This Week in Astrology Dec 24-30, 2023

This Week in Astrology: December 24th to 30th, 2023

December 24-30, 2023

Attachments and love are ruled by Cancer, while achievements and rewards/punishments are ruled by Capricorn. In some ways, this polarity deals with the balance between unconditional love and conditional love. The Cancer Moon encourages us to value our home base and our roots, while Capricorn persuades us to consider our sense of duty and responsibility along public lines.

While Cancer may most enjoy attaching to the home and family, Capricorn urges us to attend to the responsibilities to the outside world. Neglecting either end of the axis will surely backfire on us. Ideally, a balance should be found between the two energies, and this is what the Full Moon invites us to do.

This Full Moon is about balancing our commitment to our career and families. Something has been building inside of us, and now is the time when the energy of the cosmos fairly demands that we let it out. Over the next two weeks, we will discover what this means for us. For now, we can’t sit on our feelings. We need to express them.

Something is exposed or illuminated, prompting us to get in touch with those things in our personal lives that we may have been neglecting or putting off. With so much attention to our relationships, careers, and personal plans these days, a push for considering our emotional needs occurs now.

This is a time to clear up past patterns that have been holding us back from personal fulfillment, particularly those that are home or family-centered or that revolve around our work-home balance and attitudes toward comfort and responsibility.

This Wolf Moon harmonizes with Jupiter and Saturn, and we’re ready to produce. Our revelations are pivotal and growth-oriented, even if we’re temporarily focusing on the past.

Full Moon in Cancer Chart: December 26, 2023

This phase of the Moon occurs at 4 degrees and 58 minutes of Cancer opposite the Sun at the same degree of Capricorn, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 1 to 9 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) most significantly.

This Full Moon’s harmony with Saturn and Jupiter suggests a strong ability to make things work for us. We’re resourceful. However, with retrograde Mercury conjunct Mars and square Neptune, we should also watch for misinformation.

Full Moon in Cancer chart with additional points

This phase of the Moon occurs at 4 degrees and 58 minutes of Cancer, opposite the Sun at the same degree of Capricorn, affecting people with personal planets and points at approximately 1 to 9 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn).

Previous: First Quarter Moon

First Quarter Moon

The FIRST QUARTER MOON occurs on Tuesday, December 19th, 2023, at 1:39 PM EST.

The First Quarter Moon occurs as the Sun in Sagittarius forms a square with the Moon in Pisces on Tuesday. There is a crisis theme surrounding any quarter Moon phase, and we feel compelled to take action. Shortly after, we are made aware of how our actions affect those close to us, perhaps through trial and error.

Whatever project or initiative we began around the New Moon is now off the ground, and it may face its first obstacles. This can be a time of stress, clashing, and discord, but also of high energy, motivation, and growth.

This phase of the Moon occurs at 27 degrees and 35 minutes of Pisces square the Sun at the same degree of Sagittarius, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 26 to 30 degrees of the Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces) most significantly.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Dec 12
, 2023, 6:32 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)
Dec 19, 2023, 1:39 PM, Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Dec 26, 2023, 7:33 PM, Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Jan 3, 2024, 10:30 PM, Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Jan 11, 2024, 6:57 AM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

This week: The Sun is in Capricorn; Mercury is in Sagittarius; Venus is in Scorpio until the 29th, when Venus enters Sagittarius; Mars is in Sagittarius.

The Sun is in Capricorn from December 21-January 20. While the Sun is in Capricorn, we are motivated by feelings of responsibility, ambition, and respect for law and order. Capricorn derives much satisfaction in completion and accomplishment. Standards, structures, and an appreciation for order are Capricorn themes.

Capricorn wants tangible results, knows what is feasible and what is not, and is most comfortable working within an established framework and known boundaries or limits. Working towards a long-term goal is most satisfying with this influence.

We take a conservative approach to most matters during this month-long transit. Taking risks or making impulsive moves doesn’t suit us. We move ahead gradually but steadily and prosper by playing the long game–patiently working toward our objectives and taking care of our future. It’s a time when we expect eventual success by embracing step-by-step methods.

Mercury is in Sagittarius from December 23-January 13. [Mercury retreats to Sagittarius on December 23rd due to Mercury’s retrograde motion from December 13, 2023, to January 1, 2024.] 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. We seek ideals, 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.

We’re more inclined to ask questions and seek answers during this forward-looking cycle. We might often wax philosophical, and we enjoy wrapping our minds around new concepts and ideas. Still, the details are not as interesting to us now, as we prefer to envision the big picture.

On the downside, we can be inconsistent and lack attention to details. While frank and open, we can also be tactless during this period. We’re generous with our communications and input, and we’re humorous and friendly at this time.

Venus is in Scorpio from December 4-29. 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. It’s a highly emotional position for Venus, and it’s passionate 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 to feel alive and vital.

Similarly, during this Venus-in-Scorpio cycle, we seek or gravitate to absorbing, deeply engaging, dramatic pleasures, activities, projects, and art. Things that are profound, disturbing, mysterious, or unusual can be more appealing now.

This can be a good time for finances, especially when working with others’ talents or resources, whether as an agent, supporter, or partner.

Venus is in Sagittarius from December 29-January 23. 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 and 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 the priorities with Venus in Sagittarius.

We’re idealistic in our relationships during this cycle. It’s more critical than usual that our partners and companions support our dreams, goals, freedom needs, beliefs, and vision. We value intellectual rapport more than usual during this period.

Openness with our feelings can sometimes backfire, but for the most part, it can be refreshing. We tend to more spontaneously enjoy ourselves or throw ourselves into pleasure, art, cultural interests, and special interest topics at this time. We can especially enjoy travel, learning, the outdoors, or animals.

With money, we can be a little reckless or careless, but also faithful and optimistic. Some element of luck or good karma can be involved with our finances. Benefits, whether material or spiritual, can come through publishing, foreign or religious connections, travel, education, or legal matters.

Mars is in Sagittarius from November 24, 2023-January 4, 2024. With a Sagittarius Mars, our actions are motivated by our ideals. We are bothered by routine, quickly becoming restless if we feel confined. Our love of adventure and of conquest is strong–this is the position of wanderlust. We start projects or challenges with gusto, although we may tend to abandon them rather quickly. This may be because we set our sights too high! There is a tendency to jump in and think about it later. Part of us resists directions, instructions, and planning ahead.

We are spontaneous, direct, and passionate about our beliefs with Mars in Sagittarius. It’s a playful, fun-loving, and optimistic energy. We have strong morals, and we’re champions for the truth. We’re also ready for a hearty debate. Given the space to find our own way, we can move mountains. In fact, we enjoy stretching our limits. It’s an inspiring, forward-looking period when we follow our hearts and positive visions of the future.

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 has retrograded back into Capricorn, and is in Capricorn until January 20th, 2024.

Romance & Relationships

Venus is in Scorpio from December 4-29. 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 a 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 by 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 29-January 23. 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: Sunday and Monday are potentially magical for love and pleasure. We treat lovers with more tenderness or we see them in a more sensitive, obliging light. We’re particularly open to romance and sensitive to others’ needs and backstories. We see the very best in people now, and this eases our interactions and takes the pressure off in personal relationships.

On Tuesday, we are analytical, and there can be questions of freedom, change, specialness, and experimentation raised in our relationships.

On Thursday, our willingness to go “all in” can improve a key relationship. Strong attractions and powerful feelings are likely. On Friday, there can be some reluctance to commit or to show our affections.

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 semi-square Mercury December 19-20. Communications between lovers are superficial and unsatisfying, and perhaps awkward. Superficiality in romantic expression may exist now.

Venus semi-sextile Mars December 20. We might struggle with whether to take a direct or indirect approach to get what we want. In truth, we may be better off recognizing that it doesn’t have to be one way or the other–a combination would be ideal, or else the see-sawing can be confusing.

Venus opposition Uranus December 20-21. Not a good time to start relationships. Independence is the reigning need. Some fickleness. Uncertainty about the desire to be close to someone. Freedom versus closeness.

Venus trine Neptune December 24-25. 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 semi-sextile Mercury December 26. It may be all too easy to say things we don’t mean/feel.

Venus contra-parallel Uranus December 26. Questions of freedom, change, specialness, and experimentation are raised in our relationships.

Venus sextile Pluto December 28-29. Subtly powerful and uplifting time for romantic/sexual relationships. New insights into relationships and love. Strong attractions.

Venus sesquiquadrate Chiron December 29. 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 square Saturn December 31-January 1. Feeling unsatisfied, isolated, and unloved. Personal relationships are likely to be strained as we express our affections cautiously and sparingly. If we believe we are not getting what we want in love, we attract negative situations and challenges in our relationships. This is not a good time to begin a new relationship–new ones begun now are likely to be stamped with themes of duty and restriction.

Venus quincunx Jupiter January 3. A strong desire for the pleasures of life is with us now, although our eyes are often bigger than our stomachs. Troubles in relationships now are likely due to overblown expectations. It can be challenging to find a balance between responsibilities and the desire for self-gratification.

Venus semi-square Pluto January 10. Tendencies to look for something wrong in a relationship. Jealousy raises its ugly head.

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, December 24th, from 1:40 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Pluto), until the Moon enters Gemini at 3:15 AM EST.

VOC Moon on Tuesday, December 26th, from 2:56 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (an opposition to Mercury), until the Moon enters Cancer at 10:16 AM EST.

VOC Moon on Thursday, December 28th, from 5:58 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (an opposition to Pluto), until the Moon enters Leo at 7:24 PM EST.

December 2023:

Void Moon Dates & Times: Table for December 2023

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 waxing this week until the Full Moon on the 26th, which is considered as generally favorable for new beginnings, although with some exceptions. The Moon is waning after the Full Moon on the 26th, which is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings, also with some exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details).

According to principles of timing with the Moon, a window of opportunity occurs this week from approximately 3:05 PM EST on Saturday, December 23rd, until Sunday, December 24th, at approximately 1:35 AM EST, while the Moon is in Taurus.

Another window of opportunity occurs this week from Saturday, December 30th, at approximately 10:45 AM EST, until Sunday, December 31st, at approximately 12:15 AM EST, while the Moon is in Leo. Note that Mercury is retrograde during these windows.

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:

Nov 4,
2023, 3:02 AM, Saturn Direct at 0 Pisces 31
Nov 8, 2023, 4:30 AM, Venus enters Libra
Nov 10, 2023, 1:25 AM, Mercury enters Sagittarius
Nov 19, 2023, 4:00 AM, Pallas enters Scorpio
Nov 22, 2023, 9:02 AM, Sun enters Sagittarius
Nov 24, 2023, 5:15 AM, Mars enters Sagittarius
Nov 25, 2023, 12:11 AM, Ceres enters Sagittarius
Dec 1, 2023, 9:31 AM, Mercury enters Capricorn
Dec 4, 2023, 1:51 PM, Venus enters Scorpio
Dec 6, 2023, 8:22 AM, Neptune Direct at 24 Pisces 53
Dec 13, 2023, 2:09 AM, Mercury Retrograde at 8 Capricorn 29
Dec 20, 2023, 5:06 AM, Vesta Retrograde enters Gemini
Dec 21, 2023, 10:27 PM, Sun enters Capricorn
Dec 23, 2023, 1:17 AM, Mercury Retrograde enters Sagittarius
Dec 26, 2023, 10:09 PM, Chiron Direct at 15 Aries 27
Dec 29, 2023, 3:23 PM, Venus enters Sagittarius
Dec 30, 2023, 9:40 PM, Jupiter Direct at 5 Taurus 35
Jan 1, 2024, 10:07 PM, Mercury Direct at 22 Sagittarius 11
Jan 4, 2024, 9:58 AM, Mars enters Capricorn
Jan 12, 2024, 11:55 PM, Juno Retrograde at 21 Virgo 52
Jan 13, 2024, 9:49 PM, Mercury enters Capricorn
Jan 20, 2024, 9:07 AM, Sun enters Aquarius
Jan 20, 2024, 7:56 PM, Pluto enters Aquarius
Jan 23, 2024, 3:50 AM, Venus enters Capricorn
Jan 27, 2024, 2:35 AM, Uranus Direct at 19 Tau 05
Feb 5, 2024, 12:10 AM, Mercury enters Aquarius
Feb 6, 2024, 3:04 AM, Pallas enters Sagittarius
Feb 7, 2024, 6:08 AM, Ceres enters Capricorn

Feb 8, 2024, 4:43 AM, Vesta Direct at 21 Gem 45

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: December 24th to 30th, 2023

This Week’s Aspects

Sun sextile Saturn. We feel grounded and stable. It’s easy to stick to a specific task and make headway. Productivity may be slow, but it’s steady. We are taking into account practical considerations and we are especially aware of the element of time. We are more able to discipline ourselves and put our egos aside in order to get the job done.

Venus trine Neptune. We are more attuned to the world of beauty, the arts, and the imagination. Compassion, harmony, kindness, and openness characterize this transit. Gentleness with others is the best way to harness this energy. This can be a “magical” time on a romantic and social level. The pleasures of life are experienced fully. We see the very best in people now, and this eases our interactions and takes the pressure off in personal relationships. Romance is highly favored.

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.

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 trine Jupiter. This influence is about growth and expansiveness. We are more aware of moral issues, and have a desire to improve and learn. Optimism and confidence are basic elements in the energy of this transit. We are more willing to take a risk or two, and we are motivated by a desire to impress others. Enthusiasm runs high, and cooperation comes easy. This is generally a good time to schedule new beginnings in business, education, personal relationships, marriage, creative projects, and so forth, all things equal.

Mercury conjunct Mars. This is a good energy for debate or energetic mental work. We may be called upon to make a decision, but it may be a hasty, ill-considered one. We may be argumentative and irritable under this influence, and particularly impatient with vagueness. Be careful to avoid cutting words and aggressive driving. Our minds may be especially clear and active, and this can be a good time to eliminate wasteful activities. This influence excites and over-stimulates the whole nervous system.

Mars square Neptune. Inspiration comes from unusual sources, but you have a hard time staying focused and organized. Energy may be variable. Intuition is strong, but may be faulty. Not a good time to begin a new project or affair.

Venus sextile Pluto. If we seize the opportunity, this is a good time for both finances and relationships. The feelings are impassioned, but not in an offensive or unpleasant way. We are focused and confident, and we appreciate depth of feeling and authenticity in our dealings with others.

Venus sesquiquadrate Chiron. Blocks to intimacy are possible now as we focus on differences rather than similarities in our relationships with others. We might have a hard time learning from one another as a result.

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.

DECEMBER 24

Today’s Sun-Saturn sextile supports disciplining ourselves to bring more purpose and practicality to our lives. This time of increased self-awareness leads to realistic plans and goals. This influence keeps our feet on the ground. We’re giving our priorities extra attention and our best efforts. We prefer conservative, safe moves now – slow and steady suits us fine. We feel grounded and stable. It’s easy to stick to a particular task and make headway. Considering the practical side and time/energy limitations makes for better planning. Sun-Saturn gives us a sense of rhythm and helps us pace ourselves. It’s also an excellent time to humble ourselves to sage advice. With Mars in harmony with the North Node, we’re motivated to grow, improve, and pursue our desires. There is a sense that we’re heading in the right direction.

The Moon is void from 1:40 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Pluto), until the Moon enters Gemini at 3:15 AM EST.

DECEMBER 25

We open up to beauty and faith as Venus forms a trine to Neptune today. We trust others first before judging, preferring to cooperate, not compete. Seeing the best in people takes the pressure off in personal relationships. We’re also inclined to glamorize objects, situations, and pleasures. It’s easier to tap into our inner spiritual wisdom and draw on compassion. We prioritize spiritual and emotional concerns over material ones at this time and won’t step over others to achieve our goals. The Moon spends the day in the sign of Gemini, stirring our curiosity and desire for variety. It’s a good time to reach out to others, make connections, look into new topics, and handle several different tasks, although we may not have a lot of follow-through. We should watch for impatience, particularly tonight, with the Moon opposing Mars.

DECEMBER 26

A Full Moon occurs today at 7:34 PM EST in the sign of Cancer, and it’s a time of culmination and heightened awareness. We can become especially aware of any over-attachment we might have to outdated pleasures, connections, or things. The need for family, nurturing, safety, and comfort is strong. Something comes to light now, and if we get in touch with our emotions/hearts, we can better understand what needs to change or what needs to go. We seek nourishment from others, and we tend to support others more naturally in turn.

This Full Moon harmonizes with Jupiter and Saturn, increasing our resourcefulness for resolving problems and achieving a better balance. It also occurs when retrograde Mercury is moving into a square with Neptune, challenging us to see things differently. We can find it hard to follow facts, directions, and instructions as our minds wander. Consider that we may not need to know the answers now, and pressing for them can temporarily complicate things. Conversations can be confusing, evasive, or unsatisfying now, or we might enjoy sharing unusual ideas and fantasies. We could be dealing with self-deception or deception. It’s a time for letting go of strict attention to the rules, only if/when appropriate, and to entertain fantastical or unusual possibilities. Mercury first squared Neptune on November 27th, returns to this aspect in retrograde motion now, and will square Neptune again in direct motion on January 8th. Today, we could be returning to a problem or conversation that first occurred in late November.

Chiron stations and turns direct today, ending its retrograde that lasted since July 23rd. With this shift, we can feel vulnerable–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 can motivate us to take appropriate action.

The Moon is void from 2:56 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (an opposition to Mercury), until the Moon enters Cancer at 10:16 AM EST.

DECEMBER 27

The Sun forms a trine with Jupiter this morning, encouraging our desire to expand. We’re ready to give one another the benefit of the doubt! Enthusiasm runs high, and cooperation comes easily. This transit stimulates hope, optimism, and a desire to improve and impress. We seek to grow a venture, a relationship, our knowledge, our personal philosophy, or a self-improvement program. We might make grand gestures and more readily rise above petty problems and differences. Optimism and confidence are core elements in the energy of this transit.

Retrograde Mercury aligns with Mars, and a problem from the past can re-emerge now, and we feel driven to take care of it, although it can be challenging to stay centered. We should watch for impatience, snappiness, and impulsive moves and words. This conjunction is suitable for motivated, energetic work, particularly related to communications and the mind. We may want to get right to the point, so that communications may be insensitive. With Mercury retrograde, we might renew interest in handling an old problem or reviving an old project. This can be a time of racing minds and excited thoughts. Keeping busy and making headway satisfies us more than usual today. It will be imperative to channel excess mental energy constructively.

DECEMBER 28

Mars forms a square to Neptune today, and we may struggle to focus on our priorities. Energy is up and down, particularly if inspiration wavers. Motivation or energy levels may wane as we feel overwhelmed with possibilities and uncertain about our next step. Desires are hard to pin down. Instead, inspiration comes from unusual sources. There can be a change of course or a break from the action. With this transit, we should watch for difficulties with boundaries and limits. Attempts to take the easy way out will probably backfire. From disappointment, however, we can find the motivation to make improvements.

Further, as the day advances, a sextile between Venus and Pluto gently breaks down barriers, helping us with new insight into our needs for love, comfort, or pleasure and our money situation. We might take a comfortably strategic approach to these affairs. Our feelings are more focused and intensified in a generally pleasant and positive way. In fact, we seek depth of emotion and authenticity in our dealings.

The Moon is void from 5:58 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (an opposition to Pluto), until the Moon enters Leo at 7:24 PM EST.

DECEMBER 29

This morning’s Mars-Uranus biquintile can help us find channels for expressing our need for change and progress in creative and unique ways. It’s easier than usual to solve problems or to find our way around them. The Moon spends the day in outgoing, courageous Leo. Venus enters Sagittarius today, where it will transit until January 23rd, and 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 strong for enthusiasm and spirit.

DECEMBER 30

Jupiter stations and turns direct today after retrograde motion since September 4th. We’re in a state of flux, but motivation blocks are now lifting, clearing the path ahead. Our confidence in ourselves and the universe builds. Gradually, over the next few weeks, matters ruled by Jupiter will move forward more straightforwardly. Our faith and perspective expand, although as this shift occurs now, problems with motivation and belief can seem larger than life. Nevertheless, this direct turn can feel refreshing. The Moon spends the day in creative, assertive Leo. We readily take the lead, and we’re proud and affectionate under this influence.

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 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.

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.

Upcoming Weeks: Calendars

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: December 31st to January 6th, 2023

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: January 7th to 13th, 2023

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

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

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: January 28th to February 3rd, 2024

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

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

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: February 18th to 24th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: February 25th to March 2nd, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: March 3rd to 9th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: March 10th to 16th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: March 17th to 23rd, 2024

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

Sun in Capricorn You see what’s wrong and you know what to do now: the time has come to make it real, and it’s a lot bigger than any one person. This means cooperation and organization, authority and discipline, responsibility – and all these things are what it takes to get you where you know you must go. But take care! If your vision is only for yourself, what you create cannot last: it must be for some greater good. Ambition, practicality, and achievement are admirable, but they are means to an end – not ends in themselves.

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.

Mars in Sagittarius Ideology is a keynote of the new phase you have begun – the power of ideas and the power they wield over people. Religious, cultural, or philosophical controversies and crusades have a way of stirring your blood. Travel and adventure are compelling temptations as you dare to test your mettle and stretch your horizons.

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 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.

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: December 24 to 30, 2023