Big Sky Astrology Podcast

328 | Capricorn New Moon: Reading Tea Leaves!

This week, communications go into overdrive as Mercury aspects Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus. Venus makes soothing aspects with Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, and enters independent, future-oriented Aquarius. The Sun embraces both the tried and true and innovation as it connects with Saturn and Uranus. The week ends with a zestier-than-usual Capricorn New Moon, and check out Big Sky Astrology’s YouTube channel for this week’s listener 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
[1:28] Mercury opposes Jupiter (Jan. 14, 12:17 am PST) at 19°34’ Capricorn-Cancer. This can be an excellent transit for expressing big ideas, ideals and plans for the year ahead.
[3:27] Venus sextiles Saturn (Jan. 14, 10:19 pm PST) at 27°08’ Capricorn-Pisces. Take the things of value and make them into something more permanent and lasting.
[4:49] Venus trines Uranus (Jan. 15, 7:22 am PST) at 27°37’ Capricorn-Taurus. May our hearts guide and surprise us.
[7:10] Venus sextiles Neptune (Jan. 17, 12:33 am PST) at 29°46’ Capricorn-Pisces. Here’s an option to build an extra layer of honesty and empathy into a relationship, if we choose.
[9:00] Sun sextiles Saturn (Jan. 17, 2:41 am PST) at 27°19’ Capricorn-Pisces. This could be an opportunity to become more serious about something that we do or to take on some kind of opportunity or responsibility that may help us grow.
[10:43] Sun trines Uranus (Jan. 17, 8:58 am PST) at 27°35’ Capricorn-Taurus. An opportunity to join in the games and simple pleasures that we can share with other people.
[12:31] Venus enters Aquarius (Jan. 17, 4:43 am PST). Venus will be in Aquarius until Feb. 10, 2026. Enjoy the people with whom you share interests and who you consider friends, but not necessarily friends of the heart.
[14:16] Mercury conjoins Mars (Jan. 17, 11:40 pm PST) at 26°03’ Capricorn. “The truth will set you free, but first it will piss you off.” - Gloria Steinem. Watch your words and temper.
[16:28] Moon Report! Capricorn New Moon (Jan. 18, 11:52 am PST) at 28°43’ Capricorn, on the Sabian symbol 29 Capricorn, A woman reading tea leaves. Our practical, everyday lives are a way to experience otherworldliness, mysticism.
[19:11] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the New Moon in a LPFC that will unfold over the coming three years. The First Quarter phase (first action point) is on Oct. 18, 2026, at 25°18’ Capricorn. The Full Moon (awareness point) is on July 18, 2027, at 25°48’ Capricorn. The Last Quarter (last action point) is on April 16, 2028, at 27°12’ Capricorn.
[21:57] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Scorpio trines Neptune in Pisces (Jan. 13, 2:59 pm PST). It’s VOC for 35 minutes, then enters Sagittarius (3:34 pm PST). Make kindness and compassion towards others a habit.
[23:22] The Moon in Sagittarius squares Neptune in Pisces (Jan. 16, 3:19 am PST). It’s VOC for 28 minutes, then enters Capricorn (3:47 am PST). Establish a habit of dream journaling. You can gain insight and clarity on issues that may come up in your waking life.
[24:24] The Moon in Capricorn sextiles Neptune in Pisces (Jan. 18, 1:57 pm PST). It’s VOC for 21 then enters Aquarius (2:18 pm PST). Get into the habit of trying to take the practical tasks of each day and bring some beauty to them.
[25:33] Mercury sextiles Saturn (Jan. 18, 8:09 pm PST) at 27°28’ Capricorn-Pisces. Saturn is on the Sabian symbol 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under the full moon. Take your ideas, thoughts, and inspirations, and make something practical of them. At the very least, write them down.
[27:17] Mercury trines Uranus (Jan. 18, 9:38 pm PST) at 27°34’ Capricorn-Taurus. This combination of Mercury, Saturn and Uranus tells us that there is a place for both practicality and seriousness, while being open to new ideas and fresh ways of doing things.
[28:11] Check out this week’s Listener Question on Big Sky Astrology’s YouTube channel!
[28:34] 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!
[29:06] 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.

327 | The Sun joins Venus and Mars: A Hidden Choir Singing!

This week, we welcome the new year with Venus and Mars in a conjunction to each other and both to the Sun, and all three in opposition to Jupiter. The Libra Last Quarter Moon adds to the week's emphasis on relationships, and a listener question about finding purpose in your birth chart. Plus: Creative muscles, blurry around the edges, and what’s in line with your heart!
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
[1:15] Sun conjoins Venus (Jan. 6, 8:36 am PST) at 16º22’ Capricorn. The degree of this conjunction is called the Venus Star Point. Check out Episode 282 for a refresher on the Venus Star Point, and find your own Venus Star Point at sophiavenus.com. This is one of the most powerful days of the year to manifest the situations and relationships that align with your heart and values.
[4:05] Venus conjoins Mars (Jan. 7, 6:43 pm PST) at 18º09’ Capricorn. The Sabian symbol for this conjunction is 19 Capricorn, A child of about five carrying a huge shopping bag. Motivation will be high to pursue the things that you want and enjoy.
[6:54] Sun conjoins Mars (Jan. 9, 3:41 am PST) at 19º12’ Capricorn, on the Sabian symbol, 20 Capricorn, A hidden choir singing. The Sun, Venus, and Mars are together at 19º Capricorn and opposed Jupiter in Cancer. This Mars cazimi day is ideal for sharing something you’ve been working on with the world.
[9:03] Venus opposes Jupiter (Jan. 9, 9:35 am PST) at 20º11’ Capricorn-Cancer. This transit can indicate a tendency to overdo it, to spend more money than you need to on things that don't necessarily satisfy you. Give some thought to what could make your relationships happier.
[10:46] On Jan. 10, the Sun and Mars in Capricorn oppose Jupiter within about six hours of each other. The Sun opposes Jupiter at 12:42 am PST, and Mars opposes Jupiter at 6:25 am PST. Avoid negative solar tendencies, such as boasting, bragging, and demanding the spotlight. Temper Mars tendencies such as insisting on having your own way. On the flipside, your hard work could be acknowledged.
[12:06] Moon Report! The Libra Last Quarter Moon (Jan. 10, 7:48 am PST) is at 20º24’ Libra-Capricorn. This Last Quarter Moon is the last major phase in the New Moon cycle that began with the Sagittarius New Moon (Dec. 19, 2025). Seek resolution to the conflict between collaboration and individual ambition. Sabian symbols: 21 Libra, A crowd upon the beach (Moon) and 21 Capricorn, A relay race (Sun).
[15:09] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Last Quarter in an LPFC that began with a Solar Eclipse New Moon on Oct. 14, 2023, at 21º07’ Libra. The First Quarter of this LPFC was on July 13, 2024. The Full Moon in this LPFC was on April 12, 2025, at 23º19’ minutes Libra.
[17:05] The Moon in Leo squares Uranus in Taurus (Jan. 6, 5:05 am PST). It is VOC for 3 hours, 52 minutes, then enters Virgo (8:57 am PST). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of stretching your creative muscles.
[18:34] The Moon opposes Neptune in Virgo-Pisces (Jan. 8, 3:23 pm PST). It’s VOC for 43 minutes, then enters Libra (4:06 pm PST). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of appreciating the artistic and non-conformist people in your life, without feeling like you need to change them.
[20:06] The Moon squares Venus in Libra-Capricorn (Jan. 10, 9:54 am PST). It’s VOC for 17 hours, 1 minute, then enters Scorpio (Jan. 11, 2:55 am PST). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of using structure, such as a daily planner, to track your New Moon goals and prioritize nurturing relationships.
[22:11] Listener Ginger asks about finding life purpose in the birth chart.
[26:56] 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!
[27:32] 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.

326 | Venus enters Capricorn: A Blueprint for Love, Money, and Values!

This week: Happy Holidays!... and quieter skies, as the universe offers a bit of a holiday reprieve. Venus and Neptune challenge beliefs about relationships and our values. Venus puts on her investor hat as she goes to work in Capricorn. There is a sizzling First Quarter Moon in Aries, and a listener question about how AI may impact the field of astrology. Plus: Working things out, a new tradition, and the case for consulting humans.
Note: We're taking a little holiday break, so there will be NO PODCAST ON DEC. 29. But we’ll be back on January 5 to help you ring in the New Year!
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
[1:44] Venus squares Neptune (Dec. 23, 9:31 pm PST) at 29°25' Sagittarius-Pisces. When there's a square aspect between Venus and Neptune, we can achieve clarity about relationships, finances, or values, and let go of the things and people that drain us.
[4:45] Venus enters the sign of Capricorn (Dec. 24, 8:26 am PST), and it'll be in this sign until Jan. 17, 2026. This is a practical Venus that wants relationships that are stable and solid, based on shared values, shared goals.
[8:14] Moon Report! The Aries First Quarter Moon (Dec. 27, 11:10 am PST) is at 6°17’ Aries-Capricorn. This is the first action point in the New Moon cycle that began at the Dec. 19 New Moon in Sagittarius. Consider things before dashing off to get something done.
[11:36] This is the First Quarter (first action point) in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began with the New Moon solar eclipse of Mar. 29, 2025, at 9°00’ Aries. The Full Moon (awareness point) in this LPFC comes on Sept. 26, 2026, at 3°37’ Aries. The Last Quarter (final action point) in this LPFC is on June 26, 2027, at 5°21’ Aries.
[13:21] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Capricorn sextiles Neptune in Pisces (Dec. 22, 6:44 am PST). It's VOC for 1 hour, 8 minutes, then enters Aquarius (7:52 am PST). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of going with the flow, instead of insisting that your way is the best and the only way. This VOC could also help your spiritual practice.
[14:57] The Moon in Aquarius squares Uranus in Taurus (Dec. 24, 1:42 pm PST). It's VOC for 3 hours, 27 minutes, then enters Pisces (5:09 pm). There might be an unexpected desire to introduce a new holiday tradition. Use this VOC period to get in the habit of letting down your guard when it comes to traditions and welcome something fresh and new, maybe even something a little bit innovative.
[16:36] The Moon conjuncts Neptune in Pisces (Dec. 26, 11:03 pm PST). It's VOC for 59 minutes and then enters Aries (Dec. 27, 12:02 am PST). Take a lovely bath, listen to music, or even watch a sentimental movie. Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of some healthy escapism.
[18:03] Listener Elizabeth asks about how AI may impact the field of astrology.
[24:38] 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!
[25:10] 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.

325 | Sagittarius New Moon: A Slow Celebration!

This week, the adventuresome Sagittarius New Moon season gets off to a bit of a strained beginning as the Sun squares off with Saturn and Neptune. Relationships and values are put to the test when Venus and Saturn meet in a difficult aspect. We honor the solstice as the Sun marches into Capricorn, and April answers a listener question about being born at the New or Full Moon. Plus: A lesson of patience, built to be productive and then to rest, and no place to go but up.
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
[1:20] Moon Report! The Sagittarius New Moon (Dec. 19, 5:43 pm PST) at 28º24’ Sagittarius. This New Moon is on the Sabian symbol 29 Sagittarius, A fat boy mowing the lawn of his house on an elegant suburban street. Guard your energy and anticipate that any tasks or any clarity you hope to gain will be hard won and might take a little while for you to see.
[4:00] The Sun squares Saturn (Dec. 16, 8:33 pm PST) at 25°28’ Sagittarius-Pisces. Use this time to plan and prepare for things that you want to get done at the New Moon, rather than pushing hard to actually do them.
[5:04] The Sun squares Neptune (Dec. 20, 5:02 pm PST) at 29°24’ Sagittarius-Pisces. Expect to feel drained, maybe a bit confused or unclear about what you want to accomplish during this New Moon cycle. Don't be too hard on yourself if you find you just don't have the energy.
[6:25] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). The First Quarter (first action point) in this LPFC comes on September 18, 2026, at 25º57’ Sagittarius. The Full Moon (awareness point) of this LPFC will occur on June 18, 2027, at 27º33’ Sagittarius. Then the Last Quarter Moon (final action point) in the LPFC comes on March 17, 2028, at 27º53’ Sagittarius.
[8:39] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon trines Neptune (Dec. 17, 7:24 am PST). It’s VOC for 1 hour, 14 minutes, then enters Sagittarius (8:38 am PST). Use this VOC Moon to get into the habit of connecting with the divine daily and observing the messages that come your way.
[10:07] The Moon squares Neptune (Dec. 19, 7:41 pm PST). It’s VOC for 1 hour, 11 minutes, then enters Capricorn (8:52 pm PST). Consider a quiet evening at home, doing something imaginative and restful.
[11:12] Venus square Saturn (Dec. 20, 9:09 pm PST) at 25º37’ Sagittarius-Pisces. Venus in aspect to Saturn often brings delays or disappointments, but sometimes the lesson is to have patience, and in the case of Saturn in Pisces, acceptance.
[12:47] The Sun enters Capricorn (Dec. 21, 7:03 am PST). Happy Solstice! Happy Yule! Happy Midsummer! The Capricorn and Cancer solstices are a wonderful time for standing still, which is what solstice literally means: the Sun standing still. The Capricorn Solstice is the beginning of Capricorn season (Dec. 21, 2025 -Jan. 19, 2026). The Sun is lowest in the midday sky. There's no place to go but up. What is it that we want to accomplish? What mountain is it that we want to climb?
[16:53] Listener Ivana asks about Full and New Moon natives. Check out Dana Gerhardt for more information on the lunar phases.
[23:44] 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!
[24:15] 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.

324 | Virgo Last Quarter Moon and Netflix Roulette!

Episode 324 | The Virgo Last Quarter Moon and Netflix Roulette!
This week, Mercury makes a lot of moves, entering Sagittarius, aspecting Uranus, Neptune and Pluto, and presiding over the Virgo Last Quarter Moon. Neptune stations direct in Pisces. Mars relaxes with Neptune for a few hours, but then moves into industrious Capricorn. And once again this week, we have so many transits to cover that there just wasn't time to include a listener question. Plus: Fuzzy-headedness, delegation, and Netflix roulette!
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
[1:40] Mars squares Saturn (Dec. 8, 4:15 pm PST) at 25º15’ Sagittarius-Pisces – a classic “one foot on the gas, one foot on the brake” transit. Slow down long enough to be sure you’re going after what’s truly right.
[3:42] Neptune stations direct (Dec. 10, 4:23 am PST) at 29°22' Pisces, after being retrograde since July 4. During this station, there could be a general lack of clarity. Be careful with Neptune things like medications or any kind of mind- or mood-altering substances.
[6:19] Mercury opposes Uranus (Dec. 10, 11:59 am PST) at 28°39’ Scorpio-Taurus. Due to Mercury's recent retrograde period, this is the third and final time that this transit is exact (previously on Oct. 29 and Nov. 19). Inspiration is high and words can have a tremendous impact.
[7:50] Mercury trines Neptune (Dec. 11, 2:19 am PST) at 29°22’ Scorpio-Pisces, the last of three transits in this series (previously on oct. 29 and Nov. 9). It's not the very best transit for sharp analysis and logic, but intuition should be heightened, breakthroughs are possible, and the urge to create will likely be very strong.
[9:39] Moon Report! Virgo Last Quarter Moon (Dec. 11, 12:52 pm PST) at 20°04’ Virgo-Sagittarius. Virgo is the sign of helpers and making peace with the limitations of your financial budget, your energy, and your schedule.
[11:27] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Last Quarter (final action point) in an LPFC that began with a New Moon on Sep 14, 2023 (21º58’ Virgo). The First Quarter (action point) of this LPFC was on June 13, 2024 (23º39’ Virgo), and the Full Moon (awareness point) was on March 13, 2025 (23º56’ Virgo).
[13:25] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Leo squares Uranus in Taurus (Dec. 9, 8:56 pm PST). It's VOC for 2 hours, 24 minutes, then enters Virgo (11:20 pm PST). Play Netflix roulette! Use this VOC Moon period to initiate a new habit of exposing yourself to new forms of art.
[15:03] The Moon in Virgo opposes Neptune in Pisces (Dec. 12, 6:51 am PST). It's VOC for 1 hour 13 minutes, then enters Libra (8:04 am PST). Be inspired by others but not unrealistically infatuated.
[15:53] The Moon in Libra sextiles Mars in Sagittarius (Dec. 14, 7:36 pm PST). It’s VOC for 15 minutes, then enters Scorpio (7:51 pm PST). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of going after what you want with a light-hearted attitude.
[16:46] Mercury enters Sagittarius (Dec. 11, 2:40 pm PST), the sign of its detriment in Sagittarius. A good transit for taking a broad overview or doing long-term thinking, questioning beliefs, initiating higher education. Mercury will be in Sagittarius until January 1, 2026.
[17:55] Mercury sextiles Pluto (Dec. 13, 8:32 am PST) at 02°12’ Sagittarius- Aquarius. Mercury is on the Sabian symbol 3 Sagittarius, Two men playing chess, and Pluto is on 3 Aquarius, A deserter from the navy. This is the exact aspect in a series (previously on Oct. 30 and Nov. 17). Here is an opportunity to go after something that requires great perseverance and keen perception.
[20:30] Mars squares Neptune (Dec. 14, 3:44 am PST) at 29°22’ Sagittarius-Pisces. Mars is on the Sabian symbol 30 Sagittarius, The Pope. Neptune is on Sabian symbol 30 Pisces, The Great Stone Face, the rock formation like a face that's idealized by a boy who grows up and begins to look like it. This is an opportunity to review what our ideals are and how we can represent them most positively. Dedicate energy to pursuits that give back to your profession or to your community.
[22:59] Mars enters Capricorn (Dec. 14, 11:34 pm PST). Mars will be on the Sabian symbol 1 Capricorn, An Indian chief demanding recognition. Mars is exalted in the sign of Capricorn, so it’s a strong time to manage practical matters with maximum efficiency, professionalism, and drive. Mars will be in Capricorn until January 23, 2026.
[25:05] Unfortunately, it’s another week when the skies are too busy for a listener question. But please keep sending in your questions!
[25:35] To have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[26:11] 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.

323 | Gemini Full Moon: The Book of Mercury

This week, Venus makes a sizzling sextile to Pluto, the Gemini Full Moon is relatively quiet, but the Sun's square to the nodes tells us that we're at the midway point between eclipses. Mercury ends the week with trines to Jupiter and Saturn and shows us how to write a book. Plus, April answers a listener question about Saturn transits - why does it seem that we have the same Saturn lessons over and over again? Plus: Sipping our Tang, putting up scaffolding, changes and turning points.
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
[1:22] Venus sextiles Pluto (Dec 2, 1:07 AM PST) at 1º55’ Sagittarius-Aquarius. Contain adventuring only to the possibilities of earth and sea, or step outside earthly experiences.
[3:02] Moon Report! The Gemini Full Moon (Dec 4, 3:14 PM PST) at 13º03’ Gemini-Sagittarius. At this Full Moon, the Sun is also close to its square with the lunar nodes (Dec 5, 4:22 AM PST). This Full Moon connects to two eclipses: Sep 7, 2025 (Lunar Eclipse, 15º22’ Pisces) and March 3, 2026 (Lunar Eclipse, 12º53’ Virgo). Let go of excessive criticism, perfectionism, workaholism.
[8:29] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Full Moon (awareness point) in an LPFC that began on June 6, 2024, with a New Moon at 16º17’ Gemini. The First Quarter Moon (first action point) of this LPFC occurred on March 6, 2025, at 16º21’ Gemini. The Last Quarter Moon (last action point) of this LPFC will occur on September 4, 2026, at 11º48’ Gemini.
[10:30] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon squares Jupiter (Dec. 1, 10:14 AM PST), is VOC for 8 hours 59 minutes, then enters Taurus (7:13 PM PST). Check in with the people close to you before acting on personal goals.
[12:01] The Moon sextiles Neptune (Dec. 3, 5:50 PM PST). It's VOC for 58 minutes, then enters Gemini (6:48 PM PST). Pisces can irrigate Taurus' soil, Taurus provides guidance for Pisces.
[13:47] The Moon squares Neptune (Dec. 5, 4:55 PST). It's VOC for 59 minutes, then enters Cancer (5:54 PM PST). Get in the habit of using words to express what’s going on inside of you.
[16:00] The Moon trines Neptune (Dec. 7, 5:45 PM PST), is VOC for one hour, then enters Leo (6:48 PM PST). Get in the habit of giving yourself some me-time to recharge your batteries.
[17:12] Mercury trines Jupiter (Dec. 6, 5:05 AM PST) at 24°08' Scorpio-Cancer. Mercury trines Saturn (Dec. 7, 8:58 AM PST) at 25°14' Scorpio-Pisces. These are the last in a series of trine aspects from Mercury to Jupiter and Saturn. The first were on Oct 24/25, the second were on Nov 22 while Mercury was retrograde. How are these aspects like writing a book?
[20:42] Listener Charlene asks about why it seems that we have the same Saturn lessons over and over again.
[26:45] 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!
[27:23] 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.

322 | Giving Thanks: Saturn and Mercury Direct, and a Podcast Milestone!

This week: A birthday milestone for the podcast, and another week full of transits! As Mars squares the Lunar Nodes, prepare to move toward your future. Mercury conjoins Venus on a whimsical degree, and Venus trines Jupiter and Saturn; Saturn turns direct on Thanksgiving Day, and Mercury turns direct a couple of days later. A Pisces First Quarter Moon could bring a crisis of faith; and Venus finishes her busy week and her time in Scorpio with an opposition to Uranus and a trine to Neptune, before entering merry Sagittarius. And unfortunately, this is another week that is so full of aspects to talk about that, once again, there’s no time for a listener question! Plus: Making camp, the places that fit us, and sacred arts.
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!
[1:48] A Big Sky Astrology Podcast milestone! This week marks six years since April and co-host Jen Braun aired the very first episode on Nov. 26, 2019.
[2:39] Mars squares the Lunar Nodes (Nov 24, 5:32 am PST) Mars in Sagittarius jolts us out of Virgo South Node perfectionism and toward the Pisces North Node’s realm of faith, imagination, and possibility. Even small steps toward our dreams bring rewards—even if they don’t look exactly like we imagine.
[5:09] Mercury conjunct Venus (Nov 24, 5:52 pm PST, 22°45' Scorpio). On the whimsical Sabian symbol, A bunny metamorphosed into a fairy, Mercury and Venus merge their magic in transformative Scorpio. Through what we love—and how we summon it verbally—we encounter opportunities for Scorpionic metamorphosis.
[6:50] Venus forms harmonious trines to Jupiter in Cancer (Nov 26, 8:31 am PST) and Saturn in Pisces (Nov. 26, 3:48 pm PST). Venus–Jupiter: Pleasure, ease, and maybe a little luck—if we’re willing to look beneath the surface. Venus–Saturn: Clarity around needs vs. wants. Themes of self-reliance, wisdom, and sufficiency arise. Venus’ Sabian symbols: 25 Scorpio, An X-ray, and 26 Scorpio, Indians making camp.
[9:30] Saturn Turns Direct (Nov 27, 7:51 pm PST, 25°09' Pisces). After months of inward restructuring, Saturn emerges direct on Sabian symbol 26 Pisces, A new moon that divides its influences, symbolizing new beginnings and individuation.
[11:15] Pisces First Quarter Moon (Nov 27, 10:59 pm PST, 6°17' Sagittarius/ Pisces). A call to action on intentions seeded at the Scorpio New Moon (Nov 19). Sagittarian certainty meets Piscean feeling—what action feels like the right next step?
[13:47] This is the First Quarter phase in a Lunar Phase Family cycle that began at the Pisces New Moon (9º40’ Pisces) of Feb 27, 2025. What were you dreaming of then? Now’s the time to take action. Future critical moments in this cycle: Full Moon on Aug 27, 2026 (4º54’ Pisces), Last Quarter on May 28, 2027 (7º01’ Pisces).
[16:11] Void-of-Course Moon Periods. Nov 25: Moon in Capricorn sextiles Neptune (1:10 am PST) and is VOC for one hour, 5 minutes before entering Aquarius at 2:15 am PST. The pragmatism and organization of the Capricorn Moon provides a strong structure for Neptune’s intuition.
[17:00] Moon in Aquarius squares Uranus (Nov 27, 9:53 am PST) and is VOC for 1 hour 31 minutes before entering Pisces (11:24 am PST). No matter how unconventional we consider ourselves to be, there are times we’d still like to fit in.
[18:47] Moon in Pisces conjoins Neptune (Nov 29, 4:05 pm PST). It’s VOC for 1 hour and 2 minutes, then enters Aries (5:07 pm PST). Go within and see what you find there.
[19:33] Mercury Stations Direct (Nov 29, 9:38 am PST, 20°42' Scorpio). Retrograde since Nov 9, Mercury turns direct—but with “retrograde residue” through Dec 16. April shares her thoughts on Mercury retrograde “confirmation bias” and her plan to track Mercury mishaps while it’s direct.
[21:55] Venus Opposes Uranus (Nov 29, 6:48 pm PST, 29º05’ Scorpio-Taurus, Sabian Symbols 30 Scorpio: Halloween jester and 30 Taurus: Peacock parading on an ancient lawn.  A nudge to question outside influences on money, values, and desire. What do you truly want—not what society says you should?
[24:07] Venus Trine Neptune (Nov 30, 12:48 am PST, 29º24’ Scorpio-Pisces). A dreamy, romantic, and potentially bewildering transit. Wonderful for release and spiritual clarity—just take care not to idealize the wrong person, purchase, or path.
[25:32] Venus Enters Sagittarius (Nov 30, 12:14 pm PST). Through Christmas Eve, Venus revels in adventure, cultural exploration, music, and the great outdoors. Perfect for discovering beauty in unexpected places.
[27:50] Another packed week of planetary activity leaves no room for listener questions—April promises they will return soon! Send yours to: April (at) bigskyastrology (dot)com (subject: Podcast Question) or by voicemail: speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast.
[29:00] 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. Free ways to support the podcast: subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!

321 | Scorpio New Moon + Sun in Sagittarius + Manic Mercury: A Humdinger of a Week!

This week: A lot is happening in the sky! The Scorpio New Moon sets the tone for an emotionally intense and transformative new cycle, while the Sun and Mercury join forces and light up the sky with aspects to Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. The Sun begins its journey through Sagittarius, and Mercury retrogrades back into Scorpio. Mercury trines Jupiter, and Uranus sextiles Neptune. The week brings both challenge and inspiration — and an invitation to embrace deep change. Plus: Read a new book, stare out the window at nothing, and go fly a kite.
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[1:35] Sun trine Saturn (Mon. Nov. 17, 12:56 am PST) at 25°15’ Scorpio and Pisces. A supportive aspect blending Scorpio’s determination with Pisces’ grace and compassion. Combine strength with kindness.
[3:05] Mercury’s Busy Week, Part 1 (Mon. Nov. 17– Wed. Nov. 19). Mercury sextiles Pluto (Mon., Nov. 17, 12:36 pm PST) at 01°39’ Sagittarius and Aquarius. This is the second of three such aspects, including on Oct. 30 and Dec. 13. Dig deep and get to the truth. Excellent for research and tough conversations.
[4:38] Mercury retrogrades back into Scorpio (Tue. Nov. 18, 7:21 pm PST). Mercury will continue to move back through Scorpio, until it turns direct on Nov. 29 at 20°42’ Scorpio. Revisit secrets, uncover motives, and attending to unfinished business.
[6:06] Mercury retrograde opposes Uranus (Wed. Nov. 19, 3:45 am PST) at 29°31’ Scorpio and Taurus. This is the second of these transits, including on Oct. 29 and Dec. 10. Break free from mental ruts — change your mind, shift your perspective.
[7:27] Mercury retrograde trine Neptune (Wed. Nov. 19, 4:21 am PST) at 29°29’ Scorpio and Pisces. Also the second of three such transits, including one Oct. 29 and the last on Dec. 11, with Mercury direct. Dream, imagine, and let your intuition do the talking.
[9:11] Scorpio New Moon (Wed. Nov. 19, 10:47 pm PST) at 28°11’ Scorpio. This New Moon forms a grand trine with Jupiter and Saturn, and an opposition with Uranus creates a kite. It’s a potent moment for setting intentions of transformation, release, and renewal.
[11:54] Lunar Phase Family Cycle. Keep a lunar journal to track this cycle over the next three years (key follow-ups): First Quarter (first action point) Aug. 19, 2026 • Full Moon (awareness point) May 20, 2027 • Last Quarter (last action point) Feb. 17, 2028.
[13:55] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. Moon squares Jupiter (Mon. Nov. 17, 3:51 am PST), is VOC for 9 hours, 53 minutes, and enters Scorpio (1:44 pm PST). Balance giving with self-care.
[15:09] Moon opposes Uranus (Thu. Nov. 20, 1:24 am PST), is VOC for 1 hour, 2 minutes, and enters Sagittarius (2:26 am PST). Reflect on financial independence.
[16:35] Moon squares Neptune (Sat. Nov. 22, 1:48 pm PST), is VOC for 1 hour, 5 minutes, and enters Capricorn (2:53 pm PST). Pause before reacting emotionally.
[17:40] Mercury conjuncts the Sun (Thu. Nov. 20, 1:23 am PST) at 28°18’ Scorpio. Mercury is cazimi, “in the heart of the Sun” — a powerful time for clarity, communication, and insight. Mercury will be cazimi from Nov. 19, 10:31 pm PST to Nov. 20, 4:15 am PST. Perfect for important writing, calls, or conversations.
[18:56] Uranus sextiles Neptune (Thu. Nov. 20, 6:33 am PST) at 29°29’ Taurus-Pisces. The second in a long series (2025–2027) of these aspects. The first Uranus/Neptune sextile was on Aug. 28, 2025, the third is on July 15, 2026, the fourth on Jan. 15, 2027, and the fifth on Jun. 6, 2027. Review Ep. 305 for more about this series. Reflect on the emotional side of technological change. How does innovation feel?
[22:19] Sun opposes Uranus (Fri. Nov. 21, 4:25 am PST) at 29°26’ Scorpio and Taurus. Sun trines Neptune the same day, at 5:05 am PST, at 29°28’ Scorpio and Pisces. 30 Scorpio: The Halloween jester is the Sabian symbol for the Sun. A revelation moment! Step out of your old identity and imagine who you’re becoming. Expect insight, creativity, and maybe a little nervous energy.
[25:33] Sun enters its Sagittarius season (Fri. Nov. 21, 5:35 am PST)! The Sun will be in Sagittarius until Dec. 21. A month of optimism, adventure, and gratitude. The perfect season for giving thanks and expanding your horizons.
[27:03] Mercury’s Busy Week, Part 2: Sat. Nov. 22 - Mercury trines Saturn (10:45 am PST) at 25°11’ Scorpio-Pisces; Mercury trines Jupiter (3:37 pm PST) at 24°56’ Scorpio and Cancer. Mercury (direct) first trined Saturn & Jupiter on Oct. 24/25, this is the second trine (retrograde) and the third is on Dec. 6/7 (direct). Review late-October conversations and projects — and now find clarity, perspective, and practical steps to move forward.
[29:03] Sun sextiles Pluto (Sun. Nov. 23, 11:19 am PST) at 01°45’ Sagittarius-Aquarius. Adventure beckons! A dynamic, self-empowering aspect for exploration and courage. The Sun is on Sabian symbol 2 Sagittarius: The ocean covered with whitecaps. Pluto is on Sabian symbol 2 Aquarius: An unexpected thunderstorm.
[30:53] No listener question this week — it’s a full episode! To have a question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. Free ways to support the podcast: subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[31:46] 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.