This week, the Sun enters Pisces for a season of reflection and release; the Last Quarter Moon in Sagittarius means we’re ready to let the good times roll; Mercury reignites energy as it trines Mars and introduces a lot of new details as it squares Jupiter; Mars finally turns direct. And April answers a listener question about Jupiter transits; why don't they seem luckier? Plus: Barking dogs, Mardi Gras, and Mercury’s footnotes!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

For more on this week's planetary news, read my column!

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Timestamps

[1:19] The Sun enters Jupiter-ruled Pisces on Feb. 18 (2:07 am PST, through March 20). It's time to let go of what isn't going to be helpful or necessary on the road ahead. 

[5:10] Moon Report! The Last Quarter Moon in Sagittarius (Feb. 20, 9:32 am PST) at 02°19’ Sagittarius is a final action point for the Aquarius New Moon on Jan. 29. Sagittarius has a big, joyous, “let the good times roll” Mardi Gras spirit. The Moon's Sabian symbol at this Last Quarter is 3 Sagittarius, Two men playing chess, the Sun is on Pisces, A petrified forest.

[7:50] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Last Quarter in an LPFC that began with the New Moon on Nov. 23, 2022, at 01°37’ Sagittarius. The First Quarter in this LPFC was Aug. 24, 2023, the Full Moon on May 23, 2024.

[9:23] Void-of-Course Moon (VOC) periods. On Feb. 17 (3:24 pm PST), the Moon in Libra trines the Sun in Aquarius. It's VOC for 55 minutes and then enters Scorpio (4:19 pm PST). Use this VOC Moon period to practice the art of small talk and brighten someone’s day.

[10:57] On Feb. 20 (2:05 am PST), the Moon in Scorpio trines Neptune. It's VOC for 2 hours 50 minutes and then enters Sagittarius (4:55 am PST). When the Moon aspects Neptune, intuition and access to our unconscious mind are very strong. 

[12:14] On Feb. 22 (12:38 pm PST), the Moon in Sagittarius squares Neptune. It's VOC for 2 hours, 31 minutes and enters Capricorn (3:09 pm PST). Monitor your mood and respond to emotions calmly, instead of overreacting.

[13:27] Mercury squares Jupiter at 11°43’ Pisces-Gemini on Feb. 20 (12:13 pm PST). Square aspects to Jupiter mean it's easy to get carried away and overdo it. Jupiter is on the Sabian symbol, 12 Gemini, A slave girl demands her rights of her mistress, Mercury is on 12 Pisces, An examination of initiates. These two planets are in mutual reception (each in a sign ruled by the other), so there is the potential to reconcile any conflicts between facts and opinion.

[16:0] Mercury trines Mars (Feb. 23, 8:58 am PST) at 17°00’ Pisces-Cancer. Your experience of this aspect will depend on how you're currently handling feelings of resentment, anger, or frustration. 

[17:36] Mars stations direct (Feb. 23, 6 pm PST) at 17°00’ Cancer, on the Sabian symbol 17 Cancer, The germ grows into knowledge and life. Mars has been retrograde since Dec. 6, 2024. Mars is the warrior planet, so anger and cutting ties must be managed carefully. Protecting your family, your home, and safety can feel urgent. 

[20:22] Listener Quentin asks about Jupiter transits; why don't they seem luckier?

[24:52] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[25:27] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

This week, the Sun and Mercury clash with unpredictable Uranus, bringing an exciting but potentially disruptive influence to the Leo Full Moon on Feb. 12 - and change could still be in the air for Valentine’s Day. Mercury enters gentle, imaginative Pisces for an extended stay. And a listener question about the Nodal opposition, when the transiting lunar nodes oppose your natal lunar nodes. Plus: Camel talk, treasure from long-ago voyages, and trash trucks and storage units!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

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Timestamps

[1:20] Mercury squares Uranus (Feb. 10, 11:28 am PST) at 23°18’ Aquarius and Taurus. Mercury is on Sabian symbol 24 Aquarius, Man turning his back on his passions teaches from his experience. Mercury's square to Uranus is about telling a new story, learning new things, and specifically teaching new things.

[2:50] The Sun also squares Uranus (Feb. 11, 11:30 am) at 23°19’. The two are conjoined this year on May 17, square again on Aug. 24, and opposed on Nov. 21. Sun/Uranus aspects tell a story of individual freedom and genius, and how they are developed through standing up for ourselves and challenging existing wisdom and rules.

[5:44] Moon Report! The Full Moon is in Leeeeeooooo (Feb. 12, 5:53 am PST) at 24°06’ Leo-Aquarius, awakening us to creative urges and the need for fun and romance. The Moon is on Sabian symbol 25 Leo, A large camel crossing the desert. This is a symbol of self-sufficiency, and a reminder that self-expression requires personal down time.

[8:55] The Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Full Moon in a LPFC that began with the New Moon on Aug. 16, 2023, at 23°17’ Leo. The First Quarter of this LPFC was on May 15, 2024, at 25°08’ Leo, and the Last Quarter is on Nov. 11 at 20°04’ Leo.

[10:32] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Feb. 10 (5:49 AM PST), the Moon in Cancer trines Neptune. It's VOC for 3 hours 12 minutes before it enters Leo (9:01 am PST). Intuition and sensitivity are a feature of this VOC Moon. But practice separating your feelings from other people's. Practice empathy, but don't forget boundaries.

[11:47] On Feb. 12 (11:12 am PST), the Moon in Leo opposes Mercury. It's VOC for 5 hours and 55 minutes, then enters Virgo (5:07 pm PST). Here is a VOC period to get in the habit of using your mind alongside your heart to make decisions or to communicate. Strike a balance between logic and emotion.

[12:27] On Feb. 15 (12:35 am PST), the Moon opposes Neptune. It's VOC for 3 hours 10 minutes, then enters Libra (3:45 am PST). Cultivate relationships with those who are artistic, spiritual, or who in some way inspire you. When you come across those people in your life, make it a habit to cultivate those relationships.

[14:02] Mercury enters Pisces, the sign of its fall and detriment, on Feb.14 (4:06 am PST). Take a deep breath and melt into heart-to-heart communication. Dig into some artistic and spiritual projects. Due to an upcoming Mercury retrograde period, Mercury in in Pisces on and off through April 15.

[16:40] Listener Judy asks about transiting lunar nodes in opposition to the natal lunar nodes. Check out Ep. 188 for a review of nodal returns.

[22:15] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[22:48] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

This week, Mercury's aspects to the Sun and Jupiter bring optimism, hope, and breakthroughs. Venus enters spicy Aries for a good long stay and enters an intense dialogue with Pluto. Jupiter stations direct, the Taurus First Quarter Moon encourages practical action toward New Moon goals. Neptune conjoins the North Node for fateful encounters, Mars makes a very productive trine to Saturn, and a listener question about trine aspects: Is their fortunate reputation deserved? Plus: Burnt lentils, birthday parties, and the god of caustic dinner conversation!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

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Timestamps

[1:31] Mercury trines Jupiter (Feb. 3, 1:51 pm PST) at 11º16’ Aquarius and Gemini. It's an inspiring combination for brainstorming and for dreaming up your future. Mercury's Sabian symbol is 12 Aquarius, People on stairs graduated upwards. Jupiter's Sabian symbol, 12 Gemini, is A slave girl demands her rights of her mistress.

[3:15] Venus enters Aries (Feb. 3, 11:57 pm PST) through June 5, including a retrograde period between March 1-April 12. Venus is in Aries inclines toward impulsive financial and romantic decisions.

[5:13] Jupiter stations direct at 11º16’ Gemini (Feb. 4, 1:40 am PST). Jupiter in Gemini amplifies gathering information, communication, and short-distance travel. 

[6:42] Moon Report! The Taurus First Quarter Moon is on Feb. 5 (12:02 am PST), 16º46’ Taurus-Aquarius. The Sabian symbol for the Moon is 17 Taurus, A battle between the swords and torches, and the Sun is on 17 Aquarius, A watchdog standing guard. Take action on your New Moon plans.

[9:11] The Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the First Quarter phase in a LPFC that began with the May 7, 2024 New Moon. The Full Moon in this LPFC is on Nov. 5, 2025 and the Last Quarter is Aug. 5, 2026.

[10:54] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Feb. 3 (2:19 am PST), the Moon in Aries squares Mars in Cancer. It's VOC 17 hours 24 minutes (!!!) then enters Taurus (7:33 pm PST). Practice emotional regulation.

[12:30] On Feb. 5 (7:29 pm PST), the Moon in Taurus sextiles Neptune. It's VOC for 3 hours 15 minutes, then enters Gemini (10:44 pm PST).  Remember, there are no mistakes, only discoveries.

[14:02] On Feb. 7 (11:52 pm PST), the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune. It's VOC for 3 hours 12 minutes and enters Cancer on Feb. 8 (3:04 am PST).  Focus on one task at a time.

[14:44] On Feb. 6 (10:11 pm PST), Neptune conjoins the North Node at 28º09’ Pisces, for the first time in 167 years ago (Jan. 1858). Look for citizenship to be in the news. The Sabian symbol for the conjunction is 29 Pisces, A prism. 

[16:49] Venus sextiles Pluto (Feb. 7, 4:14 am PST), 2º15’ Aries-Aquarius. Evaluate your relationships with money and other people. Socializing can put you in touch with power players.

[17:51] Mercury conjoins the Sun (Feb. 9, 4:08 am PST) at 20º59’ Aquarius, so Mercury will be cazimi when it’s within 17’ arc to the Sun. This cazimi period lasts from Feb. 8 (7:09 pm PST)-Feb. 9 (1:03 pm PST). 

[19:31] Mars trines Saturn at 18º22’ Cancer-Pisces (Feb. 9, 5:15 am PST). Mars is on 19 Cancer, A priest performing a marriage ceremony and Saturn is on 19 Pisces, A master instructing his pupil. Constancy in relationships, making a serious commitment, learning on an emotional level.

[21:37] Listener Trine Away asks about trine aspects. Is their fortunate reputation deserved?

[26:37] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[27:11] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

This week, the Aquarius New Moon and a penetrating Mercury-Pluto conjunction raise difficult truths and are a reminder that popularity is fleeting. The Aquarius Sun basks in the creative flow of confident, risk-taking Jupiter. As Uranus stations direct, the earth moves. Venus conjoins the North Node, and encourages joining with others to reach higher goals; and as she connects with Neptune, ask: How much is enough? And a listener question about finding motivation; can astrology help? Plus: Fulfillment, Fozzie Bear, and an undesirable demographic!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

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Timestamps

[1:20] Mercury enters Aquarius on Jan. 27 (6:53 pm PST) and will be in this sign through Feb. 14, 2025. Well-suited to science and technology, but wait til Mercury is in Pisces for heart-to-heart talks.

[2:34] On Jan. 28 (11:52 pm PST), Mercury conjoins Pluto at 1º58’ Aquarius. What’s hidden comes to the surface from nowhere, as suggested by the Sabian symbol 2 Aquarius, An unexpected thunderstorm. 

[4:17] Moon Report! The Aquarius New Moon is on Jan. 29 (4:36 am PST) at 9º51’ Aquarius. It's on the Sabian symbol 10 Aquarius, A popularity that proves ephemeral. Shake up the status quo, reveal hard truths, and persuade the world to be better, braver, and more compassionate. 

[8:03] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the New Moon in a LPFC that will expand out over the next three years. The First Quarter in this LPFC comes on Oct. 29, 2025, the Full Moon is on July 29, 2026, and the Last Quarter is on April 28, 2027.

[9:58] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Jan. 28 (7:48 am PST), the Moon in Capricorn sextiles Neptune. It's VOC for 3 hours, 43 minutes, and then enters Aquarius (11:31 am PST). Get yourself off that highly scheduled Capricorn treadmill.

[11:10] On Jan. 30th, the Moon in Aquarius squares Uranus (3:29 am PST). It's VOC for 11 hours 23 minutes (!!!), then enters Pisces (2:52 pm PST). Let others make the decisions for a change.

[12:20] The Moon in Pisces conjuncts Venus on Feb. 1 (2:06 pm PST). It's VOC for 3 hours and 4 minutes before entering Aries (5:10 pm PST). Establish a routine of bonding with the women in your life. 

[13:45] Uranus stations direct on Jan. 30 (8:22 am PST), at 23º15’ Taurus. It's been retrograde since Sep. 1, 2024. When a planet changes direction, it makes itself felt more than usual. 

[14:54] The Sun trines Jupiter on Jan. 30 (2:59 pm PST) at 11°18’ Aquarius and Gemini. The Sabian symbol for the Sun is 12 Aquarius, People on stairs graduated upward; Jupiter is on 12 Gemini, A slave girl asserting herself to her mistress. Explore your creativity, get the attention that you deserve, and have fun! 

[17:22] Venus conjuncts Neptune (Feb. 1. 8:33 am PST, 27º59’ Pisces) on the Sabian symbol 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under the Full Moon. This transit evokes the Fulfillment Curve, which emphasizes focusing on living comfortably without constantly chasing more material wealth. Check out Episode 132 for a review of Planetary Rulerships.

[20:32] Venus conjuncts the North Node (Feb. 1, 1:42 pm PST) at 28º09’ Pisces. This is the first of three conjunctions from Venus to the North Node due to her upcoming retrograde period. The other two are on April 1, 2025, and on April 23, 2025. 

[22:14] Listener Idaho Barry asks if astrology can help with motivation, and shares a favorite clip from The Muppets!

[28:40] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[29:11] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos for the coming year, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

This week, the Sun's conjunction with Pluto is an ideal time to let go, cleanse, and reset. The Last Quarter Moon in Scorpio directs us to escape obligations that don't suit us, and join with others to build new things. Venus and Mars fall into one another's arms for a sexy embrace, and their aspects to Uranus keep things fresh. Mercury gathers intel from Mars, Uranus, and Neptune, and April answers a listener question about fitting transits into your daily schedule. Plus: Making time for magic, getting what you want and wanting what you get, and going *ss over teakettle!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

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Timestamps

[1:26] The Sun makes its annual conjunction with Pluto (Jan. 21 (4:29 am PST) at 01º42’ Aquarius, on the Sabian symbol 2 Aquarius, An unexpected thunderstorm. Inside and out, do a good cleaning of whatever is unneeded or inauthentic.

[3:41] Moon Report! The Scorpio Last Quarter Moon is on Jan. 21 (12:31 pm PST) at 02°03’ Scorpio-Aquarius. Make a push toward your Capricorn New Moon intentions, overcome blockages and procrastination, and engage all of your determination to making things happen.

[6:14] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Last Quarter in the LPFC that began on Oct. 25, 2022, at the New Moon Solar Eclipse at 2° Scorpio. The First Quarter Moon of this LPFC was on July 25, 2023, and the Full Moon on April 23, 2024. Read more about the LPFC in Dietrich Pessin's amazing book.

[8:53] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On Jan. 20 (8:34 pm PST), the Moon in Libra squares Mars in Cancer. It's VOC for 11 hours, 46 minutes (!!!), and then enters Scorpio on Jan. 21 (8:20 am PST. Expect flared tempers.

[10:40] On Jan. 23 (4:03 pm PST), the Moon in Scorpio trines Neptune. It'll be VOC for 4 hours, 26 minutes, then enters Sagittarius (8:29 pm PST). Intuition will be strong.

[11:52] On Jan. 26 (1:40 am PST), the Moon in Sagittarius squares Neptune. It's VOC for 4 hours and 3 minutes, then enters Capricorn (5:43 am PST). Dreams could be vivid at this time. 

[13:18] On Jan. 23 (7:08 am PST), Mars sextiles Uranus at 23º16’ Cancer- Taurus. Sextiles represent opportunities and this could be an opportunity to activate your impulse towards self-preservation. Mars focuses us on what we need to work and fight for.  Check out “Malefic” Mars vs. My Poor Ears by Steven Forrest.

[15:33] Mercury opposes Mars on Jan. 23 (12:49 pm) at 23°11’ Capricorn-Cancer. Mercury trines Uranus on Jan. 23 (2:07 pm) at 23°16’ Capricorn- Taurus. The truth will set you free, but first it will piss you off!

[17:05] Venus trines Mars on Jan. 25 (3:54 pm PST), at 22º25’ Pisces-Cancer.  It's easier than usual for us to get what we want, so make sure it's something that's going to make us happy.

[18:56] Mercury sextiles Neptune on Jan. 26 (10:33 am PST) at 27º49’ Capricorn-Pisces. Put your inspirations into a form that others can appreciate. Get off your phone!

[20:34] Venus sextiles Uranus at 23º16’ Pisces-Taurus on Jan. 26 (3:11 pm PST). Venus is on the Sabian symbol 24 Pisces, An inhabited island. When Venus and Uranus connect, things seem more possible and exciting. Seek financial freedom.

[22:30] Listener Julie asks about making time to acknowledge transits.

[29:15] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[30:15] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos for the coming year, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

This week: A somewhat cranky Cancer Full Moon, flavored by contentious Mars and Pluto; the Sun finishes up its journey through Capricorn with connections to Mars, Uranus, and Neptune, then enters future-facing Aquarius. Venus squares off with Jupiter, then comes together with Saturn to stabilize. Opportunities arise when Mercury connects with Venus and Saturn. And a listener question about Pluto transiting the 7th house and its impact on potential relationships. Plus: Lashing out, spiritual etiquette, and what’s squirming under the surface!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

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Timestamps

[1:26] The Sun trines Uranus at 23°23’ Capricorn-Taurus (Jan. 13, 12:13 am PST). The Sun symbolizes a strong, healthy ego; Uranus transits demand that we reinvent ourselves. The Sun's Sabian symbol is 24 Capricorn, A woman entering a convent and speaks of entering a contemplative space to pursue a spiritual goal.

[3:12] Moon Report! The Cancer Full Moon is on Jan. 13 (2:27 pm PST, at 23°59’ Cancer-Capricorn). The Sabian symbol for the Moon is 24 Cancer, A woman and two men are on a bit of sunlit land facing south. The Sun is on 24 Capricorn, A woman entering a convent. Check how you’re balancing emotional connections with career goals.

[5:26] This is the Full Moon in the Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC) that began with the July 17, 2023 New Moon at 24°56’ Cancer. The First Quarter in this LPFC came on April 15, 2024; the Last Quarter is on Oct. 13, 2025.

[7:09] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Jan. 13 (8:45 pm PST), the Moon trines Neptune. It’s VOC for 4 hours 27 minutes and then enters Leeeeeooooo on Jan. 14 (1:12 am PST). 

[8:20] On Jan. 15 (8:10 pm PST), the Moon in Leo squares Uranus. It's VOC for 12 hours 36 minutes (!!!) then enters Virgo (Jan. 16, 8:46 am PST). 

[9:37] On Jan. 18 (6:01 pm PST) the Moon in Virgo trines the Sun in Capricorn, then is VOC for 1 hour 31 minutes before entering Libra (7:33 pm PST). 

[11:08] Venus squares Jupiter at 11°59’ Pisces-Gemini (Jan. 14, 11:48 AM PST). Appreciate what makes you feel good and happy without sacrificing too much in the process.

[13:17] The Sun opposes Mars at 26°12’ Capricorn-Cancer (Jan. 15, 6:39 pm PST). The Sun’s Sabian symbol is 27 Capricorn, A mountain pilgrimage. Mars is on 27 Cancer, A storm in a canyon. Practice being nonreactive.

[15:30] The Sun sextiles Neptune at 27°35’ Capricorn-Pisces (Jan. 17, 3:20 am PST). Make Neptune's dreams a reality.

[17:03] Venus conjuncts Saturn (Jan. 18, 5:26 pm PST) at 16°05’ Pisces. This aspect supports long-term commitments and responsibilities in relationship and finance.

[19:18] Mercury sextiles Saturn (Jan. 18, 11:38 pm PST) at 16°06’ Capricorn-Pisces. Time for a reality check! Gain a renewed perspective on stories about yourself.

[19:56] Mercury sextiles Venus (Jan. 19, 8:32 am PST) at 16°41’ Capricorn-Pisces. This is an opportunity to figure out what it is we want and to keep our eyes open for clarification.

[20:31] On Jan. 19 (12:00 pm PST), the Sun enters Aquarius. It'll be in this sign until Feb. 18, 2025. It's the season to pursue what’s important to us instead of following society’s dictates.

[22:58] Listener Candace asks about Pluto transiting the 7th House and its impact on relationships.

[26:54] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[27:24] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos for the coming year, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

Mercury the Messenger enters Capricorn this week, offers practical planning tips for the new year, and triggers imaginative Neptune. The lunar nodes enter the signs of Pisces and Virgo for an 18-month stay. Mars retrogrades into Cancer, where its trine to Neptune encourages compassionate action. The Aries First Quarter Moon is one of the most first-quartery First Quarters of the year. And a listener question about those transits that hit the same point in your chart over and over. Plus: Cognitive dissonance, tea kettles boiling, and proving your sincerity!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

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Timestamps

[1:32] Retrograde Mars reenters Cancer (Jan. 6, 2:44 am PST). It will station direct on Feb. 23, 2025 and reenter Leo on April 17, 2025. 

[2:37] A quick review of Mars in Cancer; why does it struggle there?

[5:14] Mercury squares Neptune (Jan. 6, 5:56 am PST) at 27°22’ Sagittarius-Pisces. When Mercury meets Neptune, intuition is especially strong. 

[7:07] Moon Report! The Aries First Quarter Moon (Jan. 6, 3:56 pm PST) at 16º55’ Aries-Capricorn, is one of the better Moon signs for breaking old habits, standing up for yourself, and doing what you’re afraid to do. 

[8:14] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the First Quarter in an LPFC that began at the New Moon/Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024 (19º24’ Aries). The Full Moon in this LPFC comes on Oct. 6, 2025 (14º08’ Aries), and the Last Quarter on July 7, 2026 (15º41’ Aries).

[9:59] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods for this week. On Jan. 7 (1:16 pm PST), the Moon in Aries squares Mars in Cancer. It's VOC for just under one hour and enters Taurus (2:11 pm PST). Practice speaking up when you’re upset so that things don't build up and then blow up!

[11:19] On Jan. 9 (2:50 pm PST), the Moon in Taurus sextiles Mars in Cancer. It's VOC for 2 hours and 17 minutes and then enters Gemini (5:07 pm PST).

[12:52] On Jan. 11 (4:03 pm PST), the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune. It's Void-of-Course for 4 hours and 21 minutes, then enters Cancer (8:24 pm PST). 

[14:26] On Jan. 8 (2:30 am PST), Mercury enters Capricorn and will be in this sign until Jan. 27, 2025. While Mercury is in Capricorn, it leans into its tempered, disciplined, organized side. 

[16:06] The lunar nodes enter the signs of Pisces-Virgo (Jan. 11, 3:02 pm PST). The North Node has been in the sign of Aries, and the South Node in the sign of Libra, since July 2023. Eclipses will now begin happening on the Pisces-Virgo axis until Feb. 20, 2027. As the North Node moves into Pisces, embrace compassion, spirituality, artistic interests, intuition, and faith. As the South Node transits Virgo, release negative judgment, criticism, and the insistence that only what we can experience with the senses, is worthwhile.

[18:50] Mars trines Neptune at 27°29’ Cancer-Pisces (Jan. 12, 1:16 pm PST). Volunteer, take care of others, make it a priority to give. 

[20:21] Listener “Saturn's Little Helper” asks about transiting planets making several exact aspects to a planet or point in the birth chart.

[25:34] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[26:05] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos for the coming year, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

This week, the calendar year winds down with a Capricorn New Moon and a message of care and kindness. Venus enters Pisces, a sign of unconditional love. Irresistible Mars makes the second of three oppositions to immovable Pluto. The Sun in Capricorn sextile Saturn, and Mars trine the North Node of the Moon, offer a vision of a dream that is within your grasp. And a listener question about combining transits and secondary progressions when you're looking at your chart. Plus: An albatross, agape, and achievements!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

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Timestamps (full show notes at the website)

[1:29] Moon Report! The Capricorn New Moon (Dec. 30, 2:27 pm, 09°43’ Capricorn) is on Sabian symbol 10 Capricorn, Albatross feeding from the hand. How will the seeds we plant at this New Moon grow into food for the soul, as well as the body?

[3:55] Lunar Phase Family Cycle. Messages from this New Moon are developed over the coming few years, with critical points at the First Quarter on Sep. 29, 2025; the Full Moon on June 29, 2026; the Last Quarter on March 29, 2027.

[5:10] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Dec. 31 (10:02 pm PST), the Moon in Capricorn sextiles Neptune. It's VOC for 4 hours and 48 minutes and enters Aquarius on Jan. 1 (2:50 am PST). 

[6:11] On Jan. 2 (8:13 pm PST), the Moon in Aquarius squares Uranus in Taurus. It's then VOC for 11 hours and 8 minutes (!!!), then enters Pisces on Jan. 3 (7:21 am PST). 

[7:30] On Jan. 5 (6:30 am PST), the Moon in Pisces makes a conjunction with Neptune. It's VOC for about four and a half hours, then enters Aries (11:01 am PST). 

[8:25] Venus enters Pisces on Jan. 2 (7:24 pm PST, through Feb. 3, 2025). Astrologers consider Venus exalted in Pisces - very strong, and capable of its noblest expression. 

[10:50] On Jan. 2 (11:22 pm PST), Mars opposes Pluto at 01º08’ Leo-Aquarius. This is the second of three oppositions between Mars and Pluto. The first was on Nov. 3, 2024, and the next is on April 26, 2025. 

[12:45] The Sun sextiles Saturn (Jan. 4, 2:36 pm PST) at 14°49’ Capricorn-Pisces. The Sun's Sabian symbol is 15 Capricorn, Many toys in a children's ward; Saturn's is 15 Pisces, An officer preparing to drill his men. 

[14:23] Mars trines the Moon’s North Node at 00°26’ Leo-Aries (Jan. 4, 10:20 pm PST). 

[16:45] Listener Paula asks about combining transits and secondary progressions when you're looking at your chart.

[23:06] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[23:35] A tribute to this week’s donors! You may want to check out Episode 252 for Kirstin and April’s discussion of Pluto in Libra. If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos for the coming year, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

This week, the Sun in Capricorn squares the lunar nodes and marks the critical midpoint between eclipse seasons; the second of three squares from Jupiter to Saturn, with trickster Mercury finishing its own series of aspects to both of those planets; Venus in sparkly Aquarius shakes things up with Uranus. And there is no major lunation this week, but we look at the void-of-course Moon periods and a listener question about what it means for a planet to be strong in your birth chart. Plus: Revealing the shadow, the tyranny of ownership, and conventional wisdom!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!

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Timestamps

[1:47] The Sun squares the Lunar Nodes (Dec. 23, 2:40 am PST). If you feel you’ll never reach the North Node’s brass ring, take heart: the Sun in Capricorn will not accept defeat. 

[4:22] Jupiter square Saturn (Dec. 24, 1:59 pm PST) at 14º01’ Gemini-Pisces. It’s the second of three squares in the series (Aug. 19, 2024 and June 15, 2025 are the others). The urge to dare and to risk conflicts with the desire to hold back and protect ourselves.

[7:14] Mercury opposes Jupiter (Dec. 26, 2:48 pm PST) at 13º46’ Sagittarius-Gemini, last in a series (Nov. 18, Dec. 4 were the first two). Don’t make assumptions based on common knowledge or how well you believe you know someone.

[9:07] Mercury square Saturn (Dec. 26, 11:29 pm PST) at 14º11’ Sagittarius-Pisces on the Sabian symbol 15 Sagittarius, A groundhog looking for its shadow. Themes are caution in revealing too much, and overcoming blockages in communication.

[11:20] Venus square Uranus (Dec. 27, 11:42 pm PST) at 23º43’ Aquarius-Taurus. This Venus wants freedom, but be careful what you wish for! But this is a strong aspect for artistic or financial breakthroughs.

[13:27] The Moon Report! No major lunation this week – the Capricorn New Moon is next Monday.

[13:40] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Dec. 24 (2:44 am PST), the Moon in Libra trines Venus, is VOC for a whopping 21 hours and 22 minutes (!!!), then enters Scorpio on Dec. 25 (12:06 am PST). 

[15:35] On Dec. 27 (6:24 am PST), the Moon in Scorpio trines Neptune. It's VOC for 5 hours 22 minutes before entering Sagittarius (11:46 am PST). 

[16:20] On Dec. 29 (3:34 pm PST), the Moon in Sagittarius squares Neptune. It's VOC for 5 hours 3 minutes, then enters Capricorn (8:37 pm PST). 

[17:34] Listener Jamie asks the musical question, “How can you tell if a planet is ‘strongly placed’ in your chart?”

[23:43] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[24:46] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos over the coming year, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

This week, the Sun makes a sensitive square to Neptune and enters Capricorn for the solstice. One of the loveliest aspects of the year, Venus trine Jupiter, celebrates the love we share with those who "speak our language." The Last Quarter Moon in Libra calls for prioritizing loved ones and collaborating on future goals. And April answers a listener question about using the Sabian symbols with your birth chart. Plus: A battery drain, strong knees and a thick skin, and just say no to excessive holiday socializing!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!

Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!

Love the show? Make a donation!

Timestamps

[1:17] The Sun squares Neptune (Dec. 18, 6:29 am PST) at 27°09’ Sagittarius-Pisces, on the Sabian symbols 28 Sagittarius, An old bridge over a beautiful stream and 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under the Full Moon. 

[4:20] Venus trines Jupiter (Dec. 19, 6:11 pm PST) at 14°37’ Aquarius-Gemini, on the Sabian symbols 15 Aquarius, Two lovebirds sitting on a fence and 15 Gemini, Two Dutch children talking. Catch up with friends who "speak your language." 

[6:19] On Dec. 21 (1:21 am PST), the Sun enters Capricorn, marking the Winter Solstice (shortest day) in the Northern Hemisphere and the Summer Solstice (longest day) in the Southern Hemisphere. 

[7:08] Capricorn season is when we explore our own ambition to rise, to adopt a long-term plan and pursue it day by day. 

[8:56] Moon Report! The Libra Last Quarter Moon (Dec. 22, 2:18 pm PST) is at 01°34’ Libra-Capricorn. This is the Last Quarter Moon in the Sagittarius New Moon cycle that began on Nov. 30/Dec. 1. 

[11:29] It’s the Last Quarter Moon in the lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began with the New Moon on Sep. 25, 2022 (2º48’ Libra). The First Quarter action point in this cycle was on June 26, 2023 (4º29’ Libra), and the Full Moon was on March 25, 2024 (5º07’ Libra). 

[13:11] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Dec. 17 (10:33 am PST), the Moon in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces. It's VOC for 5 hours and 6 minutes, then enters Leeeeoooo (3:39 pm PST). Listen to your gut, literally.

[14:32] On Dec. 19 (9:19 pm PST), the Moon in Leo trines the Sun in Sagittarius. It's VOC for 2 hours 18 minutes before entering Virgo (11:37 pm PST). Use this time to initiate a habit of setting time aside to just play. 

[16:14] On Dec. 22 (5:27 am PST), the Moon in Virgo opposes Neptune in Pisces. It's VOC for 5 hours 41 minutes, then enters Libra (11:08 am PST). Seek inspiration about how to make you home more organized and your life run more smoothly.

[17:50] Listener Elizabeth asks about Sabian symbols in the birth chart. Elsie Wheeler, Marc Edmund Jones, Lynda Hill and James Burgess were mentioned. Here is a link to an explanation of the Sabian symbol’s Karmic and Quest Degrees. Recommended reading: 360 Degrees of Wisdom,  An Astrological Mandala and The Sabian Symbols Brought to Life.

[25:13] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[25:46] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos for the coming year, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.