Big Sky Astrology Podcast

286 | Taurus Season: Thunderstorms in the Pasture!

This week, Mercury enters Aries and Mars enters Leeeeeeooooo; a very intense Aquarius Last Quarter Moon; the Sun enters the lush, tranquil pastures of Taurus, but the peace is interrupted when Mars charges into the field. Since it's such a busy week, April will forego answering a listener question, but that segment returns next week, so send your questions to april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com and put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
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
[1:45] Mercury enters Aries (April 15, 11:25 pm PDT) and will be in this sign until May 10. Mercury in Aries is excellent for dealing with situations that require quick decisions, decisiveness, and the courage to speak your mind.
[4:17] Mercury conjoins Neptune (April 16, 9:11 pm PDT) at 00º38’ Aries. Great for translating visions into a form that others can understand. Neptune is also associated with escapism, and lends sensitivity to other people and to content that you consume.
[6:48] Mars moves into glamorous Leo on April 17 (9:21 pm PDT). Mars previously went into Leo on Nov. 3, 2024, eventually turned retrograde and entered Cancer on Jan. 6, where it’s been ever since. It will be in Leo until June 17. Promote yourself and your ideas, and revisit any projects that you started back in late 2024. 
[9:06] The Sun enters Taurus (April 19, 12:56 pm PDT, through May 20). Count your blessings, contemplate what is needed for stability, pleasure, and abundance.
[11:30] Mars trines Neptune (April 19, 3:53 pm PDT) at 00°44’ Leo-Aries. Help the disadvantaged, cheer the despondent, incorporate spiritual and artistic influences. Help others, not just yourself.
[13:25] Venus, the planetary ruler of Taurus, sextiles Uranus (April 20, 11:20 am PDT) at 25º45’ Pisces-Taurus. This is the last of three sextile aspects between Venus-Uranus (the others were Jan. 26, April 7). In any kind of relationship, it's important to have freedom, our own friends, interests, and money.
[15:36] Mercury sextiles Pluto on April 20 (2:39 pm PDT) at 3º46’ Aries-Aquarius. Channel the intense mental energy of this combination into constructive, healing, and empowering activities.
[17:30] The Sun squares Mars (April 20, 6:34 pm PDT) at 1º12’ Taurus-Leo. This can be motivating, but tempers might be flaring. Try not to take things personally and hold grudges. The Sun’s Sabian symbol at this square is 2 Taurus, An electrical storm, Mars is on 2 Leo, An epidemic of mumps. 
[20:11] Moon Report! The Aquarius Last Quarter Moon (April 20, 6:36 pm PDT) is at 1º12’ Aquarius-Taurus, on Sabian symbols 2 Aquarius, An unexpected thunderstorm and 2 Taurus, An electrical storm. This is a highly charged and energetic Last Quarter Moon, marked by this T-square between the Moon and Pluto in Aquarius, Mars in Leo, and the Sun in Taurus. T-squares are motivating, but they can also be quite frustrating. Last Quarter Moons push us to complete the goals of the previous New Moon, in this case the Aries Solar Eclipse on March 29.
[24:09] This is the Last Quarter (final action point) in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began with a New Moon on Jan. 21, 2023, at 1º32’ Aquarius. The First Quarter (first action point) in this LPFC was on Oct. 21, 2023, and the Full Moon (awareness point) was on July 21, 2024.
[26:08] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On April 15 (7:24 pm PDT), the Moon in Scorpio trines Mercury in Pisces. It's VOC for just 13 minutes, and then enters Sagittarius (7:37 pm PDT). Take this very short VOC Moon period to initiate a habit of saying good things to yourself and to others.
[27:34] On April 18 (4:38 am PDT), the Moon in Sagittarius trines the Sun in Aries. It's VOC for 2 hours, 34 minutes, then enters Capricorn (7:12 am PDT). Have fun and laugh, even in trying times.
[28:34] On oh, so busy April 20 (10:21 am PDT), the Moon in Capricorn sextiles Saturn. It's VOC for 6 hours, 0 minutes, and then enters Aquarius (4:21 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon to get in the habit of getting done what needs to get done before allowing yourself some time to play.
[29:29] 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!
[30:01] 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.

285 | Libra Full Moon: An Unbalanced Butterfly!

This week, Venus and Mercury both station direct - for which, oh, be joyful! But first, Venus comes together with serious Saturn, makes a sextile to exciting Uranus, and is in charge of the Libra Full Moon on an intriguing Sabian Symbol. Mercury and Mars point the way to the North Node's pot of gold. And April answers a listener question about medical astrology. Plus: spiritual etiquette, a lurid obsession, and a kilt for the Chief Justice!
Join April on Sat. April 12 for a webinar about the annual Solar Return report, and what it says about your whole birthday year! Use code invisiblefriendsr for $5 off registration! Info and registration here.
 
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
[1:11] Venus conjoins Saturn (April 7, 4:01 am PDT) at 25º15’ Pisces. This is part of an ongoing series of Venus-Saturn conversations about how to make ends meet and how to support ourselves effectively, both financially and in matters of the heart.
[3:55] Mercury, retrograde since March 14, stations direct (April 7, 4:08 am PDT) at 26º49’ Pisces, on Sabian symbol 27 Pisces, A Harvest Moon. 
[6:03] Venus sextiles Uranus (April 7, 9:48 PM PDT) at 25°05’ Pisces-Taurus. A rebellious Venus, and if you get too wild, Venus's conjunction to Saturn guarantees that there will be consequences. A motivating transit, especially for more financial freedom, but more financial volatility as well.
[7:54] Mercury conjoins the North Node (April 10, 6:01 PM PDT) at 27º23’ Pisces. New information comes to light about how to attain desires.
[9:08] On April 11 (7:27 am PDT), Mars trines the North Node at 27°22’ Cancer-Pisces. What would spiritual, artistic, and romantic satisfaction look like to you? 
[10:13] Moon Report! The Full Moon in Libra is on April 12 (5:22 PM PDT) at 23º20’ Libra. Full Moons in general, and a Full Moon in Libra in particular, are closely connected with one-on-one relationships. Are our relationships fair, harmonious, in balance? The Full Moon’s Sabian symbol is 24 Libra, A third wing on the left side of a butterfly. The Sun and Full Moon form a T-Square with Mars in Cancer, introducing passion and potential for conflict in our closest relationships.
[12:32] This is the Full Moon (awareness point) in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began with the New Moon on Oct. 14, 2023 at 21º07’ Libra. The First Quarter Moon in this LPFC (first action point) was on July 13, 2024,  Last Quarter (final action point) comes on Jan. 10, 2026.
[14:04] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On April 7 (9:08 pm PDT), the Moon in Leeeeeeooooo squares Uranus in Taurus. It's VOC for 9 hours and 32 minutes, then enters Virgo (April 8, 6:40 am PDT). See things from other perspectives and share the spotlight.
[14:56] On April 10 (12:49 pm PDT), the Moon in Virgo opposes Mercury. It's VOC for 5 hours 23 minutes, then enters Libra (6:12 pm PDT). Take time out to meditate on tough decisions.
[16:25] On April 13 (3:01 am PDT), the Moon in Libra squares Mars in Cancer. It's VOC for 3 hours 53 minutes, then enters Scorpio (6:54 am PDT). 
[17:38] Venus stations direct (April 12, 6:02 pm PDT) at 24º37’ Pisces. When Venus is retrograde (since March 1), desires and aesthetics lean toward the unconventional and sometimes knock relationships off balance. Money matters have also been unstable. Venus turning direct should eventually settle relationship strife and financial unrest. The Sabian symbol for this station is 25 Pisces, The purging of the priesthood. 
[20:13] Listener Helio asks about medical astrology. Click here to download a medical astrology cheatsheet! For more on medical astrology, follow Kira Sutherland, @astrologyofhealth on Instagram.
[27:17] 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!
[27:53] 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.

284 | Venus Meets Mars in a Heartfelt Swoon!

This week, Mercury and Venus, still retrograde, revisit the North Node in Pisces for a second look at old ideas and relationship opportunities. Mars and Saturn connect with Uranus for sparks of the unexpected and of inspiration. The Cancer First Quarter Moon is the perfect moment to implement those Aries New Moon Eclipse plans. Look for lucky breaks when the Sun sextiles Jupiter. The week ends on a luxurious note, as Venus and Mars meet in a romantic trine. And April answers a listener question about retrograde shadow and storm periods. Plus: Tripping over debris, forecast for grumpy emotional weather, and hangovers.
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
[1:33] Venus retrograde makes the second of three conjunctions to the North Node (April 1, 1:39 am PDT; the first conjunction was on Feb. 1, the last is on April 23). Love, beauty, or desire are inspiration to pursue an important goal.
[2:30] Mercury retrograde also make a second of three conjunctions with the North Node (April 3, 11:53 pm PDT – the first was on March 1, the last is on April 10), adding insights as to how to achieve those North Node desires. 
[3:23] On April 4 (9:20 am PDT), Saturn sextiles Uranus at 24º55’ Pisces-Taurus. You may realize that you hold the key to your prison door. Saturn’s Sabian symbol is 25 Pisces, The purging of the priesthood, and Uranus is on 25 Taurus, A large, well-kept public park.
[7:01] Mars sextiles Uranus (April 4, 4:05 pm PDT) at 24º56’ Cancer-Taurus. Take bold moves but avoid unnecessary risks. Keep emotional reactions in check.
[10:02] Moon Report! The Cancer First Quarter Moon is on April 4 (7:14 pm PDT) at 15°33’ Cancer-Aries. The Sun and Moon are both comfortable in their signs and neither wants to compromise much. Emotional meltdowns are easily triggered.
[13:09] This is the First Quarter (action point) in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began at the New Moon on July 5, 2024, at 14º23’ Cancer. The Full Moon (awareness point) in this LPFC is on Jan. 3, 2026 and the Last Quarter Moon (final action point) is on Oct. 3, 2026.
[14:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On April 1 (10:43 am PDT) the Moon sextiles Mercury. It's VOC for 2 hours 43 minutes before it enters Gemini (1:26 pm PDT). Learn how to approach important conversations calmly and with compassion.
[16:57] On April 3 (11:26 am PDT), the Moon in Gemini squares Mercury in Pisces. It's VOC for 4 hours 24 minutes before it enters Cancer (3:50 pm PDT). Develop a habit of pausing before you react.
[18:39] On April 5 (3:54 pm PDT), the Cancer Moon trines Mercury. It's VOC for 5 hours 40 minutes, then enters Leeeeeooooo (9:34 pm PDT). Share feelings, bond over shared experiences.
[20:03] The Sun sextiles Jupiter (April 6, 2:44 am PDT) at 16º50’ Aries-Gemini. Put yourself out there, explore creativity, get some attention! But remember to balance exuberance with humility.
[22:15] Venus trines Mars (April 6, 5:13 AM PDT) at 25º29’ Pisces-Cancer. Savor some warm times and good food with loved ones. Venus might also be about money and how it is motivating you to work harder.
[23:53] Listener Elliott asks about retrograde storm and shadow periods.
[28:46] 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!
[29:20] 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.

283 | Solar Eclipse + Neptune in Aries: Boom!

This week - and what a week it is! - Mercury retrograde connects with the Sun and Pluto. Venus retrograde returns to the gentle waters of Pisces and conjoins Neptune at the tail end of that sign. We bid a fond farewell to eclipses in Aries with one last solar eclipse in that sign. And if you haven't taken to your bed by the end of the week, welcome Neptune entering Aries for the first time since 1861. And a listener question about how having many retrograde planets in your birth chart might impact your life. Plus: Looking Pluto in the eye, the subtle mind, and thank God for dirty dishes!
Learn more about this eclipse in your chart - order April's Followed by a Moonshadow eclipse report, based on your personal birth chart!
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
[1:31] Mercury retrograde conjoins the Sun (March 24, 12:48 pm PDT) at 4°24’ Aries. Think positively and pay close attention to how you speak to yourself. When a planet comes together with the Sun within 17’ of orb (9:10 am-4:27 pm PDT), it is called cazimi and considered extremely powerful. (For more details, check out Ep. 259).
[3:26] On March 25 (3:02 pm PDT), Mercury sextiles Pluto at 3º27’ Aries-Aquarius. Mercury with Pluto can reveal harsh truths and may lead to negativity. Channel this intense energy into productive outlets, including research.
[5:02] Venus enters Pisces on March 27 (1:41 am PDT, through Apr. 30). She was previously in Pisces between Jan. 2-Feb. 3, then entered Aries and turned retrograde on March 1. Time to revisit matters of love or money that were not concluded in January. Jupiter rules Pisces, so beware of overspending! 
[6:59] Venus conjoins Neptune on March 27 (6:13 am PDT). Partnerships, especially those involving money, may be challenged by lack of clarity or new awareness. Sudden infatuations can arise, but proceed with caution. You may gain a clearer sense of your worth and let go of what drains you. 
[8:56] Moon Report! The Aries New Moon Solar Eclipse (March 29, 3:58 am PDT) at 09º00’ Aries is on the Sabian symbol 9 Aries, A crystal gazer. This is the final eclipse on the Aries-Libra axis until 2032. This eclipse is connected to past eclipses near this degree on March 29, 2006, and March 29, 1987.
[13:20] This is the New Moon in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that unfolds over the coming three years. The First Quarter in this LPFC (action point) is on Dec. 27 at 6º17’ Aries, the Full Moon (awareness point) is on Sep. 26, 2026 at 3º37’ Aries, and the Last Quarter (final action point) is on June 26, 2027 at 5º21’ Aries
[14:51] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On March 24 (8:01 am PDT), the Moon in Capricorn sextiles Neptune, is VOC for 24 minutes, then enters Aquarius (8:25 am PDT). Make a habit of approaching everyday chores as a spiritual practice.
[16:01] On March 26 (3:15 am PDT), the Moon in Aquarius squares Uranus, is VOC for 9 hours 16 minutes, then enters Pisces (12:31 pm PDT). Get in the habit of seeing things from other people's points of view and making changes.
[16:50] On March 28 (1:30 pm PDT), the Moon in Pisces conjoins Neptune, is VOC for just 6 minutes, and enters Aries (1:36 pm PDT). Take short breaks to give your mind an intermission from reality.
[18:17] On March 30 (3:18 am PDT), the Moon in Aries squares Mars in domestic Cancer. It’s VOC for 9 hours 58 minutes, then enters Taurus (1:16 pm PDT). Spend time in the kitchen or doing chores.
[19:38] On March 29, Mercury enters Pisces (7:18 pm PDT), then almost immediately conjoins Neptune (7:46 pm PDT). Not a great day for logic or matters requiring focus and clarity. Indulge in naps, creative projects, and time for reflection.
[21:00] Mercury conjoins Neptune (March 29, 7:46 pm PDT) at 29°59’ Pisces. Neptune is like a sponge and intuition is strong, so be cautious about the sorts of messages you expose yourself to.
[22:04] Neptune enters Aries (March 30, 4:58 am PDT) for the first time since 1861-1875. It entered Aries that time on April 12, 1861, and history buffs will recall this as the day that the American Civil War began, fueled by extreme idealistic differences. “Idealistic” is a Neptune word, and “war” is an Aries word. Neptune will be in Aries through 2039 and is joined here by Saturn on May 24, 2025. On the plus side, it encourages us to look at ourselves as heroes of our own story and to find courage and proactive solutions to challenges.
[24:35] Listener Stephanie asks about how having many retrograde planets in your birth chart might impact your life.
[30:28] 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!
[31:01] 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.

282 | The Sun Meets Venus: The Star Point!

This week, the Sun conjoins the North Node and Neptune, then enters its Aries Season and the equinox. Venus comes together with Pluto and with the Sun to explore what's truly essential and joyful. The Capricorn Last Quarter Moon calls for an examination of what we've accomplished during this lunar cycle and how to reach the finish line successfully. And April offers a mini-lesson on the Venus Star Point. Plus: Delicious cazimi, becoming what we idealize, and a personal Venus story of love and music!
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Learn about April's personalized eclipse report!
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
[1:19] The Sun conjoins the Moon's North Node (March 17, 11:03 am PDT) at 27º23’ Pisces on Sabian symbol 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under the Full Moon. In this week between eclipses, recommit to taking a step toward what's important to you.
[2:58] The Sun conjoins Neptune on March 19 (4:25 pm PDT) at 29º36’ Pisces on the Sabian symbol 30 Pisces, A rock formation like a face is idealized by a boy who, as he grows up, begins to look like it. This transit reminds us that no one has all the answers, and we’re responsible for making something of our lives and our world. 
[5:35] On March 20 (2:01 am PDT), the Sun enters Aries (through April 19). This marks the vernal equinox in the Northern Hemisphere and the autumnal equinox in the Southern Hemisphere. The Aries Ingress chart is used by astrologers to cast a chart, using the capital of their country, to get a feel for what the upcoming year could look like. (Astrologers Nina Gryphon and Wade Caves were mentioned.) Aries is the opening of the new astrological year and is the sign that's closely associated with all new enterprises.
[8:58] Venus sextiles Pluto (March 21, 2:32 pm PDT) at 03º22’ Aries-Aquarius. The Sabian symbol for Venus is 4 Aries, two lovers strolling through a secluded walk, and Pluto is on 4 Aquarius, a Hindu healer. The challenge is to reconcile how to love life and people, even though we know that they're not perfect and will not last forever. Measure the importance of financial matters against the importance of relationships.
[11:44] Moon Report! The Capricorn Last Quarter Moon is on March 22 (4:29 am PDT) at 02º05’ Capricorn and Aries. Time to complete projects from the Pisces New Moon (Feb. 27). The Moon is on the Sabian symbol 3 Capricorn, The human soul receptive to growth and understanding. 
[14:00] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Last Quarter in an LPFC that began with a New Moon at 01º32’ Capricorn on Dec. 23, 2022. The First Quarter Moon in this LPFC was on Sep. 22, 2023, and the Full Moon was on June 21, 2024. Don't back away from your wishes, dreams and ambitions.
[15:49] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On March 19 (12:28 pm PDT), the Moon in Scorpio makes a trine to Neptune. It's VOC for only 49 minutes and then enters Sagittarius (1:17 pm PDT). Use this VOC period to practice tapping into your intuition.
[17:54] On March 21 (11:53 pm PDT), the Moon in Sagittarius squares Neptune. The Moon is VOC for only 36 minutes, then enters Capricorn on March 22 (12:29 am PDT). Accept whatever truths come your way instead of spiraling down a path of gloom and doom.
[19:13] The Sun and Venus come together in a conjunction on March 22 (6:07 pm PDT) at 02º39’ Aries. This conjunction is called the Venus Star Point. It's a powerful day to manifest the situations and relationships that are truly in line with your heart and values. You may gain insight into an important relationship.
[21:11] The Sun sextiles Pluto at 3º24’ Aries-Aquarius (March 23, 12:32 pm PDT). This transit reinforces a message of accepting yourself exactly the way you are. 
[23:11] Mini-Lesson: The Venus Star Point. Check out Arielle Guttman’s book, Venus Star Rising: A New Cosmology for the Twenty-First Century. Here is a link to Guttman’s page that has the PDF to find your Venus Star Point. This episode of The Astrology Podcast is a great resource as well.
[28:42] 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!
[29:13] 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.

281 | Virgo Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse: Clearing Out the Stress!

This week, welcome to the first eclipse season of 2025, which begins with this week's Lunar Eclipse in Virgo. Should you be terrifiiiiied?™ The Sun makes its annual conjunction to demanding Saturn but gets busted out of jail by Uranus a couple of days later. Mercury makes a conjunction to retrograde Venus just a couple of days before he begins his own retrograde period. And a listener question about the significance of the Midheaven and IC as South and North points in the chart. Plus: Hunches, dead zones, and a tenuous grasp of astronomy!
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
[1:30] Mercury conjoins Venus (March 11, 3:55 pm PDT, 8º47’ Aries) on the Sabian symbol 9 Aries, A crystal gazer. Look at the area of life represented by the Aries house of your chart - what do you want there?
[3:36] On March 12 (3:29 am PDT, 22º05’ Pisces), the Sun conjoins Saturn on the Sabian symbol 23 Pisces, Spiritist phenomena. It can be a productive, character-building transit, but it usually is not a cheerful one.
[5:51] Moon Report! The Full Moon (March 13, 11:55 pm PDT) is a Lunar Eclipse at 23º56’ Virgo. The South Node is in Virgo, so each eclipse in this sign points to releasing its harsh or negative aspects, such as worry and stress, excessive perfectionism, and destructive criticism. Previous eclipses near this degree: Sep. 13, 2015, March 14, 2006, and on March 13, 1998.
[10:55] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Full Moon in an LPFC that began with a New Moon on Sep. 14, 2023, at 21º58’ Virgo. The First Quarter near this degree was on June 13, 2024, and the Last Quarter is on Dec. 11, 2025.
[13:01] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On March 11 (1:16 pm PDT), the Moon in Leeeeoooo squares Uranus. It's VOC for 11 hours, 40 minutes, and enters Virgo on March 12 (12:56 am PDT). Is it worth toning yourself down in order to fit in?
[14:27] On March 14 (10:47 am PDT), the Moon in Virgo opposes Neptune. It's VOC for 1 hour 12 minutes, enters Libra at 11:59 am PDT. Get past idealizing others in order to get a clear idea of yourself.
[16:00] On March 16 (2:53 am PDT), the Moon in Libra squares Mars in Cancer. It’s VOC for 21 hours 37 minutes (!!!), then enters Scorpio on March 17 (12:30 am PDT). Restrain yourself from sending nasty messages or losing your temper on the road.
[18:37] The Sun sextiles Uranus (March 14, 2:16 am PDT) at 24°02’ Pisces-Taurus. Here is an opportunity to connect with people who make you feel as if you really fit into a particular group or network. The Sun is on the Sabian symbol 25 Pisces, The purging of the priesthood. Community is implied by Uranus’s symbol, 25 Taurus, A large, well-kept public park.
[20:15] Mercury stations retrograde (March 14, 11:46 pm PDT) at 09º35’ Aries. Generally, Mercury retrograde is better for revisiting past projects than it is for initiating new ones. The Sabian symbol for this station is 10 Aries, A man teaching new forms for old symbols.
[22:21] Listener Savannah asks about the significance of the Midheaven and IC as South and North points in the chart.
[27:26] 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!
[27:57] 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.

280 | The Sun Meets Mars: A Fiery Dance!

This week: It’s the calm before the astrological storm, but Mercury, the ruler of the First Quarter Moon in Gemini, enters zesty Aries and makes an aspect with Pluto. The Sun and Mars flow in a harmonious trine aspect, bringing plenty of energy and enthusiasm. And a listener question about how to work with planets in fall, detriment, and mutual reception. Plus: Important info up front, President Harrison Ford, and swinging Tarzan style!
Join April this weekend for a webinar on The Eclipses of 2025! It takes place on Sat., March 8 (10 am PST).Information and registration here!
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
[1:43] Mercury enters Aries on March 3 (1:04 am PST). A good transit for fast thinking and self-defense. But avoid moving too quickly without thinking; when Mercury goes retrograde (March 14), it will catch up with you.
[3:15] On March 5 (5:13 am PST), Mercury makes the first of three sextiles to Pluto (the others are on March 25 and April 20), at 3º00’ Aries and Aquarius. It’s the beginning of a three-part story about the truth of who we are, who others are, and the nature of situations.
[6:24] Moon Report! The Gemini First Quarter Moon is on March 6 (8:32 am PST) at 16º21’ Gemini. Take action on your Feb. 27 Pisces New Moon plans. Use Gemini's best qualities, such as a love of variety and willingness to try new things, but curb gossip and acerbic talk.
[8:33] This is the First Quarter in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began at the June 6, 2024 New Moon at 16º17’ Gemini. The Full Moon in this LPFC is on Dec. 4, 2025, the Last Quarter on Sep. 4, 2026.
[10:15] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Taurus sextiles Neptune on March 5 (2:53 am PST). It's VOC for 1 hour 36 minutes, then enters Gemini (4:29 am PST). Manage insomnia with a book or ambiance video on YouTube with a crackling fire or rain noises.
[11:23] On March 7 (6:57 am PST), the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune. It's VOC for 1 hour 32 minutes, then enters Cancer (8:29 am PST). Initiate a creative healing outlet (perhaps a tarot journaling practice?) for occasional emotional surges.
[13:24] On March 9 (2:32 pm PST), the Moon in Cancer trines Neptune. It's VOC for 1 hour, 27 minutes, then enters Leeeeoooo (3:59 pm PST). Life is stressful: enjoy a nice Sunday brunch! Indulge in joy, good food and drink.
[14:32] Mars trines the Sun on March 7 (9:13 pm) at 17º52’ Pisces-Cancer. Look for increased energy, enthusiasm, and focus. Dance off, anyone?!? The Sun's Sabian symbol is 18 Pisces, A gigantic tent and Mars’s is 18 Cancer, A hen scratching for her chicks. Give your joy and creativity to the service of the people and creatures that you love.
[16:30] Listener Percy on the PATH Train asks about working with planets in detriment, fall, and mutual reception. Astrologer Dana Gerhardt was mentioned.
[21:41] 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. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[22:14] 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.

279 | New Moon in Pisces + Venus Enters Her Confinement!

This week, Mercury sails the turbulent Piscean seas, connecting with Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and the North Node, on the way to a high-flying Pisces New Moon. The Sun crosses paths with Jupiter in Gemini and wishes for a little peace and quiet. Venus stations for her 40-day retrograde period. And a listener question about minor aspects; What makes them so minor? Plus: Restringing your guitar, extreme haircuts, and a square + a semi-square: does that sound minor to you?
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Timestamps
[1:25] Mercury conjoins Saturn (Feb. 25, 4:02 am PST) at 20º15’ Pisces. A reality check is in order. 
[2:58] Mercury sextiles Uranus (Feb. 27, 1:38 am PST), 23º35’ Pisces-Taurus. New ideas arise in conversation or in your environment.
[3:50] Moon Report! The Pisces New Moon (Feb. 27, 4:45 pm PST, 09º40’ Pisces) features a stellium of planets in Pisces and a square from Jupiter to the New Moon point. Look for tension between peace and quiet, and endless noise and distraction. The Sabian symbol for this New Moon degree, 10 Pisces, is An aviator in the clouds. Themes to work with during this New Moon: spirituality, collaborating on a creative project, forgiveness, and emotional and physical healing.
[7:25] This is the New Moon in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that unfolds over the next three years. The First Quarter Moon in this LPFC is on Nov. 27, 2025, the Full Moon on Aug. 27, 2026, and the Last Quarter Moon on May 28, 2027.
[9:18] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Feb. 24 (7:28 pm PST), the Moon in Capricorn sextiles Neptune. It's VOC for 2 hours, 12 minutes, then enters Aquarius (9:40 pm PST). 
[10:52] On Feb. 26 (2:04 pm PST), the Moon in Aquarius squares. It's VOC for 10 hours and 42 minutes (!!!) and then enters Pisces on Feb. 27 (12:46 am PST). 
[11:33] On March 1 (12:05 am PST), the Moon in Pisces conjoins Neptune. It's VOC for 1 hour 47 minutes, then enters Aries (1:52 am PST). 
[13:11] Venus in Aries stations retrograde on March 1 (4:36 pm PST) at 10º50’ Aries. It will be retrograde until April 12. Retrograde periods for all planets favor inner work over outer action in the matters that are ruled by the retrograde planet. With Venus retrograde, avoid major purchases, permanent relationship changes, and physical changes that can be hard to reverse.
[16:20] Mercury conjoins Neptune (March 2, 8:22 am PST) at 28º57’ Pisces, on the Sabian symbol, 29 Pisces, A prism. Be a little careful what you feed your mind, because it will become part of you. 
[18:18] On March 2 (10:19 am PST), the Sun in Pisces squares Jupiter in Gemini. The Sun's Sabian symbol is 13 Pisces, A sword in a museum, and Jupiter's Sabian symbol is 13 Gemini, A great musician at his piano. Good opportunities can present themselves to you around this date, but use a little bit of caution before we say yes.
[20:19] Listener Carmel asks, “Why are minor aspects considered minor?” Episode 260’s listener question, Ptolemy, Rick Levine and Noel Tyl were mentioned.
[28:15] 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!
[28:51] 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.