This Week in Astrology May 22-28 | Cafe Astrology .com

This Week in Astrology: May 22-28, 2022

May 22 to 28, 2022

The Last Quarter Moon phase points to a crisis of consciousness of sorts. 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.

This is not the best time to start a major project, as the decreasing light of the Moon symbolizes descent into unconsciousness. It’s time to begin finishing up the details of what was conceived at the last New Moon. We might consider our recent revelations and process what they mean to us.

Last Quarter Moon Chart: May 22, 2022

This phase of the Moon occurs at 1 degree and 39 minutes of Pisces square the Sun a 1 degree and 39 minutes 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) most significantly.

Previous: Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse

Full Moon

The FULL MOON/LUNAR ECLIPSE occurs on Monday, May 16, 2022, at 12:14 AM EDT.

Early Monday, a Lunar Eclipse occurs in the sign of Scorpio.

A Full Moon occurs when the Sun in Taurus forms an opposition to the Moon in Scorpio. 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.

This Full Moon is a total Lunar Eclipse — the second Lunar Eclipse while the North Node transits Taurus and one of many eclipses falling along the Taurus-Scorpio sign axis (the first eclipse in these signs happened in November 2021, and the final one along this axis will occur in October 2023).

This eclipse is one of several cosmic pushes that puts us in touch with our material and emotional needs and our attachments.

Our feelings count, and we’ll see and feel their power now, paving the road for new directions. However, this can be an impulsive and misguided time for acting. It’s better to observe, take in, and process before jumping into action.

This is a time to work on clearing up past patterns that have been holding us back from personal fulfillment, particularly those that are related to sharing, dependency, and money or resources. We experience a greater awareness of problems and especially lacks or flaws, and they’re significant. Our feelings about a lingering problem or matter can become very clear now.

The eclipse’s square to Saturn does put a damper on our emotional discoveries, while its sextile to Mars suggests we’re resourceful, easily discovering ways to make things happen. There can be exaggeration of blocks or obstacles, but our feelings are not discountable since they’re based on real feelings.

The Taurus-Scorpio polarity deals with the balance between all that is mine (Taurus) and all that is yours (Scorpio). It also emphasizes the concept of form (Taurus) versus transformation (Scorpio). While Taurus deals with matter, personal values, material goods, possessions, and security, Scorpio rules the destruction of form, shared possessions, change, and transformation. The Sun in Taurus encourages happiness with the simple, tangible things in life, while the Scorpio Moon draws our attention to complexities, intangibles, and mysteries.

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 emotional declarations. Something has been building inside of us, likely of an intimate nature, and now is the time when the energy of the cosmos fairly demands that we let it out.

Over the coming months, we will discover what this declaration means for us. For now, we can’t sit on our feelings — we need to express them. The Full Moon illuminates this conflict between collecting and sharing.

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 emotions burst 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 new and not particularly rational as yet.

Because this Full Moon is a Total Lunar Eclipse and part of a set of eclipses falling along the Taurus-Scorpio axis (from November 2021 to October 2023), it holds more weight and is one of several cosmic pushes toward understanding and improving your attachments, financial state, and intimate life.

This Lunar Eclipse harmonizes with Mars, Neptune, and Pluto, but forms a square to Saturn. We have conviction and tenacity, and we are willing to make necessary changes, but there can be blockages and obstacles to manage. See also Eclipse Dates: Tables.

See more about this Lunar Eclipse.

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Scorpio on May 16, 2022

This phase of the Moon occurs at 25 degrees and 18 minutes of Scorpio, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 20 to 30 degrees of the Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) most significantly.

This second chart wheel includes some additional points, such as Chiron, the four major asteroids, and Eris, for further detail.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Apr 30, 2022, 4:28 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon
(New Moon/Solar Eclipse)
May 8, 2022, 8:21 PM, Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
May 16, 2022, 12:14 AM, Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse)
May 22, 2022, 2:43 PM, Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
May 30, 2022, 7:30 AM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

This week: The Sun is in Gemini; Mercury is in Gemini until the 22nd, when it moves back into Taurus; Venus is in Aries until the 28th when it enters Taurus; Mars is in Pisces until the 24th when it enters Aries.

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. We tend to scatter our energies due to this curiosity and awareness of all of our options. 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 Gemini from April 29-May 22, and later, June 13-July 5. 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.

Mercury is in Taurus from April 10-29, and later, May 22-June 13. 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.

Venus is in Aries from May 2-28. With Venus in Aries, love is spontaneous and direct. The chase is very exciting to us under this fiery influence. We are bold, fresh, and a little impatient when it comes to matters of the heart. We don’t look back with Aries energy. We are not interested in saying sorry or dwelling on the past–it’s a brand new day! It’s time to make things work right now.

Aries is known for a love of the chase and the conquest, but Aries love can be longstanding as long as it remains relatively fresh. Aries is blunt–there’s no sugar-coating with Aries. This can sting, but rarely is Aries energy mean or petty. Saying it like it is is important to the sign. Desires are strong and expressed spontaneously, enthusiastically, and directly. Aries prefers to seduce rather than be seduced, to chase rather than be chased.

While Venus is in Aries, we gravitate to Aries-like activities, pleasures, pastimes, and objects of interest. Our tastes can veer toward action, new enterprise, conquests, courageous or daring acts, and so forth. We can be somewhat impulsive with our money or entertainment choices.

Our interests can be insistent and strong, but possibly short-lived. It’s not the best time for holding onto money. We might pour our resources too quickly into new ventures or projects but tire of these things just as rapidly.

Venus is in Taurus from May 28-June 22. In Taurus, Venus is naturally very sensual, content, and possessive. We seek security and value those things that are long-lasting. Our appetite for pleasure is strong.

The sign of Taurus values the here and now and the world of the five senses. Tangible and physical expressions of love and romance figure strongly during the Venus-in-Taurus cycle. Holding on to someone or something we love is our tendency under this influence.

The shadow side of this is excessive possessiveness and treating our partners as objects that we own or want to own.

On the financial side, Venus in Taurus looks for high-quality, solid, practical, and long-lasting items. Holding on to our possessions is more likely now. With art, tastes, and pleasures, we prefer things that are earthy, natural, and grounded. We can be somewhat indulgent at this time. Uncertainty bothers us more than usual–we favor stability over excitement in love and pleasure.

Mars is in Pisces from April 14-May 24. We tend to feel less motivated to go after traditional goals, and more motivated to pursue spiritual or emotional drives during this cycle. We dislike confrontation during this trend. Our output is variable rather than straightforward, and our energy is similarly up and down.

We may put others’ needs ahead of our own, and our more idealistic side comes to the fore. During this cycle, going after what we want becomes less straightforward and more complicated!

Mars is in Aries from May 24-July 5. 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.

Jupiter is in Aries.

Jupiter is in Aries from May 10 to October 28, 2022. This is part one of two, with the second and final part occurring from December 20, 2022, to May 16, 2023. Read more about Jupiter’s transit of Aries.

Jupiter will head back into Pisces from October 28 to December 20, 2022–the final part of three in the Jupiter-in-Pisces transit. Read more about the Jupiter in Pisces transit.

Saturn transits Aquarius from March 21 to July 1, 2020, and from December 17th, 2020, until March 7, 2023. Read about Saturn’s transit of Aquarius.

Uranus is in Taurus.

Uranus transits Taurus from May 15, 2018, to November 6, 2018, and then from March 6th, 2019, until 2025/6. We approach money and personal possessions in new ways and learn 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.

Romance & Relationships

Venus is in Aries from May 2 to 28. In Aries, love is spontaneous and direct. The chase is very exciting to us under this fiery influence. We are bold, fresh, and a little impatient when it comes to matters of the heart. We don’t look back with Aries energy. We are not interested in saying sorry or dwelling on the past. It’s a brand new day! It’s time to make things work right now.

Aries is known for a love of the chase and the conquest, but Aries love can be longstanding as long as it remains relatively fresh. Aries is blunt–there’s no sugar-coating with Aries. This can sting, but rarely is Aries energy mean or petty. Saying it like it is is important to Aries. Desires are strong and expressed spontaneously, enthusiastically, and directly. Aries prefers to seduce rather than be seduced, to chase rather than be chased.

Venus is in Taurus from May 28-June 22. In Taurus, Venus is usually quite content, but can be possessive. We seek security and value that which lasts. Our appetite for pleasure is strong. Taurus values the here and the now as well as the world of the five senses. Tangible and physical expressions of love and romance are most important now. Holding on to someone we love is our tendency under Venus in Taurus. The shadow side of this is excessive possessiveness and treating our partners as objects that we own or want to own.

This week: Monday and Tuesday are potentially excellent for relationship developments, a stronger sense of commitment, and repairing problem areas.

On Thursday and Friday, envy, jealousy, and possessiveness can enter the picture if we let fear drive our behavior. Insecurities about not being “in the know” or fears of having the rug pulled from under our feet in our relationships can be stimulated. It can be difficult to get close to one another under these conditions, but with self-honesty, it can be a good time to get in touch with our vulnerability.

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

Venus in Aries Romance at the drop of a hat is part and parcel of the cycle you have just begun. Winning the hearts of others can be a challenge you’re eager to accept – and the thrill of the chase might be most of the fun. Is it the pursuit of happiness – or the happiness of pursuit?

Venus in Taurus A love of music, an appreciation for sensual pleasures and others of the finer things in life – such are the signs of the cycle which has begun for you. This is aesthetic and artistic to be sure, but it is also practical and materialistic: you develop a keen appreciation for the value of things, including the money it takes to buy them.

Venus semi-square Mercury May 17. Communications between lovers are superficial and unsatisfying, and perhaps awkward. Superficiality in romantic expression may exist now.

Venus parallel Chiron May 23. We readily connect our loving feelings to our need for healing and repairing.

Venus sextile Saturn May 23-24. Relationships are stabilized and steady, although feelings are expressed reservedly, formally, or sparingly. A new sense of realism in existing partnerships. Relationships begun under this influence possess a distinctly practical theme, almost as if the partnership is a business endeavor.

Venus square Pluto May 26-27. Intense passions, but there’s a hidden agenda. Jealousy and possessiveness are high, in direct proportion to fear of losing partnership. Avoid starting a new relationship at this time, because it can be characterized by these energies.

Venus semi-square Neptune June 5-6. Romantic confusion as well as relationship ups and downs. Self-deceptions may come to light now.

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 22nd, from 3:20 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Saturn), until the Moon enters Pisces at 11:50 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Tuesday, May 24th, for a short period: from 5:34 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Mars), until the Moon enters Aries at 5:40 PM EDT.

VOC Moon on Thursday, May 26th, from 11:20 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Pluto), until the Moon enters Taurus the next day, Friday, May 27th, at 2:23 AM EDT.

May 2022:

Void of Course Moon Tables: Dates and Times for May 2022

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

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

The Moon is waning this week, which is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings, with some exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details).

According to principles of timing with the Moon, there are no clear windows of opportunity this week. The next window will occur on Sunday, May 29th, from approximately 5:30 AM to 10:05 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Taurus. Note that Mercury is retrograde.

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:

Apr 14,
2022, 11:05 PM Mars enters Pisces
Apr 19, 2022, 10:24 PM Sun enters Taurus
Apr 20, 2022, 11:51 AM Juno enters Pisces
Apr 29, 2022, 2:35 PM Pluto Retrograde
Apr 29, 2022, 6:23 PM Mercury enters Gemini
Apr 30, 2022, 4:47 AM Pallas enters Taurus
May 2, 2022, 12:10 PM Venus enters Aries
May 10, 2022, 7:47 AM Mercury Retrograde
May 10, 2022, 7:22 PM Jupiter enters Aries
May 15, 2022, 3:08 AM Ceres enters Cancer
May 20, 2022, 9:22 PM Sun enters Gemini
May 22, 2022, 9:15 PM Mercury Rx enters Taurus
May 24, 2022, 5:38 AM Vesta enters Pisces
May 24, 2022, 7:17 PM Mars enters Aries
May 28, 2022, 10:46 AM Venus enters Taurus
Jun 3, 2022, 4:00 AM Mercury Direct
Jun 4, 2022, 5:47 PM Saturn Retrograde
Jun 13, 2022, 11:27 AM Mercury enters Gemini
Jun 21, 2022, 5:14 AM Sun enters Cancer
Jun 22, 2022, 8:34 PM Venus enters Gemini
Jun 28, 2022, 3:54 AM Neptune Retrograde
Jul 4, 2022, 11:12 PM Pallas enters Gemini
Jul 5, 2022, 2:04 AM Mars enters Taurus
Jul 5, 2022, 2:25 AM Mercury enters Cancer

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

Note: Times given are Eastern Time (ET).

This Week’s Calendar

This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 22-28, 2022

This Week’s Aspects

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.

Mars sextile Pluto. We are able to successfully focus on our goals, to take decisive action, and to go after what we want without stepping on others’ toes under this influence.

Sun sextile Jupiter. This transit can bring hopefulness, good will, and increased influence into our lives. It’s favorable for marketing, publishing, and advertising, as well as any self-promotion activities. We may be especially sociable, tolerant, and generous under this influence. Confidence comes from a stronger sense of who we are and the principles we represent. Some form of recognition or distinction is possible now. We are more able to grasp the “big picture” which expands our perspective.

Mercury sextile Mars. Mental alertness, enthusiasm, and energetic communications figure now. Quick decisions can be made. We are productive and take “busy-ness” in stride. We are alert and aware, and can easily turn ideas into workable projects.

Venus sextile Saturn. Affections stabilize and mature. Relationships are stabilized and steady, although feelings are expressed reservedly, formally, or sparingly. A new sense of realism in existing partnerships comes now. Small advances can be made in business and in partnerships. Support from older people or authority figures may come by way of solid advice or tangible help. Renewed ties to old friends are possible, or a new sense of responsibility in existing friendships.

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

Mars semi-square Uranus. A tendency to take risks, to feel restless, to act on sudden impulses without considering consequences. There may be changes in work schedules, or life’s circumstances could challenge us in such a way that we need to change our goals or actions.

Venus square Pluto. Intense passions are stirring, but there’s a hidden agenda. Feelings of jealousy and possessiveness run high, in direct proportion to fear of losing someone or something. It’s not an ideal time to begin a new relationship, because these energies can color it. Social interactions may be intense or could provoke intense feelings. Changes in financial or relationship status could occur now. Resentments and issues that have been brewing in a close relationship come to the surface, disrupting the peace. All of our relationships intensify, and people can be more compulsive and demanding. This is an “all or nothing” energy. Manipulative behavior, fear of betrayal, and power struggles are possible.

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. See also Transit to Transit aspects.

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day – Astrology Cafe.

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 22

The Last Quarter Moon occurs this afternoon when the Sun in Gemini forms a square to the Moon in Pisces. This phase of the Moon points to a possible crisis of consciousness. We’ve processed recent epiphanies, and we begin to see what works for us–and what doesn’t–in preparation for next week’s New Moon when something new is born again. It’s not an ideal time to start a significant project, as the decreasing light of the Moon symbolizes descent into unconsciousness. Instead, it’s time to finish up details or tie up loose ends. Mars forms a sextile to Pluto, bringing a stronger ability to focus. It feels natural to pursue our goals and satisfy our desires under this influence. We’re better at strategy now, and ambitions and determination increase. We’re getting in touch with what we want and devising plans to pursue it. We benefit from a patient and deliberate approach rather than pushing for immediate action. Also today, retrograde Mercury moves back into the sign of Taurus. While it will stay in Taurus until June 13th, Mercury will remain retrograde only until June 3rd. Retrograde Mercury periods tend to send us looking to the past for further or previously hidden information. The Moon continues its transit of Aquarius until it moves into Pisces at 11:50 AM EDT.

The void Moon occurs from 3:20 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Saturn), until the Moon enters Pisces at 11:50 AM EDT.

MAY 23

The Sun forms a sextile to Jupiter this morning, stimulating hopefulness and generosity. It can be a time for engaging with others in delightful ways and enjoying opportunities as a result. Confidence comes from a stronger sense of who we are and the principles we represent. Some form of recognition or distinction is possible now. We can grasp the “big picture,” which expands our perspective, and we feel more vital and confident. Also today, a Mercury-Mars sextile tonight is a mentally busy influence. Our minds are active, and we want to do something with our ideas, learn, teach, or debate. We are exceptionally alert, resourceful, and aware, although possibly self-focused. There is enthusiasm in our conversations and excitement about our interests and discoveries. The Moon spends the day in forgiving, perceptive Pisces.

MAY 24

The Moon continues its transit of gentle Pisces until 5:40 PM EDT. While the Pisces Moon prefers free flow, a Venus-Saturn sextile this morning encourages a considered, practical approach, particularly in our social lives. It’s a grounding influence that helps stabilize our affections. We place a higher value on security, steadiness, and loyalty. This transit boosts the appeal of the ordinary and reliable–we appreciate longstanding alliances or tried-and-true pleasures. We are more responsible with others and with our own feelings and affections. Our judgment is sound, and we’re a little more conservative with money under this influence. We can enjoy planning and organizing. The Moon heads into the assertive, straightforward sign of Aries at 5:40 PM, and while this transit only lasts over two days, Mars enters Aries tonight and will stick around until July 5th. Mars feels exceptionally comfortable in Aries, as it rules the sign. 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. We instinctively find the fastest way to get from point A to point B. The shadow side of Mars in Aries is that it can sometimes be impatient, arrogant, impulsive, short-lived, unreflective, and self-centered. Ideally, we tap into the Mars-in-Aries side that’s authentic, trail-blazing, enthusiastic, and straightforward.

The void Moon occurs from 5:34 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Mars), until the Moon enters Aries at 5:40 PM EDT.

MAY 25

Retrograde Mercury forms a trine to Pluto today, and we’re tuning into details or layers we might miss on other days. This transit can help us with increased insight, psychological understanding and awareness, and focused attention. It’s a time to get to the bottom of a matter and investigate or research things further. With Mercury retrograde, we may be looking at a past issue in a new way. We’re heading toward a Mars-Uranus semi-square, exact early tomorrow, adding an impatient edge to the day’s energies. We may be looking to dominate or assert our independence if we feel trapped, restricted, or otherwise limited. We should watch for impulsive moves but also seek creative, inventive ways to get ahead. The Aries Moon is direct and enterprising.

MAY 26

The Moon continues its transit of action-oriented Aries all day. Today’s Mercury-Venus semi-sextile can serve to subtly contrast a logical and playful approach. With this influence, it’s too easy to say things we don’t mean or feel. However, while we may not be especially focused today, we’re adaptable and making an effort to understand one another. As the day advances, we get closer to a Venus-Pluto square, exact early tomorrow. Our personal plans and ambitions can feel at odds, causing some tension. There can be obstacles to clear as we wrestle with our fears. This transit can accentuate or stimulate our insecurities, bringing suspicions and jealousies to the surface. Jealous and possessive feelings are directly proportional to fear of losing something or someone. We can be worried about betrayal or being in the dark about a matter. Social interactions may be intense or could provoke intense feelings. It can be exceedingly easy to trigger sensitive points, but what works us up can be very revealing to those on a self-discovery journey.

The void Moon occurs from 11:20 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Pluto), until the Moon enters Taurus tomorrow, Friday, May 27th, at 2:23 AM EDT.

MAY 27

The Moon ends its transit of Aries early today, at 2:23 AM EDT, when it heads into Taurus. The Taurus Moon helps moderate our pace and shield us from external pressures. Finances, belongings, comfort, and security can come into stronger focus under this transit. This steady position of the Moon encourages us to enjoy ourselves and what we already have going for us. Life seems to slow down, our feelings stabilize, and we experience less urgency. Earthy activities and sensual pleasures appeal, and we find a sense of peace and contentment with what’s familiar and reliable.

The void Moon continues until the Moon enters Taurus today at 2:23 AM EDT.

MAY 28

The Sun is quintile Neptune this morning, and we’re gracious, giving one another the benefit of the doubt. It can feel especially good to put our faith in someone or something now, and we’re inclined to see the spiritual dimensions or imaginative elements of our pursuits. The Moon spends the day in Taurus, and Venus enters this Fixed Earth sign this morning. The Taurus Moon, lasting until tomorrow afternoon, is steady, simple, and contained. Venus will transit Taurus until June 22nd andperforms well in the sign. In Taurus, Venus is comfortable, sensual, content, and perhaps possessive. We seek security more than usual during this cycle, and we place more value on those things that last. In fact, Venus in Taurus improves and enhances our judgment of value and worth. Our appetite for pleasure is strong. We’re revving up as the day advances and Mars and Jupiter approach a conjunction in assertive Aries. We feel positive, confident, and we’re getting ready for action.

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 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: May 29-June 4, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 5 to 11, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 12 to 18, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 19 to 25, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 26 to July 2, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 3 to 9, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 10 to 16, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 17 to 23, 2022

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

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 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.

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.

Venus in Aries Romance at the drop of a hat is part and parcel of the cycle you have just begun. Winning the hearts of others can be a challenge you’re eager to accept – and the thrill of the chase might be most of the fun. Is it the pursuit of happiness – or the happiness of pursuit?

Mars in Pisces There’s a martyr complex in the air, now that this new phase has begun in your life. How can you (or anyone) save the world? It’s a question you’ll probably ask yourself as this cycle continues. Defending the weak, undoing injustice, and tilting at windmills can be a big temptation. You might even win a few hands – but you’ll blister a couple if you’re not careful.

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

Jupiter in Aries Faith in yourself and your future is emphasized as you begin this new cycle. A feeling that anything is possible leads to new ventures, a clean break from the past. At its best, this is a very positive and optimistic new cycle in your life, but at times, overconfidence can border on foolhardy bravery. Don’t burn your bridges behind you!

Saturn in Aquarius Ideals are in for a period of testing, as a new phase begins in your life. What are principles worth, unless they are put into practice? That’s an important question for you now. This could mean you may be disappointed by causes you believe in – but if you abandon your principles, you lose.

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

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

Pluto in Capricorn As this new phase dawns for you, the pursuit of social/political power and status has a way of seeming necessary and inevitable – and let nothing stand in its way. It starts out small but has bigger consequences than you’d think. Ambition, responsibility, a place for everyone, and everyone in their place…

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

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 22 to 28, 2022