Big Sky Astrology Podcast

151 | Aquarius First Quarter Moon: Cobblestones and Roadblocks!

Happy Halloween! In this very light astrological week: The Aquarius First Quarter Moon tests resolve about projects that began back in January. Void-of-Course Moon periods this week are shorter and happier, thanks to Jupiter. Venus opposed Uranus celebrates the beauty of taking out the trash, both literally and figuratively. And in this week between the October 25th Solar and November 8th Lunar Eclipses, April climbs into the wayback machine to revisit mini-lessons about eclipses in the houses of the horoscope and in aspect to natal planets.
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here!
Order April's "Followed by a Moonshadow" Eclipse report!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
 
Timestamps
[1:22] The week begins with a First Quarter Moon at 08°49' Aquarius on Halloween evening (Oct. 31, 11:37 pm PDT), The Moon in Aquarius makes it easier to disconnect from the emotional intensity of last week's Scorpio Solar Eclipse and move through some Saturn roadblocks. This is the First Quarter Moon in a Lunar Phase Family that began with the Aquarius New Moon on January 31, 2022.
[3:36] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. Oct. 31: The Moon in Capricorn sextiles Jupiter in Pisces at 8:14 am PDT and is VOC for about a half hour before entering Aquarius (8:43am PDT). Use this brief interlude to write down one big project you would like to accomplish.
[4:50] November 2: The Moon in Aquarius trines retrograde Mars, then goes VOC for about seven and a half hours before entering Pisces (11:46 am PDT). Use this time to brainstorm - then add your ideas to the very practical outline that developed during that Halloween morning, Moon in Capricorn coffee klatch!
[5:48] November 4: The Moon in Pisces conjoins Jupiter (3:05 pm PDT) and is VOC for about one hour before entering Aries (4:07 pm PDT). This is just a little mid-afternoon, VOC nap to dream big Jupiterian dreams.
[6:26] Venus (Scorpio 17°03') opposes Uranus (Taurus 17°03') on November 5th at 3:22 pm PDT.  The Sabian symbol for Venus, 18 Scorpio, is, Wood rich in autumn coloring. The Sabian symbol for Uranus is 18 Taurus, A woman holding a bag out the window. Autumn is a season of releasing and letting go, and this aspect makes the process easier.
[8:08] Mini-lesson: Eclipses in the houses of the horoscope (from Ep. 120) and in aspect to natal planets (from Ep. 121).
[8:48] Eclipses in astrology signify change and crisis – but don’t be afraid, crisis just means you need to move in a new direction!
[9:58] Solar Eclipses tend to be experienced through overwhelming emotions. Lunar Eclipses are often times when we react to emotional challenges by trying to hold onto something more material and real.
[11:49] Eclipses move backward through pairs of houses in the chart.
[16:51] Eclipses in aspect to your natal planets. April looks only at squares, conjunctions, and oppositions within a 4°orb.
[26:20] If you like what you're hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share!  This episode is brought to you by donors Laura Lind-Blum and Naiya Mairnemohr – thanks, Laura and Naiya!
[27:23] If you enjoy the show and would like to receive April's Bonus Donors-only episode for the Libra Equinox, as well as bonuses for the upcoming Solstices and Aries Equinox, just donate $10 or more right here!

150 | Solar Eclipse in Scorpio: Sweet and Sacred

This week, eclipse season begins in earnest with a relationship-shifting Scorpio Solar Eclipse. Mercury in Libra’s aspects to Mars and Pluto sharpen its decisiveness and resolve as it prepares to enter tell-it-like-it-is Scorpio. Mars in Gemini begins a chilly retrograde period, and outward frustration sends us inward to find solutions. Jupiter backtracks for an encore in Pisces. And April answers a listener's question about setting intentions; do we really create our own reality? Plus: A broken bottle, Leo DiCaprio, and being dishonest without saying a word.
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Want to know more about this week's eclipse and your birthchart? Order April's 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
[1:11] Moon Report! New Moon / Solar Eclipse at 2°00' Scorpio (October 25, 2022, 3:49 am PDT) on the Sabian symbol, A broken bottle and spilled perfume.
[2:23] Check out Episode 120 for an expanded look at eclipses in the houses of your horoscope, and Episode 121 for eclipses in aspect to planets in your chart. This week's eclipse triggers planets or points in your chart that fall between 28° cardinal (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) to 6° of fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarius.) Here are some of April's articles and essays about eclipses!
[4:26] This Solar Eclipse is closely conjoined Venus (2°39' Scorpio); relationships that are floundering will change one way or the other. Look to eclipses near this degree in 2013-2014, 2055, 1995, 1986 and 1976 for commonalities and patterns. And of course, you can get a more in-depth look at eclipses in your chart with April’s “Followed by a Moonshadow” eclipse report!
[6:56] During Scorpio season, we celebrate Halloween and transitions of all kinds. The awareness of mortality makes the physical world seem that much more sweet and sacred.
[8:44] Void-of-Course Moon periods: On October 24th at 5:36 pm PDT, the Moon at 26°10' Libra squares Pluto (Capricorn 26°10'). It will be VOC for about seven hours before entering Scorpio on October 25th at 12:19 am PDT. Meditating on transformation in relationships is encouraged before emerging into the upcoming eclipse.
[10:21] The Moon at 26°16' Scorpio sextiles Pluto in Capricorn (October 26th at 9:27 pm PDT). It's then VOC for about six and a half hours before entering Sagittarius at 3:55 am (October 27th).  Pay attention to your dreams.
[11:54] On October 29, 6:10 am PDT, the Sagittarius Moon (29°53') squares Jupiter (Pisces 29°53') and will be VOC for a whole 11 minutes before entering Capricorn – a brief invitation to fly in a new and exciting direction.
[12:52] This week, Mercury makes aspects to Mars and Pluto before entering Scorpio. Mercury at 25°31' Libra trines Mars in Gemini (October 26, 2022 at 8:37 pm PDT).  Mercury's square to Pluto occurs on October 27th at 6:08 am PDT at 26°12' Libra and Capricorn.
[13:34] Both Sabian symbols for Mercury reference flying. Mercury trines Mars from 26 Libra, An eagle and a large white dove turning one into the other. And it squares Pluto from 27 Libra, An airplane hovering overhead. Look for a feeling of liberation as we release what came up during the recent Mercury retrograde period.
[15:04] As Mercury makes its trine to Mars, it becomes much easier to act on what we've been thinking about. Mercury square Pluto warns that though we have a clearer picture of what we want to do and more determination, there are still forces that could make it difficult.
[16:20] Mercury enters Scorpio (October 29th at 12:22 pm PDT), an excellent transit for research and tough conversations. Honesty is the best policy.
[17:46] Jupiter re-enters Pisces (October 27th at 10:10 pm PDT), to finish the transit that began between December 28, 2021 and May 10, 2022. Before Jupiter leaves Pisces for good on December 19, take advantage of a chance in the Pisces area of your chart that you might have missed earlier in the year.
[19:02] Mars stations retrograde at 25°36' Gemini (October 30, 2022 at 6:26 am PDT, through Jan. 12, 2023) on the Sabian symbol 26 Gemini, Winter frost in the woods. Mars won’t enjoy his chilly, retrograde holding cell! If you thought Mercury retrograde was a pain this time around, Mars retrograde in Mercury-ruled Gemini promises the same, but more so. Traveling, finding gifts and getting along with people could be extra challenging this holiday season.
[22:53] Listener Bailey asks April about setting intentions. How does the idea of creating our own reality align with other aspects of astrology? And what does Leonardo DiCaprio have to do with any of it?
[28:18] Have a burning question about astrology that you'd like April to answer on a future episode? Leave a voicemail of one minute or less or just send April an email (and be sure to put "Podcast Question" in the subject line).
[28:52] If you like what you're hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share!  This episode is brought to you by donors Annette Eikerenkoetter and Debra Nehring!
[29:53] If you enjoy the show and would like to receive April's Bonus Donors-only episode for the Libra Equinox, as well as bonuses for the upcoming Solstices and Aries Equinox, just donate $10 or more right here!
 

149 | Scorpio Season: Nothing Lasts Forever

This week: a very busy Sun and Venus refuel at the Mars filling station, confront the impersonality of Pluto, merge together in a conjunction, and walk hand-in-hand into Scorpio season. Saturn turns direct, and a high-tension Last Quarter Moon in Cancer shows us what we're made of. And April answers a listener's question about what Pluto entering Aquarius next year could mean for us individually, not just collectively. Plus: escape routes, meal plans, and hidden romance.
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Eclipse season begins October 25! Prepare with your personalized "Followed by a Moonshadow" 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
[1:13] The week begins with a Last Quarter Moon at 24°18' Cancer on October 17th at 10:15 am PDT.  This Last Quarter Moon features a T-Square of the Moon in Cance, opposed Pluto in Capricorn and both square the Sun at 24°Libra. Look to Aries for an escape route.
[3:33] This is the final critical moment in a Lunar Phase Gestation Cycle that began on the Cancer (28°26') New Moon on July 20, 2022. The First Quarter Moon of this cycle was in April 2021, and the Full Moon in January 2022.
[4:50] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods for this week:  October 17th, between 1:56 pm and 9:46 pm PDT. The Moon's opposition to Pluto is a time to reflect on how to make ourselves stronger and truly protected without closing off completely.
[6:15] The Moon in Leo (27°00') sextiles the Sun (Libra 27°00') on October 20th at 3:35 am PDT and is VOC for six hours before entering Virgo at 9:25 am PDT.  Look for opportunities to collaborate with another which could lead to being recognized for the star that you are!
[7:15] On October 22nd the Moon in Virgo (26°09') trines Pluto in Capricorn (26°09') at 11:17am PDT and is VOC for almost seven hours before entering Libra (6:24 pm PDT).  Cleaning or organizing could be a soothing outlet at this time.
[8:51] The Sun in Libra (24°30') trines Mars in Gemini (Oct. 17, 3:05 pm PDT), getting a welcome jolt of Mars' energy and decisiveness!
[9:56] Venus (Libra 24°42') trines Mars in Gemini (Oct. 18, 7:20 pm PDT).  Since Venus is so close to the Sun, we may have a hard time seeing an interesting prospect that is right in front of our face. Mars is on the Sabian symbol, "A Man Trimming Palms," which suggests narrowing down your possibilities.
[12:33] The Sun (Libra 26°08') squares Pluto in Capricorn (Oct. 19, 6:33 am PDT), followed by Venus later that evening (11:02 pm PDT). Channel Stuart Smalley and repeat this mantra: "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough and doggone it, people like me!"
[15:42] The Sun and Venus come together in a conjunction at Libra 29°26' (Oct. 22, 2:17 pm PDT), sparking a burst of creativity between October 21-23rd.
[17:46] Mercury trines Saturn just as Saturn turns direct (Oct. 22, 6:00 pm PDT, Aquarius 18°35'), an excellent time to focus on what's important.
[20:07]  Scorpio season begins! Venus enters Scorpio (Oct. 23, 12:52 am PDT), followed by the Sun (3:36 am PDT). It's time to celebrate the miracle of compost! We're also getting close to the Oct. 25 Solar Eclipse at 2° Scorpio. (What will the eclipse mean for you? Order April's Followed by a Moonshadow eclipse report!)
[22:12] Listener Rachel asks about how we can cope, as individuals, with the upcoming Pluto in Aquarius era.
[29:06]  If you have a burning question about astrology that you'd like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a voicemail of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or just send an email to april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com.  Be sure to put "Podcast Question" in the subject line.
[29:39] If you like what you're hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share!  This episode is brought to you by donors Betsy Boone and Catherine Boyer!
[30:30] If you enjoy the show and if you would like to receive April's Bonus Donors-only episode for the Libra Equinox as well as bonuses for the upcoming Solstices and Aries Equinox, just donate $10 or more here!

148 | Mars Meets Neptune: Pencils Down!

This week, Mercury re-enters Libra – put your pencils down and face the world! – and makes the last of three oppositions to Jupiter; the Sun and Venus unite with Saturn to make last week’s Jovian dreams a reality; and Mars initiates a sequence of three squares to Neptune – take care when operating heavy machinery! And April answers a listener question about what to do when the sign on your Ascendant clashes with planets that are very different in style. Plus: A bag of tricks, the tyranny of time, and feeding the lion!
Read a full transcript of this episode
Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or leave a voicemail here!
It's almost eclipse time! Order your personalized "Followed by a Moonshadow" eclipse report!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
Timestamps
[1:07] Mercury, planet of ideas and communication, enters Libra on October 10, 2022 at 4:51 pm PDT. Time to share the thoughts and ideas that emerged while Mercury was retrograde. Leave room for adjustments.
[3:11] The Sun (Libra 18°41') trines Saturn (Aquarius 18°41') on October 11, 2022 at 6:06 pm PDT, and on October 13th at 11:21 pm PDT, Venus (Libra 18°39') trines Saturn (Aquarius 18°39'). Inspirations from last week's Sun-Venus opposition to Jupiter can become a reality, if you’re ready to do the work.
[7:18] Also on October 11, 2022 at 10:47 pm PDT, Mars (Gemini 23°21') makes the first of three, square aspects to Neptune (Pisces 23°21'). The second square is on November 19, when Mars is retrograde, and the third on March 14, 2023. Try to step outside your rigorous ideas of time, but be a little bit more cautious when driving this week!
[12:58] On October 12, 2022 at 12:24 am PDT, Mercury (Libra 1°40') makes the last of three oppositions (the first was on Sep. 2, the second on Sep. 18) to Jupiter (Aries 1°40'). What was the one thing you felt excited about at the beginning of September, when Mercury first opposed Jupiter? Now is the time to come up with a game plan to figure out where to begin, where it will end up, and the steps in between.
[15:43] Moon report!  No major lunation this week because the Last Quarter Moon will fall next week, on October 17th. And so, on to...
[16:00] Void-of-Course Moon periods: On October 10th at 7:02 am PDT, the Moon (Aries 26°07') squares Pluto (Capricorn 26°07') and is then void-of-course for about seven hours before entering Taurus (2:04 pm PDT). Practice patience with yourself and others.
[17:56] The Moon (Taurus 26°07') trines Pluto (Capricorn 26°07') on October 12th at 2:42 pm PDT. It’s then void-of-course for about seven and a half hours before entering Gemini at 10:08 pm PDT. Learning how to be grownups requires self-discipline and accepting the realities of getting things done in the world, and the Moon in Taurus harmonizes with that objective.
[19:04] On October 14th at 9:09 pm PDT, the Moon (Gemini 23°59') conjoins Mars (Gemini 23°59'), then is void-of-course for exactly 12 hours before entering Cancer on October 15th (9:11 am).
[20:52] Listener Lara asks about how to reconcile the sign on the ascendant of the chart with planets that are very different in style.
[28:20] If you have a burning question about astrology that you'd like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a voicemail of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or send an email to april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com.  Be sure to put "Podcast Question" in the subject line.
[28:53] If you like what you're hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Sarah Jane Williamson and Tony Nader!
[29:44] If you enjoy the show and would like to make a donation, and if you would like to receive April's Bonus Donors only episode for the Libra Equinox as well bonuses for the upcoming Solstices and Aries Equinox, please go to bigskyastropod.com and donate $10 or more.
 

147 | Aries Full Moon: Shouting From the Next Room!

In a light astrological week, Mercury concludes a sequence of aspects to Pluto and a process of mental refinement; Pluto turns direct on a Sabian symbol that brings to mind a grim alpine scenario; and the Aries Full prompts the question: has that couple at the next table lost interest in one another, or are they close beyond words? Also: April answers a listener's question about unaspected planets. Plus: smelly cheeses, housemates out of orb, and the trouble with spreadsheets!
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
[1:03] Mercury (Virgo 26°7') trines Pluto (Capricorn 26°7') on October 6, 2022 at 8:55 pm.  This is the last of three trines from Mercury to Pluto.  The first was on August 22, 2022 and the second was on September 27th.
[2:52] Mercury is on the Sabian symbol 27 Virgo, Grande dames at tea.  Pluto's Sabian symbol is 27 Capricorn, A mountain pilgrimage. We can't control much that happens in life, but we can control how we look at it. Focus, focus, focus!
[4:00] Pluto stations direct (Capricorn 26°6') at 2:56 pm PDT on October 8th.  Pluto has been retrograde since April 29, 2022.  Slow-moving planets are like background noise until they change direction, either retrograde or direct. Then they rumble, and we notice them.
[6:31] For a real life illustration of Pluto at 27 Capricorn, A mountain pilgrimage, check out Episode 127 from the Omnibus podcast.
[9:08] Moon Report!  On October 9th at 1:55 pm PDT, the Aries Full Moon (16°32') opposes the Libra Sun (Libra16°32') and Venus (Libra 13°09') and sextiles Mars (Gemini 22°46') and Saturn (Aquarius 18°44').  A very productive combination of planets!
[9:47] The Sabian symbol for the Moon at this Full Moon is 17 Aries, Two prim spinsters sitting in silence and for the Sun at 17 Libra, A retired sea captain.  Silence is golden – and it might mean you’re closer to your partner than others realize.
[12:02] This is the Full Moon revelation point in a Lunar Gestation Cycle that began with the April 11, 2021 New Moon in Aries.  Then the First Quarter Moon in this series on January 9, 2022 and the Last Quarter will occur July 9, 2023.
[12:50] This Full Moon in Aries is ruled by Mars which is currently in Gemini.  The Moon will sextile Mars.  Mars is within orb of the first of three square aspects to Neptune in Pisces.
[13:22] Void-of-Course Moon periods.  On October 3rd, the Moon in Capricorn makes a conjunction to Pluto at 8:49 pm PDT.  It will be void-of-course for about six and a half hours before it enters Aquarius on October 4th at 3:20am.  Beware of Limburger cheese milk!
[15:06] The Moon in Aquarius makes a trine aspect to Mars in Gemini on October 5th at 3:45 pm PDT. There will be a very long void-of-course period for 14 hours before the Moon enters Pisces on October 6th at 5:47 am PDT. With the level-headed Aquarius Moon it could be ok to act on your emotions or to indulge in something spontaneous.
[16:49] On October 8th, the Moon in Pisces opposes Mercury in Virgo at 4:10 am PDT and will be void-of-course for almost five hours before entering Aries at 8:57 am PDT.  Logic is great, but so is trusting your gut.
[19:20] Listener Diane asks about unaspected planets. April explains what constitutes an unaspected planet and how they might exhibit themselves. Here's the link April mentions for the Table of William Lilly's orbs.
[26:33] If you have a burning question about astrology that you would like April to answer on a future episode, leave a voicemail of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or send an email to April at April(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com.  Please put "Podcast Question" in the subject line.
[27:15] Enjoying the show? Subscribe to the Big Sky Astrology Podcast on your app of choice to keep current with new episodes. And positive ratings and reviews are welcome!
[27:44] This episode is brought to you by generous donors Karen Hartland and Mixy Gregory!
[28:03] If you enjoy the show and would like to make a donation, contribute just $10 or more and receive April's recent bonus 'Donors Only' episode for the Libra Equinox as well as bonus episodes for the upcoming Solstices and Aries Equinox! Make your donation at bigskyastropod.com.

146 | The Sun, Venus, and Jupiter Around the Campfire!

This week, the Sun and Venus in artful Libra meet up with gritty adventurer Jupiter around the campfire (does it have to be so dusty??). Mars and Saturn work their strategic magic, though  their accomplishments could meet with a setback after Mars turns retrograde (Oct. 30). Venus enters her home sign of Libra, the better to enjoy those we love and all things palatable and pleasant. Mercury finally stations direct, and it's time to leave the past behind and make new memories. And the Capricorn First Quarter Moon calls for a little kindness - both giving it and letting ourselves receive it. Plus, a mini-lesson on planets at zero degrees!
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
[1:11]  The Sun (Libra 3°41') opposes Jupiter (Aries 3°41') on September 26, 2022, 12:33 pm PDT.  The Sun is on the Sabian symbol 4 Libra, A group around the campfire.  Jupiter is on 4 Aries, Two lovers strolling through a secluded walk.  What the path forward should be...together.
[4:30] On September 27, 2022 at 10:48 pm PDT, Mars (Gemini 19°05') will trine Saturn (Aquarius 19°05').  This is a very beneficial aspect comes around just a couple of times a year.  The Sabian symbol for 20 Gemini is A cafeteria. These two planets made a conjunction on April 4, 2022 ,so look back at that time for relevant themes (perhaps concerning work). Keep in mind that Mercury (Gemini's ruler) is still retrograde, and Mars will soon turn retrograde in Gemini. Embrace change and flexibility.
[7:31] Venus enters one of her home signs, Libra, on September 29, 2022 at 12:49 am PDT.  Venus will be in Libra until October 23rd.  This is a time of enjoying other people and all things beautiful, palatable, and non-threatening.
[8:55] Venus (Libra 03°02') will oppose Jupiter (Aries 03°02') on October 1, 2022 at 11:12 am PDT.  These two benefics came together in a conjunction on April 30, 2022 on the Sabian symbol 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under a Full Moon. Now that we are at the halfway point of this Venus-Jupiter cycle, ask yourself : How does your garden grow?
[12:03] Finally!  Mercury (Virgo 24°11') will station direct on October 2, 2022 at 2:07 am PDT.  The Sabian symbol for 25 Virgo is A flag at half-mast. Mercury has been retrograde since September 9th, will re-enter Libra on October 10th. It's time to make new memories.
[15:02] Moon Report for the week of September 26th!  It begins with a Capricorn (9°46') First Quarter Moon on October 2nd at 5:14 pm PDT. The Sun will be at Libra 9°46'. The Sabian symbol for this First Quarter Moon is 10 Capricorn, An albatross feeding from the hand. This is the opening tension point in the Lunar Phase Family that began at the New Moon on January 2, 2022 at 12°20' Capricorn.
[16:19] The Sabian symbol for the Sun in Libra at this square, 10 Libra, A canoe approaching safety through dangerous waters. Both symbols talk about help, and finding the balance between giving and receiving too much or too little of it.
[17:40] Void-of-Course Moon periods.  On September 27th, the Moon in Libra makes a square aspect to Pluto (Capricorn) at 9:21 am PDT and will be Void-of-Course for seven hours before it enters Scorpio at 4:15 pm PDT. Focus on developing a healthy work-life balance.
[19:13] On September 29th, the Moon in Scorpio makes a sextile aspect to Pluto (Capricorn) at 2:20 pm PDT.  It's Void-of-Course for almost seven hours before entering Sagittarius at 9:03 pm PDT.  This is an excellent time for intense research projects or tackling control issues.
[20:30] The Moon in Sagittarius makes a square aspect to Mercury retrograde (Virgo) on October 1st at 2:46 pm PDT, then is Void-of-Course for just about nine hours before it enters Capricorn on October 2nd at 12:38 am PDT.  "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff...and It's All Small Stuff."
[22:07] Mini-Lesson:  Planets at 0°. Quotable quote:  "A planet at 0° is like Little Orphan Annie's blank, blank eyes."
[27:35]  If you have a burning question about astrology that you would like April to answer on an upcoming episode, leave a voicemail of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or send an email to april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and be sure to put "Podcast Question" in the subject line.
[28:09] Remember to subscribe or follow the show in your app of choice!  Positive ratings and reviews are always welcome!
[28:56] This episode is brought to you by generous donors Leslie Haynie and Linda Keane!
[29:15] It's not too late to make a $10 donation and have access to the Big Sky Astrology Podcast's bonus episodes for the Equinoxes and Solstices.  Just go to bigskyastropod.com and follow the link!

145 | Libra Equinox and New Moon: Going to Market!

As we welcome autumn harvest time to the Northern Hemisphere at this Libra equinox, the marketplace beckons: how will others value what we have to offer? The Libra New Moon on an extraordinary Sabian symbol of renewal gets an extra boost from Jupiter. Mercury backtracks into Virgo for a little quality control; what did you overlook last month? And a busy week for Venus reminds us that not all surprises are bad, sharing is essential, and good manners can sometimes be rewarded. Plus: a listener question about planets at the 29th degree!
Learn astrology with April! Her intermediate level course is open for registration through Sep. 21 and classes begin on Sep. 24! Details and sign up here - and use the code BSAPOD at checkout to get the course for only $215!
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
[0:30] Welcome the Big Sky Astrology forecast for the week of September 19, 2022!
[1:07] Congratulations to Big Sky Astrology Podathon winners: Sarah Eaves (astrology poster), Alex Anderson (astrology course), Karen Hartland (60-minute reading), and Mina Habibi (90-minute reading)! Plus, everyone who donated $10 or more will get access to April's bonus episodes for the Equinoxes and Solstices, beginning with the September 22nd Libra Equinox.
[3:10] Venus (Virgo 18°37') trines Uranus (Taurus 18°37') on September 19th at 9:44 pm PDT. Possible unexpected financial windfall or asset appreciation. Welcome the unexpected in your daily life.
[4:39] The Sun enters Libra on September 22nd at 6:04 pm PDT. This ingress marks the Autumnal Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere and the Vernal Equinox in the Southern Hemisphere. The Equinoxes are the two days out of the year when night and day are equal in length. So very Libran!
[5:49] What do we initiate at the Libra Equinox? Harvest time!
[7:11] Libra is ruled by Venus, which is still in Virgo. Our motto for this Sun in Libra season: everything needn't be perfect for it to be perfectly good.
[8:16] Also on September 22nd, Mercury makes its inferior conjunction to the Sun at 11:50 pm PDT at Libra 0°14' on the Sabian symbol 1 Libra, A butterfly made perfect by a dart through it.
[9:16] While the conjunction is exact, Mercury is cazimi, particularly powerful. Look for some much-needed clarity in the realm of Mercury (communications, thinking, commerce, short-distance travel, etc.)
[10:15] Retrograde Mercury will re-enter Virgo on September 23rd at 5:04 AM PDT, in a neighborhood it last visited August 21 - 26, 2022. Mercury stations direct on October 2nd and re-enters Libra on October 10th.
[11:32] Venus opposes Neptune on September 24th at 1:51 AM PDT at 23°49' of Virgo and Pisces. The Sabian symbol for Venus is 24 Virgo, Mary and her white lamb. The Sabian symbol for Neptune is 24 Pisces, An inhabited island -  also the degree of the April 12 Jupiter-Neptune conjunction. Sharing is caring!
[13:20] Moon Report for the week of September 19th. The Libra New Moon is on September 25th at 2:54 PM PDT at Libra 2°48' and the  Sabian symbol 3 Libra, The dawn of a new day, everything changed. This Sun and Moon opposed Jupiter in Aries lends an uplifting note to the change.
[15:54] This Libra New Moon initiates a 27- month cycle (Check out April's conversation with Celeste Brooks about the Lunar Phase Family Cycle in Episode 141!) Important dates in this cycle are: First Quarter Moon on June 26th, 2023; the Full Moon on March 25, 2024; and the Third Quarter Moon on December 20, 2024.
[17:32] Void-of-Course Moon periods for this week. On Sept. 20, the Moon in Cancer will sextile the Sun in Virgo at 8:57 AM PDT then go Void-of-Course for almost five hours before entering Leo at 1:38 PM PDT. Positive work-related opportunities and a good time to initiate beneficial health or diet habits.
[19:43] On September 22nd, the Moon in Leo opposes Saturn in Aquarius at 4:07 AM PDT. This Void-of-Course period will last for almost 21 hours (!!!) before entering Virgo on September 23rd at 12:53 AM PDT. Cultivate emotional self-sufficiency and confidence..
[21:26] The Moon in Virgo conjuncts Mercury at 5:49 AM PDT on September 25th and is VOC for about four hours before entering Libra at 9:43 AM PDT. A time to gain clarity about ourselves in preparation for the New Moon in Libra later that day.
[22:55] At 10:46 PM PDT on September 25, Venus (Virgo 26°9') will trine Pluto (Capricorn 26°9'). Venus in on the Sabian symbol 27 Virgo, Grand dames at tea. Pluto is on 27 Capricorn, A mountain pilgrimage.
[25:14] Listener Ann asks about the anaretic degree of 29°. What does this mean for a planet in your birth chart?
[30:46] Do you have a burning question about astrology?!? Leave a message for April at speakpipecom/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com with "Podcast Question" in the subject line.
[32:00] Big Sky Astrology shout out to donors Shellie Crow and Bobbie Galion! And if you donate $10 or more, April will send you the bonus episodes for the Equinoxes and Solstices - donate here!

144 | Gemini Last Quarter: Half-Mast

This week, as the world acknowledges the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, the Gemini Last Quarter Moon squares the Sun on a symbol of collective mourning. With Venus square Mars in Mercury-ruled signs, relationships benefit from clear but kind communications. Retrograde Mercury makes the second of three oppositions to Jupiter, whose grand schemes require that we fill the gaps in our knowledge. As the Sun in Virgo trines Pluto, excellence and merit might finally be rewarded. And April answers a listener's question about the effect of another person's planets on your birth chart. Plus: hanky-panky, pizza boxes, and tea with the dames!
You can still make your Podathon donation of $25 or more through Sep. 12 at 11:59 pm Pacific time to be entered in a drawing for a chance to win prizes - or $10 for four special equinox/solstice episodes! 
Read a full transcript of this episode.
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Timestamps
[0:29] A big "Thank you!!!" to everyone who donated to the podcast during last week's Third Annual Podathon!  You can still make your donation of $25 or more through Sep. 12 at 11:59 pm Pacific time to be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a reading, course, or special astrology poster! An email will be sent out on September 14th to announce the winners.
[2:02] We begin the week on September 11th by adjusting to Mercury retrograde in Libra. The Virgo Sun's trine aspect to Uranus in Taurus may still be felt by some.
[2:16] On September 16th at 11:40 am PDT, Venus (Virgo 14°23') makes a square to Mars (Gemini 14°23').  Venus is on Sabian symbol 15 Virgo, "An Ornamental Handkerchief."  Extremely talkative Mars in Gemini is on Sabian symbol 15 Gemini, "Two Dutch Children Talking."  Both Venus and Mars are currently ruled by Mercury which has just gone retrograde.  Try to find the common language but do not be unkind in our communications.
[5:38] At 3:21 pm PDT, the Sun (24°01' Virgo) makes its annual opposition to Neptune (24°01' Pisces). The Sun is on the Sabian symbol, 25 Virgo, "A Flag at Half Mast."  The Sabian symbol for Neptune is 25 Pisces, "The Purging of The Priesthood."  This opposition forms a T-Square with the Gemini Last Quarter Moon the next day.
[7:48] Moon Report!  It begins with a waning Gemini Last Quarter Moon on September 17 at 2:52 pm PDT, at 24°59' Gemini. This Moon's Sabian symbol, 25 Gemini, "A Man Trimming Palms," suggests curation of our stories and splitting the difference between unvarnished truth and flat-out fictions.
[9:04] This is the final critical lunation in the Lunar Phase Family that began with the Solar Eclipse on June 21, 2020 at 0°21' Cancer. Important dates for this Lunar Phase Family cycle:  First Quarter on March 21, 2021; Full Moon on December 18, 2021.  What do you have in your chart between 25° Gemini and 0° Cancer?  Check out April's conversation with Celeste Brooks on Lunar Phase Families in Episode 141!
[10:24] Void-of-Course Moon periods.  On September 12th, the Aries Moon will square Pluto in Capricorn at 9:53 pm PDT.  It will be Void-of-Course for about six and a half hours before it enters Taurus on September 13th at 4:39 am PDT.  Most of us will be sleeping but it could be a good time to think about how you want to change the way you react emotionally to things like frustration or anger.
[12:31] The Moon in Taurus makes a trine to Pluto (Capricorn) at 5:59 am PDT on September 15th.  It will be Void-of-Course for about seven hours before entering Gemini at 1:16 pm PDT.  The Moon is exalted in Taurus. Excellent time to initiate a new exercise routine, a change in diet and/or a change to a procrastination habit.
[13:25] Finally, on September 17th, the Moon in Gemini makes a square to the Virgo Sun at 2:52 pm PDT.  It enters a Void-of-Course period for about nine hours before entering Cancer on September 18th at 12:59 am PDT.
[14:32] Mercury retrograde (Libra 4°44') will oppose Jupiter (Aries 4°44') on September 18, 2022 at 3:34 pm PDT.  This is the second of three oppositions.  The first was on September 2, 2022 (Mercury direct at Libra 6°39' - April covers this in Episode 138).  The last in this series of Mercury / Jupiter oppositions will be on October 12, 2022 (Mercury direct at Libra 1°40').
[15:45] This second Mercury/Jupiter opposition falls on two Sabian symbols that relate to learning.  Mecury is on 5 Libra, "A Man Teaching the True Inner Knowledge," while Jupiter is on 5 Aries, "A Triangle with Wings." Backtrack to fill in gaps in information or knowledge.
[16:48] On September 18th at 8:58 pm PDT, the Sun (Virgo 26°12') makes a trine to Pluto (Capricorn 26°12').  The Sabian symbol for the Sun is 27 Virgo, "Grand Dames at Tea."  The Sabian symbol for Pluto is 27 Capricorn, "A Mountain Pilgrimage." Excellence can be rewarded at this aspect, but also, nothing succeeds like success.
[19:06] Listener Gerard asks, "What does another person's natal planets superimposed on your birth chart tell you about their influence in your life?"
[25:51] Let's give a Big Sky Astrology Podcast shout out to the first of our 2022 crop of donors - LeiAnne Koch, Stephanie Esman and Tracy Mills!!!  If you would like to receive April's special bonus episodes for the Equinoxes and Solstices, head on over to bigskyastropod.com and donate $10!