This Week in Astrology May 17-23, 2026

This Week in Astrology: May 17-23, 2026

May 17th to 23rd, 2026

On Saturday morning, the First Quarter Moon occurs when the Sun in Gemini forms a square with the Virgo Moon. There is a crisis theme surrounding any quarter Moon phase, as 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 taking off, and perhaps now facing its first obstacles.

Ideally, these challenges motivate us to improve our projects. This can be a time of stress, clashing, and discord, but also of high energy, motivation, and growth.

The First Quarter Moon Chart:

This phase of the Moon occurs at 2 degrees and 21 minutes of Virgo, square the Sun at the same degree of Gemini, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 0 to 4 degrees of the Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces) the most significantly.

NEXT WEEK: The next Moon phase doesn’t happen next week, but will occur in the following week on Sunday, May 31st, 2026, at 4:45 AM EDT, when the Full Moon will happen.

Previous: New Moon

The New MOON occurs on Saturday, May 16th, 2026, at 4:01 PM EDT.

On Saturday afternoon, the New Moon is exact, occurring in the sign of Taurus. The New Moon in Taurus marks the beginning of a new cycle: the Aries New Moon cycle ends and the Taurus New Moon cycle begins.

A New Moon in Taurus is a good time to commit to personal goals that express the positive energies of the sign of the Bull. It’s time to enjoy life’s simple and physical pleasures–savor good food and enjoy activities that bring us in touch with nature and with our bodies. It’s time to stop and smell the roses and to become more aware of what makes us feel comfortable and secure.

This is a solid cycle for re-evaluating our relationship with money and possessions and discovering what truly makes us happy and fulfilled.

With this potent Taurus energy, we have the chance to make important changes in our lives. It’s time to make some solid and realistic 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.

The New Moon Chart:

New Moon in Taurus Chart: May 16, 2026

This phase of the Moon occurs at 25 degrees and 58 minutes of Taurus, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 22 to 30 degrees of the Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) the most significantly.

The above chart is useful for seeing the most important influences and the chart pattern for this New Moon. The following includes additional points for the nuances:

New Moon Chart with Additional Points (click to enlarge): May 16, 2026

This New Moon aligns with Mercury and widely harmonizes with Jupiter, and we’re clear-minded and positive.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

May 16
, 2026, 4:01 PM, Sun conjunct Moon (New Moon)
May 23, 2026, 7:11 AM, Sun square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
May 31, 2026, 4:45 AM, Sun opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Jun 8, 2026, 6:00 AM, Sun square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Jun 14, 2026, 10:54 PM, Sun conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

This week: The Sun is in Taurus until May 20th, when it enters Gemini; Mercury is in Taurus only until the 17th, when it enters Gemini; Venus is in Gemini until the 18th, when it enters Cancer; Mars is in Aries until the 18th, when it enters Taurus.

The Sun is in Taurus from April 19-May 20. In Taurus, the Sun is methodical, sensual, and receptive. The Sun in Taurus is most active when it is defending or resisting! As the Sun moves through Taurus when plants take root, our determination and security needs are strong. Taurus is loyal to all that is familiar and values longevity. The shadow side of Taurus is possessiveness and bullheadedness.

The Sun in Taurus is the connoisseur and sensualist. It’s patient, stubborn, earthy, stable, and rooted. The Sun-in-Taurus cycle is a good one for maintaining or building, as well as enjoying and appreciating what’s already in place. While the Taurus Sun is slow to warm up, it’s stable and persevering once it does. We value what’s long-term, strong, and lasting during this phase.

The Sun is in Gemini from May 20-June 21. Knowledge and diversity motivate us with the Sun in Gemini. We are more sociable, intellectual, and insatiably curious under this influence. Due to this curiosity and awareness of all our options, we tend to scatter our energies. We are more communicative and versatile, but we can also be unreliable.

Gemini represents duality and mediation. Gemini’s energy is intelligent, optimistic, observant, and adaptable. It’s skeptical, ready to consider alternate ways of thinking. We’re prepared to trade, share, exchange, pass on news, teach, guide, and learn.

We gather information during the Sun-in-Gemini cycle, and we benefit from this transit’s objectivity. We’re quick-witted, cheerful, engaging, and we easily adapt, observe, and listen–it’s a clever and crafty influence.

On the downside, we can be gossipy, overly intellectual, or too rational when a softer touch would be more appropriate. As we relay and process information, we could be living too much in our heads, disconnected from what’s in our hearts.

Mercury is in Taurus from May 2-17. When Mercury is in Taurus, our thinking is down to earth, solid, and grounded. Common sense reigns over more fanciful thinking. We communicate more deliberately under this influence, and our minds are oriented to the world of the five senses. We prefer the tried and true rather than new ways of thinking.

Attention to one thing at a time can simplify our lives, but we may be in danger of narrow, overly conservative, or rigid thinking. It’s a time of practical intelligence and comfortably-paced decisions and thought processes. We’re capable of (and content with) rote, routine, deliberate, or monotonous work and methods.

Mercury is in Gemini from May 17-June 1. When Mercury is in Gemini, we are especially communicative, curious, and sociable. Mercury rules Gemini and feels right at home in the sign. We tend to take more pleasure in gaining a superficial knowledge of many subjects rather than dig deep into any one topic.

When it comes to making a point or debating, we are especially astute while Mercury is in Gemini. We are attracted to wordplays, puns, and negotiations, and we’re easily distracted. It’s a time when we’re more interested in trivia, information tidbits, and detached observations. There can be frequent changes of mind and subject. We’re flexible and quick to grasp topics.

Venus is in Gemini from April 24-May 18. With Venus in Gemini, we have a finger in every pie. Curiosity motivates us on romantic and social levels. “Variety is the spice of life” is the motto now. We are friendly, communicative, charming, and interested.

While it’s a time when we can be animated and fun, we may also keep our distance on an emotional level. Attractions often begin with words, as we tend to bond more readily on a mental level while Venus is in Gemini. We’re most attracted to mentally interesting people. Sometimes, our curiosity leads us into relationships that we might not form otherwise. The shadow side of Gemini is fickleness or disinterest in profundity.

Venus in Gemini is flirtatious, captivating, and adaptable. We ask questions and want to keep things light and lively. During this transit, we do best when we’re mentally engaged and our desire for variety is addressed. Social stimulation is appealing. Good fortune with transportation and communication can figure strongly.

Venus is in Cancer from May 18-June 13. In Cancer, Venus is nurturing, protective and self-protective, cautious, and fertile. We experience many emotional ups and downs in love under this influence due to our increased sensitivity and impressionability. We are tender, romantic, and attached. We could be clingy or sulky during this period.

Cancer love is dedicated, warm, and devoted. We show our love through our devotion, care, and concern. We are affectionate and cuddly, and are at our best when we feel safe and secure. We also want to make our loved ones feel safe and comfortable. It’s a good cycle for collecting and money related to real estate, accommodation, food, coins, silver, or antiques. We enjoy homey, familiar pastimes and art and simple pleasures.

Cautious with our feelings, we are not always confident about boldly trying or sharing new things during this cycle. However, we do whatever we can to make our loved ones feel special. Our memories are long, and we can be very sentimental.

Mars is in Aries from April 9-May 18. Mars feels at home in Aries, one of the signs that it rules, and therefore its power is boosted. Our energy is spontaneous, forward-looking, and even courageous under this influence. Our competitive spirit is well-developed, and our goal is to win! We are active, single-minded, and confident.

Our actions are direct–we instinctively find the fastest way to get from point A to point B. The shadow side of Mars in Aries is a tendency to be impatient, arrogant, impulsive, short-lived, unreflective, and self-centered.

We pursue our goals straightforwardly, confidently, unabashedly, and directly with Mars in Aries. The same goes for expressing anger. We want to be first, come first, and do things on our own–our independence, enterprise, and initiative are well-developed.

This transit is better for endeavors that require courage and strong but not necessarily sustained passion and energy. We don’t want to look back or overthink–we only concern ourselves with what we can accomplish right now. Not inclined to beat around the bush, we confidently pursue our desires.

Mars is in Taurus from May 18-June 28. During this cycle, we are determined, stubborn, and persistent. Mars in Taurus can be passive until provoked and is at its strongest when digging in its heels, outlasting, or defending something! In stark contrast to the impulsive Mars in Aries cycle, we tend to pursue our goals by plodding along patiently. We seek longevity and long-term satisfaction.

While Mars is in Taurus, we’re slow to change course or get started but persevering. Preferring methodical work over creative methods, we seek predictability and stability. We can be stubborn and resistant to change, and we’ll work the hardest for material security.

It’s not a time when we readily take risks. Instead, we seek concrete, long-lasting results. Our stamina is great, and our cravings and physical needs/desires are prominent, driving us towards our goals.

Jupiter is in Cancer.

Jupiter began its transit of Cancer on June 9th, 2025, and will continue its visit to the sign until June 30th, 2026. Read more about Jupiter’s transit of Cancer.

Saturn is in Aries. Saturn is in Aries from May 24th, 2025 to September 1st, 2025, and then from February 13th, 2026, to April 12th, 2028. Read about Saturn’s transit of Aries.

Uranus is in Gemini.

Uranus is in Gemini from July 7th to November 7th, 2025, from April 25, 2026, to August 3, 2032, and then from December 12, 2032, to May 22, 2033. Read about Uranus in Gemini in its calendar page.

Neptune is in Aries. Neptune first transited Aries from March 30, 2025, to October 22, 2025, but it returned to Pisces. Now, Neptune is in Aries for the long haul: from January 26, 2026, to May 21, 2038, and then October 21, 2038, to March 23, 2039. Read about Neptune’s transit of Aries.

Pluto is in Aquarius. Read about Pluto’s transit of Aquarius. Note that Pluto finally completed its journey through Capricorn on November 19th, 2024, from which time Pluto stays in Aquarius for many years to come.

Romance & Relationships

Venus is in Gemini from April 24-May 18. In Gemini, Venus is communicative, sociable but emotionally aloof, insatiably curious, and a little bit flighty. Fickleness with our affections is a strong possibility, but the desire for a meeting of minds is strong and the urge to socialize dominates.

Some detachment from our emotions is likely, which may be a breath of fresh air for some. The lines of communication open, although we may only scratch the surface of things. Under this influence, love is playful and lighthearted. Fickleness is the shadow side of Venus in Gemini.

Venus is in Cancer from May 18-June 13. We treat lovers with sympathy and tenderness, providing the emotional nurturing that they need. We tend to “play it safe” when it comes to relationships. Love and devotion are most important to us, and provide us with a sense of inner security. We seek a deep love in which we can merge souls and personalities with our lover. We are quite devoted to our partners, and we seek such devotion in return.

However, we could also become possessive, manipulative, and stifling. Familiarity is more important to us now. Our fear of rejection is overdeveloped, and we offer our hearts cautiously as a result. We pay more attention to our lovers’ feelings than their words. We feel threatened if a lover acts in an impersonal, overly independent, or detached manner. Safe and solid relationships are more appealing. Romantic and emotional hurts are very hard to forget.

In Cancer, Venus is nurturing, protective and self-protective, cautious, and fertile. We experience many emotional ups and downs in love under this influence due to increased sensitivity and impressionability. We are tender, romantic, and attached. Cancer love is dedicated, warm, and devoted. We show our love through our devotion, care, and concern. We are affectionate and cuddly, and are at our best when we feel safe and secure.

This week: Sunday holds supportive energy for connecting. 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 Monday and Tuesday, we’re in a great position to directly, confidently, and pleasingly (or attractively!) pursue our desires. Sexual attraction, romantic activities, and fertility are favored. This is one of the better times to spice up or pursue/attract a relationship.

However, on Thursday to Saturday, we can be uncertain how to integrate our needs for companionship with the desire to be free or independent. As well, we can have a hard time seeing our relationships clearly. There’s a tendency to project our fantasies, whether these are positive or negative, onto others or relationships. Watch for deception and self-deception now. Because our confidence and, consequently, our timing can be off now, it’s best to choose this time to reflect rather than innovate, seal a deal, or otherwise move ahead.

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

Venus in Gemini Saying (or writing) it with style comes natural now. A yen for variety is a hallmark of this phase, and this especially applies to romantic experience and artistic tastes. (The latter tends to focus on literature in general and poetry in particular.) A sociable, congenial, slightly frivolous orientation sets in.

Venus in Cancer Mothering (or being mothered), sympathy, a yearning to put down roots, and a fondness for things that have stood the test of time – these are some of the hallmarks of the phase that now begins in your life. Romantic and social experiences, as well as artistic tastes, will show evidence of these factors.

Venus semi-sextile Mercury May 15. It may be all too easy to say things we don’t mean/feel.

Venus sextile Chiron May 17. Love has the power to heal old wounds. We are open to romantic feelings and more willing to act upon them.

Venus sextile Mars May 18-19. This points to success and ease in close personal interactions. We are passionate. It’s a good time for financial ventures, social life, artistic pursuits, romance, and pleasure. We are now able to take the initiative and to achieve harmony and sexual fulfillment. This influence brings satisfaction to the feelings. We may make permanent ties or relationships that prove to be fruitful and fortunate.

Venus square Neptune May 21-22. 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.

Venus trine North Node of the Moon May 22. We are more concerned about harmonizing and tend to be agreeable and cooperative. We could feel lucky in love, and we could meet someone who is good for us. Fortunate connections might be made now.

Venus quincunx Pluto May 23. This is a time of adjustments and re-assessments in our close personal relationships and/or with regards to our social lives. Issues of power and control can arise. Unreasonable or irrational fears of loss, or jealousy, could also emerge.

Venus parallel Mercury May 26. A congenial time when we appreciate diplomacy and socialize more readily.

The Moon & Timing

The Void of Course Moon is the period of time after the Moon has made its last aspect in one sign until the Moon enters a new sign. During the Void of Course Moon periods, it is generally wise to stick to routine rather than to begin new projects.

The last aspect the Moon makes before changing signs is indicated here and is indicative of the “outcome” of the matter (whether that is a new project begun before the void period or the answer to a question in Horary Astrology).

Void of Course in Horary Astrology: If you were asking a question and making a chart to determine the answer, as you do in Horary astrology, it is said that since the Moon is not looking forward to any more aspects in this sign, you would have to say that the answer is not forthcoming; any questions asked at this time would not come to pass.

The Moon being Void is one of the Strictures against Judgment in Horary Astrology. The following tables incorporate the modern planets, but some astrologers do not count Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto in void Moon calculations.

The Void-of-Course Moon this Week:

Void-of-course Moon on Sunday, May 17th, from 3:37 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Saturn), until the Moon enters Cancer the next day, Monday, May 18th, at 9:47 PM EDT.

VOC on Wednesday, May 20th, from 9:27 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Jupiter), until the Moon enters Leo at 10:48 PM EDT.

VOC Moon on Thursday, May 21st, from 6:06 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Saturn), until the Moon enters Virgo two days later, on Saturday, May 23rd, at 2:57 AM EDT.

May 2026

Void of Course Moon Tables: Dates & Times for May 2026

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, which is generally favorable for new beginnings, but with some exceptions.

According to principles of timing with the Moon, a window of opportunity occurs this week from Tuesday, May 19th, at approximately 5 PM EDT, until Wednesday, May 20th, at approximately 9:25 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Cancer.

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:

Mar 10
, 2026, 11:30 PM, Jupiter Direct at 15 Can 05
Mar 15, 2026, 1:13 AM, Ceres enters Taurus
Mar 20, 2026, 10:46 AM, Sun enters Aries
Mar 20, 2026, 3:33 PM, Mercury Direct at 8 Pis 30
Mar 29, 2026, 4:50 AM, Juno enters Aquarius
Mar 30, 2026, 12:01 PM, Venus enters Taurus
Apr 9, 2026, 3:36 PM, Mars enters Aries
Apr 14, 2026, 11:21 PM, Mercury enters Aries
Apr 19, 2026, 9:39 PM, Sun enters Taurus
Apr 24, 2026, 12:03 AM, Venus enters Gemini
Apr 25, 2026, 8:51 PM, Uranus enters Gemini
Apr 26, 2026, 1:06 AM, Pallas enters Aries
May 2, 2026, 10:57 PM, Mercury enters Taurus
May 6, 2026, 11:34 AM, Pluto Retrograde at 5 Aqu 30
May 13, 2026, 12:12 PM, Vesta enters Aries
May 17, 2026, 6:26 AM, Mercury enters Gemini
May 18, 2026, 6:25 PM, Mars enters Taurus
May 18, 2026, 9:05 PM, Venus enters Cancer
May 20, 2026, 8:36 PM, Sun enters Gemini
May 28, 2026, 7:48 PM, Ceres enters Gemini
Jun 1, 2026, 7:55 AM, Mercury enters Cancer
Jun 5, 2026, 5:55 PM, Juno Retrograde at 11 Aqu 00
Jun 13, 2026, 6:46 AM, Venus enters Leo
Jun 19, 2026, 5:19 PM, Chiron enters Taurus
Jun 21, 2026, 4:24 AM, Sun enters Cancer
Jun 28, 2026, 3:29 PM, Mars enters Gemini
Jun 29, 2026, 1:35 PM, Mercury Retrograde at 26 Can 15
Jun 30, 2026, 1:52 AM, Jupiter enters Leo

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: May 17th to 23rd, 2026

This Week’s Aspects

Venus sextile 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. It’s a strong time for building trust in relationships.

Mercury conjunct Uranus. The ability to grasp intellectual concepts is high right now. Our intuition is spot-on, and we tend to have the right idea at the right moment. The senses may be overloaded, to the point that we are scatter-brained, impulsive, nervous, or impatient. If channeled well, however, our ideas are inventive, original, progressive, and unbiased.

Mercury sextile Neptune. Intuition runs high; we are more sensitive artistically; imagination is stirred; and we have an increased appreciation for subtleties. We are inspired and we are able to inspire others with our words.

Venus sextile Mars. This points to success and ease in close personal interactions. We are feeling passionate, warm, expressive, lively and sexy. It is a good time for financial ventures, social life, artistic pursuits, romance, and pleasure. We are now able to take the initiative and to achieve harmony and sexual fulfillment. This influence brings satisfaction to the feelings. We may make permanent ties or relationships that prove to be fruitful and fortunate. Our creativity and desire to make something beautiful is stimulated now.

Mercury trine Pluto. Our mental faculties are attuned to otherworldly impressions, offering us increased insight, psychological understanding and awareness, and focused attention.

Mercury semi-square Jupiter. We experience information overload, and we neglect to consider details. People tend to exaggerate today. Monotonous mental tasks are harder to take under this influence. Our minds are restless.

Venus square Neptune. 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 same goes for finances – what appears to be a great buy is likely to turn out to be a financial drain or money pit. Lines can blur when it comes to pursuit of pleasure, as we can convince ourselves to believe what we want to believe.

Sun conjunct Uranus. A new cycle of independence, progressiveness, and change begins. We are more inclined to accept and appreciate all that is new, unusual, and avant garde. We have an opportunity to shine for what makes us unique. Favors the media, computers, metaphysical subjects. Restlessness and a need for change. Restriction is not tolerated now. Our egos are awakened and we seek new ways to express ourselves. There is a need to be creative and unique in our expression of self. This is usually a time to join with groups and/or to become a group leader. It’s also an easy time to make new friends. Sudden, unexpected events can happen out of the blue.

Mercury sextile Saturn. A good time to get organized, to do detail work, and to prepare for the future. Decisions made now tend to be practical and well thought out. Work done now will have tangible results in the future.

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

Mercury semi-square Chiron. Communications may be careless, hurtful or perceived as hurtful under this influence. It can be hard to read the intention behind the words used to communicate now. There may be impatience with rules, worry or guilty feelings, and conflicting viewpoints now.

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.

MAY 17

Today and tomorrow, three planets change signs: Mercury, Venus, and Mars. Today, Mercury enters Gemini, where it will visit until June 1st. It’s a time when we’re more interested in trivia, information tidbits, and detached observations. There can be frequent changes of mind and subject while Mercury is in Gemini in the two weeks ahead. We’re flexible and quick to grasp topics.

Mercury aligns with Uranus today, generating quite a bit of mental energy and excitement. We can feel inspired to think, connect, or communicate in new, fresh ways. It’s a time of mental breakthroughs, innovative thinking, and perhaps nervous energy. We’re not content to merely recycle old ideas or perform repetitive processes. Instead, we are quick to grasp and embrace progressive approaches and methods. We might stir things up or shock others with our opinions, ideas, and communications. Our senses may overload to the point that we are scatterbrained, impulsive, or impatient. However, if channeled well, we can arrive at ideas and methods that are especially inventive, original, and unbiased, sparking a wave of excitement and inspiration.

Also today, Venus forms a sextile with Chiron, and we’re open to working on overcoming our insecurities. We can more easily identify the needs and desires we’ve suppressed, and getting into a healthier relationship with these buried needs can be beneficial. We’re more inclined toward intimacy and sharing, seeing the beauty in our imperfections. As we learn what we genuinely value, our choices and decisions about relationships and finances improve.

The Moon is void from 3:37 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Saturn), until the Moon enters Cancer tomorrow, Monday, May 18th, at 9:47 PM EDT.

MAY 18

Both Venus and Mars change signs today, and they’ll form a sextile very early tomorrow. First, Mars enters Taurus, where it will transit until June 28th. During this cycle, we can go to great lengths to protect what’s ours and build our feelings of security and comfort. We’re determined, stubborn, and persistent. Mars in Taurus can be a relatively passive influence, but it is full-on when resisting or defending something! In stark contrast to the impulsive Mars-in-Aries cycle, we pursue our goals by plodding along patiently. We’re looking for long-term satisfaction, although we can be particularly focused on creature comforts.

Next, Venus enters Cancer today and will visit the sign until June 13th. Venus in Cancer is nurturing, cautious, fertile, protective, and self-protective. We experience many emotional ups and downs with our affections under this influence due to increased sensitivity and impressionability. We show our love through devotion, care, and concern, and we’re at our best when we feel safe and secure. During this cycle, we are more interested in home life and improvement, nesting, home business, domestic and family activities, comfort, security, and long-term purchases. Today’s Moon also moves from talkative, connected Gemini to protective, warm Cancer. This ingress occurs at 9:47 PM EDT.

The Venus-Mars sextile gains strong influence as the day progresses, highlighting the harmony of these energies. and we take a creative approach to our relationships and projects. This transit supports flow and ease in close personal interactions without sacrificing engagement. We can make connections that prove fruitful and fortunate, and business relationships and pursuits can prosper. We might express our affection through our actions and feel compelled to create something beautiful. We’re also more interactive and charming than usual.

Also influencing today is a Mercury-Neptune sextile, offering quite different energy, as it stirs our imagination. With this transit in play, we can experience a sense of knowing and understanding with minimal explanation or instruction. Intuition is highlighted or awakened, and we creatively apply it to practical matters. We appreciate subtleties as they aid our understanding of others and situations. We are more readily inspired and might, in turn, inspire others with our words. Psychic openness characterizes our interactions, and our communications are notably gentler or more compassionate.

The Moon is void until it enters Cancer today at 9:47 PM EDT.

MAY 19

With Mercury square the Moon’s Nodes today, there is some tendency to overthink, overexplain, or overanalyze, which can work at cross purposes with what we’re striving to be. This can lead to choppy decisions or misrepresentative communications that hinder growth, improvement, and direction. We could also be juggling too many tasks to our detriment.

Fortunately, Mercury’s trine to Pluto increases our resolve and concentration, especially as the day advances. We might gain an advantage in a particular pursuit. Our mental faculties are attuned to otherworldly impressions, offering us increased insight, psychological understanding and awareness, and focused attention. We gravitate toward unexplored topics and ideas, seeking truths and preferring to cut through the fluff. It’s a time to gain a deeper understanding of a matter. We might discover new information that gives us an edge or finally “see” the truth of a matter we’ve been avoiding. It’s a good time to let go of something that has kept us bound to negative elements of the past. Today’s Moon is in Cancer is responsive, receptive, and reflective.

MAY 20

The Sun enters Gemini today, where it will transit until June 21st. Knowledge and diversity motivate us with the Sun in Gemini for the coming month. We are more sociable, intellectual, and curious under this influence. Because we’re so inquisitive and aware of all our options, it’s easy to scatter our energies. We are more communicative and versatile, although we can also be unreliable during this cycle. We’re prepared to trade, share, exchange, pass on news, teach, guide, and learn. Gathering information is in the spotlight during the Sun-in-Gemini cycle, and we benefit from this transit’s objectivity.

Today, Uranus gets between Venus and Mars, as both bodies form semi-sextiles to it. There can be more spontaneity with love and creativity. Love at first sight, sudden attractions, periodic extravagances, and impulsiveness are themes. We need more space, room to explore, or independence in our relationships. In truth, there can be some indecision today, and the urge to take action is with us, but we may go in circles, primarily because we wrestle with feelings of rebellion until we settle on a plan and focus on it consistently. However, follow-through is temporarily challenging for us. We might inflate the positive aspects of a situation, feel a little overwhelmed with information, or overlook essential details. There’s a tendency to exaggerate or dramatize, as tedious mental tasks are especially difficult to digest just for now.

The Moon is void from 9:27 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Jupiter), until the Moon enters Leo at 10:48 PM EDT.

MAY 21

Today’s Leo Moon is bold, positive, and creative. The Sun is parallel Uranus today, and these bodies will form a conjunction tomorrow. This alignment signifies a desire to stand out, experience extraordinary things, make a change, and improve ourselves. It’s a time to make room for spontaneity as we seek new or unique ways to express ourselves, as this could lead to significant shifts and improvements in our lives.

As the day advances, we approach a Venus-Neptune square, which casts a veil over our needs, wants, and perceptions. We may be dreaming up the ideal, which can clash with reality. We can lack discrimination, particularly when it comes to people we care about, our relationships, and material things. We should aim to separate fact from fiction to avoid setting ourselves up for disappointment. What appears to be a great buy or something we need may turn out to be useless to us, or worse, a financial drain or money pit.

Lines can blur when it comes to pursuing pleasure, as we might convince ourselves to believe what we want to believe. We’re likely too close to the situation! Examining the discontent we experience now may be an opportunity to identify where we’ve neglected our spiritual, idealistic, romantic, or imaginative needs.

The Moon is void today from 6:06 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Saturn), until the Moon enters Virgo two days later, on Saturday, May 23rd, at 2:57 AM EDT.

MAY 22

The Sun forms a conjunction with Uranus this morning, a yearly alignment that heralds change, disruptions, interruptions, and new directions. This influence also brings a sense of freedom of movement and a potential shift in our modus operandi. It prompts us to seek new ways to express ourselves, handle our everyday affairs, and find the information we need. This alignment can encourage our pioneering side, but also our defiance and rebelliousness. With Uranus, a certain level of detachment or decrease in sentimentality may be necessary to break free from limiting situations. We’re drawn to what’s unusual or avant-garde. With Uranus now in Gemini, our communications are transforming, and today’s energies highlight this theme. We’re inclined to challenge the rules or go against tradition and expectations. Our egos awaken, and there may be sudden changes in store.

However, early afternoon, a Mercury-Saturn sextile brings a contrasting energy, one that is more cautious and practical. This transit encourages us to stay alert, be pragmatic, and keep busy. Thoroughness brings rewards. Mercury-Saturn helps ground us mentally. Reasoning logically, step by step, can be beneficial and even soothing. This aspect promotes a deliberate and efficient approach to the world around us. We see the benefits of organizing, making lists, attending to details, and making sound judgments and decisions. Still, because the Moon is void-of-course all day, and it’s best to avoid beginning all-new projects just for now.

The Moon is void all day.

MAY 23

The Moon leaves Leo and enters Virgo at 2:57 AM EDT. The Virgo Moon encourages us to tie up loose ends and deal with routine matters. This Moon transit encourages our attention to the details of our daily lives–we want to bring more order to our world. The First Quarter Moon occurs today at 7:11 AM EDT. This phase, marked by the Gemini Sun’s square to the Virgo Moon, brings a crisis theme, compelling us to take action. It’s a time when we become aware of how our actions affect those close to us, perhaps through trial and error. This is a critical stage for recent projects or initiatives, as they are beginning to gain momentum and can meet their first obstacles.

A couple of minor aspects can interfere with the flow today. A Venus-Pluto quincunx can bring some uncertainty, although uncertainty is often a precursor to growth. There can be re-assessments with close personal relationships, spending, entertainment, or social life issues. Fears can disrupt the flow but can also help us see what we previously overlooked. By navigating these uncertainties, we can emerge stronger and more self-aware. Additionally, Mercury’s semi-square to Chiron suggests hesitation in making decisions. This transit challenges us to communicate with more sensitivity.

The Moon continues its void period until the Moon enters Virgo today at 2:57 AM 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 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.

When the Moon is in Virgo

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

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

Upcoming Weeks: Calendars

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 24th to 30th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 31st to June 6th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 7th to 13th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 14th to 20th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 21st to 27th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 28th to July 4th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 5th to 11th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 12th to 18th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 19th to 25th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 26th to August 1st, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 2nd to 8th, 2026

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 9th to 15th, 2026

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

Sun in Taurus The cycle now dawning in your life emphasizes stability, substance, practicality, and the concept of value – value in the material as well as psycho-spiritual sense. This marks a time of building to last, of appreciating the substantial rather than ephemeral. Consolidating past gains rather than focusing on radical new departures is likely to be a major theme for you during this cycle. Appreciating the finer things of life is another hallmark of this phase, which marks a time when you should be concentrating on “smelling the roses” rather than passing them by in such a hurry.

Sun in Gemini The cycle which begins for you now will be marked by a more intense focus on mental and communicative activity than you may ever have experienced before. It’s a time of more involvement with other people, a time for gathering information, and a time when you’re apt to be more on the go than ever. There is likely to be an emphasis on reading, writing, studying, and all forms of exchanging information with others in the years ahead – and it will all serve as a path for self-discovery and personal development.

Mercury in Taurus “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” – that’s the key to the way you think at a time like this. Practical, utilitarian ideas are the ones that make the most sense now – putting them to good use is a focus for you. Material things are foremost on your mind in many respects: an emphasis on the real rather than the ideal.

Mercury in Gemini A walking encyclopedia, a yen to know a little bit about everything (and everyone): these are the icons of the cycle you have just begun. Talking, writing, keeping a finger on the pulse of all that’s happening … this is a time of study and learning, a cycle of mental challenge, curiosity, and social/intellectual growth. Such things are an end in themselves rather than a means to any other end.

Venus in Gemini Saying (or writing) it with style comes natural now. A yen for variety is a hallmark of this phase, and this especially applies to romantic experience and artistic tastes. (The latter tends to focus on literature in general and poetry in particular.) A sociable, congenial, slightly frivolous orientation sets in.

Mars in Aries Fresh challenges and initiatives light your fires now, as a new cycle begins in your life – lots of energy, a powerful urge to be first or come out on top. Away with the old and on to the new – let no one and nothing stand between you and your objective! Headstrong impulses and rash courage can take you far … sometimes in harm’s way, if you’re not careful.

Mars in Taurus Making the most of what you’ve got, striving for security and stability: that’s the impulse that stirs in you as a new cycle begins in your life. New frontiers? That’s kid’s stuff for you now! What you want is to build something that will last: a pyramid, a Great Wall – you know, that sort of thing. Steady, patient, solid: that’s your style now.

Jupiter in Cancer Taking care of yourself and all that’s yours becomes a high priority in your life now. Security, setting down roots, establishing your ties with the past: these things are among the articles of faith that guide you. This is often a sign of growth in all things connected with family and property (such as real estate).

Saturn in Aries Self-discipline and a sense of self-worth become important issues in your life as a new phase begins for you. A fear of asserting yourself can hold you back – as can coming on too strong. The trick is learning to make the most of your personal talents and abilities, working within your limitations instead of feeling hemmed in by them.

Uranus in Gemini New ideas, new input, and new ways of exchanging these things with others – all these and more become increasingly important factor in your life now, as you enter into a new phase. This is a period of enhanced mental activity, a nonstop stream of consciousness, of trying out new concepts and perspectives.

Neptune in Aries The frontier spirit is alive and well as a new cycle dawns in your life. Independence and originality take on a kind of primal importance for you; you tend to put these qualities on a pedestal, above all else. Fresh starts, new possibilities … these are the visions that light a spark in your soul. But what of the weak, the ones who aren’t free, the ones who get left behind?

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

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

What’s In Your Forecast?

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

This Week in Astrology: May 17 to 23, 2026