold off on major purchases or financial decisions during this Venus retrograde cycle. For example, the purchase of a new house, car, or another big-ticket item could backfire in some manner later on. They may become money pits or cause problems for you, or you may change your mind later and regret your purchase.

If you’re particularly good at sniffing out good buys, this can be a great time for finding unusual items at low prices as people may be more willing to get rid of things they may not part with under normal circumstances during a retrograde Venus period.

There’s nothing truly to fear about Venus retrograde, but it’s always wise to take special care during this cycle. It’s not the best period for entering into a new relationship because our sensors when it comes to love are not up to par. However, it’s not unheard of to begin a relationship under the influence of a retrograde Venus, and the relationship survives and/or thrives.

Venus rules our values, and when retrograde, we don’t seem to be in touch with exactly what and who we value, or, some might say we see things more or too clearly. After the retrograde cycle is over, we may look back and wonder what we were thinking.

So, do what you can to avoid major decision-making during Venus’ retrograde period, but pay attention to your assessments to see if they last. A change of heart is possible later. And, the people we meet now may appear more fabulous than they turn out to be. It’s also possible that some people we meet now may seem less attractive than they turn out to be! Whatever the case may be, try to hold off until December before making big decisions, particularly life-altering ones.

Still, we may not be as openly or obviously warm and affectionate during this cycle. It’s hard to trust others just now, and, perhaps more so, it’s difficult to trust our own instincts when it comes to judging others or our relationships. We tend to suspect insincerity in others. People might appear to be more selfish, withdrawn, and self-protective. It’s hard to make headway in a direct manner in our love relationships for the time being. If you are hoping to fix a relationship or if you are trying to schedule a reunion, it may not be the best time to do so.

When breakups do occur in the second half of a Venus retrograde cycle, I have noticed they are imperfect. They are not often clean breaks. Couples and friends may reunite later, or if they stay broken up, they might often wonder if it was the right thing to do – something is left hanging. Venus retrograde is a period for clearing the decks and dealing with the past so as to move forward fresh and re-energized, and this is especially appropriate in the first three weeks of the cycle. During the second half of the retrograde cycle, watch for impulsiveness.

Then there is a feeling of the inevitable during a Venus retrograde. What happened in the past, including past love affairs, can flood our consciousness now. Sometimes, a past lover reappears in their physical form.

Think back to what may have happened during the last few or several Venus retrograde cycles (March 4 to April 15, 2017; July 25 to September 6, 2015; December 21, 2013, to January 31, 2014; May 15, 2012, to June 27, 2012; October 8 to November 18, 2010; March 6 to April 17, 2009; July 27, 2007, to September 8, 2007; December 24th, 2005 to February 3rd, 2006; April through July 2004; September through December 2002; February through May 2001). Although each retrograde cycle is different, similar issues may arise. In fact, some of the problems we faced then may need to be dealt with now.

More importantly, note that the last times Venus was retrograde in the signs of Scorpio and Libra were from October 5 to November 16, 2018, October 8 to November 18, 2010, and from October 11 to November 21, 2002 (every eight years). It’s highly likely that we will deal with similar issues during the 2026 Venus retrograde cycle as we did during these cycles in 2018, 2010. and 2002 (and before these times).

October 10th is likely to be a more challenging period of this retrograde cycle when Venus forms a square to Mars, and then a square to Pluto on the 19-20. Better times for Venus-ruled matters during this 2026 Venus retrograde cycle are October 6th, when Venus aligns with Mercury, the 23rd, when Venus aligns with the Sun, and November 4th and 10th, when Venus forms a sextile to Jupiter and then Mars.

At the time that Venus forms an inferior conjunction with the Sun (October 23rd), relationship issues are magnified. Fateful events can occur now. This is similar to a New Moon but marks the beginning of a new Venus cycle. We are symbolically in the dark during the retrograde, but starting fresh and re-energized from this date forward. Impulsiveness and lack of preparation are issues now. When Mercury forms a conjunction with retrograde Venus on October 6th, there can be a lot of conversation about relationships, especially past ones. New light may be shed on an old problem.

Particularly around the days of Venus’ stations on October 3rd and November 13th, 2026, watch for confused situations and try not to say too much. If you are itching to argue with a lover, try to hold off. It is likely that you will have a change of heart once the station passes, and you can do some damage in the meantime.

Note also that Venus is in the retrograde “zone” from August 31st to December 15th. From November 13th to December 15th, Venus continues to traverse the degrees she covered during her retrograde period. Although Venus officially turns direct on November 13th, issues are not expected to be entirely resolved until after December 15th, but they’re working themselves out.

Read more about Venus Retrograde. Where is Venus Retrograde transiting by house in your natal chart? Does it form a conjunction with a natal planet, your Ascendant, or Midheaven? Read interpretations of Venus Retrograde in Transit for a more personalized meaning of the transit cycle.

If you’re wondering what Venus retrograde means if you’re born with this position in your chart, see Venus Retrograde in the Birth Chart.

 

The Moon is New in Libra on October 10, 2026, at 11:50 AM EDT.

 

This phase of the Moon occurs at 17 degrees and 22 minutes of Libra. It’s sextile Jupiter and widely opposite Saturn.

The New Moon in the sign of Libra starts a good cycle in which to commit to personal goals that express the positive energies of the sign of the Scales.

We have a chance to build our negotiating skills without compromising our principles or needs and without resorting to appeasement. It’s a time to work on re-balancing our relationships and to recognize our partners as teammates, promoting a sense of connection and cooperation rather than seeing them as adversaries.

With this potent Libra energy, we can make important life changes. Libra teaches us to make peace with those around us and establish more harmony in our environments, create a sense of order and balance in our lives, and recognize the value of partnerships. This is an ideal time to work on these skills.

Libra has an innate ability for–and love of–synthesizing opposites. Peace and harmony are the goals, but there’s a fine balancing act involved along the way that requires some commitment and effort.

This New Moon brings fresh and creative energy into our lives, especially our relationships. This is a cycle in which balancing our close personal relationships becomes an urgent desire. Negotiations may be especially effective, as we are inclined to assert our needs in ways that don’t offend others.

The above chart is excellent for seeing the fundamental influences and chart pattern of this New Moon. The chart below adds more details with additional points. Click to enlarge:

Pluto now turns direct at 3° Aquarius 04′, ending its retrograde. Pluto is retrograde every year for approximately five months. In 2026, Pluto is retrograde from May 6th to October 15th.

• Pluto stations and turns retrograde on May 6, 2026, at 5° Aquarius 30′ Rx
• Pluto stations and turns direct on October 15, 2026, at 3° Aquarius 04′

As Pluto advances in direct motion in the period ahead, our power to make profound changes in our lives is more externalized, insistent, and direct. We are less likely to brood over changes that we feel have been thrust upon us and more likely to take things into our own hands and make necessary changes.

Mercury now turns retrograde at 20° Scorpio 59′.

Mercury is retrograde from October 24th, 2026, at 20° Scorpio 59′, until November 13th, 2026, at 5° Scorpio 02′.

Mercury Retrograde Cycle from October 24 to November 13, 2026:

• On October 4, 2026, Mercury enters the Retrograde Zone (pre-retrograde shadow) at 5° Scorpio 02′
• On October 24, 2026, Mercury stations and turns retrograde at 20° Scorpio 59’Rx
• On November 13, 2026, Mercury stations and turns direct at 5° Scorpio 02’D
• On November 30, 2026, Mercury leaves the Retrograde Zone (post-retrograde zone) at 20° Scorpio 59′

Read more about Mercury Retrograde. Where is Mercury Retrograde transiting by house in your natal chart? Does it conjunct a natal planet, your Ascendant, or Midheaven? Read interpretations of Mercury Retrograde in Transit for a more personalized meaning of the transit cycle.

Mercury spends this retrograde cycle in the sign of Scorpio.

Note that the shadow period begins before Mercury turns retrograde–when Mercury first passes over the degree that Mercury later returns to in retrograde motion. The shadow period ends when Mercury again passes over the degree at which it first turned retrograde.

The shadow period is different than Mercury’s storm period in astrology, which refers to the period when Mercury is moving especially slowly.

Mercury’s post-retrograde shadow is generally better for new long-term endeavors than the pre-retrograde shadow. For new enterprises in the pre-retrograde shadow, the venture’s secondary progressed Mercury will turn direction (retrograde) in the coming years which may not be ideal.

Also note that things are most wonky on the days of the stations whether Mercury is turning retrograde OR direct (the start and end date of the retrograde cycle) as the shifts occur, after which we grow more accustomed to the energy.

Mercury is retrograde approximately three times a year for approximately three weeks each time. As such, retrograde Mercury is a fairly common occurrence (Mercury is retrograde approximately 18% of the time).

As the planet of communication, Mercury retrograde tends to breed a certain level of confusion. Mercury rules our “lower” mind–how we perceive and interpret information that we receive from our environment, and how we relay that information to others. Mercury has rulership over such things as speaking, negotiating, buying and selling, listening, formal contracts, documents, travel, the mail and shipping, and so forth. All of these areas of life are affected when Mercury is functioning in a sluggish state. Decision-making is challenged during Mercury retrograde.

Needless to say, it is not advised to sign contracts, engage in important decision-making, or launch a new business. Delays and challenges are more probable with Mercury retrograde. It’s a time when being careless with money, our personal information, or paperwork can be costly.

While Mercury is retrograde, we may be rethinking a previous opinion or idea. Looking to the signs and houses it transits can give clues as to what we may be reconsidering.

There is absolutely a positive side to Mercury Retrograde. This period is best used for re-organizing and reflecting. We look at the world a little differently–through different filters–and can come up with some very important inner revelations. It may be difficult to communicate them under this influence, but not everything needs to be rationalized.

Mercury retrograde periods can be times of heightened inner awareness, when meditation, benefiting from keeping a journal, reworking old plans, and reviewing past work are favored. Mercury retrograde is powerful for studies, particularly for returning to old studies or for re-learning or refreshing knowledge in a subject already taken.

Minor breaks in the mechanical aspects of communication can actually reconnect us to other means of communication, such as when there is an unexpected power outage and we’re forced off the computer and television, finding different and often satisfying ways to entertain ourselves.

It is important to note that there is absolutely no reason to suspend projects or anything of the sort during the Mercury Retrograde cycle. It’s not an ideal time to start new ones or to sign contracts, simply because a change of mind is quite likely once Mercury turns direct. However, it’s a fabulous time to do some “outside of the box” thinking. Acting on our ideas, however, might be best left for a Mercury Direct period.

Pay close attention to what you say and communicate in general, particularly around the days of Mercury’s stations (in this case, October 24th November 13th, 2026), as well as around retrograde Mercury’s conjunction to the Sun (called the “inferior conjunction“) on November 4th, 2026, at 12 degrees Scorpio (midway between the start and end of the retro period).

If you are itching to make a point with someone, especially, or if you are planning on “signing on the dotted line,” try to hold off. It is likely that you will have a change of mind once the station passes, and you can do some damage in the meantime. When a planet stations, its energies are very strong in our lives.

When Mercury stations, communications have more impact, so that negative ones could have long-term implications at this time. However, if you are very clear within yourself and about what you are communicating, this can be a positive thing.

With Mercury Retrograde in Scorpio:

While Mercury is retrograde in the sign of Scorpio, it’s a strong time to get in touch with our instincts, motivations, and “dark” side. Our society generally doesn’t value emotional communication as much as more rational approaches, but now is the time to explore our more intimate and emotional natures and how these affect our decision-making processes. Increased sensitivity or emotional “radar” is likely.

We should watch that we don’t get into a paranoid frame of mind, or read too much negativity into what others say. Retrograde Mercury periods tend to send us to the past for more or previously hidden information, and while in Scorpio, this is especially the case.

When Mercury is in Scorpio in general, our thoughts and communications are more probing and intense. While Mercury in Libra urged us to find balance and arrive at reasonable solutions, Mercury in Scorpio instinctively knows that life simply isn’t fair. Mercury in Scorpio seeks truths in all that is hidden and undercover.

We tend to probe, observe, and focus our thoughts under this influence. Looking for motivations–the more deeply buried, the better–satisfies an intellectual need now. Our thoughts are profound. We throw away superficial manners of communicating in favor of deep conversations.

Scorpio is exceptionally sharp, profound, and analytical yet also intuitive. Thinking is inclined to be one-track-minded, focused, and even obsessive.

Retrograde Mercury aligns with the Sun in Scorpio on November 4th, bringing illumination to our thoughts. It’s a favorable time for processing recent events and ideas, and for beginning to look at problems or issues from a new perspective and with a new understanding. Significant new ideas can be birthed at this time.

We might look at past decisions and ideas from a new, possibly enlightened perspective, and find usefulness in old or past ideas and recycling them in new ways.

Venus Rx enters Libra

Venus, still retrograde, now returns to the sign of Libra.

While Venus began its retrograde on October 3rd in the sign of Scorpio, retrograde Venus returns to the sign of Libra on October 25th, 2026.

Venus is in Libra from October 25-December 4, 2026. It was in Libra very recently, from August 6-September 10, 2026. Venus is returning to Libra due to its retrograde motion.

The retrograde cycle of Venus, lasting from October 3rd to November 13th, is the reason for Venus returning to Libra so soon after leaving the sign. The retrograde began in Scorpio, but with reverse motion, Venus now dips back into Libra.

While Venus is retrograde in the sign of Libra, we might return to past frustrations and problems with a renewed perspective. The tendency for romantic disillusionment may be strong. The equality, fairness, or balance we’re seeking may be more glaringly missing now.

 

Venus Retrograde Cycle October to November 2026

Venus Retrograde Dates in the year 2026:

• Venus shadow period begins/enters Rx zone: August 31, 2026, at 22° Libra 52′
• Venus stations and turns retrograde: October 3, 2026 at 8° Scorpio 30′ Rx
• Venus stations and turns direct: November 13, 2026, at 22° Libra 52′
• Venus ends its shadow period/leaves Rx zone: December 15, 2026, at 8° Scorpio 30′

Venus is retrograde from October 3rd to November 13th, 2026. Venus’s shadow period began August 31st and will end December 15th.

As the planet of love and values, Venus retrograde periods are times when we re-assess what—and who—we value. It is a period that many astrologers consider inopportune for getting married or starting a new relationship. Major financial undertakings are not advised during this period either. Venus retrograde cycles are good times for creating budgets and financial plans, and for re-thinking our personal relationships. Taking final action in the areas of finance and love, however, is not advised until Venus turns direct again.

Because Venus rules beauty and aesthetics, Venus Retrograde is a less than ideal time for beautification processes (new hairdos, enhancements, purchasing a new wardrobe, cosmetic surgery, and so forth), renovations, re-decorating, and the like. Because Venus is associated with social events, parties may not go as planned.

On the subject of love, past lovers may re-appear and some relationships may end. With Venus retrograde in Scorpio for part of this retrograde cycle, our needs for intensity may be high but frustrated. We may question the level of intimacy or passion we have in our relationships. With Venus in Libra later in the cycle, the tendency for romantic disillusionment may be strong. The equality, fairness, or balance we’re seeking may be more glaringly missing now.

Old friends and lovers may re-appear, perhaps complicating current relationships. We may be called upon to deal with relationship issues from the past during this Venus retrograde cycle. Events occur that seem fated or pre-destined. It can be a real challenge getting close to a lover during this period of time. Unorthodox, experimental, and non-intimate relationships may be favored.

Affection is difficult to express in a natural or spontaneous manner. We might find others are lacking in sincerity or genuineness in their expressions of social niceties. (We may be inclined to do the same!).

Read more about Venus Retrograde. Where is Venus Retrograde transiting by house in your natal chart? Is it conjunct a natal planet, your Ascendant, or Midheaven? Read interpretations of Venus Retrograde in Transit for a more personalized meaning of the transit cycle.

If you’re wondering what Venus retrograde means if you’re born with this position in your chart, see Venus Retrograde in the Birth Chart.

We favor employing charm over assertiveness to get what we want during this Venus-in-Libra cycle. Usually quite willing to negotiate and compromise, we can be very obliging with others. We’re also very idealistic about love, and we seek intellectual peers.

Although Venus in Libra is very relationship-focused, there is an air of cool detachment to this energy. We prefer things are done the “right” way, and aggressive or uncouth behavior turns us off.

The shadow expression of this position includes over-dependence and superficiality. 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 partners while privately resenting the fact or thinking ourselves martyrs for doing so.

While Venus is in Libra, we are more artistically inclined or seek balance in our personal environment. This cycle is excellent for promoting cooperation, harmony, mutually beneficial connections, and fairness. We are gentle but firm, and we’re skilled at mediation.

We’re more likely to prosper during this cycle in partnership, through one-to-one associations, such as counseling, or in fields related to harmony, relationships, beauty, design, and the law. We’re not fond of out-and-out competition or aggressive pursuit, preferring win-win situations hands down. We attract things to us and appeal to others gently and kindly. Equality and politeness are important now, and we despise hurting others’ feelings.

The Moon is Full in Taurus on October 26th, 2026, at 12:12 AM EDT.

A Full Moon occurs when the Sun in Scorpio forms an opposition to the Moon in Taurus. The Full Moon is a time of culmination and the promise of fulfillment of that which was started at the New Moon. It is an emotional event – a time of romance, fertilization, and relationships.

Full Moons always pit opposite signs of the zodiac against each other. They also invite us to work to achieve a balance between the opposing energies.

With this lunation, the contrast between earthy, practical, peace-loving Taurus and emotional, transformative, crisis-oriented Scorpio comes full bloom. The Moon in Taurus wants us to find emotional fulfillment through the simple, tangible things in life, while the Scorpio Sun draws our attention to complexities, intangibles, and mysteries.

The Full Moon illuminates this conflict between form (Taurus) and transformation (Scorpio), and between collecting (Taurus) and sharing (Scorpio).

This is a passionate and creative Full Moon, ripe with possibilities and learning experiences. Intimate relationship matters, such as personal comfort levels and values and sexuality, figure prominently now.

The chart configurations are complicated. The Sun aligns with retrograde Venus, and the Full Moon forms a square with Pluto. The Full Moon is also part of an arrow yod formation.

This phase of the Moon occurs at 2 degrees and 46 minutes of Taurus, affecting people with personal planets and points at approximately 0 to 6 degrees of the Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) most significantly.