Big Sky Astrology Podcast

296 | Cancer New Moon: Phoning Home!

This week, the Sun’s square to Neptune asks, “Who are you, really?” And as the Sun conjoins Jupiter just in time for the Cancer New Moon, we learn something about traveling far to find our tribe and the wandering ways we might have to sacrifice in order to belong. And Mercury enters Leeeeoooo for a storytelling journey that involves the mentorship of Saturn, the imagination of Neptune, and the soul-bearing honesty of Pluto. And a listener question about the Part of Fortune. Plus: Phoning home, sitting at the supper table, and the stuff of legend.
 
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Timestamps
[1:32] The Sun squares Neptune (June 23, 1:29 AM PDT) at 2°08’ Cancer-Aries. The Sun in connection with Neptune, often suggests a crisis of confidence when we ask, “Who am I? What do I want?”
[3:14] The Sun conjoins Jupiter (June 24, 8:17 AM PDT) at 3º21’ Cancer. Yearning for a big, bold adventure that gives us a chance to be part of a community. The film Local Hero was mentioned.
[4:59] Moon Report! The Cancer New Moon is on June 25 (3:31 AM PDT) at 04º07’ Cancer, on the symbol 5 Cancer, An automobile is wrecked by a train. How much of your individuality are you prepared to set aside so that you can sit comfortably at the supper table?
[7:06] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the New Moon in a lunar phase family cycle that begins a story related to family, home and belonging. The First Quarter Moon (action point) in this cycle is on March 25, 2026, 05º08’ Cancer. On Dec. 23, 2026, the Full Moon (awareness point) of this LPFC is at 2°13’ Cancer, and the Last Quarter Moon (final action point) is on Sep. 23, 2027 at 00º10’ Cancer.
[8:38] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On June 23 (1:26 AM PDT), the Moon in Gemini squares Mars in Virgo. It is VOC for a staggering 43 hours and 18 minutes (!!!), before it enters Cancer (June 24, 8:44 PM PDT). Sometimes we have to get good and angry, or excited, about something before we will act.
[9:53] On June 26 (10:16 PM PDT), the Moon in Cancer sextiles Uranus in Taurus. It's VOC for 49 minutes, then enters Leo (11:05 PM PDT). Transform emotions, worries, and stresses into energy and motivation.
[11:23] On June 29 (4:03 AM PDT), the Moon in Leo squares Uranus in Taurus. It's VOC for 40 minutes, then enters Virgo (4:43 AM PDT). If you find yourself in a sticky situation, make an effort to go with the flow, practice forgiveness, and make forgiveness a habit.
[12:13] Mercury sextiles Uranus (June 26, 2:45 AM PDT), at 29º28’ Cancer-Taurus. Here’s an opportunity to change perspective and tell a different story. Mercury is on the Sabian symbol 30 Cancer, A Daughter of the American Revolution; Uranus is on 30 Taurus, A peacock parading on an ancient lawn.
[14:46] The Sun sextiles Mars (June 26, 7:11 AM PDT) at 5º13’ Cancer-Virgo. Sun+Mars = energy, focus, and competition, but sometimes anger as well. On the plus side, it’s an aspect of creative inspiration.
[16:03] On June 26 (12:08 PM PDT), Mercury enters Leeeeeooooo where it will stay until Sep. 2 – a long stay, because it will retrograde in Leo (July 17-Aug 11.) Mercury in Leo tells of our individual heroic journey. How are you the star of your own story?
[17:47] On June 27 (8:52 PM PDT), Mercury trines Saturn at 1º44’ Leo-Aries. The hero is trained by a master who strips away any hubris and sentiment.
[18:33] Mercury trines Neptune (June 28, 4:58 AM PDT) at 2º09’ Leo-Aries. There is a fine line between being imaginative and being untruthful. Make sure that you’re walking the right side of that line.
[19:23] Mercury opposes Pluto (June 29, 12:57 AM PDT) at 3º10’ Leo-Aquarius. Sometimes when we tell our story, others might not take it well. Don't let your message be stifled, but remember to listen, too.
[20:44] Listener Joanie asks about the Part of Fortune (PoF) in the houses.
[24:26] The PoF in the 1st house.[25:07] The PoF in the 2nd house.[25:53] The PoF in the 3rd house.[26:36] The PoF in the 4th house.[27:15] The PoF in the 5th house.[28:00] The PoF in the 6th house.[28:30] The PoF in the 7th house.[28:58] The PoF in the 8th house.[29:28] The PoF in the 9th house.[30:11] The PoF in the 10th house.[30:25] The PoF in the 11th house.[31:04] The PoF in the 12h house.
[32:12] 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!
[32:48] 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.

295 | Mars enters Virgo: To the Editor!

This week, Mars enters hardworking but perfectionistic Virgo and then gets an energizing boost from Jupiter. Jupiter and Neptune debate the differences between knowledge and faith. The Sun welcomes its Cancer Solstice, then gets a bit of a reality check from Saturn in Aries. The Pisces Last Quarter Moon helps us “Marie Kondo” our Gemini New Moon plans. And April answers a listener question about whether astrology's recent popularity is a trend or a belief system. Plus: Reviewing the story, Marie Kondo-ing, and a shaggy deer!
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
[1:27] Mars enters Virgo this week on June 17 (1:35 AM PDT), through Aug. 6. Mars in Virgo is perfectionistic, try not to second-guess yourself and obsess about details. Take Mars in Leo’s creative projects and send them to the editor for refinement.
[3:38] Moon Report! The Pisces Last Quarter Moon (June 18, 12:19 PM PDT) is at 27°47’ Pisces and Gemini. The Sabian symbol for the Moon is 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under the Full Moon, and the symbol for the Sun is 28 Gemini, A man declared bankrupt. Consider which Gemini New Moon ideas you can let go, a la Marie Kondo.
[6:05] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Last Quarter in an LPFC that began on March 21, 2023, with a New Moon at 00°49’ Aries. The First Quarter Moon (first action point) was on Dec. 19, 2023, at 27°35’ Pisces.  The Full Moon (awareness point) was on Sep. 17, 2024, at 25°40’ Pisces.
[8:13] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On June 16 (10:31 AM PDT), the Moon in Aquarius opposes Mars in Leo. It's VOC for 38 minutes, and then enters Pisces (11:09 AM PDT). Tempers could flare and arguments could ensue. This is a great day to start a new exercise regimen.
[9:33] On June 18 (2:34 PM PDT), the Moon in Pisces sextiles Uranus. It's VOC for 1 hour 34 minutes, and then enters Aries (4:08 PM PDT). Play a little hooky, change up your routine or maybe even just disregard routines altogether!
[10:34] On June 20 (6:49 PM PDT), the Moon in Aries sextiles the Sun. This is a fast VOC, only 4 minutes, and then the Moon enters Taurus (6:53 PM PDT). Feeling overwhelmed?  Set a timer, and for four minutes, do a breathing exercise.
[11:43] On June 22 (6:50 PM PST), the Moon in Taurus conjoins Uranus. It's VOC for 1 hour, 7 minutes, then enters Gemini (7:57 PM PDT). This conjunction takes place on the anaretic (final) degree of 29°18’ Taurus. What are the physical, aesthetic, and financial themes that have changed for you since Uranus entered Taurus in 2018? Practice some gratitude for what you've learned during this time.
[13:27] On June 18 (8:16 PM PDT), Jupiter squares Neptune at 2°06’ Cancer-Aries. This transit happens about every six to seven years. Jupiter and Neptune are both associated with beliefs, but there are fundamental differences between them that can make Jupiter emphasizes knowing and Neptune emphasizes faith.
[16:02] The Sun enters Cancer on June 20 (7:42 PM PDT), through July 22. Cancer is a cardinal sign, one of the four signs that initiates a new season of the year. The Cancer solstice marks the official start of summer in the northern hemisphere and the start of winter in the southern hemisphere. Cancer symbolizes extreme protectiveness of those that we feel are part of our clan, family, community, and country.
[18:21] Mars sextiles Jupiter on June 22 (3:32 AM PDT) at 2°51’ Virgo-Cancer. We can make great strides towards specific goals. This is another excellent time this week to initiate a serious exercise program.  The Sabian symbol for Jupiter is 3 Cancer, A man all bundled up in fur, leading a shaggy deer.
[20:06] The Sun squares Saturn on June 22 (11:36 am PDT) at 1°35’ Aries- Cancer. This can be a productive and character-building transit, but it usually is not a very cheerful one. It's one of the best transits for building strength and endurance.
[21:40] Listener Angeline asks about whether astrology's recent popularity is a trend or a belief system.
[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. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[26:42] A tribute to this week’s donors! One of today's donors was a guest on Episode 253! 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.

294 | Jupiter in Cancer: At Home in the World!

Prepare to work through some conflicts, as practically everything in this busy week is in a fractious square to everything else. Mercury and Jupiter clash with Saturn. Venus squares Pluto, Mars squares Uranus, Mercury squares Neptune, and the Sun squares the lunar nodes, signaling the midpoint between eclipse seasons. The Sagittarius Full Moon highlights the big picture, and for a little respite from all those hard aspects, Jupiter moves into one of its favorite signs, Cancer. And a listener question about planets that are in difficult aspect, but in compatible signs. Plus: Man on wire, a mermaid, and making the world your home!
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
[1:36] Mercury squares Saturn (June 9, 3:48 AM PDT) at 00°59’ Cancer-Aries. Take responsibility for your actions and feelings. Delays and obstacles are likely in travel and communication. Tackle difficult projects, because this is an aspect that is designed to deal with difficult things.
[3:07] Venus squares Pluto (June 9, 10:20 AM PDT) at 3°31’ Taurus-Aquarius. This aspect can indicate major losses or gains in relationships and finances, and reminds us that nothing lasts forever. Venus' Sabian symbol, 4 Taurus, The rainbow's pot of gold. Pluto's Sabian symbol is 4 Aquarius, A Hindu healer. 
[4:54] Jupiter enters its sign of exaltation, Cancer, on June 9 (2:02 PM PDT) through June 29, 2026. Jupiter was last in this sign from June 25, 2013-July 16, 2014. The more you see of the world, the more of it feels like home to you. Open your heart and your home – maybe literally enlarging or renovating where you live.
[7:55] On June 9 (3:54 PM PDT), Mercury squares Neptune (2°00’ Cancer- Aries). The Sabian symbol for Mercury is 2 Cancer, A man suspended over a vast level place, which is reminiscent of the movie Man on Wire. Mercury connecting with Neptune, even by square, brings inspiration, and any impossible journey begins with a vision.
[9:29] Moon Report! The Sagittarius Full Moon (June 11, 12:44 AM PDT) is at 20°39’ Sagittarius on the Sabian symbol 21 Sagittarius, A child and a dog with borrowed eyeglasses. This Full Moon reveals what was set in place at the May 26 Gemini New Moon. Think about why you set those goals and what they will mean in the overall scheme of your life.
[13:28] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Full Moon (awareness point) in an LPFC that began with a New Moon on Dec. 12, 2023, at 20°40’ Sagittarius. The First Quarter (first action point) was on Sep. 10, 2024, at 19° Sagittarius. The Last Quarter Moon (final action point) is on March 11, 2026, at 20°49’ Sagittarius.
[14:54] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On June 9 (5:06 AM PDT), the Moon in Scorpio opposes Uranus. It's VOC for 2 hours, 49 minutes, then enters Sagittarius (7:55 AM PDT). If people are a little bit scratchy, instead of taking it personally, use this VOC Moon period to initiate a habit of refusing to engage in such situations.
[16:14] On June 11 (12:58 PM PDT), the Moon in Sagittarius trines Mars in Leo. It's VOC for 5 hours, 57 minutes, then enters Capricorn (6:55 PM PDT). Believe in your own capabilities.
[17:13] On June 14 (1:52 AM PDT), the Moon in Capricorn trines Uranus in Taurus. It's VOC for 2 hours, 8 minutes, then enters Aquarius (4:00 AM PDT). Switch up your morning routine a bit. Try something new.
[18:31] The Sun squares the lunar nodes on June 13 (2:47 AM PDT) at 22°38’ Gemini, Pisces/Virgo. This is the midway point between eclipse seasons. This point triggers the March 13, 2025 total lunar eclipse at 23°56’ Virgo and Pisces, and offers a glimpse of the Sep. 7, 2025, total lunar eclipse at 15°22’ Pisces. If you have any planets or points in your chart between 15-24 degrees of Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, or Pisces, this square might make you feel you're at a turning point related to those planets.
[20:01] Mars squares Uranus (June 15, 2:47 AM PDT) at 28°54’ Leo-Taurus. This is a volatile combination of planets, so avoid situations that you know for a fact can be dangerous. Mars is on the Sabian symbol 29 Leo, A Mermaid. Uranus is on 29 Taurus, Two cobblers working at a table.
[22:18] Jupiter makes the last of three squares to Saturn (June 15, 7:36 AM PDT) at 1°18’ Cancer-Aries. This combination of planets is closely associated with the economy and the current cycle began on Dec. 21, 2020, with the conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn. This is an interesting action point in this overall cycle.
[24:22] Listener Paula asks about how to interpret planets that are in difficult aspect, but in compatible signs.
[29:01] 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!
[29:33] 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.

293 | Virgo First Quarter Moon: Aspiration and Inspiration!

This week, a productive Virgo First Quarter Moon gets us moving on those Gemini New Moon intentions. Hope, optimism and a little bit of luck are in the air when Venus aspects Jupiter, then enters her home sign of Taurus. Mercury connects with Mars, Jupiter, and the North Node, and then sinks into the sign of Cancer for a nostalgic look at times gone by. And a listener asks: which transit wins when very different ones happen at the same time? Plus: A strong hand, a good meal, and the color pink!
Want to know more about trines, squares, sextiles, conjunctions? Register for April's two part class on planetary aspects, beginning June 7! Details and registration info 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
[1:28] Moon Report! The Virgo First Quarter Moon occurs June 2 (8:41 PM PDT) at 12°50’ Virgo and Gemini.  It's time to initiate action on intentions from the Gemini New Moon on May 26. The Moon’s Sabian symbol is 13 Virgo, A strong hand supplanting political hysteria. The Sun’s Sabian symbol is 13 Gemini, A great musician at his piano.
[3:45] This is the First Quarter (first action point) in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC) that began with a New Moon on Sep. 2, 2024, at 11°04’ Virgo. The Full Moon (awareness point) of this LPFC is on March 3, 2026 (12°53’ Virgo), and the Last Quarter Moon (last action point) is on Nov 30, 2026 (9°03’ Virgo).
[5:07] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On June 4 (4:11 AM PDT) the Moon in Virgo squares Jupiter in Gemini. It's VOC for 2 hours 27 minutes, then enters Libra (6:38 am PDT). Be mindful with your words, be kind, avoid oversharing and gossip.
[6:25] On June 6 (6:04 pm PDT), the Moon in Libra trines Jupiter in Gemini. It's VOC for 1 hour 19 minutes, then enters Scorpio (7:23 pm). Initiate a habit of treating people in your social circle to things that are fun.
[7:45] On June 4 (7:32 PM PDT), Venus sextiles Jupiter at 28°55’ Aries-Gemini. The Sabian symbol for Venus is 29 Aries, A celestial choir singing, and the symbol for Jupiter is 29 Gemini, The first mockingbird in spring. Listen to the world’s song! 
[10:00] Mercury sextiles Mars on June 5 (3:10 PM PDT), at 23°42’ Gemini-Leo. Speak your mind, dive into something that needs focus, get things done.
[11:52] Mercury squares the Lunar Nodes on June 5 (5:28 PM PDT) at 23°54’ Gemini and Pisces-Virgo. Pursue after something meaningful, but avoid sharpness in communication. Think before you speak. 
[14:40] Venus enters Taurus on June 5 (9:43 pm PDT, through July 4). Venus is in her rulership in Taurus, where she luxuriates in the things of the physical world. Venus will conclude her stay in this sign on a spicy conjunction with Uranus, so be prepared, change is coming.
[17:21] Mercury conjuncts Jupiter on June 8 (1:12 PM PDT) at the anaretic degree of 29°45’ Gemini. Watch the news and conversations today for a summation of Jupiter's time in Gemini (since May 25, 2024). 
[19:13] Mercury enters Cancer on June 8 (3:58 PM PDT, through June 26). Improve your memory, communicate through writing, music and art. This can be a bit of a nostalgic placement for Mercury; review family history. The Sabian symbol is 1 Cancer, A furled and unfurled flag displayed from a vessel.
[21:38] Listener Elizabeth asks about which transit wins when very different ones happen at the same time.
[28:43] 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!
[29:17] 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.

292 | New Moon in Gemini: Performing a Nosedive!

This week, Mercury is the star of the show, making a high-flying (deep diving?) conjunction with the Sun, ruling the Gemini New Moon, and making aspects to imaginative Neptune and introspective Pluto. April concludes her series of mini-lessons on Saturn in Aries by reviewing Saturn in aspect to natal planets. Plus: Awkward misunderstandings, moving the air around, and a tough daddy!
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
[1:14] Mercury sextiles Neptune (May 26, 1:37 pm PDT) at 1º46’ Gemini-Aries. Before you extend your hand in friendship, clarify your terms. T
[3:07] Moon Report! The Gemini New Moon (May 26, 8:02 pm PDT, through June 20) is at 6°05’ Gemini. The spirit of the Gemini season is about movement and gatherings. Catch up with siblings and neighbors. 
[6:40] This is the New Moon in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that will unfold over the coming three years. The First Quarter (first action point) in this LPFC is on Feb. 24, 2026, the Full Moon (awareness point) is on Nov. 24, 2026, and the Last Quarter (final action point) is on Aug. 24, 2027.
[9:15] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On May 26 (6:52 am PDT), the Moon in Taurus makes a conjunction with Uranus. It's VOC for 3 hours 29 minutes, then enters Gemini (10:21 am PDT). Embrace your quirkiness, and celebrate what makes you unique.
[10:19] On May 28 (6:01 am PDT), the Moon in Gemini conjuncts Jupiter. It's VOC for 4 hours 32 minutes, then enters Cancer (10:33 am PDT). Focus on the bright side and discover something new in your own town.
[11:29] On May 30 (9:50 am PDT), the Moon in Cancer sextiles Uranus. It's VOC for 3 hours, 27 minutes, and enters Leeeeoooo (1:17 pm PDT). Peek out of your shell, reach out and connect through sharing.
[13:02] The Moon in Leo sextiles Jupiter in Gemini (June 1, 4:38 pm PDT). It's VOC for 3 hours 22 minutes, then enters Virgo (8:00 pm PDT). Have fun and play with friends or family.
[14:23] Mercury trines Pluto (May 27, 10:56 am PDT) at 3º41’ Gemini-Aquarius. Revisit plans that were made between March 5-April 20, you may be ready to complete them now.
[16:28] On May 29 (9:13 pm PDT), Mercury conjoins the Sun at 9º01’ Gemini on the Sabian symbol 10 Gemini, An airplane falling or An airplane performing a nose dive. A planet within 17’ of arc with the Sun is called cazimi, which means “in the heart of the Sun.” Mercury cazimi offers moments of mental clarity. The cazimi period falls between May 29 (3:44 pm PDT) and May 30 (2:41 am PDT) and is a powerful time to deliver a message.
[18:24] Mini-lesson on Saturn in Aries in aspect to the planets in a chart. Check out Episode 290 for a mini-lesson on transiting Saturn in Aries and Episode 291 for a mini-lesson on Saturn in Aries moving through the houses of the horoscope. (If things like aspects are a little bit difficult for you, order a Steven Forrest Sky Bundle, which includes a Sky Log report, from my online store.)
[19:19] Saturn aspecting your natal Sun.[20:53] Saturn aspecting your natal Moon.[21:47] Saturn aspecting your natal Mercury.[23:08] Saturn aspecting your natal Venus.[24:02] Saturn aspects your natal Mars.[24:58] Saturn aspecting your natal Jupiter.[25:44] Saturn aspecting your natal Saturn.[26:38] Saturn aspecting your natal Uranus.[27:19] Saturn aspecting your natal Neptune.[28:14] Saturn aspecting your natal Pluto.[29:01] Saturn aspecting your lunar nodes.[29:47] Saturn aspecting the Ascendant.[30:48] Saturn aspecting the Midheaven.[31:38] Saturn aspecting your natal Chiron.
[32:26] That’s a wrap on the three-part mini lessons on Saturn entering Aries. For more, check out April’s books Astrological Transits and The Essential Guide to Practical Astrology.
[32:55] 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!
[33:33] 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.

291 | Saturn enters Aries: Be the Author of Your Own Story!

It's a busy week in the big sky as the Sun kicks off its Gemini season with aspects to Saturn, Neptune, and Pluto. Gemini's ruler, Mercury, comes together with Uranus, follows the Sun into Gemini, and then reports to Saturn for a reality check. The cosmic lovers Venus and Mars throw out passionate sparks and the Last Quarter Moon in Aquarius is on a pivotal degree that shows karmic resolution in the air. Saturn leaves the turbulent waters of Pisces for the fires of Aries, and a mini-lesson on what Saturn in Aries means for the houses of your horoscope. Plus: Peacocks parading, brownies dancing, and authoring your own story!
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
[1:38] The Sun sextiles Saturn (May 20, 2:38 am PDT) at 29º37’ Taurus-Pisces. Sabian symbols: Saturn, 30 Pisces, A rock formation like a face is idealized by a boy who, as he grows up, begins to look like it. The Sun, 30 Taurus, A peacock parading on an ancient lawn. Superficial displays of grandeur and success will not impress.
[3:49] Moon Report! The Aquarius Last Quarter Moon (May 20, 4:59 am PDT), is at the critical degrees of 29º43’ Aquarius-Taurus. Long-running cycles draw to a close; make decisive efforts to wrap them up. 
[6:08] This is the Last Quarter (last action point) in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began on Feb. 19, 2023 at a 1º22’ Pisces New Moon. This continues the First Quarter (first action point) in this LPFC on Nov. 20, 2023, and the Full Moon (awareness point) on Aug. 19, 2024.
[7:41] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On May 20 (4:59 am PDT), the Moon in Aquarius squares the Sun in Taurus. It's VOC for 29 minutes, and then enters Pisces (5:28 am PDT). Find your own way, even if it means going against the crowd.
[8:40] On May 22 (9:06 am PDT), the Moon in Pisces conjoins Saturn. It's VOC for 20 minutes, then enters Aries (9:26 am PDT). Create healthy boundaries.
[9:40] On May 24 (4:44 am PDT), the Moon in Aries sextiles Jupiter, is VOC for 5 hours 54 minutes, then enters Taurus (10:38 am PDT). 
[11:10] The Sun enters Gemini (May 20, 11:55 am PDT), initiating a solar season of curiosity, adaptability, restlessness, and a hunger for knowledge and light-hearted connections.
[13:00] On May 22 (12:42 am PDT), Venus trines Mars (15º59’ Aries-Leo). Venus is on 16 Aries, Brownies dancing in the setting Sun, and Mars is on 16 Leo, Sunshine just after a storm. 
[14:55] The Sun sextiles Neptune (May 22, 5:40 am PDT) at 1º40’ Gemini- Aries. Sabian symbols: the Sun, 2 Gemini, Santa Claus filling stockings furtively, and Neptune, 2 Aries, A comedian entertaining a group. Inspiration is only meaningful when it fuels genuine growth.
[17:38] The Sun trines Pluto (May 24, 8:55 am PDT) 3º43’ Gemini-Aquarius. Clarify your message, clean up your mental and social environments, and emerge lighter and clearer.
[19:36] Mercury conjoins Uranus on May 24 (4:15 pm PDT, 27º42’ Taurus). Give voice to your inner rebel. 
[21:12] On May 24 (8:36 pm PDT), Saturn enters Aries (through April 2028) for its first visit since 1996. Stop making excuses and take full ownership of your life.  Check out Episode 290 for a mini-lesson on Saturn in Aries. If you were born with Saturn in Aries between April 1996-Feb. 1999, you’ll have your first Saturn return. If you were born with Saturn in Aries between 1967-1969, you'll have your second Saturn return. These are important milestones, and you might want to check in for a reading with April to talk more about what it means for you.
[24:00] Mercury enters Gemini on May 25 (5:59 pm PDT, through June 8). Mercury in Gemini thrives on variety and stimulation, moving around from place to place, and it's an excellent period for brainstorming, for exploring new perspectives, and engaging in light chat.
[25:01] Mercury sextiles Saturn on May 25 (6:45 pm PDT) at 00°04’ of Gemini-Aries. Clarify goals and look for early messages about Saturn in Aries.
[26:18] Mini-lesson: Transiting Saturn in the Houses. The Aries house(s) of your birth chart tells what areas of life will offer the opportunity for you make the world look the way you want it to look and set helpful boundaries.
[28:00] Transiting Saturn in the first house.
[28:50] Transiting Saturn in the second house.
[30:14] Transiting Saturn in the third house.
[31:14] Transiting Saturn in the fourth house.
[32:20] Transiting Saturn in the fifth house.
[33:53] Transiting Saturn in the sixth house.
[34:37] Transiting Saturn in the seventh house.
[35:46] Transiting Saturn in the eighth house.
[36:28] Transiting Saturn in the ninth house.
[37:05] Transiting Saturn in the tenth house.
[37:53] Transiting Saturn in the eleventh house.
[38:51] Transiting Saturn in the twelfth house.
[39:28] Next week, April covers transiting Saturn in aspect with the planets in a chart.
Listener questions return the week of June 2. 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!
[40:06] 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.

290 | A Magical Scorpio Full Moon!

This week: A powerful and magical Scorpio Full Moon. Mercury has a volatile square off with Mars and Pluto. The Sun joins forces with unpredictable Uranus, and the week ends on a high note as Jupiter interacts with the lunar nodes. And April offers a mini-lesson on transiting Saturn going into Aries next week! Plus: A fairy rabbit, groping shellfish, and mature romance!
 
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
[1:14] Moon Report! The Scorpio Full Moon (May 12, 9:56 am PDT, 22º12’ Scorpio-Taurus) illuminations tension and instability around resources and security, self-worth. The Sabian symbol for the Moon, 23 Scorpio, A rabbit metamorphosed into a fairy, illustrates the transformational symbolism of Scorpio’s modern ruler, Pluto. The Sun is on the Sabian symbol 23 Taurus, A jewelry shop. It's a time to dig deep, to train your instincts, and to allow yourself to evolve.
[3:29] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Full Moon (awareness point) in an LPFC that began at the New Moon on Nov. 13, 2023 at 20º43’ Scorpio. The First Quarter (first action point) in this LPFC was on Aug. 12, 2024, and the Last Quarter (last action point) comes on Feb. 9, 2026.
[4:50] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On May 12 (11:37 pm PDT), the Moon in Scorpio trines Saturn. It's VOC for 1 hour 58 minutes, and enters Sagittarius on May 13 (1:35 am PDT). Appreciate the gift of work and have faith in the transformational power of doing it well.
[6:12] On May 15 (11:28 am PDT), the Moon in Sagittarius squares Saturn. It's VOC for 1 hour 30 minutes, then enters Capricorn (12:58 pm). Replace negative feelings with emotional resilience and a sense of duty.
[7:05] On May 17 (9:27 pm PDT), the Moon in Capricorn sextiles Saturn. It's VOC for 1 hour 2 minutes, then enters Aquarius (10:29 pm PDT). Show wise stewardship of both personal and business responsibilities.
[8:08] Mercury squares Pluto (May 12, 10:23 am PDT) at 3º48’ Taurus-Aquarius. When these two planets are square, expect major developments, dramatic market shifts, communication breakdowns, big travel disruptions, or uncomfortable truths that emerge. Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 4 Taurus, The rainbow's pot of gold. Pluto’s symbol is 4 Aquarius, A Hindu healer. 
[11:09] The Sun conjoins Uranus (May 17, 4:32 pm PDT) at 27º17’ Taurus on the Sabian symbol 28 Taurus, A woman pursued by mature romance. The Sun with Uranus challenges us to evolve, often through unexpected shifts. Some will find this transit invigorating and freeing; for others, it's uncomfortable. Embrace what makes you unique and explore that in new ways.
[13:05] Mercury squares Mars (May 17, 9:36 pm PDT) at 13º53’ Taurus-Leo. Communication might get a little sharp or even cut off entirely. Choose words carefully. Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 14 Taurus, Shellfish groping and children playing. Mars' symbol is 14 Leo, The human soul awaiting opportunity for expression. This aspect challenges us to speak with intention, to think clearly, act decisively, and speak truth.
[16:25] Jupiter squares the lunar nodes at 25º05’ Gemini, Pisces, and Virgo on May 18 (11:46 am PDT). Appreciate messages that say you are moving in the right direction.  Use what you know to move you in new directions. Jupiter's Sabian symbol is 26 Gemini, Winter frost in the woods. The North Node is on the Sabian symbol 26 Pisces, A New Moon that divides its influences. The South Node is on the Sabian symbol 26 Virgo, A boy with a sensor.
[19:24] A mini-lesson: A general introduction to what we can expect Saturn to teach us while it's in Aries. In Episode 291, we'll look at Saturn in Aries moving through the houses of the horoscope, and then in Episode 292, a quick look at Saturn in aspect to the planets in your birth chart.
[20:30] Saturn takes about 29 years to make a complete circuit of the zodiac, and it spends about two and a half years in each sign. Saturn will be in Aries through Sep. 1, 2025, retrograde back into Pisces until Feb. 13, 2026, then returns to Aries until April 12, 2028. Transits of Saturn describe periods when we're challenged to become more mature, wiser, and more disciplined.
[21:45] April’s book, Astrological Transits, is an excellent source of information, and she quoted from this book during this episode.
[25:57] Saturn was last in Aries between April 7,1996-June 8, 1998 and and Oct. 25, 1998-Feb. 28, 1999. If you were born then, you'll be having your first Saturn return. And if you were born between March 3 1967-April 29 1969, you will be having your second Saturn return. The Saturn return is when transiting Saturn returns to its exact position in your birth chart. You’ll review issues related to your maturity, achievement, career, and status. 
[26:54] Differences between first and second Saturn returns.
[27:45] As Saturn moves into a new sign, we learn to step up our collective societal game and to take responsibility for a new area of society. Saturn in Aries moving through your personal horoscope can show the area or areas of your life where you are personally called to these challenges. Saturn in aspect to your personal planets symbolize the parts of your personality that will be called into service.
[28:45] April will return to listener questions in a couple of weeks. 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!
[29:54] 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.

289 | Mercury in Taurus: Slow Down and Focus!

This week: Apparently, the skies have run out of obstacles for us to leap over because astrologically, this is our quietest week in months! Mercury joins up with Jupiter for some big conversations and important announcements, and then face plants into the lush, aromatic fields of Taurus. Venus connects with Pluto, and a listener question about how best to work through those long, long transits of the outer planets. Plus: A bullhorn, a horse and buggy, and one foot out the door!
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] There is no major lunation this week; the Full Moon is next Monday. Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods for the week: On May 5 (6:03 am PDT), the Moon in Leo squares Uranus in Taurus. It's VOC for 6 hours 37 minutes, then enters Virgo (12:40 pm PDT). Try something new and hopefully it will be something you enjoy.
[3:42] On May 7 (9:11 pm PDT), the Moon in Virgo opposes Saturn in Pisces. It's VOC for 2 hours 55 minutes, then enters Libra on May 8 (12:06 am PDT). Escape feelings of being underappreciated by using Virgo tactics to distract yourself.
[5:02] On May 9 (11:17 pm PDT), the Moon in Libra trines Jupiter. It's VOC for 13 hours 41 minutes (!!!), then enters Scorpio on May 10 (12:58 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to initiate the habit of focusing on the positive. Check out the Instagram account @thatgoodnewsgirl for a daily dose of positivity and especially this post that perfectly illustrated April 25’s Venus-Saturn conjunction!
[6:34] Mercury sextiles Jupiter on May 5 (10:21 am PDT) at 22º19’ Aries- Gemini, a powerful combination for communication and major announcements. Look for some good news with Jupiter involved, but remember there could be more than meets the eye. Mercury is on the Sabian symbol 23 Aries, A woman in pastel colors carrying a heavy and valuable but veiled load.
[9:03] Venus sextiles Pluto on May 6 (2:31 pm PDT) at 3°49’ Aries-Aquarius. This is the third and final Venus-Pluto sextile aspect in a recent series, including on Feb. 7 and March 21. Look back at those dates to find similarities to what’s happening for you now in relationships and money. When the planet of love and money meets Pluto, the Lord of the underworld, deep transformations, financial challenges, and psychological depths are explored.
[11:10] Mercury enters Taurus (May 10, 5:15 am PDT). The first degree of Taurus is on the Sabian symbol: A clear mountain stream. Mental processes slow down but focus improves. Communication is more deliberate; speak in a tone that is warm and calm. Tackle problems that require patience and persistence, such as financial planning.
[13:33] Listener William the Wirebender asks about the best way to work through those long, long transits of the outer planets. Check out April’s book, Astrological Transits, to learn about the specifics of what you might expect from particular transits to your chart.
[23:08] 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!
[23:50] 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.