Welcome to Episode 251 of the Big Sky Astrology Podcast, and the second day of our Fifth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! Today: The Moon in Virgo opposes Saturn and squares Jupiter; Venus conjoins the South Node; and April interviews astrologer Armand Diaz, who represents the hard-working, often overlooked Pluto in Virgo generation that they share! Plus, all the Podathon news, including how to make your donation, receive special gifts, and be enrolled in a drawing for one of our fabulous prizes!

Tune in tomorrow for Day Three of the Podathon, featuring a discussion of Pluto in Libra with astrologer Kirstin Vasgaard!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

MAKE YOUR DONATION!

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!

Timestamps

[0:35] It’s the 5th Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon, with five daily episodes, all the week’s planetary news, some special podathon segments, and a chance to win prizes!

[2:53] Donate $25 or more to be entered into the drawing! One grand prize winner will win a 90-minute reading with April, a $275 value. Two lucky listeners will win a 60-minute personal astrology reading with April, a $215 value. Three lucky donors will win a copy of a Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report, a $35 value. To be entered in the drawing, make your $25 donation at BigSkyAstropod.com no later than midnight on Monday, September 9th. The drawing will be held on September 10th, and winners will be notified by email.

[4:00] Can't contribute $25 or more? That's ok! Donate $10 or more to gain access to April's private series of YouTube videos on New Moons, big planetary transits, or possibly a quarterly review. 

[4:21] If you can’t contribute financially, here are some free ways to help the show! Please subscribe or follow the BigSkyAstrology Podcast on your app of choice. Enthusiastic 5-star ratings and reviews are welcome and please share the show with your astrology-loving friends.

[5:22] Summary of the episode.

[6:10] Moon Report! The Moon opposes Saturn on Sep. 3 (5:37 am PDT) at 16°23’ Virgo-Pisces. The morning may not flow in the easiest way. A few hours later (11:34 am PDT), the Moon squares Jupiter at 19°20’ Virgo-Gemini. Gridlock may ease, but energy could get scattered, or you may realize that you bitten off more than you can chew.

[7:23] Venus conjoins the South Node as well today (4:58 pm PDT) at 06°39’ Libra. Take a moment to appreciate everything you've learned from former relationships and your past financial missteps.

[8:34] Pluto in Virgo was a relatively short generation, only 14 ½ years, Oct. 19, 1956-Oct. 4, 1971. Pluto retrograded into Leo between Jan. 14-Aug. 18, 1957 and between April 11-June 10, 1958. It also peeked into Libra between Oct. 4, 1971 and April 16, 1972, before leaving Virgo for good.  

[9:11] In non-astrological terms, this generation is sometimes lumped in with the baby boomers. Pluto in Virgo native’s developmental reference points were Watergate, the Reagan era and the AIDS crisis. They were the first generation that didn't remember life before television. This rather workmanlike generation is easy to overlook.

[10:10] Interview: Pluto in Virgo with Armand Diaz.

[11:56] What makes the Pluto in Virgo generation stand out, especially as astrologers?

[15:11] How has the Pluto in Virgo generation changed or is changing the field of astrology in their own quiet little way?

[18:03] The changes the Pluto in Virgo generation have seen in astrology. Check out Armand’s book Integral Astrology: Understanding the Ancient Discipline in the Contemporary World.

[22:25] Diversity, community and hierarchy discussion.

[26:26] Commonalities between the Pluto in Virgo and Pluto in Sagittarius generations.

[28:00] Let April know if you are interested in hearing the full interviews with the different Pluto generations by emailing her at april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com.

[28:48] And that's a wrap for the second day of The Fifth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! MAKE YOUR DONATION at BigSkyAstropod.com, and join April again tomorrow morning for another episode!

Welcome to the first day of our Fifth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! In this week's five special daily episodes, April covers the day's major astrological news and interviews an astrologer from five different Pluto sign generations! Today: the Virgo New Moon hits the reset button on health, work, and getting organized. Mars square Neptune asks us what we can do to make work more meaningful. And April interviews fellow astrologer, Linea Van Horn about the Pluto in Leo generation. Plus, all the Podathon news, including how to make your donation, receive special gifts, and be enrolled in a drawing for one of our fabulous prizes!

Tune in tomorrow for Day Two of the Podathon, and April’s interview with Pluto in Virgo astrologer Armand Diaz!

Read a full transcript of this episode.

MAKE YOUR DONATION!

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!

Timestamps

[0:36] It’s the 5th Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon, with five daily episodes, all the week’s planetary news, some special podathon segments, and a chance to win prizes!

[3:05] Donate $25 or more to be entered into the drawing! One grand prize winner will win a 90-minute reading with April, a $275 value. Two lucky listeners will win a 60-minute personal astrology reading with April, a $215 value. Three lucky donors will win a copy of her Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report, a $35 value, to help you prepare for the upcoming Sep. and Oct. eclipses. To be entered in the drawing to possibly win one of these prizes, you need to make your $25 donation at BigSkyAstropod.com no later than midnight on Monday, Sep. 9th. The drawing will be held on Sep. 10th, and winners will be notified by email.

[4:27] Can't contribute $25 or more? That's ok! Donate $10 or more to gain access to April's special series of YouTube videos on New Moons, big planetary transits, or possibly a quarterly review.

[4:59] If you can’t contribute financially, here are some free ways to help the show! Please subscribe or follow the BigSkyAstrology Podcast on your app of choice. Enthusiastic 5-star ratings and reviews are welcome, and please share the show with your astrology-loving friends.

[6:53] Planetary News: The Sun is leading up to its annual opposition with Saturn this Saturday. Keep pushing for the things that are important to you, but don't expect them to go all that smoothly.

[7:28] Moon Report! This Labor Day Monday, Sep. 2, brings the Virgo New Moon (6:55 pm PDT), at 11º04’ Virgo. This is the annual reset point for matters related to health, daily work, routines, and how we give ourselves in service to the world.

[9:51] Over the coming three years, this particular New Moon will unfold in a new lunar phase family cycle (LPFC). Look for developments in this New Moon’s intentions at the First Quarter Moon on June 2, 2025, the Full Moon on March 3, 2026 and the Last Quarter Moon on Nov. 30, 2026.

[10:30] Mars squares Neptune on Sep. 2 (9:09 pm PDT) at 28º59’ Gemini and Pisces. This is the opening action point in a Mars-Neptune cycle that began on April 14, 2022, at 0º Pisces. Does your work feels meaningful? What changes can we make to improve that.

[11:53] Interview with Pluto in Leo astrologer, Linea Van Horn of astrologeratlarge.com. Pluto was in Leo from June 13, 1939 - June 10, 1958, with little peeks ahead into Virgo between Oct. 19, 1956 – Jan. 14, 1957, and between Aug 18, 1957 - April 11, 1958, for a total of nearly 19 years. The Pluto in Leo generation are known as the “baby boomers.”

[15:53] Leo is a sign of the self. During the Pluto in Leo years, astrology has been developed as a tool for self-help, self-recognition, development of the self and learning about psychological issues through an astrological lens.

[16:44] Through the leadership of the Pluto in Leo generation, we have developed a plethora of astrological groups, organizations, conferences, and publications. Astrology gained more acceptance, and the the drive to retranslate ancient texts was led by this generation, specifically by the three Robs; Rob Hand, Rob Zoller and Robert Schmidt. The personal computer has revolutionized the field of astrology and those computers were largely designed by Pluto in Leo programmers.

[19:55] Reflections on the Pluto opposition experienced by the Pluto in Leo generation. Astrologer Geraldine Hatch Hannon was mentioned.

[22:37] Downsides to Pluto in Leo.

[24:23] Changes in the field of astrology that the Pluto in Leo generation have witnessed. Check out Michael Lutin's prescient Vanity Fair article. French astrologer Andre Barbault, was also mentioned.

[33:22] And that's a wrap for the first day of The Fifth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! Make your donation at BigSkyAstropod.com, and join us again tomorrow morning for another episode!

This week: A communicative Last Quarter Moon in buzzy Gemini; Venus embraces Uranus and the unexpected, seeks clarity as it opposes Neptune, and enters harmony-loving Libra; Mercury turns direct, and holds the door for Uranus as it turns retrograde; Pluto revisits Capricorn for one last top-secret meeting; and a listener question about the language of eclipses. Plus: Treadmills and carrier pigeons, walking-around money, and the power of beauty!

Also: the Fifth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon begins next week! Each Labor Day weekday, you can look forward to a new episode featuring the planetary highlights for each day along with interviews featuring astrologers from each of the Pluto generations that are practicing astrology: Pluto in Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, and Sagittarius! There will be chances to win prizes, and also a special new gift for all donors. Stay tuned next week for details!

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

[2:23] Moon Report! At the Gemini Last Quarter Moon (Aug. 26, 2:26 am PDT), reach out to those who might have good ideas or contacts for you. But be aware that Mercury is still retrograde, and watch out for miscommunications.

[3:50] This is the Last Quarter in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began at the May 30, 2022 New Moon, at 09º03’ Gemini. The First Quarter in this cycle was on Feb. 27, 2023, the Full Moon on Nov. 27, 2023.

[4:39] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On Aug. 28 (12:14 am PDT), the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune in Pisces. It's VOC for 1 1/2 hours, then enters Cancer (1:47 am PDT). Use both your feelings and logic to reach more well-rounded solutions.

[5:45] On Aug. 30 (8:24 am PDT), the Moon in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces, is VOC for 1 hour 45 minutes, then enters Leo (10:09 am PDT). Appreciate the coziness of your home and the routines that you really do value.

[7:01] The Moon sextiles Mars on Sep. 1 (5:25 pm PDT). It's VOC for 3 hours and 23 minutes before it enters Virgo (8:48 pm PDT). Are you getting enough good socialization? 

[8:04] On Aug. 27 (12:24 am PDT), Venus trines Uranus (27º14’ Virgo-Taurus). Enjoy the unexpected, and find beauty in what's unusual.

[9:37] Venus opposes Neptune (Aug. 28, 1:25 pm PDT, 29º08’ Virgo-Pisces. There could be a sense of urgency surrounding a purchase, but it might be best to wait it out for a couple of days until the fog clears.

[11:19] Also on Aug. 28 (2:14 pm PDT), Mercury stations to turn direct on the Sabian symbol, 22 Leo, A carrier pigeon. Open the flood gates and let those messages flow in.

[13:27] Venus enters one of her home signs, Libra, on Aug. 29 (6:23 am PDT) through Sep. 21. What needS to be released to restore balance to our lives?

[15:33] On Aug. 29 (7:32 am PDT), Venus trines Pluto at 00°03’ Libra-Aquarius, emphasizing the power of beauty and of money. The Sabian symbol for Venus is 1 Libra, A butterfly made perfect by a dart through it. Venus-Pluto sees the beauty even in the things that are a little harsh. 

[17:15] Uranus stations retrograde on Sep. 1 (8:18 am PDT, through Jan. 30, 2025). What makes you unconventional, unique? You might find, while Uranus is retrograde, that you’re ready to make some changes.

[18:52] Pluto enters Capricorn (Sep. 1, 4:57 pm PDT). It turns direct on Oct. 12 and enters Aquarius for next 20 years on Nov. 19, 2024. Pluto on the very last degree of Capricorn has a sense of urgency about it. Its Sabian symbol is, A secret business conference.

[20:30] Listener Eclipso, whose question about the eclipse Saros Cycle was answered on Episode 243, asks about the language of eclipses.

[26:33] 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.

[27:07] Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[27:38] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you’d like to support the show, please go to bigskyastropod.com where you can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor! Or be sure to join us for next week's PODATHON!

This (busy) week: The Full Moon in Aquarius highlights the tension between individualism and the collective; Venus’ aspects to Saturn and Mars call for restraining animal impulses and getting serious about relationships; Jupiter and Saturn struggle to coordinate the gas pedal and the brake pedal; the Sun squares wild and wooly Uranus just before entering meticulous, service-oriented Virgo. And April answers a listener question about the mysterious 8th house of the chart. Plus: A dog in the fight, accountants, and sex, death and taxes.

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

[1:26] Moon Report! The Aquarius Full Moon (Aug. 19, 11:26 AM PDT, 27°15’ Aquarius) is in stressful aspect to Uranus, highlighting tension between individuals and the collective. Look to the Scorpio house in your chart for relief.

[4:16] Specifically, the Sun’s (Leo’s ruler) square to Uranus (modern ruler of Aquarius) (Aug. 19, 9:45 am PDT) marks a time to let ourselves change, whether or not we want to.

[6:45] As Venus opposes Saturn (Aug. 19, 1:29 am PDT, 17º29’ Virgo-Pisces), relationships could get more serious and finances more stagnant. Try to move toward a more central and shared purpose. Venus-Saturn in aspect to Mars-Jupiter in Gemini. Tension, impatience and volatile tempers could factor into relational and financial matters at this time as well. Be mindful of your words.

[8:56] Jupiter squares Saturn (Aug. 19, 2:46 pm PDT, 17°27’ Gemini-Pisces), the first dynamic point in the Jupiter-Saturn cycle that in Dec. 2020. This is the first of three Jupiter-Saturn squares, with the second on Dec. 24, 2024, the last on June 15, 2025. Anxieties concerning inflation and the economy will be high. Check out Ray Merriman if you would like to learn more about financial astrology.

[11:41] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This week's Full Moon is part of a cycle that began at the Feb. 19, 2023 New Moon. The First Quarter action point in this cycle was on Nov. 20, 2023, and the Last Quarter is on May 20, 2025.

[13:15] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Aug. 19 (11:26 am PDT), the Moon opposes the Sun (the Aquarius Full Moon). The Moon is VOC for 4 hours, 26 minutes before entering Pisces (3:51 pm PDT). Reflect on what you want for yourself and how that impacts your contribution to others.

[14:23] On Aug. 21 (2:53 pm PDT), the Moon conjoins Neptune, is VOC for one hour and nine minutes, then enters Aries (4:01 pm PDT). Initiate better boundaries. Merge with Neptune by swimming, being near the water, soaking in a tub. Hydrate!

[16:26] On Aug. 23 (5:44 am PDT), the Moon trines Mercury, is VOC for 11 ¼ hours, then enters Taurus (5 pm PDT). If you quarreled with somebody during that Aquarius Full Moon, clear the air and reconcile.

[17:19] On Aug. 25 (6:40 pm PDT), the Moon sextiles Neptune; it’s VOC for 1 hour and 23 minutes, then enters Gemini (8:03 pm PDT). If you’ve avoided expressing your feelings, or are easily overwhelmed by them, form routines that help you manage those feelings.

[19:06] On Aug. 22 (7:55 am PDT) the Sun enters Virgo, until Sep. 22, 2024. Take this opportunity to get medical checkups for yourself and your pets. Deep-clean your home and garden. Fix what’s broken. Since Virgo’s ruler, Mercury, is still retrograde, things from the past could reemerge.

[21:35] Venus squares Mars on Aug. 22 (8:20 pm PDT) at 22º08’ Virgo-Gemini. Expect conflicts in relationships, values and finances. Venus is on Sabian symbol, 23 Virgo, An animal trainer. Will we dig in to one thing at a time, or let ourselves be distracted and move in a lot of different directions at the same time?

[23:37] Listener Jolene asks about the 8th house in astrology.

[28:51] 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.

[29:23] Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[29:54] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you’d like to support the show, please go to bigskyastropod.com where you can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor!

This week, the Scorpio First Quarter Moon says “no” to intoxicated chickens; Mars finds its equilibrium between Jupiter and Saturn; Mercury Rx re-enters Leo and squares Uranus; Venus needs to check its spending as it squares Jupiter; and April tackles a couple of listener questions about fixed stars. Plus: A marital crown, Lincoln vs. Darwin, and Bon Jovi's brush with Algol!

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: (full shownotes at website)

[1:09] Moon Report! The Scorpio First Quarter Moon (Aug. 12, 8:19 am PDT, 20º24’ Scorpio-Leo) is on the Sabian symbol 21 Scorpio, A soldier derelict in his duty, and the Sun is on 21 Leo, Chickens intoxicated. Take a stripped-down, focused action on those Leo New Moon intentions.

[3:25] This is the First Quarter in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began on Nov. 13, 2023, at the New Moon at 20º43’ Scorpio. The Full Moon in this LPFC comes on May 12, 2025, the Last Quarter on Feb. 9, 2026.

[4:50] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Aug. 13 (2:01 am PDT), the Moon in Scorpio trines Neptune. It's VOC for one hour and then enters Sagittarius (3:01 am PDT). If you are recognizing deception or trouble as it comes your way, that is a reward in and of itself.

[5:59] On Aug. 15 (9:52 am PDT), the Moon in Sagittarius trines Mercury in Leo. The Moon will be VOC for about an hour, then enters Capricorn (10:51 am PDT). This combination can help us get our point across to others by being imaginative, clever, and presenting things in an engaging way.

[7:03] On Aug. 17 (1:43 pm PDT), the Moon in Capricorn sextiles Neptune. It's VOC for about an hour, then enters Aquarius (2:44 pm PDT). Review habits and instigate new habits related to creating practical structures that guide intuition, creativity, and vision.

[7:45] Mars conjuncts Jupiter on Aug. 14 (8:21 am PDT, 16º40’ Gemini). Go ahead and multi-task but don’t give in to scattered thinking and actions.

[9:17] Mars squares Saturn at 17º42’ Gemini and Pisces on Aug. 15 (10:30 pm PDT). The Sabian symbol for Mars is 18 Gemini, Two Chinese men converse in their native tongue, while Saturn is on 18 Pisces, A gigantic tent. Making progress could be slow and full of obstacles but in the end, integrity and inclusivity are achieved.

[11:41] Mercury retrograde reenters Leo on Aug. 14 (5:15 pm PDT) and during this time it will be recovering the territory that it covered July 17-25. On Sep. 8, 2024, Mercury recovers this same territory again. Now is the time to get clarity on some projects that were dropped previously.

[12:29] Mercury retrograde squares Uranus (Aug. 18, 2:47 am PDT) at 27º10’ Leo and Taurus. Mercury is on Sabian symbol, Many little birds on a limb of a large tree. Think back to around July 21; if any technical or communicative issues were unresolved then, use this aspect to find a solution.

[13:58] Mercury conjuncts the Sun on Aug. 18 (6:58 pm PDT, 26º35’ Leo) on the Sabian symbol 27 Leo, Daybreak. When Mercury is about 17’ of arc within conjunction with the Sun, it's in a powerful condition called “cazimi.” At this conjunction, that's between about 3:30 pm and 10:45 pm PDT. If any communications or technical projects fell off the radar around July 22, use this cazimi period to tackle them.

[16:13] Venus squares Jupiter (Aug. 18, 10:53 pm PDT) at 17º21’ Virgo and Gemini. Do not write “big idea” checks that Venus in Virgo has to cash.

[18:05] Listeners Julie and Twirl ask questions about fixed stars, specifically Alphecca and Algol. April cites Bernadette Brady’ Brady’s Book of Fixed Stars, Reinhold Ebertin’s The Combination of Stellar Influences and Vivian Robson’s The Fixed Stars and Constellations in Astrology.

[30:41] 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.

[31:09] Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[31:41] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you’d like to support the show, please go to bigskyastropod.com where you can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor! Donate $5 or more to receive access to April’s Cancer Solstice episode.

It’s a light, vacationy week in the big sky, with no major lunation and only two planetary aspects of note: the Sun's stimulating sextile to Jupiter, and retrograde Mercury revisiting a conjunction to Venus; what did we overlook last week, when Mercury was at this degree? And in honor of April’s birthday today, a mini-lesson about the basics of Solar Return charts! Plus: An epic VOC Moon, sunshine after a storm, and the calendar of the Sun!

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:

[1:12] The Sun sextiles Jupiter (Aug. 7, 6:37 am PDT) at 15º32’ Leo-Gemini. The Sabian symbol for the Sun is 16 Leo, Sunshine just after a storm. This is a great aspect for taking chances, doing new things and going to new places.

[3:56] On Aug. 7 (8:12 pm PDT), Mercury, still retrograde, conjuncts Venus at 03º43’ Virgo. Express what’s important to you regarding financial and relationship matters.

[5:38] Moon Report! There are no major lunations this week so we are going to focus on the Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Aug. 5 (8:16 am PDT), the Moon in Leo squares Uranus. It's VOC for about 6 hours and then enters Virgo (2:17 pm PDT). It's time to open our minds and consider different ways of being in the world.

[7:08] On Aug. 8 (1:40 am PDT), the Moon in Virgo opposes Neptune. It’s VOC for 50 minutes before it enters Libra (2:31 am PDT). Look for ways to balance the rational and imaginative qualities that are present in your life.

[8:51] On Aug. 9 (2:45 pm PDT), the Moon in Libra sextiles the Sun in Leo. It’s VOC for 25 hours (!!!) before it enters Scorpio on Aug. 10 (3:34 pm PDT). Establish positive patterns of collaborating with others.

[10:08] Happy Solar Return to our Leonine host, April!!! A mini-lesson on Solar Returns. Check out Mary Shea’s Solar Return report and her book Planets in Solar Returns. You can also calculate your Solar Return on astro.com and on astrology software such as Solar Fire and AstroGold for Mac. You may want to review listener questions about Solar Return locations, in Episode 155 and Episode 201.

[22:39] 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.

[23:11] Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[23:42] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you’d like to support the show, please go to bigskyastropod.com where you can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor! Donate $5 or more to receive access to April’s Cancer Solstice episode.

This week, the Sun and Mars further the North Node's energetic agenda; as Venus squares Uranus, look for the unexpected in money and relationships; Venus enters modest Virgo; Mercury enters its latest retrograde period; the Leo New Moon is uncharacteristically reflective; and April revisits a listener question about the Sun's annual cycle through your birth chart. Plus: Retrograde hygiene, dreaming of fairies, and annoying mouth noises!

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

[1:20] The Sun trines the North Node on July 31 (1:48 am PDT 08º38’ Leo-Aries). The North Node’s Sabian Symbol is 9 Aries, A crystal gazer, the Sun’s is 9 Leo, Glass blowers. Create something new and beautiful from the breath of creative spirit.

[3:20] Mars sextiles the North Node on Aug. 1 (8:19 pm PDT), 08º23’ Gemini-Aries. Mars is on 9 Gemini, A quiver filled with arrows. What skills, contacts and ideas do you have to fan the flames of that pioneering Aries North Node?

[4:20] Venus squares Uranus on Aug. 2 (6:27 am PDT), 26º52’ Leo-Taurus. The Sabian symbol for Venus is 27 Leo, Daybreak. When Venus comes together with Uranus, we never know what's coming next in love or money.

[6:23] On Aug. 4 (7:23 pm PDT) Venus enters Virgo and is here through Aug. 29, 2024. Venus in Virgo favors modest surroundings, finds beauty in functionality, is particular in relationships, and organized about money.

[9:30] On Aug. 4 (9:56 pm PDT) Mercury stations retrograde at 4º06’ Virgo on the Sabian symbol 5 Virgo, A man dreaming of fairies. Mercury is retrograde through Aug. 28th. Simplify your schedule, reduce time on social media, finish up practical projects.

[12:31] Moon Report! The Leo New Moon (Aug. 4, 4:13 am PDT, 12º34’ Leo) is on the Sabian symbol, 13 Leo, An old sea captain rocking. To express Leo's creative potential fully requires periodic rest, refueling.

[15:19] This is the beginning of a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that unfolds over the coming three years. Pay close attention to what is important in your life at this New Moon. Action comes at the First Quarter of this LPFC on May 4, 2025, insight at the Full Moon on Feb. 1, 2026, final action at the Last Quarter on Nov. 1, 2026.

[17:15] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 29 (1:59 pm PDT), the Moon in Taurus sextiles Neptune. It is VOC for about half an hour and then enters Gemini (2:28 pm PDT). Learn to handle practical affairs more effectively.

[18:14] On July 31 (7:46 pm PDT), the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune, is VOC for about half an hour and enters Cancer (8:19 pm PDT). Use this time to write down what you are imagining, and what you're dreaming of.

[19:09] On Aug. 3 (3:31 am PDT), the Moon in Cancer trines Neptune and is VOC for 38 minutes before entering Leo (4:09 am PDT). Caring for those around you earns love and acceptance.

[19:56] Hop in the Wayback Machine to revisit Ep. 131 and a question from Listener Asher about the Sun's annual cycle through your birth chart.

[26:09] 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.

[26:41] Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[27:14] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you’d like to support the show, please go to bigskyastropod.com where you can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor! Donate $5 or more to receive access to April’s Cancer Solstice episode.

This week, the Sun enters its fiercest season as it slips into Leeeooooo! Its connections with powerful Pluto and ferocious Mars boost dynamism and creative energy, but heed your limits and be sure to get some rest and recreation. Mercury enters hands-on Virgo; get organized! The Taurus Last Quarter Moon brings an important eclipse season from 2022 to a close. And April answers a listener question about the mysterious 12th House. Plus: putting the “I” in AI, jammies and toast, and your invisible teacher!

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

[1:09] The Sun enters Leeeeeeoooooo, the Sun’s strongest sign, on July 22 (12:44 am PST). It's in this sign through August 22, 2024. Take some time to rest and restore during Leo season.

[3:29] Also on July 22 (10:37 pm PDT), the Sun opposes Pluto at 00°52’ Leo and Aquarius. Celebrate the glorious individual, but heed its limits.

[6:55] Mercury enters one of the signs of its rulership (some say exaltation too): Virgo (July 25, 3:42 pm PDT). It will be in Virgo through Sep. 26, 2024. Note that both Mercury and the Sun move into their strongest signs this week. Think about developing systems to make life’s tasks more efficient.

[9:18] On July 25 (7:32 pm PDT), the Sun sextiles Mars at 03º36’ Leo-Gemini. Use this extra energy to boost Leo's most creative impulses and make them real.

[11:12] Moon Report! The Taurus Last Quarter Moon (July 27, 7:51 pm PDT) is at 05º32’ Taurus and Leo. Gather resources to bring domestic-oriented dreams closer a reality.

[12:23] This is the Last Quarter in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began at the New Moon/Solar Eclipse on April 30, 2022 (10º28’ Taurus). The First Quarter in this LPFC was on Jan. 28, 2023 and the Full Moon on Oct. 28, 2023 (a Lunar Eclipse). What changes from those eclipses need to be brought to conclusion?

[15:33] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 23 (2:58 am PDT), the Moon in Aquarius opposes Mercury in Leo. It's VOC for about 3 ½ hours before entering Pisces (6:23 am PDT). This is an opportunity to shift your habits to better balance feeling with thinking.

[17:18] On July 25 (7:31 am PDT), the Moon in Pisces conjuncts Neptune. It's VOC for about 21 minutes and then enters Aries (7:52 am PDT). Try developing a new habit of focusing on tackling simple, easy-to-complete chores to help you deal with emotional overwhelm.

[18:38] On July 26 (3:14 pm PDT), the Moon in Aries trines Venus in Leo. It will be VOC for a little over 19 hours (!!!) before the Moon enters Taurus, on July 27 (10:22 am PDT). The courage to act on your desires is strong during this VOC Moon period.

[20:50] Listener Swimfan asks about the 12th House in astrology. Check out Episode 162 for another discussion about this fascinating house of the chart.

[28:51] 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.

[29:19] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share!

[29:53] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you’d like to support the show, please go to bigskyastropod.com where you can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor! Donate $5 or more to receive access to April’s Cancer solstice episode.

This is Mars’ busy week, as it aspects Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto, and enters Gemini – and busy is the way Mars likes it! The Sun and Mercury connect with Uranus, offering an opportunity to change our personal stories. The Full Moon in Capricorn encourages us to place ourselves in powerful positions. Venus makes a sizzling sextile to Jupiter, and the Sun takes a lovely vacation with Neptune. And April answers a listener question about the Saros Cycle. Plus: A strong fist and a live wire, wooing with words, and stepping into power!

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Timestamps (full show notes here)

[1:19] Mars conjoins Uranus on July 15 (7:05 am PDT) at 26°19’ Taurus. It's the first conjunction between these two since Aug. 1, 2022. Be aware of impulsive actions that can lead to unexpected challenges.

[3:25] On July 18 (7:00 am PDT), the Sun sextiles Uranus at 26°25’ Cancer-Taurus. Embrace change.

[5:14] Mars sextiles Neptune on July 20 (8:17 am PDT) at 29°50’ Taurus-Pisces. Put all your practical efforts to work for altruistic purposes.

[6:30] Mars enters Gemini that same day, July 20 (1:43 pm PDT) and will be in Gemini until Sep. 4, 2024. Mars, the planet of work, will now transcend the physical, and this becomes a transit for hard mental work. For Mars in Gemini inspiration, check out this travel adventure channel! 

[8:53] On July 21 (8:47 pm PDT) Mars trines Pluto at 00°53’ Gemini-Aquarius. An opportunity to move larger groups of people with your communication.

[9:50] Moon Report! The Capricorn Full Moon (July 21, 3:17am PDT, 29º08’ Capricorn) is on the Sabian symbol 30 Capricorn, A secret business conference. 29°, known as the anaretic degree, brings a strong sense of impending change. 

[13:11] This is the Full Moon in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC) that began on Jan. 21, 2023, with the New Moon at 01º32’ Aquarius (also conjunct Pluto). The First Quarter in this LPFC was on Oct. 21, 2023, and the Last Quarter Moon is on April 20, 2025. Pull out your notes from your New Moon Workbook to see connections between these periods of time.

[15:45] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 16 (6:10 pm PDT), the Moon in Scorpio trines Neptune in Pisces. It's VOC for about 15 minutes before it enters Sagittarius (6:25 pm PDT). Hang out with loved ones and get creative.

[16:57] On July 19 (12:58 am PDT), the Moon in Sagittarius squares Neptune. It's VOC for about 16 minutes, and then enters Capricorn (1:14 am PDT). Have the humility to consider other points of view. Get out into the brush like Big Foot!

[18:14] On July 21 (4:26 am PDT), the Moon in Capricorn sextiles Neptune. It's VOC for about 17 minutes, then enters Aquarius (4:43 am PDT). How you can use your practical gifts on behalf of the people in your life who need your help right now?

[18:59] Venus sextiles Jupiter (July 21, 1:43 pm PDT), at 12º30’ Leo and Gemini. Venus’ Sabian symbol is 13 Leo, An old sea captain rocking. The Sabian symbol for Jupiter is 13 Gemini, A great musician at his piano. Experiment with different creative outlets. Woo the object of your affection with skillful language.

[21:29] On July 21 (3:21 pm PDT), Mercury squares Uranus at 26°32’ Leo-Taurus. Tell a new story about yourself and be on the lookout for new opportunities.

[22:34] The Sun trines Neptune on July 21 (8:25 pm PDT) at 29°49’ Cancer-Pisces. Slip quietly into a new way of being or go on a sabbatical. Rest to recharge.

[23:47] Listener Eclipso asks about the Saros Cycle. Recommended reading: Predictive Astrology, The Eagle and the Lark by Bernadette Brady.

[30:47] 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.

[31:22] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share!

[31:58] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you’d like to support the show, please go to bigskyastropod.com where you can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor! Donate $5 or more to receive access to April’s special equinox and solstice episodes.

This week, relationships take an unexpectedly deep turn when Venus, freshly in Leo, connects with Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. Mercury and Jupiter's optimistic sextile aspect turn the corners of the mind upward into a smile. The Sun trines Saturn for healthy boundary setting and discipline, and the First Quarter Moon in Libra encourages us to rely on others to help us move beyond our comfort zone. Plus: Jeans and t-shirts, flamboyant wooing, and taking things to the extreme!

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

[1:20] Venus sextiles Uranus (July 8, 4:04 am PDT), 26°02 Cancer-Taurus. Unexpected opportunities in relationships, money, desire, and values are possible.

[2:47] Mercury sextiles Jupiter (July 8, 7:26 am PDT), 09°50’ Leo-Gemini. Seize opportunities to increase your contact list; this is a great day to socialize and network.

[3:47] The Sun trines Saturn (July 10, 8:04 PDT), 19°19’ Cancer-Pisces. The Sabian symbol for the Sun at this trine is 20 Cancer, Gondoliers in a serenade; Saturn is on 20 Pisces, A table set for an evening meal. If you can establish boundaries and embrace your own sense of authority, terrific breakthroughs in career arise.

[6:34] Venus trines Neptune (July 11, 7:32 am PDT), 29º54’ Cancer-Pisces. Resolve home and family issues with a sense of beauty and connection. Artistic creations are well-received.

[8:38] Venus enters Leeeeeeoooooo (July 11, 9:18 am PDT) and is in this sign until Aug. 4, 2024. Glam it up! This is a positive placement for creating something that lasts the test of time, but don’t bite off more than you can chew. Shower loved ones with affection.

[10:45] On July 12 (7:12 am PDT), Venus opposes Pluto (01º07’ Leo-Aquarius). Expect intense romantic feelings and financial fluctuations. Conversations deepen in matters of love and money.

[13:24] Moon Report! The Libra First Quarter Moon is on July 13 (3:49 pm PDT, 22º00’ Libra-Cancer). Expand your inner circle.

[16:20] This is the First Quarter in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began at the Libra New Moon on Oct. 14, 2023 (21º07’ Libra). The Full Moon in this LPFC comes on April 12, 2025, and the Last Quarter on Jan. 10, 2026.

[17:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 8 (11:03 pm PDT), the Moon in Leo squares Uranus in Taurus. It's VOC for about 7 ¾ hours, then enters Virgo on July 9 (6:47 am PDT). If celebrating ourselves has gotten out of hand, Uranus in Taurus will help correct course.

[19:11] The Moon opposes Neptune on July 11 (6:54 pm PDT) and is VOC for only 11 minutes, before it enters Libra (7:06 pm PDT). Keep your eyes open for little messages on how to balance feelings and intellect.

[21:05] On July 13 (3:48 pm PDT), the Moon squares the Sun at 22º00’ Libra and Cancer (the First Quarter Moon). The Moon is VOC for 16 hours (!!!) before it enters Scorpio (July 14, 7:52 am PDT). Establish more positive habits related to the tension between family and partner, or familiar surroundings vs sociability.

[22:09] April is prepping for her first-ever sabbatical (!!!) so there is no listener question or mini-lesson this week. Never fear though; they will return in the next episode. April is away from July 15-Aug. 12, but new episodes will continue!

[22:56] 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.

[23:29] Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

[24:00] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you’d like to support the show, please go to bigskyastropod.com where you can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor! Donate $5 or more to receive access to April’s Cancer Solstice episode.