We are currently in the “Eclipse Season”. This occurs twice each year when the Sun, the Moon and the Earth align both longitudinally and latitudinally. These always occur at the time of a new or full moon. The rarity of these events suggests that things that take place around an eclipse will also tend to be unusual or unexpected.
Eclipses are most impactful if they coincide with and activate some part of our natal chart. Whatever that part is likely will experience the changes. If the eclipse actually activates a natal planet by any major aspect, that, too, could trigger a significant event. Two things could make this eclipse more impactful than most. One is the fact that the Moon will form aspects to seven other planets. This suggests that the eclipse will potentially activate many areas of our life in ways that could be significant and unpredictable. Collectively, we note that the eclipse will take place on Election Day in the United States (November 8). This suggests that whatever we think is going to happen, based on polls or whatever, will probably be superseded by many unexpected events.
For example, transiting Mars will be retrograde and conjunct to its position in the US natal chart. This suggests possible conflicts being initiated that day. Mars is the 7th house, the house of partners and open enemies. Whether that means we are attacked or do the attacking is unclear. Although Mars with Mars retrograde whoever begins the conflict will loose. It could also mean being attacked from within, as in some type of domestic terrorism. The Moon will also be conjunct Uranus and square Saturn that day. This reminds us of the extreme partisan splits in the country and suggests that they will highlighted that day. The combination of the Mars conjunction and the transiting Saturn-Uranus square being in high focus implies a challenging election day as well as difficulties following.
There is always a question of how long the influence of an eclipse lasts. For a Full Moon, the effects can last up to six months. Some astrologers feel that the effects of an eclipse last for only a few days but can be triggered by other transits over time. Specifically when the Sun or Mars reaches 15 degrees of a fixed sign it can reignite the eclipses potentials.
With the Sun in Scorpio during the eclipse, our collective experience could involve dealing with things that pertain to Scorpio. These could be issues around taxation, environmental toxins, nuclear energy, sex (and by extension, abortion) and the underworld (especially computer and social media scams, hacking and political influence).
The eclipse will effect the United States Sibley chart by activating the fifth-eleventh house axis. This is the axis of individuation and love. It addresses both the need for personal attention, recognition and creative or athletic expression (5th house). It also addresses the state of the group mind and collective consciousness (11th house). This suggests that the culture wars are going to highlighted leading up to election day and be a prime source of inspiration to get the vote, on both sides. Ideally, the eclipse could (surprisingly enough) trigger the collective to activate one of the higher octaves of the 11th house: inclusion and acceptance. Thus the opportunity exists for us to perceive and relate to each as fellow human beings rather than a member of “the other side”. If we emphasize and prioritize love we might just pull this off, or at least start the process of social healing. Pluto, the co-ruler of Scorpio will be highlighted and Pluto is a healing agent. Healing the breeches in our country will take time. The gaps are huge and seemingly growing. But we have to start somewhere and this eclipse could provide such an opportunity.
Aries (March 21-April 20)
Aries: Mars in Gemini could lead to impulsive, caustic communication. This is time to reflect on what you know, or think you know, rather than sharing ideas with others. Growth can come from developing the patience to be more selective in what you say, how you say it and with whom you are sharing the information.
Taurus (April 21-May 21)
Taurus: Relationship could be a prime focus for you this month. In early month, strive to be open expressing deep feelings that pertain to your relationship with your partner. Late month is a time when that open and honest, if vulnerable, communication could lead a breakthrough or a deepening of the intimacy and emotional bond you feel in the relationship.
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
Gemini: With Mars in Gemini and retrograde, this is a good time to prioritize physical over mental activity. When you engage in those activities, use them as a time to clarify your ideas and points of view. A walking meditation or working with certain breathing exercises could slow down the mind thereby enabling the clarity that we are seeking at this time.
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
Cancer: The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse could highlight issues with children friends or colleagues. This is a time to review your behavioral patterns and needs in these relationships (especially socially). The New Moon in Sagittarius on the 23rd brings opportunities to be more expressive both socially and artistically.
Leo (July 23-August 23)
Leo: Early month (especially around the eclipse) could bring hidden issues pertaining to family out in the open and in high focus. Respond to these situations with honest, clear communication but center yourself in your heart first. Love and thoughtfulness is more likely to bring release and renewal that threats or control.
Virgo (August 24-Sept 22)
Virgo: This is a good time to focus on harmonizing relationships. This could pertain to something as general as your neighborhood or community or as personal to your family. Helping others get through would could be a stressful month is well within your abilities and would bring a deep sense of satisfaction.
Libra (Sept 23-Oct 23)
Libra: The eclipse could challenge your need for harmonious interaction. One way out is to look at others more deeply, relating to them in a more intuitive way than you might normally. This could enable you to feel connected at the human level, even if things are strained socially. Communication could be pleasant and tactful, which could alleviate certain potential problems.
Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)
Scorpio: This could be a time of deepening your metaphysical or philosophical orientation to life. Focus on the inner planes can also help you avoid caustic remarks that would obviously lead to open conflicts. The internal focus can also enable you to realize the root cause of your anger or frustration and prevent you from acting out inappropriately.
Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)
Sagittarius: Your ruling planet, Jupiter, turns direct on the 23rd, after having been retrograde since late July. Things may start opening up for you, both opportunity as well as a sense of readiness. Remember, however, that with Mars still retrograde, one may lack the physical drive and energy to be successful in new endeavors. Being satisfied with an emerging positive attitude should suffice.
Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20)
Capricorn: This is the last month of the Saturn-Uranus square. The push-pull you’ve been experiencing in terms of staying the course or trying new things is ending. Growth for you can come from deeply analyzing the challenges, changes and blockage you have experienced that past 2 years. What to do you know now and where are you now that you didn’t or weren’t then?
Aquarius (Jan 21 to Feb 19)
Aquarius: Lots of creative energy available to you this month. Use it to plan strategy for the new year. Much of this can pertain to new ways to balance your personal life with your professional life. There may have been significant changes the past 2 years. Some of which may still be happening. This is a good time to find some clarity that can lead to new beginnings after the New Year.
Pisces (Feb 20-March 20)
Pisces: Harmonious energy abounds for your personal relationships this month. Use it to enjoy those whom you love and feel close to. This is not a time to initiate new relationships, however. You may either feel energetically blocked in that area or simply not find anyone worth pursuing. This is also a good time to deepen your metaphysical connection to life.
Rio Olesky has been studying astrology since 1967 and has been a practicing professional astrologer since 1976. The author of Astrology and Consciousness, A Manual for the Modern Mystic, and The Astroreader, Rio offers weekly classes through Zoom. You can call Rio at 707-887-1820. Check out his website: www.starwatcher.com.