This Week in Astrology: December 13 to 19, 2020
December 13 to 19, 2020
On this Page:
This week’s Moon
phase
Planets in signs and aspect
Retrogrades
This week’s astrology calendar
Timing with the Moon
Romance & Relationship Report
Daily Trends
The NEW MOON/SOLAR ECLIPSE occurs on Monday, December 14th, 2020, at 11:16 AM EST.
On Monday, a total Solar Eclipse New Moon occurs in the sign of Sagittarius. It’s the third eclipse to fall along the Gemini-Sagittarius axis this year, but the first Solar Eclipse.
Eclipses have the power to set up themes for the coming six months. In the Jupiter-ruled sign of Sagittarius, matters related to faith, optimism, belief systems, philosophy, sharing ideas, and our sense of adventure become a strong focus on a personal level. This eclipse is about new beginnings regarding all of these matters.
Occurring in Sagittarius, we are called upon to:
- increase our understanding and awareness of the world around us;
- muster up the courage to expand our horizons and branch out into new ways of thinking
- gain more confidence and optimism by focusing on the “big picture”
- transcend the details of mundane existence
- work on positive thinking as a way of life
- take an exam, apply for or begin a new higher learning course, or travel
- nurture faith, hope, and vision being careful to moderate our expectations.
We can too easily get lost in the details of mundane existence. With this potent Sagittarius energy, we might discover ways to transcend these details of day-to-day life and nurture our faith, hope, and vision. Because Sagittarius thinks in big terms, we may have a tendency to overdo our expectations or to assert ourselves too blindly, although its trine to Mars helps us assert ourselves with enthusiasm. It’s time to be a little more adventurous, and to set the stage for reaping the rewards from our braveries, as little or big as they may be.
We should try 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 blindly which can give us a false sense of confidence or bravery when doing so respectfully is best.
With this potent Sagittarius 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. It’s a time when we can focus on some of the constructive traits of the sign of the Archer–optimistic, enthusiastic, adventurous, honest, outspoken, independent–and consider how to positively incorporate these qualities into our lives.
Flaws in an important system in our lives are revealed around the time 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 South Node of the Moon. Eclipses close to the South Node tend to “feel” a little more challenging than those conjunct or closer to the North Node, as we can concentrate too much on the idea that we might have to let something go. Those of us with planets and points strongly stimulated by this eclipse can feel especially drained and tired, both physically and emotionally. There is a need to let go, forgive, cleanse, and release.
Major developments in the personal areas ruled by Sagittarius in our charts are likely to occur over the course of the next 3-6 months. This is the third eclipse in a series falling along the Gemini-Sagittarius axis. The first eclipses in the series falling along this axis occurred in November (a Lunar Eclipse in Gemini) and June (a Lunar Eclipse in Sagittarius).
- Penumbral LUNAR Eclipse June 5th, 2020 at 15:12:15 at 15° Sagittarius 34′
- Penumbral LUNAR Eclipse November 30th, 2020 at 4:29:32 at 8° Gemini 38′
- Total SOLAR Eclipse December 14th, 2020 at 11:16:26 at 23° Sagittarius 08′
- Total LUNAR Eclipse May 26th, 2021 at 7:13:43 at 5° Sagittarius 26′
- Annular SOLAR Eclipse June 10th, 2021 at 6:52:29 at 19° Gemini 47′
- Total SOLAR Eclipse December 4th, 2021 at 2:42:51 at 12° Sagittarius 22′
Not everyone will feel the effect of the eclipse with the same intensity. Those whose personal planets are activated by the degree of the eclipse will most feel its effects on a personal level.
Solar eclipses occurred at approximately the same degree as this December 2020 eclipse on December 14, 1955, December 13, 1974, December 15, 1982, and December 14, 2001. It might help to think back to these periods and consider the themes that surrounded your life then in order to get a better understanding of what the current eclipse series might mean for you, if applicable. You might also think about issues that emerged in the previous half-year, which can now re-emerge or continue to need attention.
Aligned with Mercury and the South Node, trine Mars, square Neptune. We should watch for the tendency to fall back on distancing ourselves from problems and responsibilities.
We need to make changes in our thought patterns, particularly in terms of ridding ourselves of old habits.
This phase of the Moon occurs at 23 degrees and 8 minutes of Sagittarius, affecting people with personal planets and points at approximately 18 to 28 degrees of the Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces) most significantly.
Read more about this and other eclipses.
Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture
Dec 14, 2020, 11:16 AM, Sun Conjunct Moon
(New Moon/Total Solar Eclipse)
Dec 21, 2020, 6:41 PM, Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Dec 29, 2020, 10:28 PM, Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Jan 6, 2021, 4:37 AM, Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Jan 13, 2021, 12:00 AM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)
(Times are Eastern)
This week: The Sun is in Sagittarius; Mercury is in Sagittarius; Venus is in Scorpio until the 15th when it enters Sagittarius; Mars is in Aries.
The Sun is in Sagittarius from November 21-December 21. With the Sun in Sagittarius, our focus shifts from the need for an intimate connection with a person and with ourselves, to the desire to reach out to the world and connect with something larger than ourselves. While the Sun moves through this fiery, mutable sign, we can take steps to increase our understanding and awareness of the world around us. We are more able to muster up the courage to expand our horizons and branch out into new ways of thinking. We can gain more confidence and optimism by focusing on the “big picture” as we move away from our focus on the details of mundane existence. Although we may be prone to overdoing our expectations, we have the opportunity to nurture our faith, hope, and vision under this influence.
Mercury is in Sagittarius from December 1-20. When Mercury is in Sagittarius, our thinking shifts from a need to plumb the depths of any given situation to the desire to learn about a wide range of topics. Ideals are sought, our thinking is more optimistic, and our faith increases. We are more equipped to believe and to persuade. What is fair and unfair concerns us most now. However, we are not always very precise under this influence.
Venus is in Scorpio from November 21-December 15. Deeply passionate relations are the focus with Venus in Scorpio. Superficial flirtations and contacts do not satisfy now, as we yearn for “body and soul” contact with someone special–contact that breaks the taboos, that is extreme and intense, and that is unforgettable. This is a highly emotional position for Venus. It is passionate, sensual, and intense energy. Our relationships are immensely important to us, and we may even feel that they consume us. In fact, we tend to want to be consumed by them! Our drive is toward intense closeness, but blind faith in our partners is extremely hard for us now. Fears of being too vulnerable or of giving up our own power to others are strong. Scorpio is an “all or nothing” energy, and relationships tend to be somewhat of a rollercoaster ride as a result. Disdain for mediocrity and superficiality can compel us to create crises in order to feel alive and vital.
Venus is in Sagittarius from December 15, 2020-January 8, 2021. Moving from Scorpio to Sagittarius, romantic energy shifts from intense to buoyant. Sagittarius, of course, has its intense moments, considering it is a fire sign. However, its energy is considerably less focused; and, while Scorpio is most concerned with intimacy with a specific person, Sagittarius’ love is of a more universal kind. Romantic adventures, as well as a straightforward–even blunt–approach to love, are on the agenda. Gone are the intricacy and complexity of Venus in Scorpio. Truth and higher meaning are things that take priority with Sagittarius.
Mars is in Aries from June 27, 2020, to January 6, 2021. [This is longer than usual due to the retrograde of Mars from September 9-November 13, 2020.] Mars feels at home in one of the signs that it rules, Aries, and therefore its power is boosted. Our energy is spontaneous, forward-looking, and even courageous under this influence. Our competitive spirit is well-developed, and our goal is to win! We are active, single-minded, and confident. Our actions are direct–we instinctively find the fastest way to get from point A to point B. The shadow side of Mars in Aries is a tendency to be impatient, arrogant, impulsive, short-lived, unreflective, and self-centered.
Jupiter entered Capricorn on December 2nd, 2019, and will transit the sign until December 19th, 2020. Read more about the Jupiter in Capricorn transit. Jupiter enters Aquarius this week on the 19th. Read more about the Jupiter in Aquarius transit.
Saturn enters Aquarius on December 17th. In 2020, Saturn divides its time between the signs of Capricorn and Aquarius. Saturn transited Capricorn until March 21, 2020; and then finishes up its transit from July 1 to December 17, 2020. Read about Saturn’s transit through Capricorn here. Saturn transited Aquarius from March 21 to July 1, 2020, and from December 17th this week until March 7, 2023. Read about Saturn’s transit of Aquarius.
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 how 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. 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. 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. Income and the energy we put into making money can be variable.
Romance & Relationships
Venus is in Scorpio from November 21-December 15. Deeply passionate relations are the focus with Venus in Scorpio. Superficial flirtations and contacts do not satisfy now, as we yearn for “body and soul” contact with someone special–contact that breaks the taboos, that is extreme and intense, and that is unforgettable. This is a highly emotional position for Venus. It is passionate, sensual, and intense energy. Our relationships are immensely important to us, and we may even feel that they consume us. In fact, we tend to want to be consumed by them!
Our drive is toward intense closeness, but blind faith in our partners is extremely hard for us now. Fears of being too vulnerable or of giving up our own power to others are strong. Scorpio is an “all or nothing” energy, and relationships tend to be somewhat of a rollercoaster ride as a result. Disdain for mediocrity and superficiality can compel us to create crises in order to feel alive and vital. If a relationship becomes too settled or predictable, we may crave more intensity and catalytic experience.
Jealousies, fears of betrayal, and power games are the shadow side of Venus in Scorpio. We may easily become obsessed with a fear that our partners might be betraying us, or that they are not as consumed and dedicated to the relationship as us. This can lead us to try to uncover the “truth,” reading too many negative possibilities in our partners’ actions and words.
Venus is in Sagittarius from December 15, 2020, to January 8, 2021. As Venus moves from Scorpio to Sagittarius, romantic energy changes from intense to buoyant. Sagittarius, of course, has its intense moments, considering it is a fire sign. However, its energy is considerably less focused; and, while Scorpio is most concerned with intimacy with a specific person, Sagittarius’ love is of a more universal kind. Romantic adventures and a straightforward–even blunt–approach to love are on the agenda. Gone are the intricacy and complexity of the Venus-in-Scorpio phase. Truth and higher meaning are focal points for Sagittarius.
Venus in Sagittarius is forward-looking, not very specific, outgoing, and energetic. Freedom is most important in our love relationships now. We take a happy and enthusiastic approach to love, and we might find too much intensity or seriousness depressing. We have a taste for the exotic as well as for adventure with Venus in Sagittarius.
This position’s shadow side is restlessness, the inability to “settle down,” and endless searching for something bigger and “better.”
This week: On Sunday through Tuesday, we’re ready to lock something down, make a commitment, or simply embrace responsibility. At the same time, we’re willing to give one another the benefit of the doubt and we have growth and improvement on our minds.
On Friday and Saturday, we’re connecting with our feelings and romantic needs. We’re ready to open up and be more vulnerable.
Venus, the Goddess of Love: Highlights in the Coming Week:
Venus in Scorpio This is way beyond love, all the way to obsession – that’s the nature of the cycle that now takes hold in your life. We’re not talking just lukewarm WANT here; we’re talking red-hot GOT TO HAVE! Passion, jealousy, possession: these are the kinds of experiences that can flow from the intensity that courses through you at one level or another now – voracious.
Venus in Sagittarius A yearning for adventure and far horizons stirs in you now. To roam, to wander and wonder, to seek freedom and go where no one has gone before – these things are deep and powerful longings. A time of romantic crusades, a universal love that might not be too particular.
Venus contra-parallel Uranus November 29-30. Questions of freedom, change, specialness, and experimentation are raised in our relationships.
Venus trine Neptune December 4-5. We perceive romantic situations as if they were “designed” just for us. A magical, romantic time. The pleasures of life are experienced fully. Romance is highly favored. We see the very best in people now, and this eases our interactions and takes the pressure off in personal relationships.
Venus quincunx Mars December 5-6. When we attempt to be friendly, we seem to miss the mark. Attempting to satisfy romantic needs and assertive/sexual needs simultaneously can be challenging. Our romantic sensibilities and our desires are at odds with one another, and problems (especially misunderstandings) in romantic and sexual relationships may result. This is a less-than-ideal transit under which to begin a new relationship.
Venus sesquiquadrate Chiron December 6-7. 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 sextile Pluto December 9-10. Subtly powerful and uplifting time for romantic/sexual relationships. New insights into relationships and love. Strong attractions.
Venus sextile Jupiter December 13-14. This aspect generates a happy, friendly, and optimistic attitude. People are a little more outgoing and sociable. Favors travel, education, and culture. Romantic opportunities. Harmony and good will.
Venus sextile Saturn December 14-15. Relationships are stabilized and steady, although feelings are expressed reservedly, formally, or sparingly. A new sense of realism in existing partnerships. Relationships begun under this influence possess a distinctly practical theme, almost as if the partnership is a business endeavor.
Venus trine Chiron December 18-19. A commitment-friendly transit. Love can heal old wounds. We are open to romantic feelings.
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 for the answer, as you do in Horary astrology, it is said that since the Moon is not looking forward to any more aspects in this sign, you would have to say that the answer is not forthcoming; any questions asked at this time would not come to pass. The Moon being Void is one of the Strictures against Judgment in Horary Astrology. The 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, December 14th, from 11:17 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to the Sun), until the Moon enters Capricorn at 10:35 PM EST.
VOC Moon on Thursday, December 17th, from 12:34 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Jupiter), until the Moon enters Aquarius at 1:27 AM EST.
VOC Moon on Saturday, December 19th, from 3:45 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to the Sun), until the Moon enters Pisces at 7:39 AM EST.
December 2020:
Timing with the Moon – Better Periods this Week for Electing New Initiatives
The Moon is waning this week, which is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings until the 14th, with exceptions. After the New Moon on the 14th, the Moon is waxing, which is generally considered favorable for new beginnings, also with exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details).
According to principles of timing with the Moon, a window of opportunity occurs from Wednesday, December 16th, from approximately 3:35 PM, to Thursday, December 17th, at approximately 12:30 AM EST, while the Moon is in Capricorn. Caveats: We’re close to the eclipse and Saturn enters Aquarius during this period. A major sign ingress such as this one is not ideal for a new beginning. This makes this window less than ideal.
Another window occurs from Thursday, December 17th, at approximately 2:50 PM EST, until Saturday, December 19th, at approximately 3:40 AM EST, while the Moon is in Aquarius. Jupiter is changing signs on the 19th, but not within this window.
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 27
, 2020, 9:45 PM Mars enters Aries
Jul 1, 2020, 7:37 PM Saturn Rx enters Capricorn
Jul 22, 2020, 4:37 AM Sun enters Leo
Aug 4, 2020, 11:32 PM Mercury enters Leo
Aug 7, 2020, 11:21 AM Venus enters Cancer
Aug 11, 2020, 7:14 AM Vesta enters Leo
Aug 19, 2020, 9:30 PM Mercury enters Virgo
Aug 22, 2020, 11:45 AM Sun enters Virgo
Sep 5, 2020, 3:46 PM Mercury enters Libra
Sep 6, 2020, 3:21 AM Venus enters Leo
Sep 20, 2020, 7:19 AM Juno enters Scorpio
Sep 22, 2020, 9:30 AM Sun enters Libra
Sep 27, 2020, 3:20 AM Ceres Rx enters Aquarius
Sep 27, 2020, 3:40 AM Mercury enters Scorpio
Oct 2, 2020, 4:48 PM Venus enters Virgo
Oct 4, 2020, 9:33 AM Pluto Direct
Oct 13, 2020, 9:05 PM Mercury Retrograde
Oct 18, 2020, 1:02 PM Ceres Direct
Oct 22, 2020, 3:34 AM Vesta enters Virgo
Oct 22, 2020, 6:59 PM Sun enters Scorpio
Oct 27, 2020, 9:33 PM Mercury Retrograde enters Libra
Oct 27, 2020, 9:41 PM Venus enters Libra
*** Daylight Saving Time ends ***
Nov 3, 2020, 12:49 PM Mercury Direct
Nov 9, 2020, 9:38 AM Ceres enters Pisces
Nov 10, 2020, 4:55 PM Mercury enters Scorpio
Nov 13, 2020, 7:35 PM Mars Direct
Nov 21, 2020, 8:22 AM Venus enters Scorpio
Nov 21, 2020, 3:40 PM Sun enters Sagittarius
Nov 28, 2020, 7:37 PM Neptune Direct
Dec 1, 2020, 2:51 PM Mercury enters Sagittarius
Dec 7, 2020, 7:12 AM Pallas enters Aquarius
Dec 15, 2020, 11:21 AM Venus enters Sagittarius
Dec 15, 2020, 5:17 PM Chiron Direct
Dec 17, 2020, 12:04 AM Saturn enters Aquarius
Dec 18, 2020, 12:25 PM Juno enters Sagittarius
Dec 19, 2020, 8:07 AM Jupiter enters Aquarius
Dec 20, 2020, 6:07 PM Mercury enters Capricorn
Dec 21, 2020, 5:02 AM Sun enters Capricorn
Jan 6, 2021, 5:27 PM Mars enters Taurus
Jan 8, 2021, 6:59 AM Mercury enters Aquarius
Jan 8, 2021, 10:41 AM Venus enters Capricorn
Jan 14, 2021, 3:36 AM Uranus Direct
Jan 19, 2021, 3:57 AM Vesta Retrograde
Jan 19, 2021, 3:40 PM Sun enters Aquarius
See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day (this takes you to my other site, Astrology Cafe).
See also: The Astrology of 2020 – Overview and The Astrology of 2021 – Overview.
Note: Times given are Eastern Time (ET).
This Week’s Calendar
This Week’s Aspects
Mercury square Neptune. We find it hard to follow facts, directions, and instructions. Difficulties concentrating on hard, cold facts are likely; and we may question facts altogether or avoid being pinned down for answers. This is a bad time for signing on the dotted line. Perceptions are confused, unrealistic, or too idealistic to carry weight in the real world. Conversations may be vague.
Sun sesquiquadrate Uranus. During this transit, we feel the need for action, but if we don’t know where we’re headed, we might take the wrong turn. Unexpected changes in plans or events can test our patience, and we might feel a bit out of control. However, they could stimulate us to try new approaches and they certainly act to cut boredom. This transit could offer us the drive to do something new, but avoid making hasty major decisions for the time being.
Venus sextile Jupiter. Cooperation, consideration for others, cheerfulness, positive attitude towards relationships, romantic opportunities, harmony. Favors financial endeavors. Optimistic spiritual energy is brought to relationships. We tend to connect to a higher purpose regarding our personal relationships and our values, attaching meaning to them. We may enjoy a feeling of well-being now. Ease is experienced in social situations. We are freer with our affections (and our money). This is also a favorable transit for entertaining and socializing.
Mercury trine Mars. Enthusiasm and energetic communications are likely now. We are productive and take “busy-ness” in stride. We are alert and aware, and can easily turn ideas into workable projects. Our communications are refreshingly direct and to the point, although not especially sympathetic. Our minds are sharp and quick.
Venus sextile Saturn. Affections stabilize and mature. Relationships are stabilized and steady, although feelings are expressed reservedly, formally, or sparingly. A new sense of realism in existing partnerships comes now. Small advances can be made in business and in partnerships. Support from older people or authority figures may come by way of solid advice or tangible help. Renewed ties to old friends are possible, or a new sense of responsibility in existing friendships.
Mercury sesquiquadrate Uranus. We can have flashes of insight, but tend to be scatterbrained. Our ideas and communications may not be well-received because they don’t seem to others to carry weight. Our minds are not peaceful or harmonious under this influence, and irritable tempers, sarcastic speech, and dogmatism are negative expressions of this energy. However, fresh and creative ideas may come to us now.
Venus trine Chiron. We have the chance to heal our personal relationships now, as we are more open to intimacy and commitment, as well as learning from one another. We more easily see beauty in human weaknesses, and are less inclined to see fault, or to concern ourselves with fault. It’s a strong time for building trust in relationships, and for seeing potential in one another.
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!
Note: Times given in the table/calendar above are Eastern Time (ET).
See below for day-by-day forecasts and planets in signs. See also Transit to Transit aspects.
See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day – Astrology Cafe – or the Transits for Here and Now chart.
See also: The Astrology of 2020 – Overview and The Astrology of 2021 – Overview.
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.
DECEMBER 13
The Moon spends the day in the sign of Sagittarius and is enthusiastic and idealistic. We’re optimistic and forward-looking with this transit. Mercury forms its square to Neptune this morning, and we can find it challenging to follow or clearly communicate facts, directions, and instructions. Perceptions may be confused or overly idealistic, influenced strongly by wishful thinking and imagination. We may be dealing with deception or self-deception, and it can be difficult to be discriminating. Our minds open to many different possibilities and options, however. The Sun forms a sesquiquadrate with Uranus this morning, suggesting an urge for action, but we may not know where to begin or where to go with our intentions just for now. Unexpected changes in plans or events can test our patience, but they might also bring on new approaches, leading to useful, instructive, or interesting detours. Nevertheless, this is the day before a Solar Eclipse, making it a good idea to wind down.
DECEMBER 14
The New Moon at 11:17 AM EST is a Total Solar Eclipse occurring in the sign of Sagittarius and can serve as a reset or desire/need to start fresh. We might focus on goals that will increase our understanding and awareness, give us the courage to expand our horizons, and gain confidence and optimism through a broader perspective. We can too easily feel lost in the details of mundane existence. Still, with this potent Sagittarius energy, we are now opening up to discover ways to transcend these details of day-to-day life and nurture our faith, hope, and vision. Because Sagittarius thinks in big terms, we may tend to overdo our expectations. However, it’s an excellent time to be a little more adventurous, setting the stage for reaping the rewards from our braveries, whatever their magnitude, in the months ahead. We should watch for an inclination to fall back on distancing ourselves from problems and responsibilities. We need to make changes in our thought patterns, particularly through ridding ourselves of old habits. We also benefit from a Venus-Jupiter sextile today, which is a soft and pleasant influence, and a Mercury-Mars trine, which is spirited, inspiring enthusiasm. We are a little freer and more generous with our affections and perhaps with our money. These influences promote optimistic spiritual energy. There can be lucky finds, pleasing purchases, and a hopeful financial outlook or prospects. Our communications are refreshingly direct and to the point. We can have a strong desire to do something with our ideas, learn, teach, or discuss. We are exceptionally alert and aware, and there is enthusiasm in our conversations or excitement about our interests and discoveries. The Moon moves into the sign of Capricorn at 10:35 PM EST.
The void Moon occurs from 11:17 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to the Sun), until the Moon enters Capricorn at 10:35 PM EST.
DECEMBER 15
Venus changes signs today, but before doing so, it forms a sextile to Saturn (Saturn is also on the verge of changing signs). This Venus-Saturn influence is grounding, helping stabilize our affections. We place a higher value on security, steadiness, and loyalty. This transit boosts the appeal of the ordinary and reliable–we appreciate longstanding alliances or tried-and-true pleasures. We are more responsible with others and with our own feelings and affections. Our judgment is sound, and we’re a little more conservative with money under this influence. We can enjoy making plans and lists today. The Moon spends the day in the sign of Capricorn, reinforcing a desire to play it safe. Venus later enters Sagittarius, where it will transit until January 8th. With this transit, romantic adventures and a straightforward and even blunt approach to love are on the agenda. We leave behind complexities and embrace directness and clarity. We take pleasure in seeking truth and higher meaning, and we’re open, sincere, and optimistic with others. While it’s not the best time for care with money, it’s a strong time for enthusiasm and spirit. Chiron stations and turns direct today after retrograde motion since July 11th, and we can experience some emotional vulnerability. Emotional truths about matters we’ve been avoiding or confused about are beginning to emerge now and in the coming weeks. These may not always be comfortable, but they serve to motivate us to take appropriate action. A Mercury-Uranus minor challenge this afternoon can point to difficulties following a schedule. This is a scatterbrain aspect – we might have original ideas but difficulty conveying them or making them work just for now.
DECEMBER 16
The Moon continues its transit of Capricorn all day today, and we can be more resolved, determined, and goal-oriented than usual. We want to buckle down and work, organize, and plan. However, around the Moon-Mars square this morning, we can be temperamental, battling a simultaneous desire to do our own thing. This transit may pit our sense of independence against duty, but as the day advances, we’re increasingly more focused. Saturn spends its last full day in the sign of Capricorn–it will move into Aquarius early tomorrow for a stay until March 2023. With Jupiter sextile Juno, we’re putting more faith in one another, improving our bonds and understanding. There can be a focus on sharing or blending beliefs, morals, and values.
DECEMBER 17
Saturn re-enters Aquarius five minutes into the day and will continue to transit the sign, uninterrupted this time, until March 7, 2023 (Saturn first spent time in Aquarius from March 21-July 1, 2020). The Saturn in Aquarius cycle is a time of improving, simplifying, pruning, and redefining Aquarius-ruled life departments. These areas include our social lives, friendships, group associations, happiness goals, involvements, and contributions. While there can be tests involved, it can also be a time when we put our ideals or dreams into practical motion. We’re less patient with pipe dreams as we gravitate toward more realistic plans, goals, and ideas. During this cycle, we have a strong sense of both the past and future. Ideally, we’re able to put our egos aside to do what’s best for the collective. The Moon enters Aquarius at 1:27 AM EST today, aligning with Saturn a minute later, and we’re emotionally connecting to Saturn’s change of sign. While the Moon-Saturn alignment feels heavy or serious, we’re inclined to seek intellectual stimulation and unusual or unconventional experiences as the day advances. The Aquarius Moon is earnest, friendly, and principled.
The void Moon occurs from 12:34 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Jupiter), until the Moon enters Aquarius at 1:27 AM EST.
DECEMBER 18
The Moon spends the day in Aquarius, and friends, community, groups, causes, and happiness goals are in stronger focus. We’re attracted to the unusual, extraordinary, and unconventional. Independence, equality, and freedom are vital to feeling emotionally satisfied with this position of the Moon. Some emotional detachment can be refreshing now. We deal with one another in a balanced, fair, and peaceful way this morning. The platonic elements of a relationship are in the spotlight. As the day advances, we’re putting in the effort to make a relationship work, or we may successfully team up with a partner to work or fill a responsibility. We are willing to commit, finding more value in security and stability in our relationships. We are patient and fair with one another today.
DECEMBER 19
Jupiter enters Aquarius today, and in the period ahead, we’re ready and willing to expand our minds, tolerance, and sense of fairness. We function at our best when we feel free and can do our own thing. We seek social reform and positive, humanitarian action, valuing freedom, individuality, fellowship, and group goals and visions. Jupiter was last in Aquarius from January 2009 to January 2010. It will zip through the entire sign of Aquarius and move on to Pisces on May 13, 2021. Later, Jupiter will turn retrograde, returning to Aquarius from July 28 to December 28, 2021. We attract good fortune when we’re tolerant, fair, inventive, impartial, and cooperative. Throughout this transit, Saturn will be in Aquarius as well. These two planets will align in just two days, forming what’s known as the Great Conjunction. While Jupiter in Aquarius can be strong on theory but not always consistent with application–an area where Saturn can compensate. This morning, Venus forms a trine to Chiron, and we may get an opportunity to heal our relationships through openness to learning from one another. We more readily see the beauty in human imperfection. It’s a strong time for building trust in relationships and seeing potential in one another. We recognize the value of the people, relationships, and pleasures in our lives more clearly. We can benefit from interacting with others in fresh ways, with more authenticity and sincerity. Later today, the Sun aligns with Mercury in Sagittarius, offering us a nice window of opportunity to clearly see our goals in the areas of exploration, education, faith, belief, optimism, sharing ideas, and publishing. This is a superior conjunction of Mercury and the Sun, which can stimulate an epiphany, illumination of a matter, or a clearing of the air. We are sharp, communicative, and open at this time, and what we say or write now has a strong impact, for better or for worse! An idea or plan can come to full bloom. We may want to watch for intellectualizing issues that require sensitivity. The Moon continues in Aquarius until 7:39 AM EST, after which it transits empathetic Pisces.
The void Moon occurs from 3:45 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to the Sun), until the Moon enters Pisces at 7:39 AM EST.
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 Sagittarius
The Moon is at her most optimistic and upbeat in Sagittarius. We are motivated by a need to seek the truth, and we are ready to pursue a new vision. We are not interested in details just now. Instead, we focus on the big picture. New experiences and adventures satisfy a deep emotional need. Spontaneity is the key. We may also be inclined toward overdoing and overstating. We don't want to plan ahead, and prefer to "wing it".
The Moon in Sagittarius generally favors the following activities: Adventurous activities that involve "winging it", travel, higher education, starting publishing projects, advertising, sports, physical activity.
When the Moon is in Capricorn
We become aware of the need for structure and planning ahead. We also instinctively are aware of the limitations of time. We are motivated by a desire for success. Achievement and manifestation are most important to us now. We are resourceful and don't want to waste time, energy, or resources. This can be a very sober influence--even a depressing one. However, it can also be a productive time when we look reality in the eye.
The Moon in Capricorn generally favors the following activities: Long-term activities that yield slow but steady results, practical undertakings, career issues, making a business plan, practical investments.
When the Moon is in Aquarius
Attraction to all that is new and unusual, and an instinctive need for improvement, characterize the Moon in Aquarius. Reactions are more intellectual than emotional, and interactions are more impersonal than personal, under this influence. This is a time that promotes social gatherings, dealing with group ideals and goals for the future, brainstorming, new ideas, and progressive changes. We are open to new methods of doing things and we have our eye on the future. It can be hard to stick to schedules now, as personal freedom is most important to us.
The Moon in Aquarius generally favors the following activities: Unusual or radical undertakings, social pursuits, group projects, trying something new, joining a group.
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.
Upcoming Weeks: Calendars
THIS WEEK’S PLANETARY POSITIONS BY SIGN (General Trends):
Sun in Sagittarius You’re now embarking on a trek into a land of dreams – not passive daydreams, but vibrant visions of what may be. The time has come to stop looking at the world as it is and asking why. Now’s the time to imagine the world as it could be, and the question has become: “Why not?” You also cannot do everything you imagine now, but you cannot do anything you don’t KNOW you can do – so believe, and dare to make it happen! This means expanding your mind, your belief system, your whole base of knowledge and experience. Time’s a wastin’ – let no grass grow between your toes!
Mercury in Sagittarius A time of expanding your mental horizons is at hand. Religion, philosophy, law, and education are some of the things that may have special importance for you now. Being in touch with faraway people and places satisfies an intellectual yearning – curiosity will take you anywhere and maybe everywhere.
Venus in Scorpio This is way beyond love, all the way to obsession – that’s the nature of the cycle that now takes hold in your life. We’re not talking just lukewarm WANT here; we’re talking red-hot GOT TO HAVE! Passion, jealousy, possession: these are the kinds of experiences that can flow from the intensity that courses through you at one level or another now – voracious.
Venus in Sagittarius A yearning for adventure and far horizons stirs in you now. To roam, to wander and wonder, to seek freedom and go where no one has gone before – these things are deep and powerful longings. A time of romantic crusades, a universal love that might not be too particular.
Mars in Aries Fresh challenges and initiatives light your fires now, as a new cycle begins in your life – lots of energy, a powerful urge to be first, or come out on top. Away with the old and on to the new – let no one and nothing stand between you and your objective! Headstrong impulses and rash courage can take you far … sometimes in harm’s way if you’re not careful.
Jupiter in Capricorn Respect, status, and achievement are central goals for you as a new phase begins in your life. Creating a structure to empower and maintain your ideals and principles becomes a high priority, an article of faith. By taking on greater responsibilities of this kind, you become an inspiration to others. Ambition unlimited always ends in defeat.
Jupiter in Aquarius Innovation, reform, and idealism are your paths to growth and gain now. New, futuristic ideas are part of this, but it’s more than that: putting them into practice is essential because this is much more than empty idealism. A break from the past, a willingness to flaunt convention.
Saturn in Capricorn Responsibility, hard work, ambition, and achievement: these are the foundations you need to build on now, as a new cycle dawns in your life. And yet, there is a tendency to be a little too hard, perhaps a bit cold, in your approach to these things. Let ambition take you to the top, but don’t let it lull you into thinking that the end justifies the means.
Saturn in Aquarius Ideals are in for a period of testing, as a new phase begins in your life. What are principles worth, unless they are put into practice? That’s an important question for you now. This could mean you may be disappointed by causes you believe in – but if you abandon your principles, you lose.
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 Capricorn As this new phase dawns for you, the pursuit of social/political power and status has a way of seeming necessary and inevitable – and let nothing stand in its way. It starts out small but has bigger consequences than you’d think. Ambition, responsibility, a place for everyone, and everyone in their place…
The interpretations in this box are from the Day Watch software.
Take a peek at the year ahead with in-depth Future Forecast Reports from Cafe Astrology.
BACK TO THIS WEEK IN ASTROLOGY MAIN/CURRENT
See also:
The Astrology of 2020 – Overview
The Astrology of 2021 – Overview