The Forecast

I am a reporter with a unique beat. I use my understanding of planetary cycles to provide advance notice and analysis on the Zeitgeist of the day. If you have ever wondered “why is this happening now,” my insights will transform your experience of the headlines, adding new meaning and understanding. Call it Astrology for News Junkies. If you’re curious to know why the Impossible Burger is trending…or why the outcome of the 2019 Israeli elections was likely to be a shocker …or why “Woodrow Wilson, Stud Muffin” was a New York Times headline in December 2013, you will find it here, in over a decade’s worth of historical research and reporting.

Note that I do use astrological jargon in The Forecast in my effort to show how the planetary patterns are reflected in mundane events. I explain what the jargon symbolizes, so that all who want to understand the connections between astrology and the news may do so. However, I do not use astrological jargon in personal consultations, just plain English.

Monday 9/25/2023: Sneak Peek at the Week; Full Moon in Aries; Unconventional Attractions

September 26, 2023/in The Forecast

Alllrighty then!

Highlights for this week are:

Mercury trines Jupiter on Monday
Full Moon in Aries on Friday
Venus squares Uranus on Friday
Mercury trines Uranus on Saturday

It goes like this:

MONDAY: Moon in Aquarius drives today and tomorrow with a need for intellectual discourse and innovation, whilst being appreciated for its unique social significance within a group. Arise, go forth, and network. The trine between Mercury and Jupiter is the third and final one in this series, featuring Mercury in Virgo, one of the signs it rules. Is it any surprise that one of the headlines that hit the wires yesterday was the announcement of a tentative agreement between the striking Writers Guild and their corporate media employers? No, and we hinted at a possible deal between labor and management re: the actors’ strike, but hey — the writers work for me. In your own personal world, you may have experienced a productive day in matters of communication and publishing…and you may be feeling quite grand about it, reflecting the expansive energy of tonight’s Moon-Jupiter square, exact at 7:48 PM ET. Remember, Jupiter expands whatever it touches.
TUESDAY: Night owls can make good use of a trine between the Moon and Mars (action, assertion), exact at 3:12 AM ET. Daybreak may bring a clash of values or dramatic indulgence, as Moon in “who’s yer buddy?” Aquarius opposes Venus in rip-roarin’ Leo, exact at 4:47 AM ET. A surprise or other upset to the status-quo makes news around 8:38 AM ET, as Moon square rebel Uranus. Note that the Moon’s contact with Venus and Uranus this morning gives us a sneak peek of the unconventional attractions and disruption of values we may see this weekend, suggested by the Venus-Uranus square. Whatever the upset to the status quo this morning, note that the Moon then goes void for almost 12 hours. Avid Readers will remember to roll with the twists and flakes that may crop up, and not make a mountain out of a molehill of crisis. Stick to routine concerns; avoid impulse purchases. Take time to wander a bit if you can. Chill! As the day progresses, matters get serious. Focus is regained when Moon enters Pisces at 8:18 PM ET…and meets up with Saturn at 11 PM ET. And then…
WEDNESDAY: the Pisces Moon travels without contact to the other kids in the cosmic sandbox until 7:45 PM ET, when it makes a cooperative connection to Jupiter. A Pisces Moon needs to work with impressions, ideals, intangibles, and they may run away with this day, like a snowball of empathy growing in size as it rolls down a mountain.
THURSDAY: Intuition may be at odds with someone else’s need for exacting detail, reflecting the opposition between Moon and Mercury at 2:18 AM ET. Work through it, and then go with the intuitive flow for the rest of the business day. Moon sextiles Uranus and Pluto at 8:35 AM ET and 4:57 PM ET, respectively; Moon meets up with Neptune — to express a new ideal, perhaps — at 1:53 PM ET. You could chill for a few hours after 5 PM ET, as the Pisces Moon will be void. See if you notice the shift as Moon charges into Aries at 8:17 PM ET, driving the next few days with a need to lead, inspire, and possibly cut you off on the freeway in an effort to Get There First. Emotions are on the rise, reflecting the build-up to the Full Moon, exact at 5:57 AM ET on…
FRIDAY. Note that the Moon travels without interference for the rest of the day, so we have another potential “snowball effect,” only this time the snowball is made of fire — possibly burning fast and furious — reflecting a crusading Aries initiative. At 1:52 PM ET, Venus squares Uranus, suggesting unconventional attractions in the news, along with upsets to the status quo in matters of finance (watch the markets), art, values, women, and social expression.

A pause, while we look at the chart for the Full Moon in Aries, set in Washington, DC:

Observations:

The Sabian Symbols for this Full Moon are — “a square brightly lit on one side” (for the Aries Moon), and “ideals of a man abundantly crystalized” (for the Libra Sun). Note that a square is considered to be balanced, as in “a square meal,” (opines Blain Bovee); however, a focus on only one side of the square is not in balance at all. Astrologer James Burgess suggests this Symbol represents “the crystallization of life’s purpose; the desire to establish oneself as a unique person.”
Note that the next two exact aspects that do not involve the Moon are the square between Venus and Uranus, and the trine between Mercury and Uranus. The connection with Uranus definitely suggests individuation! Note also that Mercury and Venus are almost out of their shadow periods, after being retrograde in recent weeks. Mercury arrives at the starting point of its retrograde at 21 Virgo at the end of this week, and Venus arrives at 28 Leo next week. On a personal level, what came out of the REVIEW the Venus retrograde in Leo offered? Have you now ditched any activity or relationship that you determined did not give you the opportunity to shine? That would be appropriate.
You are more personally affected by this Full Moon if you have planets or angles around 6 degrees of Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn.

Considering that Mercury and Venus are wrapping up their shadow periods, Beth Owl’s Daughter’s Tarot Card of the Week offers an image of quiet, earthly satisfaction over recent REtrograde contemplation and RElease, secure in the belief that you are being true to yourself. Well done!

Back to the daily Forecast:

SATURDAY: Aries Moon opposes Mars in Libra at 8:19 AM ET — not a good time to pick a fight, though ruffled feathers may be relaxed soon thereafter, as Moon trines Venus at 10:08 AM ET. Innovation is the name of the game — especially in technology — as Mercury trines Uranus at 12:55 PM ET. Moon’s weekly clash with Pluto happens at 5:49 PM ET, upping the odds of a power play or emotional catharsis…or added depth, at the least. Chill during the three-hour Moon void. Moon enters Taurus at 9:18 PM ET, determined to restore the status quo or build on the Aries Moon’s initiatives. Moon in Taurus is a lovely pattern for sensual delights, and with Mercury fast approaching an opposition to dreamy Neptune (next week), just imagine…and make it real (as Moon sextiles Saturn at 11:45 PM ET).
SUNDAY: Now it is the Taurus Moon rolling down a hill like an ever-growing snowball, gathering forces for its material comfort and security-building agenda. Moon meets up with Jupiter at 9:36 PM ET — perhaps with grand, generous news. We’ll have to get through MONDAY to see if it’s for real, with Mercury opposing Neptune in the morning...which happens to be the First Monday in October — opening day at the Supreme Court, is it not? With Mercury trining Pluto on TUESDAY, watch for plenty of news from underground over the weekend and into next week, as investigative reporters may have a field day.

And now, the news.

There was lots to report with respect to leaders, as the Sun opposed Neptune (scandal, idealism, vision), then trined Pluto (depth, power, resources), then activated the Aries Point in sync with the Autumnal Equinox. For one thing, the UN General Assembly met last week, and thus there were plenty of world leaders in town. Meanwhile, we had Mercury trining Jupiter for the third time — as noted earlier.

Two big, idealistic, healing initiatives launched last week in the US:

“The Biden administration announced the creation of the American Climate Corps. This will be a group of more than 20,000 young Americans who will learn to work in clean energy, conservation, and climate resilience while also earning good wages and addressing climate change,” reports historian Heather Cox Richardson.
“White House hears Gen Z’s plea to reduce gun violence: ‘Turned our calls for action into reality'” by establishing the first-ever Office of Gun Violence Prevention, to be overseen by VP Kamala Harris. The initiative was introduced by America’s first Gen Z member of Congress — Maxwell Frost. You won’t be surprised to learn that the Sun, Jupiter and Neptune are conjunct in what we know of his horoscope (Jan 17, 1997 in Orlando, FL), and that transiting Pluto is sitting right on top of them. Empowering — and with access to considerable resources for the next two years, is what it looks like to me.

Make that three initiatives, as in:

“A Taylor Swift Instagram post helped drive a surge in voter registration” — 35,000 and counting! Here is what we know of Swift’s horoscope. Even without a birth time, we can see how her social expression and values are likely to be more and more persuasive over the next few years.

In other news…

“Michael Bloomberg pumps $500 million into effort to shut down all US-based coal plants” Bloomberg is such a maverick, with his Aquarius Sun square Uranus, and judging from his horoscope, the 81-years young billionaire will be spearheading even more daring, maverick-y initiatives as transiting Uranus fires him up in 2024. Pluto is still hovering in an opposition to his Cancer Ascendant, pushing his need to be seen as a good caretaker to extremes.
President Emmanuel Macron is also experiencing a potentially empowering Pluto transit to his 28 Capricorn Ascendant. “Macron launches ecological plan to end France’s use of fossil fuels by 2030”
The Republican Party continues to receive the breakdown potential of transiting Pluto, which is now at the bottom of its horoscope (7/6/1854 at 1:01 PM in Jackson, MI). Will we have yet another government shutdown? I don’t know, but I’m looking at the days around October 8th, as Mars will square Pluto…and Pluto will turn direct…right on the Republican Party’s IC and the US Pluto. On that day, Venus will oppose Saturn, which is apt for cuts and losses…and ten days after that, we’ll have a square between Pluto and the Sun, which suggests the usual power plays.

In other news…

Cassidy Hutchinson — the star witness of the J6 hearings — is now on a book tour, and now we know more about Mark Meadows burning documents in a fireplace, Rudy Giuliani groping her, and her opinion of Matt Gaetz as a prospective date. We don’t even have a birthday for Hutchinson, so I can’t comment on the astrology, but here are clips from her one-on-one interview with Rachel Maddow.
Also scandalous — again — is the news that Democratic Senator Bob Menendez, the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, was indicted on bribery charges that involve gold bars, bags of cash and the nation of Egypt. Some Democratic senators — along with Governor Phil Murphy — are calling for him to resign, but with an exact conjunction between Mars and Saturn in what we know of his horoscope (January 1, 1954 in NYC), we can appreciate why he would stubbornly refuse — so far.

Meanwhile…

With transiting Mercury almost on his Midheaven, transiting Pluto opposing his Mars, and just weeks after his accumulated solar arc square, 92-year-old Rupert Murdoch retired. In honor of his exit, I’m reposting the link to the documentary, The Brainwashing of My Dad, which I highly recommend.
Merrick Garland testified in Congress last week, where he was badgered by Republicans about the DOJ’s handling of its case against Hunter Biden. As noted before, until June, there just wasn’t much going on in what we know of Garland’s horoscope, which has been reflected by his virtual invisibility since becoming Attorney General. Transiting Uranus is in a series of three oppositions to his Scorpio Sun (11/13/52 in Chicago), the first of which happened on June 22. The next two are on Nov 7 and April 11 — and the one on November 7th is surrounded by other provocative patterns. Meanwhile, it is noted that his Saturn and Neptune will be eclipsed on October 28th — and we should keep an eye on the first week of February for accelerated activity involving his authority.

Elsewhere…

“NY Times columnist mocked by restaurant after complaining about his $78 meal.” This would be op-ed columnist David Brooks, a frequent subject in this forecast several years ago, and not just because he once wrote a column about the rise of witchcraft and astrology in these all-too interesting times. As it turns out, 80% of Brooks’ restaurant bill was his bar tab — not surprising, given the photo he posted on social media. And I thought to myself, if what we know of his horoscope is not having a Neptune transit, I will eat my (Halloween witch) hat. Born on August 11, 1961 — Toronto — Brooks is indeed receiving not one — but at least two — patterns involving Neptune…as astrology gets it right, once again.

Finally…a few more headlines reflecting the communication flow of Monday’s Mercury-Jupiter trine:

Here’s the 411 on personal consultations.

Thank you for sharing this forecast with your friends.

Monday 9/18/2023: Sneak Peek at the Week; Flights of Fancy & Other Indulgences; Welcome, Fall!

September 18, 2023/in The Forecast

…and….we’re off to the races again.

[Good grief, I set this to ship hours ago, but neglected to fully execute the SEND on Mailchimp. Apologies for the inconvenience!]

Highlights this week:

Sun opposes Neptune on Tuesday.
Sun trines Pluto on Thursday.
Sun enters Libra — happy Autumnal Equinox — on Saturday.

That’s it. It goes like this:

MONDAY: Moon entered Scorpio at 12:58 AM ET, driving the start of the work week with a need for depth and substance, consolidating knowledge for the sake of power and control. A trine (harmony) to Saturn at 5:18 AM ET offers structure, facilitating your quest for world domination. Word gets out around 5:52 PM ET, as Moon sextiles Mercury.
TUESDAY: Moon opposes Jupiter at 6:15 AM ET, suggesting headlines involving stubborn overconfidence, perhaps later regretted, as the regretful party may have bitten off more than they can actually chew. We can appreciate a bit (!) of magical thinking, given the Sun’s annual opposition to Neptune at 7:17 AM ET. Sun refers to ego expression and leaders; Neptune refers to smoke and mirrors, spirits of all kinds, forgiveness, scandal, surrender, music, oil, poison, oceans, drugs, etc. etc — so watch for those themes in the news. You are more personally affected by this pattern if you have planets around 26 degrees of Pisces, Virgo, Gemini, and Sagittarius. Fun fact: President Biden will be giving a speech to world leaders at the United Nations in New York — though many world leaders won’t be attending. Ukraine’s President Zelensky arrived on Monday, and visited Ukrainian soldiers in a hospital on Staten Island.
TUESDAY: A clash of values — or more indulgence — is suggested around 8:29 AM ET, as Moon squares Venus — still in regal Leo. Moon travels without interference for most of the rest of the day, opposing Uranus at 8:46 PM ET –– surprise, surprise. If you’re a night owl, the upset to the status quo may be inspirational, and innovative ideas may flow into the wee hours on…
WEDNESDAY…as Moon trines Neptune, sextiles the Sun and sextiles Pluto — all between 3 AM ET and 6:30 AM ET. If you slept through the night, note your dreams upon waking. East Coasters can take it slow this morning, given that the Moon will be void for 3 1/2 hours, starting at 6:21 AM ET. You know the Moon void drill: roll with the twists and flakes; don’t make a mountain out of a molehill; avoid impulse purchases and any other activity you hope will be of consequence. Stick to routine concerns and CHILL if you can. At 10:05 AM ET, Moon enters Sagittarius, facilitating righteous opinions seeking to be of influence. Note that with Saturn now back in early Pisces, the usual boundless enthusiasm of the Sag Moon may be controlled by a square to Saturn, exact at 1:57 PM ET. Cuts and losses? An ambitious authoritarian advance? Power, breakdown, and transformation may be involved, reflecting the Sun’s trine to Pluto, exact at 1:20 AM ET on…
THURSDAY. Note that a year ago, in a week with Sun opposing Neptune, followed by Sun trine Pluto, the funeral of Queen Elizabeth was televised around the world. This day begins with news that seeks to refine the broad strokes the Sagittarius Moon is more inclined to paint. Mercury in perfection-seeking Virgo squares Moon at 5:12 AM ET. The rest of the day flows freely and easily, as Moon sextiles Mars at 4:12 PM ET, and trines Venus at 6:25 PM ET. Note that the Virgo Sun is now in the last degrees of its sign, liking shining a spotlight on leaders — and people with planets and angles at 28-29 degrees of Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces (e.g., off the top of my head, Liz Cheney, Alexei Navalny).
FRIDAY: Note your dreams upon waking. Moon squares Neptune at 9:37 AM ET, offering inspiration. The First Quarter Moon happens at 3:31 PM ET with Sun — and now, Moon — at the verrrry end of their respective signs (Virgo and Sagittarius), so we may notice a sense of urgency about generating enthusiasm for a program or policy intended to separate the wheat from the chaff. At 4:20 PM ET, Moon enters Capricorn, on a quest to administer progress on the Big Idea, supported by a sextile to Saturn (authority; structure), exact at 7:44 PM ET. Enjoy the last full day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
SATURDAY: Sun enters Libra at 2:49 AM ET. Happy Autumnal Equinox…a perfect balance between day and night.

A pause, while we discuss the significance of this change of seasons.

Libra is an airy, mental sign, generally concerned with relationships, social graces and with promoting fairness, justice and balance. Its ruling planet is Venus, which can be oh-so-sweet and socially gracious. Libra’s mantra is: I BALANCE. This does not mean Librans are balanced; it means they generally are seeking balance and are quite capable of swinging back and forth wildly as they search for it.

Did you know that Fox News (motto: “fair and balanced”) launched under a Libra Sun? If you’re now thinking “wow, there must be a lot more to a horoscope than just a Sun Sign,” I commend you. And that’s another compelling reason why you should get to know your horoscope. Or have a professional explain it to you.

As sweet as Libra can be, they are not marshmallows. The term “iron fist in a velvet glove” often applies. Jimmy Carter is a Libra. So was Margaret Thatcher, a.k.a. The Iron Lady. So is VP Kamala Harris.

The Sun’s ingress into Libra means that it’s the first day of fall. Did you know that the Sun is considered to be in its fall when it’s in Libra? In the language of astrology, when a planet is in fall, it means it is traveling through a sign that is not compatible with the planet’s essential nature. The Sun is all about ego recognition, around which everything (and everyone) revolves. It needs to be this way. But Libra needs to be focused on WE, not ME. Maybe that’s why one of Libra’s traits — according to pop astrology — is indecisiveness. The Sun also refers to heads of state and CEOs.

In other news, here’s what you need to know about the first day of any season — i.e., equinoxes and solstices — from an astrological point of view. The first days of Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter correspond with the first day (or first degree) of Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn, respectively (there are thirty degrees in each sign of the zodiac). Got that? Good.

These four signs are called cardinal signs. Cardinal signs initiate. They come up with the idea and put it into action, which leads to necessary change. “Cardinal” suggests (from the Latin root of the word), “that on which something turns or depends.” So the first day/degree of a Cardinal sign is a turning point. In astrology, the technical term for the first degree of any Cardinal sign is the “Aries Point”, just to confuse people who are not professional astrologers. In other words, the first day of Cancer, Libra, Capricorn and Aries is the Aries Point. The first day of Taurus (and the rest of the signs) is NOT at the Aries Point).

Equinoxes and solstices are also prominent. We make a fuss over them, right? In Japan, the first day of each season is actually a national holiday. How cool is that? Thus, in a horoscope, a planet or angle at the Aries Point needs to be prominent. Off the top of my head, astro twins Meryl Streep & Elizabeth Warren were born with the Sun at the Aries Point. They’re pretty prominent in everything they do, don’t you think? Ted Cruz also born with the Sun at the Aries Point, and some have observed that he can stick out like a sore thumb — which is another form of prominence.

Back to the day-by-day Forecast:

SATURDAY: The proactive Capricorn Moon is well-supported by trines from Mercury and Jupiter at 2:23 PM ET and 6:12 PM ET — facilitating growth and messaging. Whatever your agenda is, get it done — hopefully in the late afternoon/early evening. At 11:17 PM ET, Moon squares Mars in Libra, which may be reflected in a clash of tempers.
SUNDAY: Remember a couple of weeks ago I called attention to the current pattern — a Minor Grand Trine — among the three outer planets in our solar system? You can read about that again here. The Capricorn Moon connects with all three today, starting with a trine to Uranus at 7:27 AM ET, then a sextile to Neptune (at 1:02 PM ET), and a conjunct to Pluto at 4:05 PM ET. Fun fact: once upon a time, before the outer planets were discovered, astrologers would have judged this Capricorn Moon to be void of course. You can observe and judge from your own experience if it feels like an almost-all-day Moon void, instead of just the 3 1/2 hours between Moon’s meet-up with Pluto and Moon’s ingress into the next sign — Aquarius — at 7:29 PM ET. Moon in Aquarius seeks to be of unique social significance, within the confines of a larger group. Brainstorming bright ideas among friends and other like-minded souls is an apt activity for days driven by the Moon in Aquarius. Moon trines Sun at 10:26 PM ET; maybe we can all get along. Humming in the background for the past few days in the third and final trine between Mercury (in Virgo) and Jupiter (in Taurus), so the time is ripe for big news in matters of media, court opinions, sports, religion, education, etc. Some of what we see in the headlines may be a rethink of decisions made during the last Mercury retrograde. The trine between Mercury and Jupiter is exact on Monday at 8:02 AM ET.

And now, the news.

Headlines over the weekend were sponsored in part by these patterns:

New Moon in Virgo last Thursday — which activated the horoscopes of those with planets around 22 degrees of Virgo, Pisces, Sagittarius, and Gemini — as we’ll see.
Mercury turns direct last Friday — activating 8 degrees of the above.
Sun trines Uranus last Friday — 22 degrees of just about any sign
Venus squares Jupiter for the third time on Sunday (yesterday) — 15 degrees of the Fixed signs
Sun opposes Neptune and trines Pluto (this week) — 26-28 degrees of Cardinal and Mutable

The Sun-Uranus trine suggested themes of aviation, cooperation among leaders, technology – and maybe a bit of astrology. Here’s one:

UPDATE: on Elon Musk, whom I’ve been writing about since 2013. Astrologers now have a potentially reliable birth time for Musk, reported in a recent biography, all 688 pages of it. Here is the horoscope. Turns out he has a 13 Cancer Ascendant, with Mercury sitting right on it, squared by Uranus (and Uranus also squares his Cancer Sun). He needs to be seen as a family man, but with Uranus in the mix, we appreciate why it’s a family that defies the norm. We see how his need to think and communicate would make a powerful first impression. It’s fascinating that his Virgo Moon — ruler of his Ascendant (how he needs to be seen) — is at 8 Virgo, which is where Mercury was when it turned direct last week. The 7:30 AM birth time might be off by a bit, but if it is accurate to the minute, it supports life developments happening in 2014-2015, when Uranus and Pluto would have been square and opposite his Ascendant, respectively. Themes of his innovation and empowerment were all over the news. Note that since 2022, transiting Pluto is now square his (presumed) 28 Aries Midheaven — a pattern in effect through the end of 2023. This Midheaven gives us fascinating midpoint pictures, one of which is Jupiter/Pluto – MC. The Jupiter/Pluto midpoint is a point of potential power and resources, and to see it configured with Musk’s Midheaven — public status, career, and reputation — makes perfect sense. We could talk for hours about his horoscope — and how recent headlines of shocking overreach as defense contractor (how apt for a double Cancer to be involved in homeland security), are aptly timed.

In other news…

Meanwhile…

The square between Venus in Leo (dramatic social expression) and Jupiter in Taurus (expansive need for material/sensual comforts) suggested possible overindulgence. Cue Rep. Lauren Boebert and her skimpy Venus-in-Leo gold lame dress, with a performance that got the vaping, pistol-packing, Church Lady impersonator/grandmother (and her date) tossed out of a Denver theater (!) for explicit, boundary-pushing groping activity, as well as vaping (that was denied…until the theater’s security tape was released.) We can appreciate Boebert’s need to be disruptive, given her Sun-Uranus conjunction in Sagittarius (activated by last week’s New Moon at 22 Virgo). Her Mars-Jupiter conjunction in Pisces suggests an abundance of physical energy, and coupled with a Venus-Pluto conjunction in Scorpio, we can appreciate the potential for emotional extremes. We don’t have a birth time, but Boebert was born on December 19, 1986 in Alamonte Springs, FL. Her Moon is in Gemini, suggesting she needs to be the smartest, most entertaining kid in the room.

In the spirit of this week’s Sun-Neptune opposition, here’s one reporter’s account of how she finally kicked her vaping habit. And here’s how another woman connects with drug users to keep them from dying. This story reflects themes of Saturn in Pisces — structure, fear of isolation, empathy, and controls.

More incidents of Venus square Jupiter wretched excess include:

“Jann Wenner faces backlash after comments about female and Black musicians”.
“Russell Brand’s management agency severs ties after sexual assault allegations”. Brand is another born disruptor, with Uranus in a t-square to his 26 Capricorn ASC and Venus at 27 Cancer. Transiting Pluto is engaged with all three, and we appreciate the potential for a resistant-proof breakdown and transformation in the extreme. Brand is a Gemini with Moon in me-me-me Aries; Moon is conjunct a high-functioning Mars, and both oppose Pluto. His Mercury is 22 Gemini, activated by the New Moon in Virgo. Here is his horoscope.
Governor Kristi Noem (R-SD) is made headlines re: the outing of her allegedly long-running adulterous affair with political consultant Corey Lewandowski

Here’s an apt story of excess involving art, money and worth: “Danish artist who submitted empty frames as artwork told to repay funding.” The artwork — which was supposed to be a recreation of an earlier work about the relative incomes of average Danes and Austrians — was entitled Take the Money and Run. Shades of nebulous Neptune in this one!

“Senate ditches dress code“ as members opt for a more casual look…

Also reflecting tension involving matters of worth: U AW president Shawn Fein was on Face the Nation yesterday, arguing for automakers to place greater value on workers (who are striking). We don’t have a birth date for Fein.

It’s noteworthy that two talk show hosts — Drew Barrymore and Bill Maher — announced before Mercury turned direct that they’d be back in production, despite the fact that writers and actors are still on strike. Both hosts have now tabled that idea, as negotiations between labor and management will begin this week (as Mercury moves forward). Gosh, it would be so nice if they came to terms around next week’s trine between Mercury and Jupiter…but that may still be too soon.

Meanwhile, the big news this morning was:

“Five Americans detained in Iran walk free, released in deal for frozen Iranian assets”

Elsewhere…

A New Moon is apt for closed-door meetings and other clandestine activity. On Saturday, indicted Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was acquitted by the Texas Senate of the impeachment charges brought against him by Texas House Republicans (sound familiar)? Axios reports:

“Behind the scenes: National Republicans organized an under-the-radar campaign of outside conservative pressure on the Texas senators designed to neutralize mainstream media coverage, top strategists tell me.”

Finally…lookie! They just found the missing F-35, which apparently went into something called “zombie mode.” Yep, that’s surreal. Here’s to a few more days of the surreal…

…and here’s Beth Owl’s Daughter’s always-in-sync Tarot Card of the Week. Beth is offering workshops again, and on Saturday I attended a magical one…

Here’s the 411 on personal consultations.

Thank you for reading — and sharing — this forecast.

Take me to the dream…and other flights of Sun-Neptune fancy

Friday 9/15/23 & The Weekend: Looking Back (Continued); Living Large; Mercury Direct

September 15, 2023/in The Forecast

TGIF!

Much is happening astro-logically, especially in the horoscope of the United States. Gotta write about it, and especially for those Avid Readers and Avid Listeners who find my efforts valuable enough to support — either monthly or randomly — this forecast is for you, with much gratitude.

Here’s a reminder of patterns carrying us into the weekend:

FRIDAY: Note your dreams upon waking. Moon opposes Neptune at 6:30 AM ET, with added depth courtesy of a trine to Pluto at 9:49 AM ET. Astrology supports a slow, deliberate start to this day, as Moon will be void until 1:44 PM ET, when it enters Libra, seeking prominent expressions of fairness and balance in relationships. Mercury turns direct at 4:21 PM ET — so be mindful in all forms of travel and communication. This whole week may feature news of global cooperation and/or freedom of expression, especially in technology, aviation — and hey — maybe astrology, too — given the Sun’s trine to Uranus, exact at 9:23 PM ET. This evening, given that the Libra Moon travels without interference until 3;52 PM ET on…
SATURDAY…we may be in a long stretch of “on the one hand; on the other hand.” And then, a focused assertion or action in matters of justice and balance, as the Libra Moon meets up with Mars. Your Saturday night date could be sweet and indulgent, as Moon sextiles Venus at 7:57 PM ET. Humming in the background, and exact at 2:09 AM ET on…
SUNDAY…is the last of three squares between Venus and Jupiter. The first two happened on June 11 and August 22. A square between the two planets collectively known as the Lesser and Greater Benefics suggests good times and great fortune. The flip side — and there is always a flip side — is wretched excess. Another challenge in this case could be a stubborn clash of values, which then affects who gets what sized slice of the available pie (i.e., material resources, budgets, land, etc.). Will we be hearing more about a threatened shutdown as certain elected representatives in Congress argue about budgets and spending? [UPDATE: as I was writing this forecast on Monday, I deleted an answer to that rhetorical question, and I wish I hadn’t. Fact is (this is what I deleted), it wouldn’t be a proper Mercury retrograde without a strike — especially in transportation (cars) or communication. Thus the odds favor a strike. Plus, if you recall, the chart for the New Moon has a badly behaving Mars (Mars rules cars) in the 6th House (labor). Last night (Thursday), auto workers went on strike, for the first time in US history. Astrology wins again.] In your own personal world, if you have planets or angles — or angels — around 15 degrees of just about any sign, you could try your luck on a lottery ticket or two. But also watch any potential for expansion…or going overboard.

No sleeping in on Monday. The Moon will not be void. Humming in the background through the weekend is the annual opposition between the Sun and Neptune, exact next Tuesday. Here are headlines from the Sun-Neptune opposition in 2017.

And now, the news.

On Monday, I wrote about a pattern among the outer planets that appears to be reflected in the ginormous scale events we are experiencing. Pluto (power & resources) — now back in earthy Capricorn — is in a trine to Uranus (the disruptor), also in an Earth sign (Taurus). There’s rush of activity in global affairs, as certain leaders in certain countries scramble to structure and control earthly resources, either through cooperative ventures or by fiat. Neptune — which dissolves and/or idealizes whatever it touches — is in between Uranus and Pluto, in a harmonious aspect (a sextile) to both. Neptune is in Pisces, which refers to refugees, wipeouts, oceans, and floods. Saturn (loss, structure, strategy, karma) is also in Pisces, a sign which also refers to endings.

Here’s historian Heather Cox Richardson with the latest on North Korean leader Kim Jung Un’s train trek to Russia, where he and Vladimir Putin talked about alliances. For contrast, HCR then summed up the highlights from “a major speech today at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, Secretary of State Antony Blinken.”

There’s a rush of activity on the planet, too — and here, I’m talking about the devastating floods, fires, heat waves, seismic events, and other climate change disruptions that are commanding the headlines, as in:

Now, planets don’t do anything (as my teacher Noel Tyl used to say). “PEOPLE DO!” (he would then roar). And yet, there is a fascinating synchronicity between planetary patterns and events in life development. Go figure. Astrology is amazing.

Another pattern worth noting is Jupiter, which turned retrograde last month at 15 degrees of Taurus. Jupiter is currently close to Uranus, though the two won’t be exactly conjunct until April 20, 2024. Avid Readers will recall that Jupiter expands whatever it touches, and thus when Jupiter connects with Uranus, we anticipate an expansion of disruption…and since both are in Taurus, the disruption will be noticed in all things related to Taurus (land, material possessions, money, etc.). Got that? Point is, there’s arguably a BIG (Jupiter) WAKE-UP CALL (Uranus) in the news with respect to our collective earthly home (TAURUS), and we’re likely to see a re-emphasis of this wake-up call next April, for better (there’s always an upside!) or for worse.

Meanwhile…

The horoscope of the United States is receiving the fourth hit (almost!) of its Pluto Return, i.e., transiting Pluto is within minutes of an exact contact with the US natal Pluto.. Note that the contact won’t be exact — but it’s definitely being “felt”! But right now, Pluto is at 28 degrees of Capricorn, traveling backwards through that sign. Pluto turns direct on October 11 at 27 degrees 54 minutes of Capricorn. The US natal Pluto is at 27 degrees 32 minutes of Capricorn. Soooooooo close…and Pluto will stay at 27 degrees Capricorn until the end of October.

Until 2022, the US had never experienced this pattern, because it takes Pluto almost two and a half centuries to travel around a horoscope. However, as explained in this post from January 2022, the US has gone through periods when transiting Pluto was in a challenging aspect to the US natal Pluto, which means we can learn from past experience and know what to expect. And what we can expect is a shift in the balance of power and resources, which changed in the early 80s with trickle-down, voodoo Reaganomics (with transiting Pluto square Pluto)…and changed in the mid-30s with FDR’s New Deal (with Pluto opposing Pluto). This past experience is the astro-logic behind the economic policies advanced by the Biden administration — and here’s an example with respect to the newly declared auto workers’ strike — as it seeks to move power and resources away from a concentration in the hands of the 1%, and into the hands of everyone else. Got that? Astro-logically, it is time for a shift in the balance of power and resources in the United States, suggested by patterns it its horoscope. Another possibility — reflecting Plutonian breakdown and transformation in the extreme — is that the whole system crumbles and is born again in some other form.

“In first known joint statement, US presidential centers (13 of ’em) sound alarm about democracy“

Not being psychic, I’m not prepared to offer an anticipation of precisely what will happen, but I sure hope you are prepared to cast an informed vote in all upcoming elections. To check your voter registration status (which you should do periodically, to make sure you haven’t been (Plutonically) purged from the rolls), go here.

Anyhoo…

Now that you understand that Pluto will turn direct on October 11, and is beginning to slow down to a virtual standstill...and you understand how Pluto’s themes of power and resources are being received in the horoscope of the United States…

…you can understand why certain things happened in Congress this week, now that certain lawmakers are back from their summer vacation:

Instead of announcing a forward march on passing spending bills needed to avoid another pointless, painful government shutdown, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy endorsed (during a Moon void and Mercury retrograde) the opening of an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, with no evidence of any wrongdoing.

We can appreciate the squeeze McCarthy is feeling, given that in the last two weeks of August, his horoscope received the second of three passes of Saturn to his natal t-square, which includes his natal Saturn (yes, he’s having a Saturn return), which squares an opposition between his righteously opinionated Sagittarius Moon (the man desperately needs to feel respected) and his adaptable Gemini Ascendant. He also had a Mars return, and when Jupiter turned retrograde, it was oh-so-close to an exact conjunction with his Jupiter (so he’s feeling mightily expansive, in addition to feeling mightily energized and mightily ambitious/confined).

We should keep an eye on the first two weeks of January, when Saturn hits that t-square for the third time…and if he managed to hold on to his gavel, we should watch the end of March 2024 and all through April. That’s when Mars will oppose his Mars (so he can see what the seeds planted now will reap); Jupiter will finally meet up with his Jupiter; and Neptune will begin a series of oppositions to his perfection-seeking Mars. That might feel like waves washing away footprints in the sand…and it sets him up for a dramatic life change in January 2025.

Meanwhile…

“White House set for Hunter Biden battle as Republicans look to pounce.” This headline appeared on September 7th, less than two days before transiting Mars made a provocative contact with Hunter Biden’s natal Mars (in Aries) – Uranus (in Libra) opposition. Yesterday, the headline was “Hunter Biden indicted on gun charges after plea deal falls apart“. We do not have a birth time for Hunter Biden, but we can appreciate the anguished effort suggested in what we know of his horoscope, possibly exact in early January.

In other news…

“What Mitt Romney saw in the Senate,” which is summed up here by HCR if you’re unable to access the linked article in The Atlantic. Romney will not seek re-election to the Senate next year, and his announcement happened in sync with patterns in his horoscope suggesting liberation, rebellion, gravitas, reality checks, and cuts/losses. Transiting Saturn is squaring his Gemini Ascendant, for one, and note that Saturn is also on the Pisces Sun of Mitch McConnell. One of the revelations in a new book about Romney (see linked article) is that Romney texted a dire warning to McConnell about reports of likely violence on January 6, 2021 (he’d gotten the info from Senator Angus King (I-ME), who’d spoken with “a high-ranking Pentagon official”). McConnell….never responded. Romney is an apt example of the potential suggested in Beth Owl’s Daughter’s Tarot Card of the Week.
“Outflanked by liberals, Oregon conservatives seek to move state border” (and become part of Idaho)
“Republicans threaten to impeach newly-elected (by an 11% margin) Wisconsin supreme court judge”
“Court tosses Alabama congressional map after GOP refuses to draw second Black district” (that was mandated by the US Supreme Court).
“Texas Senate begins deliberations on Paxton’s future as Attorney General.” Ken Paxton was impeached on corruption charges, and the deliberations — true to the spirit of a New Moon — are happening behind closed doors.

There’s so much more to write about…so stay tuned.

In closing, in your own personal world, the weekend’s Venus-Jupiter square suggests potential for a grand old time. Venus refers to fashion, of course — and here’s what they were wearing at New York’s Fashion Week, which just wrapped. Venus refers to art, and note the timing of this obituary:

“Fernando Botero, Colombian sculptor beloved for his rotund figures, dies at 91″

Here’s the 411 on personal consultations.

Thank you for reading — and sharing and supporting — this Forecast.

Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia : July 27 2022: Botero Plaza (Botero square). Sculpture (caballero : rider) by Fernando Botero, a famous Colombian artist. RIP.

Monday 9/11/2023: Sneak Peek at the Week; New Moon in Virgo; Mercury Direct; Go Fly A Kite

September 11, 2023/in The Forecast

Good morning from New York (though it will be late afternoon or early evening by the time this is written and published because research).

Highlights for this last week of Mercury retrograde are:

New Moon in Virgo on Thursday
Mercury turns direct on Friday
Sun trines Uranus on Friday
Venus squares Jupiter for yet another time on Sunday

It goes like this:

MONDAY: Moon in Leo continues to drive the reigning need of the day, seeking opportunities to shine, shine, shine — and help others shine, too. Harmony with Mars at 8:05 AM ET may get you up and at ’em. A meet-up with Venus at 3:31 PM ET boosts creative play and regal social expression. A square to Jupiter at 7:54 PM ET makes it all larger than life. Moon cruises without interference until 11:05 AM on…
TUESDAY…when a square to Uranus suggests a surprise twist to a possible bubble of drama. Chill during the ensuing 14-hour Moon void. You know the Moon-void drill: roll with the twists and flakes, and don’t make a mountain out of a (possible) molehill crisis (of runaway drama). Take time to wander if you can; stick to routine tasks and/or CHILL!
WEDNESDAY: Moon enters Virgo at 1:18 AM ET, ready to clean up the confetti from Moon in Leo’s party. If the morning news is heavier than usual, it is aptly reflecting the cuts and losses of the Virgo Moon’s quest for exacting detail, opposed by Saturn. After another long stretch of Moon traveling without interference, its need to get things right meets up with Mercury — now slowing to a virtual standstill — at 6:04 PM ET. Clarity on a remembrance of things past?
THURSDAY: we are now in the balsamic phase of the lunar cycle, with no light from the Moon to illuminate us. Such times are apt for clandestine meetings and other actions you’d prefer to remain hidden (unless they’re happening on a eclipse, in which case, I’d argue there’s a higher potential for being outed…eventually). It’s not unusual to feel a bit listless or restless, sensing that the new cycle is just around the corner. A jovial mood may be yours upon waking, reflecting Moon’s trine to Jupiter at 8:27 AM ET. Then…another long stretch of Moon-in-Virgo organizing and refining until 9:39 PM ET, when the Moon meets up with the Sun.

Here is the New Moon in Virgo, set in Washington, DC:

Observations:

A New Moon offers us an opportunity to re-set intentions and goals for the next lunar cycle. Last month’s New Moon in Leo focused on creative self-expression, inviting you to consider how you express your bliss.Keywords for a New Moon in Virgo include perfection, discernment, work, service, integration, and analysis. We are invited to consider whom/what our creative self-expression serves. How does it function? How can we better co-opt and integrate it into our daily routine?Virgo also rules the digestive tract, which separates the wheat from the chaff. It processes elements that provide nourishment and eliminates those which do not. Some digestive systems work more efficiently than others. What is your process? Is it efficient? What does your gut tell you?
Our collective national gut may be a bit frustrated and inflamed with respect to cooperation, labor, health, and process, and I say this because Mars (action, assertion) is in Libra (which generally loathes conflict; ergo, possibly frustrating the direct expression of Mars) is in the 6th House — of labor, health, diet, cooperation. Upside: more peace-keeping efforts. Perhaps that UAW (Mars rules cars) strike can be avoided. [TRUE CONFESSION: in the first draft of this Forecast, I added, “but on the other hand, Mercury retrograde does suggest a higher probability of a strike.” Wish I’d left that in — as the auto workers have — as of Thursday 9/15 — gone on strike.] Downside: inflammation and/or passive-aggressive avoidance.
The New Moon falls in the 5th house for the US — hospitality, entertainment, children, speculative ventures. It is trine to Uranus (technology, space, aviation), suggesting innovation in those areas, and reaching across the aisle in general. It is also trine to Pluto, so we have a Grand Trine of planets in Earth signs, suggesting the projection of an aura of material abundance and self-sufficiency.
Pluto is on the Midheaven, drawing attention to the power of our national CEO.
Uranus is on the Taurus Ascendant, suggesting a disruptive front. Jupiter is also on the Ascendant, which suggests an expansive, confidence presentation, for better or worse. Venus — this chart’s ruler — is square to Jupiter, suggesting adjustments in expansive ventures need to be made.
Note that the Sun-Moon is also opposing Neptune, suggesting themes of peace-keeping, healing, oceans, water, drugs, toxins, oil, spirits of all kinds, and scandal, mirrors, and fog. Add that to the aforementioned Earth Grand Trine, and we have a pattern called a kite, explained here. With Neptune as the focal planet of this kite pattern, the potential is indeed high-flying. Imagine and make it real..grounded in that earthly trine!
I’ll have more to say about the patterns among Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto when I talk about the news.
Mercury is at it station — i.e., not moving — yet highly-focused in Virgo, where its influence is likely to be most felt during this lunar cycle in matters of money and worth, as well as the 5th house matters described above.
The Sabian Symbol for this New Moon is “a royal coat of arms.” This suggests themes of authority and power based on privilege and position, with those in power being challenged. Astrologer James Burgess notes that royals have traditionally been seen as spiritual leaders — which fits nicely with this New Moon’s opposition to Neptune. We’ll probably see efforts by those in authority (who come from a dignified lineage) to inspire faith, one way or the other. Meanwhile, astrologer Lynda Hill notes the downside potential of this Symbol. If royalty applies only to the select few, who’s going to do all the actual work? And will the royals — with their coat of (defensive?) arms — treat the workers with dignity?
You are more personally affected by this New Moon if you have planets around 22 degrees of Virgo, Pisces, Sagittarius, and Gemini. This include many, many, many people in the US who have risen to power or captured our imagination. Why? Because this New Moon engages the US Mars-Neptune square, often mentioned in this forecast. Here’s was going on in September 2019, when the Full Moon activated this very same Sabian Symbol (and US Mars-Neptune square).

Back to the daily forecast:

THURSDAY: After the New Moon, innovation is supported by Moon’s trine to Uranus at 11:37 PM ET.
FRIDAY: Note your dreams upon waking. Moon opposes Neptune at 6:30 AM ET, with added depth courtesy of a trine to Pluto at 9:49 AM ET. Astrology supports a slow, deliberate start to this day, as Moon will be void until 1:44 PM ET, when it enters Libra, seeking prominent expressions of fairness and balance in relationships. Mercury turns direct at 4:21 PM ET — so be mindful in all forms of travel and communication. This whole week may feature news of global cooperation and/or freedom of expression, especially in technology, aviation — and hey — maybe astrology, too — given the Sun’s trine to Uranus, exact at 9:23 PM ET. This evening, given that the Libra Moon travels without interference until 3;52 PM ET on…
SATURDAY…we may be in a long stretch of “on the one hand; on the other hand.” And then, a focused assertion or action in matters of justice and balance, as the Libra Moon meets up with Mars. Your Saturday night date could be sweet and indulgent, as Moon sextiles Venus at 7:57 PM ET. Humming in the background, and exact at 2:09 AM ET on…
SUNDAY…is the last of three squares between Venus and Jupiter. The first two happened on June 11 and August 22. A square between the two planets collectively known as the Lesser and Greater Benefics suggests good times and great fortune. The flip side — and there is always a flip side — is wretched excess. Another challenge in this case could be a stubborn clash of values, which then affects who gets what sized slice of the available pie (i.e., material resources, budgets, land, etc.). Will we be hearing more about a threatened shutdown as certain elected representatives in Congress argue about budgets and spending? In your own personal world, if you have planets or angles — or angels — around 15 degrees of just about any sign, you could try your luck on a lottery ticket or two. But also watch any potential for expansion…or going overboard.

Here’s how Beth Owl’s Daughter’s always-in-sync Tarot Card of the Week sees it.

And now, the news.

This headline — published at 9:38 AM ET on September 9th — caught my eye:

“Mystics stuck in seventh seed after stumble vs. Dream in home finale”

We’re talking about women’s basketball here. The Mystics are in DC; the Dream play in Atlanta. The headline contains words associated with Neptune (mystics, dream), and I was inspired to look at the chart for the headline for corroboration. I didn’t write about Neptune in last week’s forecast. Why was I seeing this symbolism now?

Take a look at the chart for the New Moon in Virgo, and you’ll see an answer to my question — in the form of a sneak peek of a much-anticipated future exact alignment among Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. I believe this alignment is being reflected now in mundane affairs in the form of sweeping global developments in ideals, technology, healing, and power & resources — just to name a few. If you read historian Heather Cox Richardson’s nightly Letters from an American, she presents the latest on global alliances and shifting balances of power that will make history, so you won’t miss a thing. In her last Letter, for example she begins with a recap of last week’s G20 summit in India.

Uranus refers to innovation, upsets of the status quo, shocks to the system, flashes of enlightenment, and wake-up calls. Uranus is in Taurus, where its mission since 2019 has been to disrupt matters of material comfort and security: food, housing, land; ownership (or lack thereof); physical senses and connections, especially when it comes to what is deemed to be appropriate in matters of touch. Here are predictions from 2019.

Neptune is in Pisces, currently within range of a sextile to Uranus. Neptune refers to oceans, drugs, intuition, dissolving of all things material, spirits, refugees, and oceans (among many other things), and it’s been in Pisces since 2012 — here’s what was written back then. Neptune rules Pisces in modern astrology, so multiply those themes times ten, and you’ll understand much of what’s happening in the mundane world.

A sextile is an aspect of cooperation and communication. We’ll have the first of five exact sextiles between Uranus and Neptune in November 2025 — over two years away, and they will continue into 2027. The last time Uranus and Neptune connected was in 1993, in Capricorn. That was the year The Addams Family was released, with a one-sheet of the family dressed in black, with the tagline “Weird is Relative.” The mission of Uranus-Neptune in Capricorn was to plant seeds for the innovation, disruption, dissolution, and/or idealization of All Things Capricorn (governments, patriarchy, banking, mines, etc.). The last time we had a series of sextiles between Uranus and Neptune was between 1966 and 1968.

This morning, an op-ed by imprisoned Russian dissident Vladimir Kara-Murza appeared in the Washington Post. Kara-Murza argues that “a window of opportunity for the reestablishment of the state on democratic principles will soon appear again in Russia,” suddenly and unpredictably. He reminds us that no one saw the sudden collapse of the Soviet Union coming in the summer of 1991 (except the astrologer Noel Tyl, as Tyl often told his students), but collapse it did by the year’s end. Russia’s new constitution was out in 1993 — during that wiggy Uranus-Neptune conjunction. If a change of form were to happen in Russia, between now and the end of the series of Uranus-Neptune sextiles, it would make sense astro-logically.

Here are other world events from 1993. Some are indeed otherworldly, as a Uranus-Neptune conjunction would suggest.

Meanwhile…

Avid Readers may recall that 1965 and 1966 were especially significant astro-logically because that’s when we had the last series of conjunctions (three) between Uranus and Pluto, which happened between 16-18 degrees of Virgo. Here is an article about those conjunctions, written in 1965 by the legendary humanistic astrologer Dane Rudhyar.

Avid Readers may also recall that between 2012 and 2015, we had a series of seven squares between Uranus and Pluto, all of which were documented in this forecast (here’s a link to the 7th one). The series of squares advanced the themes of the seeds planted during the conjunctions. The next stop in the Uranus-Pluto cycle is a series of trines, the first of which will be exact in 2026.

Astrologer Jamie Partridge succinctly expresses what plenty of astrologers anticipate will be reflected by the Uranus-Pluto trine (with Neptune sandwiched in between in a supportive sextile) in the mid-2020s:

So from 2026-28, we can expect some radical social, political, and economic change and perhaps the consolidation of political power in the hands of a few powerful eccentrics…[but] With Uranus sextile Neptune and Neptune sextile Pluto, the social, economic, and political transformation ahead should be more ethical and enlightened. [than what happened in the last Uranus-Pluto trines of 1921-22]

Note that these exact harmonies won’t occur in their current respective signs (Taurus, Pisces, and Capricorn). They will happen in Gemini, Aries, and Aquarius. In other words, these three outer planets will be moving out of Earth and Water, and into Air and Fire.

Planets at the end of signs are often reflected by a sense of urgency about completing whatever they are suited to do in that sign. By early 2026, all of the outer planets will have left Earth (Taurus & Capricorn) and Water (Pisces) behind, and thus we can appreciate why we are seeing such a push for structure and management of Earth and Water concerns — quite literally — now. Imagine what will be in the news on July 1, 2026, when Venus and Jupiter will be in Leo; Saturn and Neptune will be in Aries; Mars and Uranus will be in Gemini; and Pluto will be in Aquarius.

I can imagine a few topics making headlines, and I’m reading it about them now in The Future of the Mind, by the physicist Michio Kaku, which Wikipedia says:

…discusses various possibilities of advanced technology that can alter the brain and mind. Looking into things such as telepathy, telekinesis, consciousness, artificial intelligence, and transhumanism, the book covers a wide range of topics. In it, Kaku proposes a “spacetime theory of consciousness”. Similarly to Ray Kurzweil, he believes the advances in silicon computing will serve our needs as opposed to producing a generation of robot overlords.

This book was published in 2014, right in the middle of the Uranus-Pluto squares. When Uranus and Pluto begin their scheduled series of trines in 2026, many of the innovations Kaku foresees may become the norm. See how this works? Here’s what else was happening in 2014, per Wikipedia.

Meanwhile…

19-year-old Coco Gauff dispelled any silly stereotypical notion that Pisces are wishy-washy. Gauff won the US Open in a “thrilling” game. We don’t have a birth time, and looking at a horoscope cast for noon on March 13, 2004 in Atlanta, you might not see the potential for such a stunning victory. But if you’re an astrologer who uses solar arcs (another way we have of measuring time), you absolutely, positively would see — immediately — why she’s such a break-out star now, making waves for her fierce independence and her faith. Astrology is amazing.

Simone Biles is a Pisces badass, too, as recent headlines confirm — once again.

In other news, the timed horoscope of VP Kamala Harris continues to function as designed.

“Kamala Harris says she’s prepared to serve as president ‘if necessary.'” That was the headline, and this is the point. She was on CBS’s Face the Nation on Sunday, and she also said, more importantly, that she didn’t anticipate a need to serve as commander-in-chief. But transiting Saturn is at the top of her horoscope right now — and will be through the end of the year, so astro-logically, she should be at the top of her game, as anticipated years ago in this column written for Mountain Astrologer. Transiting Pluto is back in touch with her Libra Sun and Aries Moon, which also suggests empowerment. Last week, Harris made news in Indonesia when she defended a reporter’s right to shout a question at her while attending the U.S.–Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and the East Asia Summit.

Finally, as a resident New Yorker, I can’t forget that today is September 11th a.k.a. 9/11. Here are thoughts on that unimaginable day — first published here in 2015.

Stay tuned to this channel for continuing updates…and thank you for sharing this forecast.

Here’s the 411 on personal consultations. We will have a fine discussion together.

I was looking for a visual to illustrate my musings on the “Big Picture” suggested by developing patterns among the outer planets. This big picture frame is an actual building in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The sky’s the limit!

Tuesday 9/5/2023: Sneak Peek at a Short Work Week; Jupiter in Focus

September 5, 2023/in The Forecast

Helloooooo!

Yesterday was a holiday in the United States — and here at the home office, too, as it turned out. Over the past few days, I found myself needing to heed my own advice during intense days of planets changing direction: turn in, and tune out. Taking time for inner reflection is a necessary maintenance task. The alternative is burnout, in which nobody wins.

At 9:20 PM ET on SUNDAY, Venus absolutely, positively, turned direct at 12 degrees of Leo. Remember that Venus refers to who, what and how we need to love. It refers to money, worth, aesthetics, and social expression — especially in relationships. The image I use for Venus retrograde is a tin of sardines, partially open, revealing the stinky fish. What stinky fish in Venus-ruled affairs were revealed to you over the past 40 days? How did this impact your conduct in relationships? If you are familiar with your horoscope, and know what house Venus is in now, this will give you more information on the area of your life that was up for REview. It will take until October 8th for Venus to return to where it was when it turned retrograde in July. Between now and then, we may have opportunities to implement some of our Venus retrograde realizations.

When a planet is changing direction, it slows to a virtual standstill from our perspective on Spaceship Earth. This standstill lasts for several days, and matters related to that planet may be blaring in the headlines, not unlike the sound of a driver leaning on their horn. It was fascinating to see this article in the NYT a few days ago:

“For women with money issues, an A.D.H.D. diagnosis can be revelatory”

Astrology is amazing.

Venus turned direct at 12 degrees 12 minutes of Leo. The Sabian Symbol for this focal point is “an old sea captain rocking,” which suggests a holding pattern, according to astrologer Blain Bovee. Makes sense, with so many other planets currently retrograde.On the other hand, astrologer Lynda Hill offers this caveat:

this Symbol can sometimes indicate wanting to retire and withdraw from life too much so that it interferes with the ability to make a living or feel like contributing to society.

Highlights for this short work week are:

Mercury Rx trines Jupiter on Monday
Jupiter goes retrograde on Monday
Sun conjunct Mercury Rx on Wednesday
Sun trines Jupiter on Friday

And it goes like this:

MONDAY: I expected big news over the weekend in matters of publishing, broadcasting, sports, courts, horses — all things related to Jupiter. Why? Mercury trines Jupiter at 6:28 AM ET. And here’s a bit of big news: “Former NYT and BBC exec Mark Thompson will lead CNN.” It’s fascinating that Thompson officially starts on October 9th, when Venus finally exits Leo for Virgo, where it’s been since June 5th. Thompson’s predecessor, Chris Licht, was fired on June 7th.
MONDAY: Jupiter turned retrograde at 10:10 AM ET.

A pause, while we discuss Jupiter retrograde. Jupiter refers to growth and reward. It also refers to excess. Jupiter is halfway through Taurus, which refers to earthly possessions and structures, material comforts and security. Taurus is an Earth sign. When Earth gets too hot, it turns to dust. When it gets too wet, it turns to mud. As Jupiter has slowed to its turning point over the past two weeks, “too hot” and “too wet” have certainly demanded focus in the news. In the Nevada desert, for example, tens of thousands of Venus-in-Leo revelers were literally stuck in the mud at Burning Man.

The Sabian Symbol for this Jupiter retrograde is “an old man vainly trying to reveal the Mysteries.” This old man may not succeed at imparting his wisdom, but he’s going to give it his best effort, regardless. Astrologer James Burgess has a helpful take on this cryptic Symbol. It is fascinating to note that this degree — 16 Taurus –– is the same degree as last November’s volatile Full Moon, which 1) was an eclipse; and 2) happened on Election Day. Jupiter hasn’t yet arrived at the precise degree of the November eclipse, but it is within several minutes of it, and is arguably triggering an expansive release of developments that are related to whatever was brewing back then. It will take until March 25, 2024 for Jupiter to arrive precisely at 16 degrees Taurus, and it wouldn’t surprise me if there was a sudden expansion of matters related to November 8th and this Jupiter retrograde at that time.

Jupiter entered Taurus on May 16th, where it will stay until May 24th. Jupiter will be retrograde until December 30th, backing up to 5 degrees of Taurus. Wherever 5 – 15 degrees of Taurus fall in your horoscope is where you may notice a review or delays in projects intended for maximum growth.

TUESDAY: Moon is in Taurus (where it was all day yesterday), driving most of today with a need to build and maintain material comfort and security. If your email contained upsetting news, it may have reflected the sudden break suggested by Moon’s meet-up with Uranus, exact at 3:27 AM ET. Depth and vision can enrich the rest of the morning, as Moon sextiles Neptune at 9:59 AM ET, and then trines Pluto at 12:45 PM ET. Chill during the 3 1/2 hour Moon void. At 4:06 PM ET, Moon enters Gemini, seeking to be the smartest kid in the room — and probably talk about it, too. An authoritative block or advance weighs in around 9:49 PM ET, as Moon squares Saturn. Executing the marching orders of the aforementioned authority is supported by Moon’s trine to Mars, exact at 3:44 AM ET on…
WEDNESDAY. Meanwhile, an exacting idealism about getting things right is reflected by Mercury’s meet-up with the Sun at 7:09 AM ET. Time will tell if the goal of perfection can be achieved, given that Mercury is still retrograde. If your cable is spazzing out and appointments need to be rescheduled, try to take it in stride — at least until the 15th, when Mercury turns direct. Cooperation is favored in the afternoon, as the multi-tasking Gemini Moon sextiles Venus at 3:06 PM ET. Adjustments may be required in the evening, as Moon squares Mercury at 4:45 PM ET, and then the Sun at 6:21 PM ET. Then, for the next 24 hours, the Moon travels without interference. A buzz of information (which may be only rumors, given Mercury’s retrograde) may build in size, like a snowball rolling down a mountain until 6:21 PM ET on…
THURSDAY, when Moon squares Neptune (and now, I’m betting on the rumors, given Neptune’s potential for smoke and mirrors). Chill during the seven-hour Moon void. That means rolling with the twists and flakes that may disrupt efforts to move in a straight line. Avoid major purchases, especially impulsive ones. Don’t make a mountain out of a molehill of crisis.
FRIDAY: Moon enters Cancer at 12:59 AM ET, which in the US suggests a time for Congress — now back in session after a month’s long hiatus — to get focused on building and maintaining emotional and home/homeland security. If an exceptionally generous and/or benevolent proposal makes news this week, it aptly reflects the trine (harmony) between the Sun and Jupiter at 7:12 AM ET. Those not in favor may have their say around 4:33 PM ET, when Moon squares Mars. With Mars in Libra, the argument may be that it’s simply not fair. Coordinated communication is favored around 10:56 PM ET, as Moon sextiles Mercury.
SATURDAY: Moon in Cancer favors enjoying the comforts of home and family, and it is well-supported today by easy contacts with Jupiter, Sun and Uranus at 7:38 AM ET, 9:48 AM ET, and 10:34 PM ET.
SUNDAY: Note your dreams upon waking, Moon trines Neptune at 5:36 AM ET. A power play or emotional catharsis may erupt around 8:47 AM ET, as Moon opposes Pluto — and then goes void for the next 4 hours. At 12:39 PM ET, Moon recovers its focus and enters Leo for another lonnnnnnng stretch of no contact with the other kids in the cosmic sandbox. Moon in Leo needs to shine, shine, shine, and a good coping strategy is to pay someone a compliment. A Leo Moon is apt for creative play — and for drama kings and queens to take the stage.

Meanwhile, Beth Owl’s Daughter’s always-in-sync Tarot Card of the Week suggests a need for precision and focus in thought and communication.

And now, the news.

Jupiter’s virtual standstill and retrogradation suggests a blaring focus in matters of publishing, sports, education, and expansion, for better or worse:

“US deficit grows (thanks to higher interest rates & lower taxes) even as economy explodes”
“Native tribe to get back land 160 years after largest mass hanging in US history”
“One of the biggest cable companies says cable isn’t working”
“Texas fracking billionaire brothers fuel rightwing media (esp. in matters of climate change denialism) with millions of dollars”
“The story of our universe may be starting to unravel” includes flaws in the theory of how the universe is expanding
“Saudi Arabia, Russia, plan to extend 1.3 million barrel a day cut through end of year”
New information emerges in a suit against Twitter, “accused of helping Saudi Arabia commit human rights abuses”
File this hold-up under it’s about damn time this op-ed was written and published: “Three service secretaries to Sen. Tommy Tuberville: ‘Stop this dangerous hold on senior military officers'”

During last week’s long stretch of no exact aspects among the planets (except to the Moon), I anticipated a story akin to the collapse of an ice shelf into the ocean:

“This Alaskan glacier holds back billions of gallons of water. Until it doesn’t”

Despite my best intentions, I was not able to publish a recap of the headlines from the week before last, which featured a Mars-Neptune opposition (the surreal; scandal), Mars trine Pluto, Venus square Jupiter (excess) and a Sun-Saturn opposition (cuts and losses). Oh, and Mars entered Libra on August 27th, meaning it was at the Aries Point, putting matters of men, action, and aggression in the spotlight. Here are the highlights, from my notes:

“Spanish soccer’s ‘Me Too’ moment was a decade in the making” — and “Hermoso kiss sparks sexism debate beyond football”
In the US, “President of the powerful realtors group is accused of sexual harassment”
In Russia, on the day Mercury stationed retrograde, “Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin presumed dead in plane crash”

That was also the date of the Republican presidential candidates’ debate. Before the debate, I wrote:

I’ll be listening closely between 8:30 PM and 8:40 PM CDT for egregiously provocative spin, as Mars and Neptune activate all the angles of the debate chart…

…and for the record, that was when the candidates were arguing about abortion, with Ron DeSantis winning the prize for most “egregiously provocative spin.” Also for the record, NY1 provided a fact-check on that and other debate topics. It was declared that Nikki Haley — whose Sun is currently under the empowering potential of transiting Pluto — made a strong, positive impression. Vivek Ramaswamy generated excitement, which would be apt for transiting Uranus impacting his horoscope. His expansive stage is reflected by a natal Sun-Jupiter opposition, which just happens to be squared by Jupiter right now, and suggests he’s not going away until the end of March at the earliest. Chris Christie was the only man on stage who didn’t mirror the solid red tie worn by the former guy in his mug shot, and he and Asa Hutchinson were the only two who said they would not support the 91-felony-charges-and-counting front-runner should he win the party nomination, which seems surreal. Haley wore a suffragette-white suit tinted blue, bless her heart.

Notable obituaries in the past couple of weeks:

Bob Barker died at 99 — or as jokesters quipped “as close to 100 as you could get without going over.” The legendary crusader for animal rights and host of The Price is Right was a Sagittarius, born with Neptune on the Midheaven opposing his Aquarius Moon; Mars conjunct a Scorpio Ascendant. Here is his horoscope.
Jimmy Buffett — of Margaritaville fame — was a singer-songwriter who went on to become a successful businessman. w super-practical Sun-Moon-Mars in Capricorn, who bought a restaurant so he’d always have a place to perform. Known for giving his fans a grand old time, true to the spirit of his mission-driven Venus-Jupiter conjunction in Scorpio. Here is his horoscope.

Closing with this fun Mercury retrograde story:

“‘Please write me,’ she scribbled on a random egg in 1951. Someone just did”

Here’s the 411 on personal consultations. Mercury retrogrades are a wonderful time to reconnect with your astrologer.

Thank you for reading — sharing — and supporting — this forecast.

An AI-generated image of Jupiter, looking back.

THE
FORECAST