This Week in Astrology August 4-10

This Week in Astrology: August 4-10, 2024

August 4 to 10, 2024

The New Moon in Leo is an excellent time for formulating goals regarding “all things Leo.” For example, we might concentrate on new ways to enhance our romantic life, creative endeavors and hobbies, and relationship with children, as well as build our self-confidence and healthy pride in ourselves.

Some of Leo’s lessons involve taking pride in ourselves as unique individuals, assuming responsibility for our lives, and giving ourselves warmly and generously to others. This New Moon period is an excellent time to meditate upon some of the characteristics of Leo.

Keywords for this self-expressive Fire sign — such things as proud, noble, generous, hospitable, caring, warm, authoritative, active, and open — are traits that we might enhance, develop, and incorporate into our personalities.

The New Moon Chart:

Chart wheel depicts the Sun and Moon aligned at Leo.

New Moon in Leo Chart: August 4th, 2024

We all have Leo somewhere in our charts. Use the coming month to improve those areas of life. It’s time to awaken our “inner child” and find ways to express ourselves creatively. With this potent Leo energy, we can make significant changes in our lives that will benefit us well beyond this Moon cycle. It’s time to make some plans and set the stage for reaping the rewards from our new beginnings, as little or big as they may be, approximately two weeks after the Full Moon occurs.

This lunation harmonizes with Mars and Jupiter as these planets approach alignment in the sign of Gemini. We’re enterprising and confident.

The above chart is helpful for seeing the fundamental energies of this New Moon along with chart patterns. Below, the New Moon chart is presented with additional points for extra details. Click to enlarge:

New Moon in Leo Chart with Additional Points (August 2024)

Previous: Last Quarter Moon Moon

The LAST QUARTER MOON occurred on Saturday, July 27th, 2024, at 10:51 PM EDT.

On July 27th, the Last Quarter Moon occurred as the Sun in Leo formed a square with the Moon in Taurus.

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.

It’s not an ideal time to start a major project, as the decreasing light of the Moon symbolizes descent into unconsciousness. It is, however, time to begin finishing up the details of what was conceived at the last New Moon. We might consider recent revelations, what they mean to us, and what we might do about them.

The Last Quarter Moon Chart: July 27th, 2024

This phase of the Moon occurred at 5 degrees and 32 minutes of Taurus, square the Sun at the same degree of Leo, and affecting planets at approximately 4 to 8 degrees of the Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) the most.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Aug 4,
2024, 7:13 AM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)
Aug 12, 2024, 11:19 AM, Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Aug 19, 2024, 2:26 PM, Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Aug 26, 2024, 5:26 AM, Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Sep 2, 2024, 9:55 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

This week: The Sun is in Leo; Mercury is in Virgo; Venus is in Leo until the 4th, when it enters Virgo; Mars is in Gemini.

The Sun is in Leo from July 22-August 22. In Leo, the Sun is proud, outgoing, and playful. The Leo Sun is intensely individual—not 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.

We’re blossoming–it’s 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.

While the Sun is in Leo, we take the high road, and we’re very often motivated by the idea of gaining respect and affection. We more naturally express joy, humor, and warmth during the Sun-in-Leo cycle. We also tend to take the lead or become the center of attention and activity.

Mercury is in Virgo from July 25-August 14 and later, September 9-26 [Lengthier transit of Virgo due to a Mercury retrograde period from August 5th to 28th, 2024]. When Mercury is in Virgo, precision in speech, thought, and process are more 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 (Mercury rules both Gemini and Virgo). 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, however.

While Mercury is in Virgo, 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.

We gravitate to useful information, and we can enjoy helping others with our knowledge. It’s a time for analyzing and dissecting, but we need other influences to put the pieces together or to see the bigger picture as our confidence in so doing is not strong at this time. It’s a time of conservative thinking and a strong tendency to want facts and certainties.

Venus is in Leo from July 11-August 4. Love is magnificent and grand while Venus is in Leo. We take pride in love, and we are generous with our money as well. This is a warmhearted, teasing, expressive, proud, and extravagant placement for Venus. Love is a bit of a game–a game that is perpetual, as Venus in Leo is forever stuck in the romance stage of a relationship. We feed on attention, acknowledgement, validation, and adoration.

Venus in Leo loves to be adored, pampered, and admired. Pride and passion are hallmarks of this cycle. We have a strong ego investment in our love lives during this period. The negative expression of this placement is overstating our feelings simply for the effect, as well as extravagance.

The Venus-in-Leo cycle can be a strong or profitable time for contests, lotteries, parties, recreation, drama, adornment, jewelry, costumes, art dealing, and all things golden. Generosity and warmth contribute to our ability to draw in the right resources. We can have a compelling desire to stand out, be remarkable, and feel special during this period.

Venus is in Virgo from August 4-29. 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 Virgo is also quite practical and mental. In addition to our romantic natures, what we purchase and the types of entertainment we enjoy during this cycle are ruled by whether or not they make sense and serve a practical purpose.

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 or relationships, picky, nervous, or worried.

During the Venus-in-Virgo cycle, we can gravitate to, and find some benefits in, holistic healing, acupuncture, yoga, and nutritional boosts. We’re keenly interested in ways to enrich our lives and boost our well-being. “Health is wealth” could be a motto now. In fact, we might enjoy health-boosting activities more than usual. Businesses promoting nutrition, wholesomeness, and well-being might prosper at this time. Commitment and attention to detail are also more prominently considered virtues now.

In love, we’re not very showy, flowery, or demonstrative. Instead, we show our love through being of service. We’re conservative with money, pleasure, and romance at this time, ready to analyze and dissect these matters. This can also be a time when helping others, particularly with good advice regarding these Venus-ruled things, can be prominent and successful. We might meet friends or lovers through our work or health-pursuits. We can take a special interest in handiwork, crafts, lists/sorting, and bookkeeping.

Mars is in Gemini from July 20-September 4. In Gemini, Mars is versatile and flexible but not especially determined or focused. We should watch for becoming so scattered that we’re ineffective. However, it’s an excellent period for diversifying our interests and understanding the power of our communications.

It’s an excellent time for strategizing and devising useful tactics to achieve our desires and goals. We’re resourceful and clever, and we know how to use words effectively.

Perhaps most notable during this period is our tactical skills. We know how to maneuver things to get our way. We use words to charm and express anger. We’re very talkative, and animatedly so, when passionate and enthusiastic about a topic.

Jupiter is in Gemini.

Jupiter began its transit of Gemini on May 24th, 2024, and continues its transit of the sign until June 9th, 2025. Read more about Jupiter’s transit of Gemini.

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. Saturn will enter Aries on May 24th, 2025.

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 Leo from July 11-August 4. Love is magnificent and grand! We take pride in love, and we are generous with our money as well. This is a warmhearted, teasing, expressive, proud, and extravagant placement for Venus. Love is a bit of a game–a game that is perpetual, as Venus in Leo is forever stuck in the romance stage of a relationship. We feed on attention, acknowledgement, validation, and adoration.

Venus is in Virgo from August 4-29. 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.

This week: On Sunday and Monday, we can feel just a little out of place or out of touch with our feelings.

On Wednesday, with our tendency to communicate our feelings, we may misrepresent ourselves. We’re more expressive, although we may be living more in our heads than our hearts. We’re inclined to analyze feelings or relationships, particularly past ones. We tend to chat, socialize, and flatter when Mercury and Venus meet, and with Mercury retrograde, we may be looking back and clarifying feelings or connections. We tend to intellectualize emotions and affections. It’s a friendly time, but it’s also a time for looking back at old issues in a new, although possibly glossed-over, way. Whether or not glossing over is helpful is the question — some things belong in the past.

On Saturday, we’re opening up to love, romance, and connection. Powerful energy is with us for breaking through a problem area in relationships with the goal of repairing and healing. We are open to romantic feelings and more willing than usual to act upon them. This is a good time to make a resolution to repair, heal, and improve relationships.

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

Venus in Leo Romance becomes an end in itself as a new cycle begins for you. It marks a time when love, creativity, and self-expression satisfy a deep yearning to be appreciated and admired – needed, even. A flashy, flirty, stylish splash of color and warmth.

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 trine Chiron July 30. A commitment-friendly transit. Love can heal old wounds. We are open to romantic feelings.

Venus square Uranus August 1-2. We might have to deal with issues of freedom versus intimacy during this period. Peculiar or impulsive attractions are exciting, but unlikely to last very long. Treat them as passing fancies, and enjoy them while they last–but try to hold off on making any big decisions with regards to love today.

Venus quincunx Neptune August 4. Idealism and disappointments in love. Avoid becoming seduced by what you want to see, rather than what really is. Doubts about love.

Venus quincunx Pluto August 4-5. This is a time of adjustments and re-assessments in our close personal relationships and/or with regards to our social lives. Issues of power and control can arise. Unreasonable or irrational fears of loss, or jealousy, could also emerge.

Venus conjunct retrograde Mercury August 7. We analyze feelings or relationships, particularly past ones. We tend to chat, socialize, and flatter, and we may be looking back and clarifying feelings or connections. We tend to intellectualize emotions and affections. This cooperative influence stimulates our desire for harmony and balance, and as a result, we may not dig too deeply. Our ideas feel new and exciting, even if we are doing some recycling of old perspectives.

Venus parallel Chiron August 10. Healing energy is brought to love relationships, and a new cycle begins. A commitment-friendly transit. Love can heal old wounds. We are open to romantic feelings, and more willing to act upon them. This is a good time to make a resolution to repair, heal, and improve relationships.

Venus sesquiquadrate Chiron August 11. Love cannot be forced. This is not a commitment-friendly transit, as we may feel alienated for no apparent reason and unwilling to give of ourselves.

Venus parallel Mercury August 15-16. A congenial time when we appreciate diplomacy and socialize more readily.

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 Monday, August 5th, from 11:16 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Uranus), until the Moon enters Virgo at 5:17 PM EDT.

VOC Moon on Thursday, August 8th, from 4:41 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (an opposition to Neptune), until the Moon enters Libra at 5:32 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Friday, August 9th, from 5:45 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to the Sun), until the Moon enters Scorpio the next day, Saturday, August 10th, at 6:35 PM EDT.

August 2024:

Void of Course Moon Table: Dates in August 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 only until the New Moon on the 4th, which is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings, although with some exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details). After the New Moon on the 4th, the Moon is waxing, which is generally considered favorable for new beginnings, also with exceptions.

According to principles of timing with the Moon, a window of opportunity occurs from Thursday, August 8th, at approximately 5:35 AM EDT, until Friday, August 9th, at approximately 5:40 PM EDT.

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:

Jun 29,
2024, 3:06 PM, Saturn Retrograde at 19 Pis 26
Jul 2, 2024, 6:40 AM, Neptune Retrograde at 29 Pis 56
Jul 2, 2024, 8:50 AM, Mercury enters Leo
Jul 9, 2024, 10:47 PM, Pallas Direct at 19 Sco 46
Jul 11, 2024, 12:19 PM, Venus enters Leo
Jul 20, 2024, 4:43 PM, Mars enters Gemini
Jul 22, 2024, 3:44 AM, Sun enters Leo
Jul 25, 2024, 6:42 PM, Mercury enters Virgo
Jul 26, 2024, 9:59 AM, Chiron Retrograde at 23 Ari 32
Aug 4, 2024, 10:23 PM, Venus enters Virgo
Aug 5, 2024, 12:56 AM, Mercury Retrograde at 4 Vir 07
Aug 9, 2024, 12:36 PM, Juno enters Libra
Aug 14, 2024, 8:15 PM, Mercury Rx enters Leo
Aug 22, 2024, 10:55 AM, Sun enters Virgo
Aug 24, 2024, 7:35 PM, Vesta enters Virgo
Aug 26, 2024, 3:38 AM, Ceres Direct at 7 Cap 30
Aug 28, 2024, 5:14 PM, Mercury Direct at 21 Leo 24
Aug 29, 2024, 9:22 AM, Venus enters Libra
Sep 1, 2024, 11:17 AM, Uranus Retrograde at 27 Tau 15
Sep 1, 2024, 7:57 PM, Pluto Rx enters Capricorn

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

Explore more astrological events in my calendar.

Note: Times given are Eastern Time (ET).

This Week’s Calendar

This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 4th to 10th, 2024

This Week’s Aspects

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 Pluto. This is a time of adjustments and re-assessments in our close personal relationships and/or with regards to our social lives. Issues of power and control can arise. Unreasonable or irrational fears of loss, or jealousy, could also emerge.

Sun sesquiquadrate Neptune. Our willpower is low as we stray from our goals and temporarily lose focus. It’s difficult to formulate — or stick to — clear goals during this transit. Concentrating on artistic or spiritual pursuits is better than focusing on matters that require straightforward, factual thinking today. It can be difficult knowing where or how to direct our willpower under this influence. It’s also a challenge knowing where we stand with others. Avoid such things as scheduling surgery, important appointments, job interviews, or launches of new projects at this time.

Jupiter sesquiquadrate Pluto. 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.

Sun sextile Jupiter. This transit can bring hopefulness, good will, and increased influence into our lives. It’s favorable for marketing, publishing, and advertising, as well as any self-promotion activities. We may be especially sociable, tolerant, and generous under this influence. Confidence comes from a stronger sense of who we are and the principles we represent. Some form of recognition or distinction is possible now. We are more able to grasp the “big picture” which expands our perspective.

Mercury conjunct Venus. Lighthearted conversations, sociability, humor, cooperation. Good time for socializing and for communicating with ease, telling others how we feel, and negotiating. Mentally, we’re not as disciplined as usual, as we prefer to chat with others and to think about more “pleasant” things than work. Generally favorable for commerce.

Sun quincunx Saturn. Doubts, the feeling of not being good enough, and lack of self-confidence might plague us under this influence. Lack of faith in ourselves and in life hinders our movements and initiatives.

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.

AUGUST 4

The New Moon occurs this morning at 7:13 AM EDT in the sign of Leo. This marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle, bringing the chance for a fresh start. The energy of this New Moon in Leo can potentially enhance our romantic life, creative endeavors, hobbies, and relationships with children. It’s a time to build self-confidence and healthy pride in ourselves, and to assume more responsibility for our lives. We might aim to improve the Leo-ruled areas of our charts in the coming weeks. It’s time to awaken our “inner child” and find ways to express ourselves creatively. This lunation harmonizes with Mars and Jupiter as these planets approach alignment in the sign of Gemini, boosting our confidence and enterprising natures.

However, with today’s Venus-Neptune quincunx, we may find ourselves torn between seeing things realistically and nurturing a fantasy or looking the other way. This influence can breed insecurity, doubts about others or about our own feelings and perceptions, and even indecision. It’s prudent to delay important decisions if possible, especially with Venus in the last degree of a sign and Mercury on the brink of turning retrograde. Venus then moves into Virgo, where it will stay until the 29th. Virgo is sensual yet practical. We may find more pleasure in our work or wellness routines than usual during Venus’s stay in Virgo, and the satisfaction of a job well done is particularly rewarding. Pleasures and pastimes that serve a useful purpose become more appealing. We express our love through practical means and gestures–running errands, paying attention to detail, or simply being there for our loved ones. However, there may be some nervousness, and we should be mindful of a tendency to worry, overanalyze, or fret, especially in our relationships.

AUGUST 5

Mercury stations and turns retrograde today. This retrograde lasts until the 28th, beginning in the sign of Virgo and ending in the sign of Leo. During this cycle, our thinking turns inward as we review and re-assess matters. Mercury retrograde periods can be times of heightened inner awareness, when meditation, journaling, reworking old plans, and reviewing past work are favored. Minor breaks in the mechanical aspects of communication and transportation can re-connect us to other, possibly more meaningful, means of connecting. The more difficult times are the periods of the shifts themselves (the days surrounding the stations — today and August 28th), after which we grow more and more accustomed. We should observe and review rather than make critical decisions with this shift.

Retrograde Mercury periods send us to the past for more or previously hidden information. They’re cycles for learning to let go of control and overthinking. In the first part of this cycle, with retrograde Mercury in Virgo until the 14th, we might look at past decisions and ideas from a new, possibly enlightened perspective, although we may be especially analytical and critical, perhaps to excess. We tend to return to past projects and refine or tweak them. With today’s shift, it makes sense to observe rather than make critical decisions.

Today’s Venus-Pluto quincunx can also bring some uncertainty. However, it’s important to remember that uncertainty is often a precursor to growth. There can be re-assessments with close personal relationships, spending, entertainment, or social life issues. Fears can disrupt the flow but can also help us see what we previously overlooked. By navigating these uncertainties, we can emerge stronger and more self-aware.

The Moon is void from 11:16 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Uranus), until the Moon enters Virgo at 5:17 PM EDT.

AUGUST 6

The Moon spends the day in practical, detail-oriented Virgo, and we’re ready to solve problems and help others. While we prefer clarity and answers with this Moon transit, the Sun forms a minor square with Neptune this morning, and it can be challenging to focus on or define our goals. We may struggle with waning willpower or some lack of direction. To remedy this, it makes sense to consider ways to create a better balance between our material and spiritual pursuits. Ideally, feelings of discontent lead us along unexpected tangents. Later today, a Mars-Neptune quintile is brilliant for creative moves, empowering us to find resourceful solutions. While we’re unlikely to face them head-on, we can see the way around problems.

AUGUST 7

Jupiter forms a sesquiquadrate with Pluto today, and events or circumstances can subtly challenge our beliefs, kickstarting a need for an attitude change during this period. We might struggle between the desire to learn through experience and the compulsion to follow our ambitions. It’s crucial to find a balance in our journey of growth and advancement, as taking shortcuts or pushing too hard can ultimately set us back. For instance, making impulsive decisions or overestimating our abilities can lead to setbacks. While it can be tempting now, we should avoid exaggerating our importance or power to ourselves, as it’s easier to make costly mistakes this way.

This morning, the Sun’s sextile to Jupiter brings hopefulness, tolerance, and goodwill into our lives. It’s a time for engaging with others in delightful ways and enjoying opportunities to interact. This transit can open doors to increased influence, positive responses, and cooperation from others. Under this influence, we are more sociable and generous, and our confidence is bolstered by a stronger sense of self and the principles we stand for. Recognition or distinction is within reach. Our ability to see the ‘big picture’ is enhanced, broadening our perspective and empowering us.

Retrograde Mercury aligns with Venus in the sign of Virgo tonight, and there can be a focus on analyzing feelings or relationships. We are inclined to chat, socialize, and flatter when Mercury and Venus meet, and with Mercury retrograde, we may be looking back and clarifying feelings or connections. This cooperative influence stirs our desire for harmony and balance, and as a result, we may not dig too deeply. Mentally, we’re not as disciplined as usual, preferring to chat with others and to think about pleasant things. While it’s an agreeable influence, it’s also a time for looking back at old issues in a new, although possibly glossed-over, way. Whether or not glossing over is helpful may be the question — some things belong in the past. We can feel as if we are starting fresh, and indeed, our ideas feel new and exciting, even if we are recycling some old perspectives.

AUGUST 8

The Moon continues its transit of detail-oriented Virgo until 5:32 AM EDT, when it enters Libra. Before it leaves the practical sign, the Moon opposes Neptune, leaving us with questions and distracting us from our current mission. The Libra Moon is conciliatory, gracious, accommodating, and willing to meet others halfway. With its trine to Pluto, we’re especially aware of our social skills and need for more effective communication. We’re determined and ready to make long-lasting changes. The Moon aligns with the South Node later today, and we might be falling back on depending on others at the expense of our self-confidence. It’s crucial to remember our own strength.

The Moon is void from 4:41 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (an opposition to Neptune), until the Moon enters Libra at 5:32 AM EDT.

AUGUST 9

Today’s Libra Moon harmonizes with Mars, Jupiter, and the Sun, bringing cooperative, dynamic, and positive energy to the day. The mood is right for enjoyable interactions, activities, and pastimes. There can be much playfulness, warmth, and enthusiasm. This Moon encourages our enterprising sides but is also inclusive. Solving problems in pairs or participating in activities together can be especially satisfying. However, later today, we head toward a Sun-Saturn quincunx, which will be exact very early tomorrow. This aspect may bring a clash between our responsibilities and desire to enjoy ourselves, but it also reminds us of the importance of flexibility. It’s a time to recognize the need to adjust our plans based on new obligations or a reality check, and to do so with a spirit of adaptability.

The Moon is void from 5:45 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to the Sun), until the Moon enters Scorpio tomorrow, Saturday, August 10th, at 6:35 PM EDT.

AUGUST 10

The Sun’s quincunx with Saturn perfects very early today, pointing to difficulties relaxing, as we get the vague feeling that we’re missing something important. However, the day shapes up to be far more natural as it advances. A Venus-Pluto biquintile points to a comfortably strategic approach to our money and relationships. As well, Mars forms a parallel with Jupiter, and we readily open ourselves to new possibilities, prioritizing growth and discovery. We’re making the best of situations and taking on new challenges. We’re confident about acting on our beliefs and convictions. A Pluto-Juno trine not only facilitates but ensures the successful sharing of power in our relationships, fostering a sense of reassurance and harmony. It fuels pleasant intensity, commitment, and passion. We might commit to working through complex problems with a Chiron-Vesta trine also in play. It’s a strong time for tapping into our inner genius or personal potential and putting it to work for us. We can be determined to take better care of ourselves, and the discoveries we make now can fuel or reignite our motivation to pursue a particular path.

The Moon is void today until the Moon enters Scorpio today at 6:35 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 Leo

The Moon in Leo speaks to our "inner child". It's a warm, generous, whole-heartedly loving position. Pride keeps us from pettiness, but it can also prevent us from opening up and revealing how we are truly feeling. We are on stage, our feelings are grand, and we appreciate some drama in our lives. We are easily threatened by anything that seems to be impersonal. This is a time when we seek attention--when we want to stand out for our special qualities. It's a strong time for romance and any creative activity as well.

The Moon in Leo generally favors the following activities: Creative activities, activities involving children, generous undertakings, undertakings in which personal recognition is desired, and risk-taking.

When the Moon is in Virgo

We instinctually gravitate towards practical activities under the influence of a Virgo Moon. In an urge to set things right, we might easily find ourselves re-organizing and rethinking plans. Emotional satisfaction comes from solving problems, making order out of confusion, and helping others. Health matters might come into focus. We notice the smaller parts that make up the whole, and instead of letting nagging details bother us, we might work on ironing them out so that we can feel more confident moving ahead.

The Moon in Virgo generally favors the following activities: Mental pursuits, work activities, services, and routines. Activities that would benefit from tending to details.

When the Moon is in Libra

Creating order is the focus, not necessarily through tidying or organizing as was the case while the Moon was in Virgo, but rather through pleasing interactions with others and aesthetics in our environment. We tend to solve problems through diplomacy, and we are more able to put aside our own emotions in order to achieve the peace we crave. The tendency now is to avoid direct confrontations. Decisions do not come easily. Seeing both sides to any given situation is the main reason for hesitation. Fear of losing others' approval is another.

The Moon in Libra generally favors the following activities: Relationship and partnership issues, activities involving teamwork and cooperation, activities that involve self-examination, activities related to beauty.

When the Moon is in Scorpio

Intensity is what the Moon in Scorpio is all about. Whether it's passion, elation, sorrow, or desire, emotions are felt on a deeply personal level. We are motivated by the desire to get to the bottom of things, and we instinctively read between the lines. Superficiality won't work for us now. The Moon in Scorpio urges us to uncover our own power, and it's an excellent time to rid ourselves of old fears and limiting habits. It can be an intimate and passionate time. Avoid manipulative tactics, brooding, and suspiciousness.

The Moon in Scorpio generally favors the following activities: Taxes, accounting, intimacy issues, psychological examinations, research, self-examination, getting rid of old things.

Upcoming Weeks: Calendars

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 11th to 17th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology: August 18th to 24th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 25th to 31st, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: September 1st to 7th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: September 8th to 14th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: September 15th to 21st, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: September 22nd to 28th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: September 29th to October 5th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: October 6th to 12th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: October 13th to 19th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: October 20th to 26th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: October 27th to November 2nd, 2024

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 Leo Romance becomes an end in itself as a new cycle begins for you. It marks a time when love, creativity, and self-expression satisfy a deep yearning to be appreciated and admired – needed, even. A flashy, flirty, stylish splash of color and warmth.

Mars in Gemini Learning, communicating, the exchange of ideas: these are the experiences you crave as a means to make your mark now, as a new phase begins in your life. You’re a person with something to say, and you realize that others have information that is essential to your goals. A time of much mental energy and initiative … perhaps with an element of conflict tossed in for good measure.

Jupiter in Gemini Facilitating the transfer of ideas and information takes on a special priority for you now. Writing, studying, and communicating play a bigger role in your life as a result. The belief that well-informed people will make the right decisions becomes an article of faith. Just remember: sometimes people know the right thing to do and STILL do something different!

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.

What’s In Your Forecast?

Take a peek at the year ahead with in-depth Future Forecast Reports from Cafe Astrology.

This Week in Astrology: August 4 to 10, 2024