Big Sky Astrology Podcast

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!
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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!
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] 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.

288 | Venus in Aries: Nature's Embrace!

This week, the skies are quieter than they've been recently, but what is coming our way is fairly loud and dynamic. Venus enters independent Aries, then makes a conjunction with Neptune. Pluto stations retrograde right after a very energetic First Quarter Moon in Leeeeooooo. And a listener question about the opposition aspect. Plus: Speed dating, seizing the spotlight, and a fiery plunge!
 
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
[1:17] Venus enters Aries on April 30 (10:16 am PDT, until June 5); look for connections to Feb.3 and March 27, when Venus previously visited the first degree of Aries. Venus in Aries likes to move fast, might be prone to impulse shopping, and likes the thrill of the romantic chase.
[4:21] Venus conjoins Neptune at 1º08’ Aries (May 2, 10:07 am PDT). Look for connections to Feb. 1 (Venus direct) and March 27 (Venus Rx), when Venus previously conjoined Neptune, especially related to relationships and finances.
[7:27] Moon Report! The First Quarter Moon in Leeeeoo is on May 4 (6:52 am PDT) at 14°21’ Leo and Taurus. This is the phase to take action towards those New Moon goals from the April 27 Taurus New Moon. The Moon is on Sabian symbol 15 Leo, A pageant, so celebrate a little bit, throw a party, go dancing!
[9:05] This is the First Quarter phase (first action point) in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began with the New Moon on Aug. 4, 2024, at 12º34’ Leo. The Full Moon (awareness point) of this LPFC is on Feb. 1, 2026, and the Last Quarter Moon (final action point) on Nov. 1, 2026.
[10:25] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On April 28 (10:18 pm PDT), the Moon in Taurus sextiles Venus in Pisces. It's VOC for 1 hour, 16 minutes, and then enters Gemini (11:34 pm PDT). Make it part of your daily routine to enjoy a little time out, relaxation, and indulgence, especially if you tend to work hard and not take enough time for yourself.
[11:32] On April 30 (8:49 pm PDT), the Moon in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces. It's VOC for 3 hours, 34 minutes, and then enters Cancer on May 1 (12:23 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to think about how we can use any recent setbacks, obstacles, or rejections to improve communication, and that means listening as well.  Work hard on developing communication skills that are a little bit sensitive and intuitive, as opposed to just coming from the mind, coming from the heart as well.
[12:55] On May 3 (1:02 am PDT), the Moon in Cancer trines Saturn in Pisces. It's VOC for 3 hours, 27 minutes, and then enters Leo (4:29 am PDT). If you are awake, use this VOC period to develop a solid work routine. Because in doing that, your emotions will be more stable, your confidence will get a boost, which will increase the respect you receive from others.
[14:14] Pluto stations retrograde (May 4, 8:27 am PDT, until Oct. 13) at 3º49’ Aquarius. With Pluto is still being opposed by Mars in Leo, this is not a quiet descent into the underworld, it's more like a fiery plunge. Pluto stations on the Sabian symbol 4 Aquarius, A Hindu healer. Pluto heals through burning away whatever has been holding us back from being our true selves.
[16:16] Listener Anna asks about the opposition aspect in astrology.
[22:16] 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!
[23:18] 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.

287 | Mars and Pluto Crash the Taurus New Moon Party!

This week, Venus teams up with Saturn and both make inspiring connections with the Moon's North Node. The normally mellow Taurus New Moon is disrupted by power struggles, as the Sun squares, and Mars opposes, Pluto. And (appropriately) a listener question about scary Pluto transits. Plus: Saturn tactics for tough times, folded horns, and bathing with Venus!
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
[1:12] Saturn conjuncts the North Node (April 21, 4:31 am PDT) at 26°50’ Pisces, on Sabian symbol 27 Pisces, A Harvest Moon. This is the first conjunction between Saturn and the North Node since September 2013. You might succeed in a way that you have envisioned and hoped for, but sometimes the success comes in a form you never could have imagined.
[2:28] Venus conjuncts the North Node (April 23, 9:35 pm PDT) at 26°54’ Pisces. This transit can indicate that close friends or partners are helping you achieve success. 
[3:00] The Sun squares Pluto (April 23, 10:10 am PDT) at 3º47’ Taurus-Aquarius. The Sun’s Sabian symbol is 4 Taurus, The rainbow's pot of gold; Pluto is on 4 Aquarius, A Hindu healer. Claim your importance, and let go of anything that you no longer need. 
[5:26] Venus conjuncts Saturn (April 24, 5:02 pm PDT) at 27°13’ Pisces, on Sabian symbol 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under the Full Moon. This concludes a Venus-Saturn series that began on Jan. 18 and repeated on April 7. Are you any clearer about what you want in relationships and in the way you earn your money? 
[7:53] Mars opposes Pluto (April 26, 6:05 pm PDT) at 3º48’ Leo-Aquarius. The usual interpretation of Mars with Pluto has to do with power struggles and dealing with forces beyond your control. What matters most in these situations is how you handle powerlessness, anger, and frustration. Mars' Sabian symbol, 4 Leo, is A man formally dressed and a deer with its horns folded. Pluto’s Sabian symbol is sometimes written as, A Hindu Yogi demonstrates his healing powers.
[10:18] Moon Report! The Taurus New Moon is on April 27 (12:31 pm PDT), at 7º46’ Taurus. The Moon is exalted in the sign of Taurus, so this is one of the most powerful New Moons of the year. But the Mars-Pluto opposition makes this a little more of a tumultuous New Moon. Taurus is ruled by Venus, so enjoy the sensual aspects of life. The Sabian symbol for this New Moon degree is 8 Taurus, A sleigh without snow.
[13:29] This New Moon begins a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that unfolds over the next three years. Make a careful note of what your intentions are, what you would like to achieve in your physical health, financial abundance, and sense of security. Jan. 25, 2026 is the First Quarter Moon (first action point) of this LPFC, the Full Moon (awareness point) is on Oct. 25, 2026, the Last Quarter Moon (final action point) is on July 26, 2027.
[15:34] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On April 22 (2:55 pm PDT), the Moon in Aquarius squares Uranus in Taurus. It’s VOC for 7 hours 12 minutes, then enters Pisces (10:07 pm PDT). Step out of your safety zone to do things on your own.
[16:40] On April 24 (7:57 pm PDT), the Moon in Pisces conjoins Venus. It's VOC for 4 hours 27 minutes, then enters Aries on April 25 (12:24 am PDT). Enjoy all of the Venusian things life has to offer, but don't go overboard.
[18:11] On April 26 (9:18 am PDT), the Moon in Aries sextiles Jupiter. The Moon is VOC for 14 hours 59 minutes (!!!), then enters Taurus on April 27 (12:17 am PDT). Share the good things that come your way and offer encouraging words to other people.
[19:18] Listener Pomahoba asks about scary Pluto transits.
[25:00] If you’d like to have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[25:36] 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.

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!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
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.
 
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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.