This Week in Astrology January 7-13

This Week in Astrology: January 7th to 13th, 2024

January 7-13, 2024

It’s a time during which we can focus on some of the constructive traits of the sign of the Goat–tenacious, resourceful, disciplined, wise, ambitious, prudent, constant–and consider how to positively incorporate these qualities into our lives. Now, we can focus on practical and attainable long-term goals, work on developing maturity and common sense, prepare for the future, make commitments and recognize responsibilities, and nurture our dreams in a realistic manner.

With this potent Capricorn energy, we have the chance to create some serious order in our lives. It’s time to make some solid plans and to set the stage for reaping the rewards from our new beginnings, as little or big as they may be, in approximately two weeks’ time after the Full Moon occurs.

One of Capricorn’s “lessons” is acceptance of the concept that reasonable boundaries and rules actually do offer us freedom–freedom from worry and chaos, for example. Setting goals for ourselves allows us to focus on what really matters.

This lunation harmonizes beautifully with Uranus, pointing to strong intuition and a good feeling of progress, as well as a healthy relationship with change.

This second chart wheel includes additional points, such as Sedna, Chiron, and the four major asteroids.

Previous: Last Quarter Moon

Last Quarter Moon

The LAST QUARTER MOON occurs on Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024, at 10:30 PM EST.

The Last Quarter Moon is exact when the Sun in Capricorn forms a square with the Moon in Libra on Wednesday night.

The Last Quarter Moon phase points to a mini-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. This is in preparation for next week’s New Moon, when something new is born once again.

This is not the best time to start a major project, as the decreasing light of the Moon symbolizes descent into unconsciousness. Still, we have a more mature grasp of our situation. It’s time to begin finishing up the details of that which was conceived at the last New Moon.

We might ponder the revelations we may have had last week, considering what they mean to us and what we might do about them.

Last Quarter Moon Chart: January 3, 2024

This phase of the Moon occurs at 13 degrees and 15 minutes of Libra square the Sun at the same degree of Capricorn, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 11 to 15 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) most significantly.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Jan 11, 2024,
6:57 AM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)
Jan 17, 2024, 10:52 PM, Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Jan 25, 2024, 12:54 PM, Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Feb 2, 2024, 6:18 PM, Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Feb 9, 2024, 5:59 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

This week: The Sun is in Capricorn; Mercury is in Sagittarius until the 13th, when Mercury enters Capricorn; Venus is in Sagittarius; Mars is in Capricorn.

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.

Mercury is in Capricorn from January 13-February 5. [Mercury was in Capricorn recently–from December 1-23, 2023, but retreated into Sagittarius due to Mercury’s retrograde motion.] When Mercury is in Capricorn, our thinking is methodical and our focus is sober and practical. It is easier to concentrate on the task at hand under this influence. Our conversations may be quite realistic or focused on business/practical matters. Our thought patterns and communication styles become more logical, orderly, and organized.

We are more able to sort out what is relevant and essential. Realism enters the picture, our speech is no-nonsense, and precision becomes important to us. Our survival instincts are strong–we’re interested in what will benefit us in the long term.

We’re not interested in the fluff, preferring to get right to a point or the bottom line. Communication can be somewhat guarded or cautious, and similarly not very floral or expressive. We gravitate to concrete subjects and information that’s logical, useful, and well-organized. We may prefer a methodical approach to studying. Our fantasies may be well-considered and possible, with realistic overtones.

We need to be wary of becoming too rigid in our thinking. We may come across as cold or harsh. For some, there is a fine line between realism and pessimism. At times, we might lack humor, or we’re inclined toward sarcasm when joking. We can be quite stubborn with our ideas and methods.

We can use this period to make solid, realistic plans and get organized. It’s a favorable time to advise, teach, or guide. Generally, we’re more concerned than usual with our reputation or responsibilities. Our dependability can reap rewards. We love to plan ahead and map out our next steps. Changes of schedule can be most disconcerting during this cycle.

Our reactions are sensible, cool, and level-headed while Mercury is in Capricorn.

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 Capricorn from January 4-February 13, 2024. Mars in Capricorn is deliberate, persistent energy. We consider the future and the consequences before taking action during this cycle. Our energy is reliable, careful, reserved, and faithful. We are slow to anger but can be quite cold and irritable if frustrated.

Skepticism and realism are themes. We are thorough and precise. Orderliness, discipline, self-reliance, and planning well can be in focus. We dislike waste, sloppiness, and excess. Our ambitions are clear, and our actions are measured and careful. We need to feel that we’re in control and on top of things. The shadow side of Mars in Capricorn is rigidity, negativity, or dryness.

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 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: On Wednesday and Thursday, from some suspicion or insecurity, we’re ready to learn how to relate in healthier ways. We’re letting love in. It’s easy to connect with and embrace our feelings and romantic needs–we’re ready to open up and be more vulnerable. On Saturday, we’re proud of and invested in our relationships. It’s a time of great motivation to harmonize and connect.

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

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 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.

Venus trine Chiron January 10-11. A commitment-friendly transit. Love can heal old wounds. We are open to romantic feelings.

Venus parallel the Sun January 13. A strong desire for harmony and comfort fill us now. We may be moved to express our affections.

Venus quincunx Uranus January 14. Impulsive spending, peculiar attractions, fear of commitment, freedom vs. intimacy issues. We might question whether we need more excitement in our relationships, or whether we need freedom from them; yet we don’t feel confident enough to rock the boat.

Venus sesquiquadrate Jupiter January 15. We experience a strong desire for more pleasure in our lives, which can be excessive. Take care not to overstate your feelings or to set up unrealistic expectations in your partnerships.

Venus square Neptune January 18-19. Relationship ups and downs characterize this transit–a time when romantic mirages are more than likely. We see what we hope to see, rather than what really is. The “highs” of a relationship begun under this energy may be thrilling, but the accompanying “lows” are bound to set in, and they can be extremely draining. Be careful not to set yourself up for disappointment.

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, January 7th, from 3:22 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Pluto), until the Moon enters Sagittarius at 4:09 PM EST.

VOC Moon on Tuesday, January 9th, from 1:25 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Mercury), until the Moon enters Capricorn at 8:33 PM EST.

VOC Moon on Thursday, January 11th, from 9:33 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Pluto), until the Moon enters Aquarius at 10:01 PM EST.

VOC Moon on Saturday, January 13th, from 4:59 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Uranus), until the Moon enters Pisces at 10:29 PM EST.

January 2024:

Void Moon Dates & Times: Table for January 2024

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

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

The Moon is waning this week until the New Moon on the 11th, 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 11th, the Moon is waxing this week, which is generally considered favorable for new beginnings, also with some exceptions.

According to principles of timing with the Moon, a window of opportunity occurs this week from Saturday, January 6th, at approximately 9:30 PM EST, until Sunday, January 7th, at approximately 3:20 PM EST, while the Moon is in Scorpio. Another window occurs this week from Tuesday, January 9th, from approximately 1:00 PM to 1:20 PM EST, while the Moon is in Sagittarius.

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:

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: January 7th to 13th, 2023

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 semi-square Saturn. It’s hard to satisfy the ego today. We feel blocked by circumstances or others. It’s too easy to feel discouraged, but discouragement is a time waster. Gratitude isn’t forthcoming right now, so it’s best to wait it out rather than waste energy letting it get to you.

Sun trine Uranus. An original, unique approach to life is in order with this transit, and works to our benefit. Flexibility is the key to success at this time, and pleasant changes are in store. We may make some creative changes and discoveries, experiment with new possibilities, or invent a new way of doing things. This is a dynamic and exciting period, one in which taking advantage of unusual or unconventional opportunities may reap rewards.

Mars sextile Saturn. Work takes on definite shape, and we can see results from our efforts. This gives us a sense of responsibility and a feeling of directedness and purposefulness. This is a good time to temper our energy and to exercise better judgment. A good time to get and feel organized. Seniority is favored now. Traditional methods work, and thoroughness brings rewards.

Mars sesquiquadrate Uranus. A tendency to take risks, to feel restless, to act on sudden impulses without considering consequences.

Venus semi-square Pluto. This influence can point to some underlying tensions in social interactions (looking for an ulterior motive or an agenda, suspiciousness) and relationships (possible jealousies). Passions run high and hot, but there’s a hidden agenda. Feelings of jealousy and possessiveness run so close to the surface that others can almost feel the heat, and they are in direct proportion to our fear of losing something or someone dear to us. Avoid starting a new relationship at this time, because it can be characterized by these energies. Sometimes, this transit correlates with unreciprocated feelings in love or romantic disappointment. Often, financial matters come to the fore. Manipulation can color relationships now. Avoid power plays with friends and lovers.

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.

Mars trine Jupiter. Decisive action comes naturally now. We possess willpower, verve, and energy that we can direct toward achieving our goals. Success in contracts, negotiations, and business deals comes easily. We want to branch out and take on more challenges. A good time for making new goals or to initiate new projects (all things equal). Optimism and enthusiasm; adventurous spirit. Positive attitudes create winning situations now. Friendly competition. Taking action to better our lives.

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.

JANUARY 7

The Moon’s transit of Scorpio draws us to transformative and emotionally exciting experiences. We are more emotionally present and involved than usual. From 4:04 PM forward, the Sagittarius Moon encourages an enthusiastic and optimistic approach. We’re thinking big and reaching out beyond our everyday routines. This Moon is exploratory, philosophical, and spontaneous. We’re inclined to seek freedom, movement, and growth. Even so, our responsibilities to others can clash with our forward-looking emotional orientation in the hours surrounding the Moon’s square to Saturn tonight.

The Moon is void from 3:22 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Pluto), until the Moon enters Sagittarius at 4:09 PM EST.

JANUARY 8

A Venus-Jupiter biquintile this morning inspires cooperation in situations that call for it. We give one another the benefit of the doubt. It’s a strong time to forgive and release. The Moon is in Sagittarius all day, aligning with Venus in the afternoon, and we gravitate to spicier experiences and ideas. We’re friendly, feel lucky, and we’re optimistic. A Mercury-Neptune square occurs this evening, and it can be challenging to follow or clearly communicate facts, directions, and instructions. Perceptions may be confused or overly idealistic, influenced heavily by wishful thinking and imagination. We may be dealing with deception or self-deception, and it can be difficult to be discriminating. Our minds are open to many different possibilities and options, however.

JANUARY 9

While our responsibilities can weigh heavily on our minds as the Sun forms a semi-square to Saturn today, the Sun’s trine to Uranus stirs our desire for progress. This influence encourages us to embrace the new, even if part of us is a little afraid of change. Unique or unconventional opportunities might emerge. An original approach to life is appealing and works to our benefit. This transit can detach us just enough from a situation to move forward. We might make exciting discoveries, and our willingness to take a few creative risks and experiment may be the key to success. We’re ready to embrace new plans and get rid of deadweights. It’s a time to celebrate the unusual or non-traditional.

At the same time, we’re remaining grounded and conscious of the need to be consistent and work steadily toward our goals with Mars sextile Saturn tonight. In fact, this influence favors modest ambitions and a moderate approach. Thoroughness brings rewards, and we appreciate slow but steady progress. This transit encourages a sense of responsibility and a feeling of directedness. It’s a good time to temper our energy, pace ourselves productively, and exercise better judgment. It’s also a satisfying time to get organized.

The Moon is void from 1:25 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Mercury), until the Moon enters Capricorn at 8:33 PM EST.

JANUARY 10

The Moon spends the day in Capricorn, aligning with Mars and harmonizing with Jupiter this morning, and it’s a beautiful time to produce and create better systems. We’re ready to lead, motivate, and get the job done. A constructive attitude helps bring us success now. The Capricorn Moon is responsible and practical. With a Venus-Pluto semi-square this afternoon, we can be managing complex feelings. It can be tempting to manipulate or control others and situations, leading to unnecessary troubles. Jealousy or possessiveness can emerge. The Sun forms a square to the North Node of the Moon, pointing to some dissatisfaction and disagreement. We could be moving in directions counter to our growth, perhaps allowing matters of ego to work against us. Circumstances may take us out of our comfort zone, which feels disruptive and counter-productive at first glance, but might ultimately redirect us in helpful ways.

JANUARY 11

The New Moon occurs this morning at 6:57 AM EST, in the sign of Capricorn, symbolizing a new beginning. With this potent energy, it makes sense to focus on some of the constructive traits of the sign of the Goat–tenacious, resourceful, disciplined, wise, ambitious, prudent, constant–and consider how to positively incorporate these qualities into our lives. It’s a time to focus on practical and attainable long-term goals, work on developing maturity and common sense, prepare for the future, make commitments and recognize responsibilities, and realistically nurture our dreams. We have the chance to create some serious order in our lives! Making concrete plans can be satisfying in the week ahead. We might develop reasonable boundaries and rules that offer us some freedom from worry and chaos. Venus forms a trine to Chiron this morning, and we’re prepared to learn from our fears and insecurities. We may get an opportunity to heal our relationships through openness to learning from one another. It’s a vital time for building trust in relationships and seeing potential in one another–we more readily see the beauty in human imperfection. We also recognize the value of the people, relationships, and pleasures in our lives more clearly. Interacting with others in fresh ways–with more authenticity and sincerity–can benefit us now. We’re also heading toward a Mars-Jupiter trine, exact tomorrow morning, that fills us with a strong desire to fix problems and get ahead. Fortunately, both of these supportive aspects hold more power and have more impact as they occur so close to the New Moon.

The Moon is void from 9:33 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Pluto), until the Moon enters Aquarius at 10:01 PM EST.

JANUARY 12

Mars forms a trine to Jupiter this morning, and our confidence, faith, and enthusiasm soar. Our desire for freedom is just as strong. We are more decisive and enterprising under this influence–it’s a great time to think up an exciting new plan or challenge. Something moves us to take action to better our lives. We possess the willpower, vigor, and energy necessary to achieve our goals. Positive attitudes create winning situations, and we can enjoy friendly competition now. Further, the Sun harmonizes with Juno and Pallas, improving our social relations, negotiations, and ability to compromise. This is a time for making plans, seeing important patterns, and feeling motivated to solve problems. The Moon spends the day in fair-minded Aquarius.

JANUARY 13

Mercury enters Capricorn today, where it will visit until February 5th. Some history: Mercury first transited the sign from December 1st forward, but it turned retrograde on December 13th and returned to the sign of Sagittarius on December 23rd while retrograde. On January 1st, Mercury turned direct, and today, Mercury heads back into Capricorn. Our thinking is systematic, and our focus is sober and practical while Mercury transits the sign until February 5th. It’s easier to concentrate on the task at hand under this influence. Our conversations may be quite realistic or focused on business/practical matters. Our thought patterns and communication styles are more logical, orderly, and organized. We’re able to sort out what is relevant and essential. Realism enters the picture, our speech is no-nonsense, and precision becomes most valuable to us. We should be wary of becoming too rigid in our thinking and coming across as cold or harsh during this cycle.

The Sun forms a parallel with Venus today, promoting harmony and cooperation. We crave more comfort, and we could be moved to express our affections. At the same time, we are taking more pride in our relationships or diplomacy, and we may be putting more effort into these things now. We’d rather attract than pursue and compromise rather than fight.

The Moon is void from 4:59 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Uranus), until the Moon enters Pisces at 10:29 PM 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 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.

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 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 in Astrology Calendar: March 24th to 30th, 2024

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: March 31st to April 6th, 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.

Mercury in Capricorn Figuring out how to organize projects and people is apt to become a topic of special interest – and a challenge – at a time like this. Opinions are not enough for you now: they must be backed by authority or evidence, and above all they must have practical worth and application. A period of intense study and thought.

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 Capricorn With this new cycle taking hold in your life now, taking charge and being in control become more important issues for you. You want to get things organized, and you have the initiative to do it. This is a time of ambition and responsibility, a time to keep your cool and pace yourself. Working hard is smart, but working smart is better.

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.

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This Week in Astrology: January 7 to 13, 2024