This Week in Astrology Apr 7-13 | Cafe Astrology .com

This Week in Astrology: April 7 to 13, 2024

April 7 to 13, 2024

We can feel its effects for up to six months after the actual date of the eclipse. In the sign of Aries, this eclipse puts matters related to personal plans, courage, independence, and self-assertion in strong focus. It’s about new beginnings regarding any of these issues. Long-term changes are in the works!

This phase of the Moon occurs at 19 degrees and 24 minutes of Aries.

A similar Solar Eclipse (at approximately the same degree of Aries) occurred on April 8th, 2005. Previous to that, it was April 9, 1986. An eclipse set along the Aries-Libra axis most recently occurred from 2013-2016. Before that, it was from 2004-2006.

Note that this eclipse is opposite the October 2023 eclipse in Libra.

This Solar eclipse can highlight and challenge our issues surrounding independence and personal courage. We might take steps towards self-mastery and self-empowerment by tackling things that undermine us.

Circumstances nudge or encourage us to see where we haven’t been true to our authentic selves. Ultimately, we are now in a position to understand that changes or endings are necessary for our own growth, and that we can handle these things.

This is a good time for focusing on some of the constructive traits of the sign of the Ram–enterprising, straightforward, sincere, brave–and consider how to positively incorporate these qualities into our lives. Aries New Moons are generally good for taking action – trying something new and innovative, and going at it with gusto and confidence;. It’s a time to be assertive, take charge of our lives, start a brand new project, and discover our own personal courage.

It’s a powerful time to re-evaluate our relationship with ourselves. With this potent Aries energy, we have the chance to make important changes in our lives. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and thus a New Moon in Aries is especially ripe with opportunity for new beginnings. We might consider acting on a constructive impulse and following a hunch or taking a risk. Aries learns through experience and action, so we might treat ourselves to a little adventure now.

The chart:

(description of the eclipse continues below the chart wheel)

New Moon Solar Eclipse in Aries Chart: April 8, 2024

This phase of the Moon occurs at 19 degrees and 24 minutes of Aries, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 14 to 24 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) most significantly.

It’s a good cycle for discovering the benefits of expressing ourselves with authenticity – expressing ourselves as we are, without putting on airs. We might also find ways to learn how to rely on ourselves and to be happy about doing so – it will go a long way towards finding inner happiness when we know that we can be self-sufficient without blaming others for not helping us out. It’s a time to revitalize ourselves through experiences that break the routine and that involve doing something new and fresh.

With this eclipse, we might experience a strong urge to act on impulse. However, it will be important to avoid jumping to conclusions and asserting ourselves without considering others’ feelings and reactions. There is a big difference between asserting ourselves from a place of healthy confidence, and asserting ourselves brashly and mindlessly, which can give us a false sense of confidence or bravery.

With this potent Aries energy, we have the chance to make important changes in our lives that will benefit us well beyond this Moon cycle. For some of us, circumstances are such that we need to pay more attention to these matters.

Flaws in an important system in our lives reveal themselves in the wake of the eclipse, prompting us to redo or to start fresh. Something ends in order for something else to start anew. We may be called to give up something in order to move forward into a new chapter in our lives. Although the “new” may be unrecognizable, it is important to allow the necessary surrender to the unknown.

An eclipse occurs close to the nodal axis, and this eclipse is closer to the North Node of the Moon. While we’re heading into unknown territory in some ways, we have a good sense that we’re doing so to our advantage.

Major developments in the personal areas ruled by Aries in our charts are likely to occur over the upcoming months.

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:

New Moon/Solar Eclipse in Aries: April 8, 2024 (Additional Points)

This Solar Eclipse is part of a set of eclipses falling along the Aries/Libra sign axis from April 2023 to March 2025:

Annular Total SOLAR Eclipse 2023 April 20 0:12:19 at 29 Aries 50
Annular SOLAR Eclipse 2023 October 14 13:54:56 at 21 Libra 08
Penumbral LUNAR Eclipse 2024 March 25 3:00:05 at 5 Libra 07
Total SOLAR Eclipse 2024 April 8 14:20:37 at 19 Aries 24
Annular SOLAR Eclipse 2024 October 2 14:49:02 at 10 Libra 04
Partial SOLAR Eclipse 2025 March 29 at 9 Aries 00

Previous: Last Quarter Moon

The LAST QUARTER MOON occurs on Monday, April 1st, 2024, at 11:14 PM EDT.

On Monday night, the Last Quarter Moon is exact, when the Sun in Aries forms a square with the Moon in Capricorn.

The Last Quarter Moon phase points to a 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. What revelations did you have last week? What did they mean to you? What can be done now?

Last Quarter Moon Chart: April 2nd, 2024

This phase of the Moon occurs at 12 degrees and 52 minutes of Capricorn square the Sun at the same degree of Aries, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 11 to 15 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) most significantly.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Apr 8,
2024, 2:21 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon/Eclipse)
Apr 15, 2024, 3:13 PM, Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Apr 23, 2024, 7:49 PM, Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
May 1, 2024, 7:27 AM, Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
May 7, 2024, 11:22 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

This week: The Sun is in Aries; Mercury is in Aries; Venus is in Aries; Mars is in Pisces.

The Sun is in Aries from March 19-April 19. In Aries, the Sun is enthusiastic and spontaneous. We are motivated by the desire to conquer. We are more impulsive and have the urge to initiate, innovate, and come first.

Aries is a sign that bounces back quickly–there is little in the way of shame with Aries. It is brave and pioneering, and somewhat innocent. We are direct and rather uncomplicated in our needs, but we can also be short-sighted and lack the desire to plan ahead.

Mercury is in Aries from March 9-May 15. When Mercury is in Aries, we are less concerned with objective viewpoints and explanations, and more concerned with reaching a decision…quickly! Our thoughts and ideas are pioneering, and we tend to speak more spontaneously and directly with the planet of communication in bold and assertive Aries.

There can be quick, possibly impatient or hurried, decisions during this cycle, and our responses are similar: quick and perhaps defensive or combative. We value independent thought, and we can be mentally competitive. executive decisions. We prefer to learn through personal experience, not instruction.

Venus is in Aries from April 4-29. With Venus in Aries, love is spontaneous and direct. The chase is very exciting to us under this fiery influence. We are bold, fresh, and a little impatient when it comes to matters of the heart. We don’t look back with Aries energy. We are not interested in saying sorry or dwelling on the past–it’s a brand new day! It’s time to make things work right now.

Aries is known for a love of the chase and the conquest, but Aries love can be longstanding as long as it remains relatively fresh. Aries is blunt–there’s no sugar-coating with Aries. This can sting, but rarely is Aries energy mean or petty. Saying it like it is is important to the sign. Desires are strong and expressed spontaneously, enthusiastically, and directly. Aries prefers to seduce rather than be seduced, to chase rather than be chased.

While Venus is in Aries, we gravitate to Aries-like activities, pleasures, pastimes, and objects of interest. Our tastes can veer toward action, new enterprise, conquests, courageous or daring acts, and so forth. We can be somewhat impulsive with our money or entertainment choices.

Our interests can be insistent and strong, but possibly short-lived. It’s not the best time for holding onto money. We might pour our resources too quickly into new ventures or projects but tire of these things just as rapidly.

Mars is in Pisces from March 22-April 30. During this cycle, we are less interested in pursuing traditional goals and more motivated to pursue spiritual or emotional drives. We dislike confrontation while Mars is in Pisces. Our output is variable rather than straightforward, and our energy is similarly up and down.

We may prioritize others’ needs over our own, and our more idealistic side may emerge. During this cycle, pursuing what we want becomes less straightforward and more complicated!

However, compassion drives us while Mars is in Pisces. We can be spiritual warriors, or we achieve our goals intuitively and with faith. We can be chameleons, adapting to the current situation quite expertly, although we can also be escape artists, preferring to avoid rather than confront. Our behavior may be passive-aggressive, or we fight for ourselves through confusing or placating our opponent.

Jupiter is in Taurus.

Jupiter begins its transit of Taurus on May 16th, 2023, and it will continue its transit of the sign until May 25th, 2024. Read more about Jupiter’s transit of Taurus.

Saturn transits Pisces from March 7th, 2023 until May 24th, 2025, and Sep 1st, 2025, to Feb 13th, 2026. Read about Saturn’s transit of Pisces.

Uranus is in Taurus.

Uranus transits Taurus from May 15, 2018, to November 6, 2018, and then from March 6th, 2019, until 2025/6. We approach money and personal possessions in new ways and learn to free ourselves from certain material constraints. Innovative ways to make ourselves comfortable emerge. We’re less inhibited about expressing sensuality, self-love, body love, and pampering. Above all, we’re challenging what we previously valued during this cycle.

There can be abrupt changes with money, valuables, possessions, and income that lead to a reshuffling of priorities or values. Income might come from non-traditional sources or ventures. In general, we’re bringing progressive ideas to the world of business. New ways of doing business, as well as making, viewing, and handling money, are likely. Our income and the energy we put into making money can be variable.

Pluto transitions from Capricorn to Aquarius in 2023 and 2024. Read about Pluto’s transit of Aquarius. Pluto retrograded back into Capricorn, and was in Capricorn until January 20th, 2024. Pluto is in Aquarius from January 20th to September 1st, when it will retreat into Capricorn once again. Note: Pluto is slow-moving through the zodiac signs!

Romance & Relationships

Venus is in Aries from April 4-29. In Aries, love is spontaneous and direct. The chase is very exciting to us under this fiery influence. We are bold, fresh, and a little impatient when it comes to matters of the heart. We don’t look back with Aries energy. We are not interested in saying sorry or dwelling on the past. It’s a brand new day! It’s time to make things work right now.

Aries is known for a love of the chase and the conquest, but Aries love can be longstanding as long as it remains relatively fresh. Aries is blunt–there’s no sugar-coating with Aries. This can sting, but rarely is Aries energy mean or petty. Saying it like it is is important to Aries. Desires are strong and expressed spontaneously, enthusiastically, and directly. Aries prefers to seduce rather than be seduced, to chase rather than be chased.

This week: On Sunday and Monday, we seek a little more meaning or excitement from our relationships, pastimes, and pleasures. Our humor is strong, we may be inspired by our interactions, and we’re open to change. However, we may be restless or not appreciative of what we have, feeling that the grass may be greener elsewhere.

On Tuesday, we can be a bit flighty with one another, unsure whether we want to be close to someone or free from ties temporarily.

On Wednesday and Thursday, confusing questions or sudden doubts can figure strongly in our relationships. We might explore whether we’re honoring our need for magic or romance.

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

Venus in Aries Romance at the drop of a hat is part and parcel of the cycle you have just begun. Winning the hearts of others can be a challenge you’re eager to accept – and the thrill of the chase might be most of the fun. Is it the pursuit of happiness – or the happiness of pursuit?

Venus conjunct and parallel Neptune April 2-3. New and fresh beginnings on romantic levels characterize this transit. 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 sextile Pluto April 5-6. Subtly powerful and uplifting time for romantic/sexual relationships. New insights into relationships and love. Strong attractions.

Venus semi-square Jupiter April 7-8. We experience a strong desire for more pleasure in our lives, which can be excessive. Take care not to overstate your feelings or to set up unrealistic expectations in your partnerships.

Venus semi-square Uranus April 9. Uncertainty about the desire to be close to someone. Freedom versus closeness. A desire to experiment in the romance department may be fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying or frustrating.

Venus contra-parallel Neptune April 10-11. Confusing questions or sudden doubts can figure strongly now.

Venus semi-sextile Saturn April 16-17. We may feel somewhat reserved, not quite able to let our hair down without remembering our responsibilities. However, we’re capable of great balance and understanding.

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 the 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 to determine 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 following tables incorporate the modern planets, but some astrologers do not count Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto in void Moon calculations.

The Void-of-Course Moon this Week:

Void-of-course Moon on Sunday, April 7th, from 4:27 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Neptune), until the Moon enters Aries at 7:25 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Monday, April 8th, from 10:39 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Mercury), until the Moon enters Taurus the next day, Tuesday, April 9th, at 7:24 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Thursday, April 11th, from 6:04 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Neptune), until the Moon enters Gemini at 8:59 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Saturday, April 13th, from 10:46 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Neptune), until the Moon enters Cancer at 1:45 PM EDT.

April 2024:

Void of Course Moon Dates & Times: April 2024

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

It’s important to note that there are more factors to consider in addition to the windows listed below. The following windows are starting points. For example, you generally don’t want to elect a new venture when a very challenging aspect is applying, and it’s preferable to elect a time when a particularly positive aspect hasn’t yet perfected (is applying rather than separating).

The Moon is waning this week until the New Moon on the 8th, which is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings, with exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details). After the New Moon on the 8th, the Moon is waxing this week, which is considered, in a general sense, as favorable for new beginnings, also with exceptions.

According to principles of timing with the Moon, a window of opportunity occurs this week from Saturday, April 6th, at approximately 1:15 PM EDT, until Sunday, April 7th, at approximately 4:20 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Pisces. Another window occurs from Wednesday, April 10th, at approximately 3:25 PM EDT, until Thursday, April 11th, at approximately 6:00 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Taurus. Mercury is retrograde during these windows. As well, they occur too close to eclipses, and our judgment is not up to par, or information is hidden/obscured.

See also the following articles and tables: Timing with the Moon and Opportunity Periods with the Void Moon for times and techniques.

Planetary Stations & Sign Ingresses:

Mar 9
, 2024, 11:03 PM, Mercury enters Aries
Mar 11, 2024, 5:50 PM, Venus enters Pisces
Mar 19, 2024, 11:06 PM, Sun enters Aries
Mar 22, 2024, 7:47 PM, Mars enters Pisces
Mar 29, 2024, 9:18 AM, Pallas Retrograde at 8 Sag 36
Mar 31, 2024, 6:56 AM, Vesta enters Cancer
Apr 1, 2024, 6:14 PM, Mercury Retrograde at 27 Ari 13
Apr 5, 2024, 12:00 AM, Venus enters Aries
Apr 19, 2024, 10:00 AM, Sun enters Taurus
Apr 21, 2024, 10:58 PM, Juno Direct at 6 Vir 18
Apr 25, 2024, 8:54 AM, Mercury Direct at 15 Ari 59
Apr 29, 2024, 7:31 AM, Venus enters Taurus
Apr 30, 2024, 11:33 AM, Mars enters Aries
May 2, 2024, 1:47 PM, Pluto Retrograde at 2 Aqu 06
May 15, 2024, 1:36 AM, Ceres Retrograde at 21 Cap 33
May 15, 2024, 1:05 PM, Mercury enters Taurus
May 16, 2024, 1:32 PM, Pallas Rx enters Scorpio
May 20, 2024, 8:59 AM, Sun enters Gemini

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day (this takes you to my other site, Astrology Cafe).

Note: Times given are Eastern Time (ET).

This Week’s Calendar

This Week in Astrology Calendar: April 7th to 13th, 2024

This Week’s Aspects

Venus semi-square Jupiter. We might take great strides to get noticed. Avoid impulsive buying. Problems in our personal life likely won’t get resolved under this influence. Avoid hasty (or haughty!) decisions. We might overstate our feelings or promise more than we can deliver, and the tendency to overdo is strong.

Sun conjunct Chiron. An opportunity to find a sense of purpose or a “mission” arises now, increasing our confidence. Alternatively, we might face life lessons that get us in touch with the insecurities that hold us back from feeling confident. The desire to learn and grow through experiences and through others is strong. Problem solving is favored.

Venus semi-square Uranus. Unusual attractions (to people and things) can have us acting on a whim. We may deal with freedom versus closeness issues in our relationships. Avoid impulse buys at this time, and hold off on decision-making with regards to finances. Some instability, restlessness, and rebelliousness is probable in romantic relationships. We may not see eye to eye with a loved one, and we could be taken off guard by unexpected events. This is not a favorable aspect for beauty treatments because they could have unexpected results.

Mars conjunct Saturn. Feelings of being blocked are possible, as enthusiasm meets with realism. Work takes on definite shape, and we can see results from our efforts. This gives us a sense of responsibility and a feeling of directedness and purposefulness. This is a good time to temper our energy and to exercise better judgment. It’s also a strong period for getting and feeling organized. Seniority is favored now. Traditional methods work, and thoroughness brings rewards. Pushing ahead, however, can be costly or could result in frustration, as “slow and steady” is the only way to go now.

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!

Mars semi-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.

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. Explore Transit to Transit aspects.

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day – Astrology Cafe.

Astrology Chart of Today/Now in my Free Report section shows the current chart with interpretations.

What’s In Store By the Stars – Daily Astrology Trends

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

See also the Astrology Trends Calendar that includes these daily trend overviews and other astrological events such as ingresses, stations, and lunations.

APRIL 7

The Moon continues its transit of Pisces until 7:25 AM EDT, aligning with Neptune and highlighting the need to unwind, go with the flow, or accept and forgive. The Moon in Aries from 7:25 AM forward stirs a solid desire to start fresh. With the Moon’s midday alignment with Venus, we’re more likely to accommodate or mediate. We can also be more indulgent, and we gravitate to activities that bring more beauty and harmony to our lives. However, the Aries Moon is direct, independent, straightforward, and action-oriented. We recognize our need for self-direction and initiative.

The Moon is void from 4:27 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Neptune), until the Moon enters Aries at 7:25 AM EDT.

APRIL 8

The New Moon Solar Eclipse occurs today at 2:21 PM EDT, and events happening now ultimately highlight and challenge our personal plans, courage, independence, and self-assertion. It’s about new beginnings regarding these issues, and long-term changes are in the works! This eclipse is the fourth in an Aries-Libra set with us until March 2025. We might take steps towards self-mastery and self-empowerment by tackling things that undermine us. Circumstances nudge us to see where we haven’t been true to our authentic selves. Ultimately, we are better positioned to understand that changes or endings are necessary for our growth. We’re learning to embrace our individuality and assert ourselves confidently.

The New Moon aligns with retrograde Mercury, and it’s hard to see our path, but our discomfort with the past can be very real now, motivating new beginnings. As well, Mars, the ruler of Aries, is coming into alignment with Saturn, suggesting the determination to overcome obstacles. However, while we’re ready to work hard and pace ourselves, we can combat some fear of not being number one. Fortunately, we seem to have the tools to work through these issues.

While a Venus-Jupiter semi-square early today can stir restlessness, today’s Sun-Chiron conjunction connects us with a mission. We may feel drawn to problem areas so that we can repair them. It’s a solid time to see each other’s potential, although the process might feel challenging. We may have the opportunity to find a sense of purpose, increasing our confidence. Still, we might face life lessons that get us in touch with the insecurities that undercut our confidence. In fact, growing and succeeding can involve facing our fears. It can be a time of building faith or confidence in our skills and talents. Openness and self-honesty are vital now, and the focus may be on asserting ourselves and acknowledging our own needs in healthy doses so that we can bring our “whole selves” to our activities.

The Moon is void from 10:39 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Mercury), until the Moon enters Taurus the next day, Tuesday, April 9th, at 7:24 AM EDT.

APRIL 9

The Moon continues its transit of assertive and bold Aries until 7:24 AM EDT, stirring our desire to initiate, start with a clean slate, and come first. While the Aries Moon is pioneering, the Moon in Taurus from 7:24 AM forward is patient and persistent. We’re in tune with our natural impulses, and we’re exceptionally resourceful. We also crave comfort and predictability. Common sense rules as we handle domestic or emotional matters and money. However, as the day advances, a Venus-Uranus semi-square comes into influence and indicates impermanent tastes, attractions, and whims. The need for new challenges or a novel approach may be the root of this. Changes now can create fresh opportunities that can add to our sense of joy and freedom, but understanding our needs and wants can take some trial and error.

The Moon is void today only until 7:24 AM EDT, when it enters Taurus.

APRIL 10

The Sun forms a semi-sextile to Uranus today, and we can struggle with the thought of going our own way and being independent. While we want to, it can be challenging to integrate these urges into our personalities or to act upon them consistently. Today’s Mars-Saturn alignment brings a strongly practical, responsible theme. In fact, with Mars conjunct with Saturn, the need to take action or fulfill a responsibility can emerge. Although we can feel confined or obligated under this influence, a stronger sense of purpose and direction can come to us. There can be a reality check, as realism tempers our enthusiasm. A block or obstacle can enforce pacing ourselves. We may be called to task for an obligation. Ideally, we exercise better judgment as a result of developing circumstances. Traditional methods work better than less conventional ones at the moment, and thoroughness brings rewards. Pushing ahead, however, can be costly or result in frustration, as “slow and steady” is currently the best approach. This is an excellent time to get organized and stick with projects through to the end.

APRIL 11

The Moon continues its transit of stable Taurus until 8:59 AM EDT, when it heads into inquisitive Gemini. The inferior conjunction of Mercury and the Sun occurs today, giving us a unique window into the past as it might impact our future. It offers a good time to process recent events and ideas. At this midway point in the retrograde Mercury cycle, we begin looking at problems or issues from a fresh perspective and a new understanding. Significant new ideas are born now and will likely have real staying power or importance in our lives. What we say or write now has an impact, for better or worse! However, we may not have all the facts we need to reach a definite conclusion, and we might have to revise plans or decisions later.

The Moon is void from 6:04 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Neptune), until the Moon enters Gemini at 8:59 AM EDT.

APRIL 12

The Moon spends the day in Gemini, and with its sextile to Mercury tonight, it’s a fine time to gather information. Conversations stand out, and shared interests are a likely topic. The Gemini Moon is thought-oriented, talkative, and curious. We adapt quickly to our environment, and our interests and tastes are flexible. However, the Moon’s squares to Saturn and Mars can nonetheless point to interpersonal or inner conflicts. Our responsibilities and ambitions can be loud distractions or concerns in the first half of the day.

APRIL 13

The Moon continues its transit of Gemini until 1:45 PM EDT, and we’re adaptable, interested, and ready to communicate. The Cancer Moon from 1:45 PM forward is sensitive, protective, and dedicated. We might take steps to make ourselves or our families more comfortable and safe. It’s a good time to tap into our inner genius or personal potential. Still, there can be tensions if we feel powerless or overshadowed as Mars and Pluto form a semi-square aspect today. We could find it challenging to express ourselves in healthy, direct ways. Our desires can be both intense and difficult to satisfy. Efforts to make changes could be thwarted, or power struggles emerge. It’s not an ideal time for straightforward interactions.

The Moon is void from 10:46 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Neptune), until the Moon enters Cancer at 1:45 PM EDT.

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 Pisces

We may not want to face reality while the Moon is in dreamy, impressionable Pisces. It can be a wistful, sensitive, intuitive, and compassionate time. We are especially imaginative, and our intuition reigns under this influence. Boundaries and walls come down, as Pisces energy merges and blends. It's a time when details are overlooked and feelings defy description.

The Moon in Pisces generally favors the following activities: Imaginative undertakings, mystical or spiritual pursuits, inner development, music and drama, going on a retreat, activities involving water.

When the Moon is in Aries

We're motivated by a strong desire to start fresh. A gut instinct to begin 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.

People can be more self-motivated and also self-focused while the Moon is in Aries. It's a competitive rather than cooperative time. Accidents and tempers flaring are more likely than usual. This period is one of more personal courage.

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.

While the Moon is in Taurus, people can be emotionally constant but inflexible. It's a time of stronger focus on personal needs and comfort levels, and a period of more common sense and attention to practical matters.

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, spirited, 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, cafes, light and airy meetings, 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.

Upcoming Weeks: Calendars

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: April 7th to 13th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: April 14th to 20th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: April 21st to 27th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: April 28th to May 4th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 5th to 11th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 12th to 18th, 2024

THIS WEEK’S PLANETARY POSITIONS BY SIGN (General Trends):

Sun in Aries A new sense of self, a more assertive personal style, a more dynamic approach to life: these are the hallmarks of the cycle that begins for you now. Doubts fade into the background, and reserve is more and more a thing of the past. It’s time for action; your destiny is in your hands, rather than set apart. Full speed ahead (“and damn the torpedoes”) is your motto now, for better or for worse!

Mercury in Aries New ideas and an independent or pioneering mental orientation take on more importance in your life at this time. Teaching, learning, communicating, and social contact have a way of outlining new directions in your life now, and there is much activity and involvement with these kinds of issues.

Venus in Aries Romance at the drop of a hat is part and parcel of the cycle you have just begun. Winning the hearts of others can be a challenge you’re eager to accept – and the thrill of the chase might be most of the fun. Is it the pursuit of happiness – or the happiness of pursuit?

Mars in Pisces There’s a martyr complex in the air, now that this new phase has begun in your life. How can you (or anyone) save the world? It’s a question you’ll probably ask yourself as this cycle continues. Defending the weak, undoing injustice, and tilting at windmills can be a big temptation. You might even win a few hands – but you’ll blister a couple if you’re not careful.

Jupiter in Taurus A kind of Midas touch is signaled by the new cycle now dawning in your life. Prosperity and security take center stage in your thoughts; a gentle but committed conservatism brings you all kinds of good things. Take care of the material things, and the spiritual will take care of itself: that’s your orientation now.

Saturn in Pisces Making peace with the past, coming to terms with karmic debts: these are some of the issues that confront you as a new phase begins in your life. Failure to face these things can cause setbacks and put obstacles in your path. Learn to look beyond the narrowly personal and selfish or you’ll get in over your head.

Uranus in Taurus Practicality and ingenuity combine as powerful drives in your life now that you have begun a new cycle. Taking innovative concepts and making them real and practical is your strong suit; getting stuck in the mud is to be avoided at all costs. Financial savvy, inventiveness, worldly genius.

Neptune in Pisces Things spiritual and psychic take the driver’s seat of your imagination as you begin a new cycle. The fine arts and all manner of fantasies assume a larger-than-life importance. Surrendering to fate, karma, and other powers greater than merely mortal may be seen as the ultimate liberation. If all is Maya (illusion), what is the reality that gives rise to the world of appearances?

Pluto in Aquarius Reform, revolution, a rejection of the past and a focus on the future: these are the signatures of the new phase now beginning in your life. Tradition becomes irrelevant, and the conventional wisdom is revealed as dogma or outright nonsense – and what’s the difference, really? Radical changes in all things social and intellectual.

The interpretations in this box are from the Day Watch software.

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