This Week in Astrology July 21-27

This Week in Astrology: July 21-27, 2024

July 21 to 27, 2024

A Full Moon occurs when the Sun in Cancer forms an opposition to the Moon in Capricorn at 6:17 AM EDT on July 21st, 2024. The Full Moon is a time of culmination and the promise of fulfillment of that which was started at the New Moon. It is an emotional time – a time of romance, fertilization, and relationships.

To understand this Full Moon, we need to recognize that the Cancer-Capricorn polarity concerns the balance between the private life, domesticity, the need for a home base, and nurturance (represented by Cancer) versus the public life, career, reputation, and accountability (represented by Capricorn). 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. Cancer encourages us to value our home base and our roots, while Capricorn persuades us to consider our sense of duty and responsibility along public or professional lines. While Cancer may be content to be dependent, Capricorn urges us to be grown-up and responsible.

Cancer represents the origin, and Capricorn represents the goal. 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.

The Full Moon illuminates this conflict between roots and direction. With the Moon full and bright in the sky, symbolic “illumination” occurs in our own lives. However, these new feelings and revelations are emotional ones, as there is a sense of emotions bursting forth into our consciousness. It’s time to express ourselves and to let things out of our systems.

Of course, we might want to exercise some care while doing so, knowing that what is coming out of us is fresh, unrefined, and not particularly rational as yet.

This lunation connects with Pluto and engages harmoniously with Neptune, Mars, and Uranus, suggesting we have the support, determination, and resources to realize our dreams. It’s a fruitful and ambitious period.

Occurring in the last degree of Capricorn, this Full Moon feels more urgent, but it also rounds out our feelings with further matter to consider compared to last month’s Full Moon in the sign, when we were fresh and still a little naive. We can experience powerful, well-formed realizations, perhaps with the final word or decisive revelations on a matter.

The Full Moon Chart:

Full Moon in Capricorn Chart: July 21st, 2024

This phase of the Moon occurs at 29 degrees and 9 minutes of Capricorn, opposite the Sun at the same degree of Cancer, and affecting planets at approximately 25 to 30 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) and 0 to 3 degrees of the Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) the most.

The following is a chart of this Full Moon with additional points:

Full Moon in Capricorn July 2024 Chart (with additional points)

A Full Moon occurred in early Capricorn on June 21st, and this one happens in the last degree of Capricorn.

Also this week: The LAST QUARTER MOON occurs on Saturday, July 27th, 2024, at 10:51 PM EDT.

On Saturday night, July 27th, the Last Quarter Moon occurs as the Sun in Leo forms a square with the Moon in Taurus.

The Last Quarter Moon phase points to a crisis of consciousness. After basking in the awareness symbolized by the full light of the Moon at the time of last week’s Full Moon, we disperse our knowledge and come to a point when we need to sort out what works for us–and what doesn’t–in preparation for next week’s New Moon when something new is born once again.

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

The Last Quarter Moon Chart: July 27th, 2024

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

Previous: First Quarter Moon

First Quarter Moon

The FIRST QUARTER MOON occurred on Saturday, July 13th, 2024, at 6:49 PM EDT.

On Saturday evening last week, the 13th, a First Quarter Moon occurred when the Sun in Cancer formed a square with the Moon in Libra.

There is a crisis theme surrounding any quarter Moon phase, and we feel compelled to take action. Shortly after, we become 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.

With a First Quarter Moon, we may want to get something going, but we may not know the next step or the exact direction we want it/us to take. Most suitable activities now include taking action, pushing forward, making offers, researching more options, meeting new people, and gathering new/additional supplies you may need to further a project. It’s best to watch for overconfidence or overshooting the mark. We might use the stress generated now to make meaningful changes.

The chart:

First Quarter Moon Chart for July 13th, 2024

This phase of the Moon occurs at 22 degrees and 1 minute of Libra, square the Sun at the same degree of Cancer, affecting people with personal planets and points at approximately 10 to 18 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) most significantly.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Jul 5, 2024
, 6:57 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)
Jul 13, 2024, 6:49 PM, Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Jul 21, 2024, 6:17 AM, Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Jul 27, 2024, 10:51 PM, Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Aug 4, 2024, 7:13 AM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

This week: The Sun is in Cancer until the 22nd, when it moves into Leo; Mercury is in Leo until the 25th, when it enters Virgo; Venus is in Leo; Mars is in Gemini.

The Sun is in Cancer from June 20-July 22. We are self-protective and insular under this influence. Our attention turns to our nest–our families, homes, and anything that makes us feel “at home,” safe, and secure.

Nurturing and caring for our loved ones and pet projects come into focus. Emotions run deep, and we easily tune in to the world of feelings. Note that we are more in tune with the Moon while the Sun is in Cancer.

We may not want to grow up and face responsibilities or the outside world during the Sun-in-Cancer cycle. We should watch for dependence when we’d do better for ourselves otherwise. However, it’s a robust transit for recognizing our needs for comfort, safety, and familiarity. We’re inclined to form strong bonds and protect our loved ones.

The Sun is in Leo from July 22-August 22. In Leo, the Sun is proud, outgoing, and playful. The Leo Sun is intensely individual—not content with simply being just one of the team. It’s time to shine, add a touch of color and drama to our lives, and perform.

We’re blossoming–it’s a time when we want to enjoy ourselves and express ourselves. We are more generous and grand in our gestures and attitudes. On the shadow side, we can also be self-centered and vain.

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

Mercury is in Leo from July 2-25 and later, August 14-September 9 [Lengthier transit of Leo due to a Mercury retrograde period from August 5th to 28th, 2024]. When Mercury is in Leo, our thinking is more confident and grand. The focus is now on the goal–and the grander a goal the better! The details may not be quite as important now. We are more expressive, even theatrical and given to speech-giving and story-telling under this influence.

We are also more convincing and persuasive, as we exude confidence when we speak or write. With this transit, we may not listen as well as we normally do since we’re very focused on our own ideas.

We’re also strong about making decisions ourselves and letting our voices and input be heard. This is not a time when we’re content with letting others make all the moves or decisions–we need to be involved. We take the lead, manage, direct, and create while Mercury is in Leo. We need to relate to information or create stories about it to absorb it well. During this cycle, we should watch for being too inflexible, proud, or haughty to change course.

Mercury is in Virgo from July 25-August 14 and later, September 9-26 [Lengthier transit of Virgo due to a Mercury retrograde period from August 5th to 28th, 2024]. When Mercury is in Virgo, precision in speech, thought, and process are more important to us. This is a time when we analyze and decide what is useful and what we deem to be impractical.

Mercury feels right at home in Virgo, one of the signs that it rules (Mercury rules both Gemini and Virgo). Dealing with details is natural and easy now. We need to be careful that we don’t lose perspective if we find ourselves lost in details, however.

While Mercury is in Virgo, we should also be aware of the possibility of expressing ourselves in a too factual manner, so much so that we come across as dry, critical, or unimaginative.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jupiter is in Gemini.

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

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

Uranus is in Taurus.

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

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

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

Romance & Relationships

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

This week: On Sunday, we have excellent energy with us for growing through our interactions and growing a relationship. Increased cheerfulness, trust, and confidence are likely in love and social matters.

Influences on Tuesday point to some tendencies to project our fantasies, whether these are positive or negative, onto others or relationships. Watch for deception and self-deception now.

Friday also requires adjustments. Responsibilities to one another can feel weighty, or outside responsibilities cause problems within our relationships.

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

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

Venus parallel Uranus July 19. There can be spontaneous meetings and forward movement in our relationships. We have good instincts for future trends. We embrace all that is new, unusual, and out-of-the-ordinary with regards to romantic involvements. We lose our fear of taking risks at this time. We are ready to experiment, but not necessarily ready to commit. Peculiar, sudden, or avant garde attractions. This is an exciting but unstable energy. Friendship in love relationships becomes more important.

Venus sextile Jupiter July 21. 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 sesquiquadrate Neptune July 23. Romantic confusion as well as relationship ups and downs. Self-deceptions may come to light now.

Venus quincunx Saturn July 26. A feeling that we may not be able to express our affections, or that our affections will not be received well, can undermine us in our relationships. Fear of rejection, emotional distancing, and over-sensitivity.

Venus trine Chiron July 30. 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 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, July 21st, from 7:27 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Neptune), until the Moon enters Aquarius at 7:44 AM EDT (a short VOC period).

VOC Moon on Tuesday, July 23rd, from 5:59 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (an opposition to Mercury), until the Moon enters Pisces at 9:24 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Thursday, July 25th, from 10:32 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Neptune), until the Moon enters Aries at 10:53 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Friday, July 26th, from 6:15 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Venus), until the Moon enters Taurus the next day, Saturday, July 27th, at 1:23 PM EDT.

July 2024:

Void of Course Moon Table: Dates in July 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 waxing this week until the Full Moon on the 21st, which is generally considered favorable for new beginnings, with exceptions. The Moon is waning after the Full Moon on the 21st, 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 short window of opportunity occurs on Sunday, July 21st from approximately 7:00 AM to 7:20 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Capricorn. Another window occurs from Wednesday, July 24th, at approximately 6:00 PM EDT, until Thursday, July 25th, at approximately 10:30 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Pisces.

Another longer window occurs from approximately 10:55 AM EDT on Thursday, July 25th, until Friday, July 26th, at approximately 6:10 PM EDT, while the Moon is in Aries.

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 20,
2024, 4:51 PM, Sun enters Cancer
Jun 29, 2024, 3:06 PM, Saturn Retrograde at 19 Pis 26
Jul 2, 2024, 6:40 AM, Neptune Retrograde at 29 Pis 56
Jul 2, 2024, 8:50 AM, Mercury enters Leo
Jul 9, 2024, 10:47 PM, Pallas Direct at 19 Sco 46
Jul 11, 2024, 12:19 PM, Venus enters Leo
Jul 20, 2024, 4:43 PM, Mars enters Gemini
Jul 22, 2024, 3:44 AM, Sun enters Leo
Jul 25, 2024, 6:42 PM, Mercury enters Virgo
Jul 26, 2024, 9:59 AM, Chiron Retrograde at 23 Ari 32
Aug 4, 2024, 10:23 PM, Venus enters Virgo
Aug 5, 2024, 12:56 AM, Mercury Retrograde at 4 Vir 07
Aug 9, 2024, 12:36 PM, Juno enters Libra
Aug 14, 2024, 8:15 PM, Mercury Rx enters Leo
Aug 22, 2024, 10:55 AM, Sun enters Virgo
Aug 24, 2024, 7:35 PM, Vesta enters Virgo
Aug 26, 2024, 3:38 AM, Ceres Direct at 7 Cap 30
Aug 28, 2024, 5:14 PM, Mercury Direct at 21 Leo 24
Aug 29, 2024, 9:22 AM, Venus enters Libra
Sep 1, 2024, 11:17 AM, Uranus Retrograde at 27 Tau 15
Sep 1, 2024, 7:57 PM, Pluto Rx enters Capricorn

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

Explore more astrological events in my calendar.

Note: Times given are Eastern Time (ET).

This Week’s Calendar

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

This Week’s Aspects

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 square Uranus. Our senses are stimulated, and we could have sudden flashes of insight or fresh new ideas. However, our ideas are not always received well by others and we can be scatter-brained. It’s a challenge to deal with routine matters or monotonous tasks under this influence. Tasks may be left undone or interrupted. This is not a good time to be understood, so we may want to hold off presenting our ideas for the time being. New information can surface now that upsets the status quo, but can also act to stimulate our minds into new ways of thinking.

Sun trine Neptune. We’re at the right place at the right time, probably because our hunches are more likely to be correct and we are “tuned in”. We are inspired, and charitable acts now will serve to lift our spirits like no drug can. A good time for self-improvement programs or efforts. Instinctual judgment is enhanced under this influence. We are able to see matters, and people, from a different perspective–one that allows for, and even finds beauty in, differences.

Mars trine Pluto. This is a powerful aspect that helps us to focus on our goals, to take decisive action, and to go after what we want without stepping on others’ toes. We are willing to explore alternatives rather than simply relying on the tried and true. We are not afraid of a challenge and are willing to attempt to overcome obstacles. This is a strong energy for reworking or overhauling a project.

Sun opposition Pluto. The Sun in dynamic aspect to Pluto suggests willfulness and dealing with issues of power and competition. We may feel on edge, volatile, or even threatened. In extreme cases, infantile rage is possible. There is an inner drama taking place now, and a feeling that external circumstances are undermining our own feeling of powerfulness. In the process, we may be able to get in touch with our internal motivations. A tendency to want to control our lives through some form of manipulation is strong during this influence. Meeting with obstacles in our paths, however, can force us into the position of using all of our resources to fight back, and we can discover resources we never knew we had in the process.

Venus sesquiquadrate Neptune. Happiness is addictive under this influence. We tend to see what we want to see. Glossing over the more realistic points, details, and flaws of circumstances and of people provides us with instant gratification. However, it’s wise to hold off on making important purchases, or natalizing a relationship until the veil lifts. Take care with legal, financial, and social involvements, contracts, or formal agreements under this dreamy influence.

Mercury quincunx Neptune. There can be uncertainty and indecision now, as it can be difficult to draw upon intuition or to combine logic and intuition in a cohesive manner. Alternatively, the tendency to daydream can be high, and often at the expense of productivity and clear communication.

Sun sextile Mars. We are able to creatively solve problems and to instinctively take action when necessary under this influence. Stress is eased as we feel confident about our abilities and our judgment. We are more able to assert ourselves without rubbing people the wrong way.

Sun sesquiquadrate 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.

Venus quincunx Saturn. We are extra sensitive, but it can be difficult to know why. Anxiety may overcome us when we wish to express our affections or social urges, and this hesitation can express itself through inhibitions and emotional distancing.

Mercury quincunx Pluto. Something we write or say could trigger power struggles or hostility from others. We may be plagued with self-doubt in our attempts to make decisions. Decisions made now are unlikely to be objective. Re-assessing decisions we have made already, or adjusting our plans, may be in order. Second-guessing.

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.

JULY 21

The Full Moon, a powerful symbol of balance and reflection, graces us this morning at 6:17 AM EDT in the sign of Capricorn. It’s a time to ponder on our commitment to our careers and families, and to recognize the inherent conflict between our roots and our direction. This is the second Full Moon in Capricorn, the first having occurred early in the sign on June 21st. This one, appearing in the final degree of the sign, connects with Pluto and engages harmoniously with Neptune, Mars, and Uranus, suggesting we have the support, determination, and resources to realize our dreams. It’s a period ripe with potential for personal growth and self-discovery. Occurring in the last degree of Capricorn, this Full Moon feels more urgent, but it also rounds out our feelings with further matters to consider compared to the previous month’s Full Moon in the sign, when we were fresh and still a little naive. We can experience powerful, well-formed realizations, perhaps with the final word or decisive revelations.

Today’s astrology is busy: Venus harmonizes with Jupiter, cultivating a taste for freedom, pleasure, warmth, generosity, and excitement in our relationships. It’s important that we sense we’re growing in and through our connections, love lives, and pastimes or pleasures. It’s a cooperative time when we readily extend the benefit of the doubt to one another. This influence stirs a mood or atmosphere conducive to tolerance, consideration for others, warmth, and openness. It encourages us to loosen up as we tap into our spirit for enjoyment. This is one of the most favored transits for entertaining and socializing. We bring optimistic spiritual energy to our lives and seek meaning through our connections and values. Romantic opportunities can emerge, or there can be lucky finds, pleasing purchases, and a hopeful financial outlook or prospects. The Sun’s trine to Neptune is also inclusive, tolerant energy. This transit brings a fluid, graceful energy to the day. We readily access our intuition, and we can be moved to help, support, or give of ourselves. We would do well to de-emphasize some of our material concerns or interests, at least temporarily. We see people and life itself from a different perspective — one that not only allows for but finds beauty in differences.

Today’s Mercury-Uranus square is more temperamental, adding some abruptness and tension to our thinking patterns and conversations. Our senses are hyper-stimulated. There can be sudden flashes of insight or fresh new ideas, but our plans may not yet come together. We may be impatient with routine matters or monotonous tasks. Disorganization or bluntness with our communications is possible. Information can surface now that upsets the status quo. Even so, this transit can also stimulate our minds, encouraging new ways of thinking.

A Mars-Pluto trine helps us make the best of our circumstances. We are in an excellent position to harness the power of desire and make it work for us. With this influence, we gain determination and a stronger feeling of purpose. We are willing to explore alternatives rather than fall back on the tried and true. Unafraid of a challenge, it’s more important to us that we overcome obstacles. It’s excellent energy for reworking or overhauling a project. We are incredibly effective and perhaps a little ruthless about getting rid of what we don’t need.

The Moon is void from 7:27 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Neptune), until the Moon enters Aquarius at 7:44 AM EDT.

JULY 22

Venus forms a biquintile to Saturn today, and Mars forms a quintile to both Venus and Saturn. It’s a powerful time to maneuver, design, and organize. We may be showcasing our reliability and loyalty. There can be a willingness to make sacrifices if it seems the best way to make improvements, and with a game plan, we’re ready to exercise patience. Our timing with business and personal pursuits is good as we’re inclined to strategize and prepare well. Competition can motivate us to improve our situation. These influences are excellent for seeing relationship patterns and using them positively to encourage commitment and creativity.

The Sun enters Leo today, where it will transit until August 22nd. The Sun is proud, outgoing, and playful in its own sign–we want to enjoy and express ourselves during this cycle. The Leo Sun is intensely individual, not content with merely being one of the team. It’s time to shine, perform, and add a touch of color and drama to our lives. We are generous and grand in our gestures and attitudes. On the shadow side, we can also be self-centered and vain under this influence.

As the day progresses, we approach a Sun-Pluto opposition that can bring to the surface deep, dark, or buried and unresolved matters. Through feelings, relationships, and events, we can gain a clearer understanding of areas of life where we’ve been holding onto something too tightly or giving away our personal power. This can be disruptive and uncomfortable, but it can also lead to significant personal growth and heightened self-awareness. A tricky or buried issue might now reach a head. We may feel on edge, volatile, or defensive. There can be inner drama or external circumstances undermining our perception of powerfulness. We may experience a battle within ourselves between light and dark energies, or we can meet this theme through others. Outside forces remind us of our need to take charge of our lives, but shortcuts to gaining control are unlikely to work out. Instead, we should formulate strategies for managing our fears or worries.

JULY 23

Today, under the influence of Venus forming a sesquiquadrate aspect with Neptune, it’s all too easy to believe what we want to believe. While glossing over the more realistic points, details, and flaws of circumstances and people might feel good at the moment, it’s best to hold off on making important purchases or relationship decisions until the veil lifts. However, Venus aligns with Vesta later today, making it easier to direct our energies into meaningful activities. This alignment encourages us to conserve our energy for what we love doing, stimulating our desire to devote, dedicate, and commit to a task, relationship, or person. The Sun’s parallel to Mars strengthens our resolve and quickens our reactions. This empowerment helps us make decisive moves. The Moon continues its transit of Aquarius until 9:24 AM EDT, when it heads into Pisces.

The Moon is void from 5:59 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (an opposition to Mercury), until the Moon enters Pisces at 9:24 AM EDT.

JULY 24

The Moon spends the day in Pisces, creating a gentle and kind atmosphere. Our focus is on our inner worlds, empathy, spirituality, and downtime. This afternoon, the Moon aligns with Saturn, bringing a serious, responsible, and ambitious tone. This alignment is particularly helpful for situations that require a cool head, as it helps us to avoid being swept away by our feelings. We’re more inclined to buckle down and work, organize, and plan. This practical approach extends to our mental health and need for unwinding and decompressing. As the day progresses, a Mercury-Chiron parallel comes into influence, making us more receptive to discussing and learning through discussion, along with the opportunities conversations bring to heal. This transit heightens our intuitive understanding.

JULY 25

Before Mercury leaves Leo and enters Virgo today, it forms a quincunx with Neptune, a transit that can challenge our decision-making confidence. Be prepared for potential mental disorganization that may arise. We might find ourselves wavering with uncertainty or inclined to daydream at the expense of productivity and clear communication. However, being aware of these challenges can help us manage them effectively.

Still, as the day advances, a Sun-Mars sextile is confident, decisive, and active, boosting our desire for action to pursue our passions. It’s an energizing influence, particularly with ambitious or exciting undertakings. With this transit, we want to take the initiative and feel we can accomplish a lot. Our sense of rhythm and timing is good. Stress eases as we feel confident about our abilities and our judgment. We can assert ourselves without rubbing people the wrong way. We’re also ready to take on a challenge, and we’re competitive in a natural, unforced way. We can feel energized, particularly about communicating, connecting, and enjoying ourselves. It can be a time of resourcefulness when we respond to problems or challenges with spirited and enthusiastic confidence. As well, the Moon moves from Pisces to Aries at 10:53 AM EDT, and we feel a strong desire to start fresh as the day advances.

Mercury transits Virgo from today until August 14th. Note that because Mercury will turn retrograde and later return to Leo, Mercury will only complete its transit of Virgo from September 9th to 26th. While Mercury is in Virgo, we seek more precision in speech, thought, method, and process. Dealing with details is natural and comfortable. We must be careful to maintain perspective if we find ourselves overly focused on the details. Further, we should be aware of the possibility of expressing ourselves too factually, so much so that we come across as dry, critical, or unimaginative. However, it’s an excellent time for organizing, sorting, and analyzing. We gravitate to useful information and enjoy helping others with our knowledge during this cycle. It’s a time of conservative thinking and a strong tendency to want facts and certainties.

The Moon is void from 10:32 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Neptune), until the Moon enters Aries at 10:53 AM EDT.

JULY 26

Today, Chiron begins its retrograde cycle, which will last until December 29th. This period is a potent time for introspection and evaluating our mental and physical health programs. While the initial station can be disorienting, leading to indecision as we adapt to the shift, it’s important to remember the need for patience and understanding during this time. The Sun and Venus form minor challenging aspects to Saturn today, and Mercury is quincunx Pluto, reinforcing a theme of tentativeness. We may become more aware of, or frustrated by, our limitations. These transits might cause us to close up or narrow our focus. We could feel confined or restricted in our plans and self-expression until we resolve the tension. There may also be a sense of coolness in our interactions or withdrawal. It could be challenging to digest or accept a matter. We might also provoke annoying responses from others. Negative feedback or blockage can slow us down, but ideally, this will only be enough to help us pace ourselves or adjust our expectations. It may be best to refrain from making final judgments during this time.

The Moon is void from 6:15 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Venus), until the Moon enters Taurus the next day, Saturday, July 27th, at 1:23 PM EDT.

JULY 27

The Moon continues its transit of direct, impulsive Aries until it enters sensual, practical Taurus at 1:23 PM EDT, offering us down-to-earth energy. Tonight, the Last Quarter Moon occurs as the Sun in Leo forms a square with the Moon in Taurus. The Last Quarter Moon phase points to a crisis of consciousness. We’re ready to sort out what works for us–and what doesn’t. It’s not an ideal time to start a major project, but it is an excellent time to tidy up details and tie up loose ends. We might consider recent revelations, what they mean to us, and what to do about them.

The Moon continues its void period today until the Moon enters Taurus at 1:23 PM EDT.

If it’s your birthday today, see our feature, If Today is Your Birthday Forecasts, for a free forecast for the upcoming year.

Moon Signs This Week:

When the Moon is in 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.

When the Moon is in Aries

We're motivated by a strong desire to start fresh. A gut instinct to begin something new is with us now, as well as the gumption to do so. Our pioneering impulses are strong, and we feel energetic, spontaneous, and enthusiastic. We may also be tactless and impulsive now. Excess energy is best channeled into physical activity.

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

The Moon in Aries generally favors the following activities: Quick actions that yield immediate results. Undertakings that involve the self and the personality. (Staying power may be lacking). Self-assertion, taking on challenges, beginning short-term projects.

When the Moon is in Taurus

We are motivated by the desire for serenity, security, peace, and comfort. The Moon is at her most sensual and constant in Taurus. Our basic impulses are to relax, resist change, and "stop to smell the roses." Life slows down a little, and we get comfortable. We may also be inclined to stubbornness and materialism under this influence.

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

The Moon in Taurus generally favors the following activities: Substantial and material actions that yield solid results. Financial activities, and those involving personal possessions, applying for a loan, beginning a potentially long-term relationship, music, home decor.

Upcoming Weeks: Calendars

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 28th to August 3rd, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sun in Cancer Being more in touch with your emotional roots is a keynote of the cycle that now takes hold in your life. This has to do with feelings, but it’s more than that: it’s about making the things you feel and care about a reality. At some levels, this means a greater focus on family life – parents, children, relatives, the whole domestic scene. On a somewhat broader scale, you’re likely to find that houses and other real property take on greater significance for you. Nurturing is where it’s at in your life now: making things grow and taking care of them, planting seeds that will develop and survive far into the future – that’s what it’s all about.

Sun in Leo “This I do for me” is your motto at a time like this. This is your time to shine, like a swirl of starstuff that has finally reached critical mass and suddenly starts to give off more light than it receives. Issues of pride, mastery, and appreciation become more and more central to your lifestream as this cycle progresses, as does a very important lesson: it’s not what you do so much as how you do it, not who you are so much as how you make others feel about themselves. If it doesn’t come from the heart, it shouldn’t matter now.

Mercury in Leo The hallmark of the cycle you have just begun is thinking, learning and communicating with style. Intellectual creativity is highlighted, and your social connections have a certain flair of drama to them. Winning the admiration of others for the things you say or write (and the way you do it) takes on more importance in your life.

Mercury in Virgo Mental discipline and patience are keynoted as you enter into a new cycle. Thinking things through, accounting for all the details, making careful measurements: these and similar experiences keep your mind active and involved. An interest in health and work may come to the fore.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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This Week in Astrology: July 21 to July 27, 2024