Big Sky Astrology Podcast

167 | A Venus-Jupiter Boost and Saturn’s Housework

This week, the First Quarter Moon in Gemini spurs us on to action; Venus and Jupiter meet in a fortunate and energizing (if combustible!) conjunction; Mercury receives Saturn’s commendation for its work in Aquarius, then enters Pisces for a little dreamtime. And the second of April’s three mini-lessons on Saturn in Pisces takes a look at Saturn through the houses of the birth chart. Plus: A podcast milestone, a failed detonation, and a tricky time to do your taxes!
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
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Timestamps
[1:10] Thanks to my listeners, the podcast recently reached a new milestone: 200K downloads since the first episode! 
[1:53] Moon Report!  A First Quarter Moon at 8°27’ Gemini will occur on February 27th (12:05 AM PST). The Sabian symbol for the First Quarter Moon is 9 Gemini, A Quiver Filled With Arrows. This tells us that we have all the skills we need to at least make some start toward a new project. The Sun is on the Sabian symbol 9 Pisces, A jockey, so we're spurring ourselves onto greater heights and speed.
[3:26] This First Quarter Moon is the first action point in the Lunar Gestation cycle that began at the New Moon on May 30, 2022. This is the opening action point in that cycle that will continue to unfold over the next two and a half years or so.
[3:58] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On February 28, the Moon in Gemini trines Saturn in Aquarius (5:07 PM PST). It's VOC for only an hour and a half before it enters Cancer (6:40 PM PST). Take some time to talk things over with a knowledgeable mentor.
[5:07] The Moon in Cancer opposes Pluto on March 5th (6:22 AM PST). It is VOC for just about one hour before it enters Leo (7:16 AM PST). Embrace your feelings in an unabashed manner!
[6:09] On March 5th, the Moon in Leeeeeooooo opposes Saturn at (7:18 PM PST). You barely have time for a snack during this 20-minute VOC period before the Moon before it enters Virgo (7:38 PM PST).
[7:16] Venus conjoins Jupiter at 12°08’ Aries on March 1st (9:36 PM PST), on the Sabian symbol 13 Aries, An Unsuccessful Bomb Explosion. As we lead up to the exact aspect, expect a little frustration (Aries can be impatient)! But the house of your chart that contains 12°8’ Aries describes the area of your life that is about to get an energetic, possibly lucky, boost from this conjunction.
[9:55] Mercury makes a conjunction with Saturn on the anaretic degree of Aquarius (29°24’) on March 2nd (6:34 AM PST).  This is on Sabian symbol 30 Aquarius, The field of Ardath in bloom. This is a beautiful Sabian symbol that suggests that what we have done while Mercury has been in Aquarius has been fruitful and pleasing.
[11:09] Mercury enters Pisces on March 2nd (2:52 PM PST) and will be in this sensitive sign until March 18th (9:24 PM PST). While in Pisces, Mercury works best with less structure and with communication that is considerate.
[13:19] Mini-Lesson: Saturn in Pisces through the Houses.  The House or Houses of your birth chart where this transit will take place indicates the areas of life that will offer the opportunity to set boundaries, show compassion, and take responsibility by literally doing something to make this world a better place.
[14:58] Transiting Saturn in the 1st House. Be kind to yourself and do not take on burdens that belong to someone else.
[16:23] Transiting Saturn in the 2nd House.  This transit can be about finding a career that's meaningful and making solid, long- range plans to improve your financial circumstances.
[17:49] Transiting Saturn in the 3rd House.  Learn by doing.  Also, focus on handling communications in a kind, ethical, responsible way.
[18:48] Transiting Saturn in the 4th House.  Define what home means to you.  Family members could need your help at this time but don’t forget to establish some healthy boundaries.
[19:55] Transiting Saturn in the 5th House. Create something that will last.
[21:39] Transiting Saturn in the 6th House. Buckle down and work that 9 to 5.
[22:26] Transiting Saturn in the 7th House. Do you want the relationship badly enough to overcome whatever obstacles come your way?
[23:14] Transiting Saturn in the 8th House. Prove your independence.
[23:55] Transiting Saturn in the 9th House. Be the authority.
[24:36] Transiting Saturn in the 10th House. Career crossroads can be expected.  Find the wherewithal to get up each day and put one foot in front of the other.
[25:26] Transiting Saturn in the 11th House.  Find your reward, your status and respect.
[26:07] Transiting Saturn in the 12th House. We’re reminded of our mortality and limits, that things end, and that we need to take care of ourselves with appropriate boundaries.
[6:43] Up next episode - transiting Saturn in aspect with the planets of the chart. Listener questions return in the month of April. If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and be sure to put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
[27:29] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share!  This episode is brought to you by donors LeiAnne Koch and Sharmeen Khan.
[28:21] If you missed the Podathon and would like to support the show, please go here!  A donation of $7 or more will get you access to the Capricorn Solstice bonus episode and the upcoming Aries Equinox and Cancer Solstice bonus episodes.

166 | Pisces New Moon….Squirrel!

A Pisces New Moon asks: where have you been hiding out, and how can you find the courage to come out into the open? Mercury’s aspect to Uranus makes waves with innovative and radical ideas, but when Mercury trines Mars the next day, stand by them and make them a reality! And April offers the first of a three-part mini-lesson on the upcoming transit of Saturn in Pisces. Plus: Bearish bodyguards, “as I wrote in my book,” and two of the most spectacular donor names ever!
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!
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Timestamps
[1:05]  Moon Report! The New Moon in Pisces will occur on February 19, 2023 (11:06 PM PST).  New Moons in Pisces begin a 28-day cycle of new spiritual growth. This also begins a Lunar Gestation cycle that will unfold over the next 27 months.
[1:57] The Lunar Gestation cycle was introduced by astrologer Dietrich Pessin – see this article from The Mountain Astrologer.  Also, much gratitude to Celeste Brooks of Astrology by Celeste for introducing the concept to April and Jen!  Check out Episode 141 for a recap. 
[2:34] The Sabian symbol for this New Moon degree, 1°22’ Pisces, is 2 Pisces, A squirrel hiding from hunters. Since this New Moon is just past a conjunction from Saturn, this lunation could be a story about hiding out from squirrely situations. 
[3:42] The First Quarter Moon of this Lunar Gestation cycle will be on November 20, 2023.  The Full Moon will be on August 19, 2024 and the Last Quarter Moon on May 20, 2025.  Note that these lunation degrees in the gestation cycle actually come at the end of freedom-loving Aquarius and are therefore close enough to this 1°22’ Pisces New Moon to be considered within this family.
[5:20] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods.  On February 21, the Moon in Pisces sextiles Pluto (8:05 pm PST). It's VOC for about one and one quarter hours before it enters Aries (9:14 PM). Sometimes your best squirrel strength comes from uniting with the big, bad bear of the forest.
[6:13] The Moon in Aries squares Pluto on February 23rd at (11:22 PM PST) and is VOC for just a little over one hour. It then enters Taurus on February 24th (12:29 AM PST). Has your inner squirrel succeeded in cultivating strength or is it still relying on that bear for protection?
[7:19] And finally, on February 26th, the Moon in Taurus trines Pluto (6:42 AM PST) and is VOC for just about one hour before entering Gemini (7:47 AM PST).  Our little squirrel friend is thankful for its powerful alliances but realizes that it can handle situations on their own! 
[9:31] Mercury squares Uranus on February 21st (2:22 PM PST) at 15°19’ of Aquarius and Taurus. Will your innovative ideas be rejected as a bit too radical?
[10:55] On February 22nd (12:14 PM PST), Mercury trines Mars at 16°45’ of Aquarius and Gemini. The Sabian symbol for Mercury is 17 Aquarius, A watchdog standing guard. And the Sabian symbol for Mars at 17 Gemini is A head of a robust youth changes into that of a mature thinker.  Defend those radical ideas and get to work on making those thoughts a reality.
[12:15] Mini-lesson:  Saturn in Pisces.  Saturn will enter Pisces on March 7, 2023.   That big, bad bear of a planet, Pluto, will be dipping into Aquarius in March as well. 
 
[13:02] Stay-tuned for mini-lessons on these two major transitions.  Episode 167 will cover Saturn in Pisces moving through the houses of the horoscope.  Episode 168 will take a quick look at Saturn in aspect to the other planets in a birth chart.
[13:36] Important notes about Saturn: (1.) It takes about 29 years to make a complete circuit around the zodiac. (2.) Saturn changes signs about every two and a half years. (3.) It has been domiciled in Aquarius from March 21, 2020 to March 7, 2023 (4.) Saturn is going to be in Pisces through May 24th, 2025, spend a few months in Aries, and then retrograde back into Pisces one more time before leaving for good on February 13th, 2026.
[14:18] Saturn transits are typically times of maturity, wisdom, discipline and boundaries.  Suggested reading:  April’s book Astrological Transits. 
[17:30] A Saturn in Aquarius recap.
[18:59] Saturn in Pisces themes, previous dates and Saturn returns. 
[23:06] Listener questions will resume in the month of April. If you have a question you'd like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email her at April(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and be sure to put "Podcast Question" in the subject line.  
[23:45] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share!  This episode is brought to you by donors Cyprus Hippolyte and Martina Papinchak!
[24:51] If you missed the Podathon and would like to support the show, please go here!  A donation of $7 or more will get you access to the Capricorn Solstice bonus episode and the upcoming Aries Equinox and Cancer Solstice bonus episodes. 

165 | Sun in Pisces, Venus with Neptune, and the Beautiful Cloud!

This week: Valentine's Day is flavored by Venus' rapturous conjunction to romantic Neptune, by the Sun's conjunction with realistic Saturn, and by the aftermath of an emotionally intense, pattern-breaking Last Quarter Moon in Scorpio. The Sun enters Pisces – what lights us up during this imaginative season? Venus enters fast-moving (impulsive?) Aries. And April answers a listener’s question about the best time to move into a new home. Plus: Impulse spending, the antithesis of romance, and the boom, boom, boom!
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!
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Timestamps
[1:18] Moon Report! On February 13 (8:01 AM PST), a Last Quarter Moon at 24°40’ Scorpio opposed Uranus, squares the Sun and Saturn. The Last Quarter Moon Phase is the moment in the lunar cycle for looking back and assessing our progress since the previous New Moon (January 21st at 1°32’ Aquarius).
[2:39] This is also the Last Quarter in a Lunar Phase Family that began with the Scorpio New Moon on November 14, 2020. That New Moon was sextile a triple conjunction of Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto in Capricorn. What old patterns have you been working hard to break free from?
[4:14] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. The Moon in Scorpio sextiles Pluto in Capricorn on February 13 (3:52 PM PST). The Moon is VOC for about an hour and a half before entering Sagittarius (5:31 PM PST).  Here is an opportunity to clear the emotional air and to release some grudges, negativity, and lack of trust.
[5:20] On February 15 (5:06 PM PST), the Moon in Sagittarius sextiles Saturn in Aquarius. It’s VOC for about four hours and enters Capricorn at 9:00 PM PST. Time to bring a bit of structure and form to those enthusiastically expansive dreams.
[6:09] The Moon in Capricorn conjoins Pluto on February 17 (8:18 PM PST). It’s VOC for about an hour and fifteen minutes before entering Aquarius (9:35 PM PST). This VOC period could be a more intense follow up to the Moon’s sextile to Pluto on February 13th, when there was an opportunity to release emotional negativity.
[7:25] The Moon in Aquarius conjoins Saturn on February 19 (6:00 PM PST) and is VOC for about three hours before it enters Pisces (8:56 PM PST). Preoccupied by thoughts about future goals, it may be difficult to be emotionally present.
[9:00] On February 15 (4:25 AM PST), exalted Venus makes a conjunction with domiciled Neptune at 24°04’ Pisces, on the Sabian symbol, 25 Pisces, The purging of the priesthood. This romantic aspect influences Valentine’s Day even though it’s exact on the following day.
[10:28] Rose-colored glasses are part of Venus-Neptune’s wardrobe, but check false, unhealthy ideals at the door of this party. Solo or partnered, this could be an opportunity to fall in love with the reality of the life you are building.
[11:41] The Sun makes its annual conjunction to Saturn on February 16 (8:48 AM PST) at 27°44’ Aquarius. This sobering aspect will be present alongside the Venus-Neptune conjunction on Valentine’s Day as well. The Sabian symbol for 28 Aquarius is A tree felled and sawed. This symbol and aspect, speak of the kind of pragmatism it takes for the times when a dreaded action needs to be taken for practical reasons.
[13:52] On February 18 (2:34 PM PST), the Sun enters Pisces (through March 20th). The nature of Pisces is mutable, flexible, and goes with the flow. Pisces is also a water sign and water represents the inner life.  The double-edged sword of idealism is the spark that initiates creative juices during Pisces season. Be sure to tune into the upcoming episodes of the podcast, when April will discuss Saturn in Pisces through the houses of a the chart and in aspect to natal planets!
[16:43] Venus enters Aries on February 19 (11:56 PM PST, through March 16).  Venus in the sign of Aries enjoys moving fast and challenging itself.  So, let’s get physical!
[18:40] Listener David asks about using astrology to determine the best time to move to a new home!
[25:47] 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.
[26:17] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Debra Alexander and Kristen Jennings.
[27:19] If you missed the Podathon and would like to support the show, please go to here!  A donation of $7 or more will get you access to the Capricorn Solstice bonus episode and the upcoming Aries Equinox and Cancer Solstice bonus episodes.

164 | Mercury Enters Aquarius: Your Five-Year Plan!

This week, Mercury teams up with Neptune to get creativity on the schedule and reads tea leaves with probing Pluto, before entering Aquarius for some long-range planning. Venus and Uranus remind us to embrace the flow of our inspiration while also inviting wisdom from those who’ve been around the block a time or two. And April answers a listener’s question about the fascinating technique of Horary Astrology. Plus: The age of irrelevance, the eternal search for car keys, and everyone’s least-loved job interview question.
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
[1:05] Mercury sextiles Neptune on February 6 (10:26 AM PST) at 23°46’ Capricorn and Pisces. Mercury is on the Sabian symbol, 24 Capricorn, A woman entering a convent.  Make some time to be by yourself so you can focus on accessing your imagination and producing something of what you find there.
[3:29] On February 7 (9:29 PM PST), Venus sextiles Uranus at 15°03’ minutes of Pisces and Taurus. Venus is on the Sabian symbol 16 Pisces, The flow of inspiration, with Uranus on Sabian symbol Taurus 16, Old man attempting vainly to reveal the mysteries. Give yourself over to your inspiration, but consider wise input from others as well.
[7:28] The Void-of-Course Moon Report (VOC)!  On February 6th, the Moon in Leo opposes Saturn at 6:15 AM PST. It's VOC for about seven hours before it enters Virgo at 1:14 PM PST. Don't let yourself be stopped from doing what matters because others might disapprove.
[8:53] On February 8, the Moon in Virgo trines Pluto at 10:40 PM PST. It's VOC for about two hours before it enters Libra on February 9 at 12:47 AM.  Stop that insomnia-inducing, runaway mind in its tracks by jotting down a detailed to-do list.
[10:16] The Moon in Libra squares Pluto on February 11 at 8:41 AM PST. It's VOC for about two hours and enters Scorpio at 10:34 AM.  If someone pushes your buttons, this is a time to push back.
[11:55] Mercury conjoins Pluto at 28°58’ Capricorn on February 10 (9:16 AM PST).  The Sabian symbol is 29 Capricorn, Woman reading tea leaves.  Much like the VOC Moon in Virgo period from February 8th, this could be an excellent time to tackle a long-overdue, difficult issue.
[14:07] Mercury enters Aquarius on February 11 (3:22 AM PST). It will be in the sign until March 2nd. Aquarius is a sign that loves long-range planning. Where do you see yourself in five, ten or even twenty years? Write those intentions down and make a consistent effort towards achieving those goals. You may be pleasantly surprised by how those seeds grow.
[16:48] Listener Joanna asks about the incredibly interesting technique of Horary Astrology.
[19:45] April answered a listener question about planetary dignities on Episode 111.
[20:21] The Astrology Podcast has covered Horary Astrology in-depth on a number of episodes, including this great interview with Lee Lehman, a master of the craft. Courses in Horary Astrology with Dr. Lehman and other top-notch instructors are available through the School of Traditional Astrology.
[21:57] 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.
[22:30] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share!  This episode is brought to you by donors Tammy Van Ulzen and Luisa Rebelo!
[23:29] If you’d like to support the show and would like to receive April’s Bonus Donors-only episode for the Solstices and Aries Equinox, just donate $10 or more here!

163 | Leo Full Moon: Sunshine After a Storm!

This Week: The Full Moon in dramatic Leeeeeoooo and the Sun’s square to Uranus urge us to liberate ourselves from stagnant patterns. As Venus squares Mars, it's time to stop asking for approval and start demanding what is ours. And April answers a listener’s question about the difference between the Sun and the Rising Sign in your birth chart. Plus: A hummingbird, an address in L.A., and dealing with the supermarket clerk.
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] The Sun squares Uranus on February 3 (6:50 pm PST) at 15°07’ Aquarius and Taurus. This is the final critical point in a Sun-Uranus cycle that began on May 5, 2022 when they conjoined at 14°47’ Taurus. This cycle describes where we’re trying to walk the fine line between having a strong sense of who we are while also being prepared to make changes.
[6:37] On February 4, Venus squares Mars (7:29 PM PST) at 11°14’ of Pisces and Gemini. The Sabian symbol for Venus, 12 Pisces, is An examination of initiates. The Sabian symbol for Mars is 12 Gemini, A slave girl demands her rights of her mistress.
[8:26] Venus and Mars conjoined on February 16, 2022. They squared each other on September 16, 2022 and made an opposition on November 30, 2022. This is the final square of this Venus-Mars cycle, much like the Sun-Uranus configuration on February 3. Will we let others decide our worth or stand up for what we believe we deserve?
[9:55] Moon Report! The Full Moon in Leeeeeeoooooo will occur on February 5 at 10:28 AM PST with the Moon at 15°40’ Leo and the Sun at 15°40 Aquarius. The Sabian symbol for the Full Moon is 16 Leo, Sunshine just after a storm. The Sun’s Sabian symbol is 16 Aquarius, A big-business man at his desk.
[13:12] The Sun in Aquarius and Full Moon in Leo are both square Uranus, forming a T-square configuration. Last week’s First Quarter Moon in Taurus was conjunct Uranus and this week’s Sun is square to Uranus and is approaching Saturn. Tension is plentiful at this time.
[14:56] This is the Full Moon in a Lunar Phase Family that began with a New Moon on August 8, 2021 at 16°14’ Leo. In that New Moon chart, the Sun and Moon were opposed Saturn and square Uranus. It's time to get out there and begin showing our joyful, creative Uranian selves, but don’t forget those Saturnian boundaries.
[16:47] Void-of-Course Moon periods (VOC). On February 1, the Moon in Gemini makes a trine aspect to Saturn at 3:58 AM PST. It's VOC for a little over 8 hours (!!!) before it enters Cancer at 12:11 PM. Let your Gemini hummingbird sit still for a minute and think about what is important enough to make permanent.
[18:58] On February 3, the Moon in Cancer makes an opposition to Pluto at 10:19 PM Pacific Time. It's VOC for just about two and a half hours before it enters Leeeeeoooooo on February 4 at 00:48 AM Pacific Time. Be humble, do some journaling, and don’t take on other people’s stuff.
[21:06] Listener April (really!) asks a question about the difference between the Sun and the Rising Sign of a birth chart. They may seem interchangeable, but they do very different work!
[26:39] 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.
[27:11] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Jack Daft and Ann Flynt!
[28:07] If you’d like to support the show and would like to receive April’s Bonus Donors-only episode for the Solstices and Aries Equinox, just donate $10 or more here!
 

162 | Venus Enters Pisces: Make More Magic!

This week: The Sun makes creative and heart-opening aspects to Mars and Jupiter and reaches the midpoint between its eclipse seasons. Venus enters Pisces – make your world more magical! The Taurus First Quarter Moon demands action related to something we began at last April’s Solar Eclipse. And April answers a listener’s question about what it means to have the Sun (or any planet, really) in the 12th House of the chart. Plus: Morning hair, charged to 60%, and whatever you do will be wrong – act at once!
Read a full transcript of this episode. (Password: COMEONIN)
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!
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 Timestamps
[1:15] The Sun sextiles Jupiter at 04°47’ in Aquarius and Aries on Jan. 24 (5:30 PM PST). Consider it an invitation to shine your light by taking a chance on something new – even if it’s something in your own backyard.       
[3:46] Venus enters her sign of exaltation, Pisces, on Jan. 26 (6:33 PM PST), and is in this imaginative sign until Feb. 19th. Indulge your imagination and make your world more beautiful and magical. Relationship-wise, this is a time to practice forgiveness and unconditional love. 
[5:57] Moon Report! The First Quarter Moon (Jan. 28, 7:19 AM PST, at 8°25’ Taurus) is on the Sabian symbol 9 Taurus: A Christmas tree decorated. The Moon is in a conjunction with the North Node and Uranus.  To quote April’s uncle-in-law, “Whatever you do will be wrong, act at once!”
[8:48] This is the First Quarter Moon in a Lunar Phase Family that began on April 30, 2022 with a Solar Eclipse at 10°28’ Taurus, which was also in a very close conjunction with Uranus. The action we need to take at this First Quarter Moon is to trust and to enjoy things at face value.
[10:51] Void-of-Course Moon Periods (VOC). On Jan. 23rd, the Moon at 25°25’ Aquarius conjoins Venus at 2:19 AM PST. It is VOC for about seven hours before it enters Pisces at 9:36 AM PST.  n absolutely lovely time to consider the pleasure of companionship, your values and what you want to leave behind for future generations.
[11:55] On Jan. 25, the Moon at 28°27’ Pisces sextiles Pluto in Capricorn at 8:11 AM PST.  The Moon will be VOC for only an hour and a half before entering Aries at 10:48 AM PST.  Stop sticking your head in the sand and deal with the thing that you have been ignoring.
[12:50] The Moon at 28°31’ Aries squares Pluto in Capricorn on Jan. 27 at 1:01 PM PST and is VOC for about two-and-three-quarter hours before entering Taurus at 3:42 PM PST. Temper self-centered attitudes with constructive criticism from an authority figure.
[14:01] The Sun trines Mars at 09°53’ Aquarius and Gemini on Jan. 29 at 5:45 PM PST. The Sun is on the Sabian symbol, 10 Aquarius, A popularity that proves ephemeral.  This transit will be in effect from around Jan. 27-30. An excellent time for thinking creatively and for promoting yourself and ideas.
[16:33] Also on Jan. 29 at 6:16 PM PST, shortly after the Sun trines Mars, Mercury trines Uranus at 14°57’ Capricorn and Taurus. The Sabian symbol for Mercury is Many toys in a children’s ward of a hospital.  A flow of brilliant thoughts should be more accessible during this aspect.
[18:10] Listener Cyn asks about the challenges of planets in the 12th House.
[25:40] 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. 
[26:12] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share!  This episode is brought to you by donors Patricia Parker and Kellie Ulyate!
[27:02] If you’d like to support the show and would like to receive April’s Bonus Donors-only episodes for the Solstices and Aries Equinox, just donate $10 or more here!

161 | Aquarius New Moon: An Unexpected Thunderstorm!

This week: Mercury and Uranus move forward and invite us to do the same; the Sun’s rendezvous with Pluto issues a challenge to claim our personal power; the Aquarius season offers a chance to break our own rules, and the Aquarius New Moon is a wake-up call to create a lasting legacy; Venus and Saturn celebrate the beauty of doing more with less; and April answers a listener’s question about looking on the bright side of your birth chart. Plus: Complimenting a fish, emotional nutrition, and where are you awesome?
Read a full transcript of this episode. (Password COMEONIN)
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!
Big Sky Astrology on Facebook | Instagram |  Twitter |  YouTube
Timestamps
[1:02] Mercury stations direct at 08°08’ Capricorn on Jan. 18 at 5:12 AM PST. Mercury turned retrograde on Dec. 29, 2022 and it will leave its shadow period on Feb. 6 at 24°21’ Capricorn. Mercury’s next retrograde period is April 21-May 14, 2023.
[3:42] Just about an hour and a half after Mercury stations direct, on Jan. 18 at 6:44 AM PST, the Sun makes its annual conjunction with Pluto at 28°13’ Capricorn. Personal freedom and creative expression, symbolized by the Sun, meet important challenges, especially in the professional realm.
[6:13] The Sun enters Aquarius on Jan. 20 at 12:30 AM PST. Groundhog Day and Imbolc/St. Brigid’s Day are celebrated during the Sun’s Aquarius journey, which marks the midpoint between the Capricorn Solstice and Aries Equinox.
[7:39] As the Sun is moving through Aquarius, we are asked to liberate ourselves from the constrictions that we place around ourselves.
[10:13] Moon Report! The New Moon in Aquarius (Jan. 21 at 12:53 PM PST at 1°32’ Aquarius) is on the Sabian symbol, 2 Aquarius, An unexpected thunderstorm. A suggestion for intention setting during this New Moon is to ask yourself, “What is it that I want to create for my legacy? How can I find the network of people who will help me accomplish this goal?” Take note that this lunation falls very close to Pluto (28°20’ Capricorn).
[12:36] This lunation also begins a two-and-a-half-year Lunar Phase Family Cycle. The First Quarter Moon of this cycle is on Oct. 21, 2023 (28°28’ Capricorn); the Full Moon is on July 21, 2024 (29°08’ Capricorn); the Last Quarter Moon is on April 20, 2025 (1°12’ Aquarius).
[15:15] Void-of-Course Moon periods (VOC). On Jan. 17, the Moon at 28°11’ Scorpio makes a sextile aspect to Pluto at 6:27 AM PST. It is VOC for about three hours before entering Sagittarius at 9:33 AM PST. Consider any toxic emotions that need to be dispelled.
[16:31] The Moon at 24°23’ Sagittarius sextiles Saturn on Jan. 19 at 2:09 AM PST. It’s VOC for about nine hours before it enters Capricorn at 11:11 AM PST. Which of the many Sagittarian arrows in your quiver are you ready to use?
[17:34] On Jan. 21 at 7:52 AM PST, the Moon conjoins Pluto at 28°19’ Capricorn, then is VOC for a little over two and a half hours before it enters Aquarius at 10:29 AM PST. Monthly accomplishments are up for review. Show some compassion for marks that were missed.
[19:10] Venus conjoins Saturn at 24°47’ Aquarius on Jan. 22 at 2:13 PM PST. Tiny House Harry and Frugal Freddy meet for 2-for-1 Sunday brunch at Discount Bagels R Us – and love it!
[21:53] Uranus stations direct at 14°56’ Taurus on Jan. 22 (2:58 PM PST). Uranus has been retrograde since Aug. 24, 2022. Uranus is in a wide square to that Venus / Saturn conjunction as it stations direct – will you stay or will you go? Look to the house of your chart that contains 14°56’ Taurus and any planets in your chart within 9°-19° of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarius. Be on the lookout for sudden shakeups to arise in those areas of your life.
[23:33] Listener Elliott asks about how to look on the bright side of your birth chart! April’s ever-optimistic Sagittarius Ascendant and 9th house planets reply cheerfully.
[29:21] 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 of 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.
[29:52] If you like what you’re hearing please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Sarah McNeil and Yvonne Allara!
[30:50] If you enjoy the show and if you would like to receive April’s Bonus Donors-only episodes for the Solstices and Aries Equinox, just donate $10 or more here!

160 | Mars Turns Direct: Points on the Scoreboard!

This week: A very busy Venus makes a swooning trine to Mars, squares the Lunar Nodes (and pushes us out of our comfort zone), and squares Uranus, shaking up relationships and finances. Mars finally stations direct, but don't move forward too quickly. And the Libra Last Quarter Moon wraps ups a powerful Lunar Phase Family that began in late 2020. And April answer’s a listener’s question about how to make the most of New Moon cycles when they sometimes skip houses in your chart. Plus: The algebra of kindness, a cheesy grin, and...who's the boss?
Read a full transcript of this episode.
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Timestamps
[1:13] Venus at 08°11’ Aquarius trines Mars on Jan. 9 at 7:22 AM PST. The two planets conjoined on March 5, 2022 at 0°1’ Aquarius, squared each other on Sep. 16 and then had an opposition on November 30.  It’s time to kiss and make up.
[3:40] On Jan. 10 at 11:51 PM PST, Venus at 10°18’ Aquarius squares the Lunar Nodes in Taurus and Scorpio. This square is activating the eclipse point from the April 30, 2022 Solar Eclipse at 10°28’ Taurus. It also forms a wide square from Venus to the upcoming Lunar Eclipse on May 5, 2023 at 14°58’ Scorpio.
[4:52] The Sabian symbol for 11 Taurus, which is the degree of the North Node, is A woman sprinkling flowers. This Aquarian Venus square the Nodes on the Taurus / Scorpio axis represents an opportunity to let go of fear and suspicion and embrace trust.
[6:35] Mars stations direct (finally!!!) on Jan. 12 at 12:56 PM PST at 08°07’ Gemini.  Mars entered Gemini on August 20, 2022, turned retrograde on October 30, and enters Cancer on March 25, 2023.  Before leaving Gemini, however, the planet squares Neptune in Pisces on March 14. All of these transits may have had a dampening effect on our desires to take care of business over the recent months.
[10:31] On Jan. 13 at 6:11 AM PST, the Sun in Capricorn sextiles Neptune at 23°06’ Capricorn and Pisces. The Sabian symbol for the Sun, 24 Capricorn is A woman entering a convent. The Sabian symbol for Neptune is 24 Pisces, An inhabited isle. There’s an opportunity to peek out of your cave and get a little bit more involved socially...it’s your choice.
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[13:37] Venus squares Uranus on Jan. 14 at 5:22 PM PST at 14°58’ Aquarius and Taurus. The Sabian symbol for Venus is 15 Aquarius, Two love birds sitting on a fence.  Have your business or personal relationships been feeling stale?  This could be an opportunity to leave for greener pastures.
[15:53] Moon Report! The Last Quarter Moon at 24°38’ Libra (Jan. 14 at 6:10 PM PST) squares the Sun conjoined Pluto in Capricorn.
[16:19] This Last Quarter Moon is the final critical point in a Lunar Phase Family that began with a turbulent New Moon on October 16, 2020 at 23°53’ Libra, intensified at the First Quarter Moon July 17, 2021, and revealed a full story at the April 16, 2022 Full Moon. This final action point of this Lunar Phase family asks us to decide what is salvageable in relationships and what needs to be thrown into Pluto’s cosmic compost bin.
[19:06] Void-of-Course Moon Periods (VOC). On Jan. 9th at 5:52 PM PST, the Moon at 23°21’ Leo opposes Saturn in Aquarius. It will be VOC for about 13.5 hours (!!!) before entering Virgo (Jan. 10, 7:15 am PST). Use feelings of being overlooked as fuel to work on a solo creative project.
[20:22] The Moon in Virgo trines Pluto on Jan. 12 at 3:06 PM PST. The Moon will be VOC for about four hours and then enters Libra at 6:56 PM PST. This is also the same day that Mars in Gemini turns direct.  Focus may be hard to come by, but try to use this VOC period on an analytical, detailed-orientated task.
[21:44] The relationship-orientated Moon in Libra squares Pluto on Jan. 15 at 12:39 AM PST. It will be VOC for about 3.5 hours before entering Scorpio at 4:08 AM PST.  If you happen to be awake at this time and are tempted to regret certain interactions, remember what Eleanor Roosevelt said: “No one can make you feel inferior without your permission.”
[23:41] Listener Luisa asks about how to get the most out of New Moon cycles when they skip certain houses in her birth chart. (Here’s April’s video on how to change house systems on astro.com.)
[30:29] 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.
[31:04] If you like what you’re hearing please subscribe, follow, like and share!  This episode is brought to you by donors Katherine Silvester and Alex Anderson!
[32:08] If you enjoy the show and if you would like to receive April’s Bonus Donors-only episodes for the Solstices and Aries Equinox, just donate $10 or more here!