Astrology With Andy

World Astrology

The Astrology of 2021 (And The Events of January 6)

As I always say, the planets don’t give a fu er, “hoot”, about how we keep track of time on Earth.

Astrologically, the start of a new week/month/year doesn’t have special significance. It’s the dates of specific planetary configurations that we care about.

Last year, we experienced three crucial astrological events on five specific dates (one reason why it was such a… unique year!):

  • January 12: Saturn-Pluto conjunction
  • April 5: Jupiter-Pluto conjunction (first pass)
  • June 30: Jupiter-Pluto conjunction (second pass)
  • November 12: Jupiter-Pluto conjunction (third pass)
  • December 21: Jupiter-Saturn conjunction.

Astrologically speaking, 2020 ‘started’ on January 12 and ‘ended’ on December 21. That’s almost equivalent to a calendar year. But, some years, we don’t have an important astrological event until April or May. And, that one event may be at play until June or July of the following year. So, a calendar year is not always the most accurate way to track astrological phenomena.

As an earthling, I nevertheless understand the symbolism of beginning a new year. So, in this post I will cover the most significant astrological influences over the next twelve months, and specify who will be most affected by them (if you have your birth chart handy, you’ll want to reference it).

I have divided this post into various sub-sections so you can read it piecemeal (and easily remember where you last left off).

BUT, FIRST… SOME CONTEXT

Context is the centerpiece of astrology. To understand where we are now, we have to understand where we have just been. Astrologically, nothing happens in a vacuum.

On January 12, 2020, Saturn and Pluto met in Capricorn.

As I explained in the months building up to that aspect, we were on our way to “foundational collapse”. That term wasn’t meant in a fatalistic, doomsday way. It was simply a literal translation of the astrology. Saturn is about foundations; Pluto is about collapse. When these two planets meet in a conjunction (as they do roughly every 38 years), that’s the order of the day.

Established paradigms and foundations (Saturn) collapse (Pluto). The status quo (Saturn) is transformed (Pluto). Subconscious (Pluto) fears (Saturn) surface (Pluto) and must be addressed (Saturn).

This conjunction was of particular importance because Saturn and Pluto hadn’t met in Capricorn since 1518. And, Capricorn is the sign that relates to government and business.

Soon, the entire world came to a grinding halt — and some industries had the floor removed from under them — as a result of COVID-19.

As we approached the last six weeks of 2020, it was clear that a slew of changes were in store (see this post for details), including a solar eclipse on December 14 that, from my astrological lens, pointed to Donald J. Trump’s presidency being limited to one term.

The other big-ticket event: a meeting between Jupiter and Saturn on December 21. Although these two planets meet roughly every twenty years, this one was especially significant because it happened at zero degrees (a powerful degree) of Aquarius and kicked off a new 200-year cycle of Jupiter-Saturn conjunction in air signs. This particular conjunction had “big changes” (in neon capital letters) written all over it.

I was not at all surprised that, two weeks after this event, two Democrats won the Georgia Senate runoff elections, flipping the Senate from Republican control to Democratic control (in addition, Jon Ossoff had his Mars return at the time of the election — a period of success and forward movement — while Raphael Warnock had opportunity-laden Jupiter supporting his natal Mars and Jupiter — significantly increasing the chances of the odds being in his favor).

As I explained in my November 4, 2020 blog post:

“Aquarius is progressive, forward-thinking, revolutionary, unpredictable, unexpected. It is also the sign that rules science and technology.

This gives the period between 2020 and 2040 (the next Jupiter-Saturn conjunction takes place in Libra on October 31, 2040) a significant amount of radical, unconventional, innovative, experimental energy.”

I also noted that while this indicated the beginning of a new era, “astrological ‘stress’ is required for growth and evolution. When there is such a significant shift from the energy of one sign to the next (as we shift from a time of extreme Capricorn energy to a significantly more Aquarian energy), there are some initial bumps in the road.”

Which brings us to…

THE EVENTS OF JANUARY 6, 2021

In my previous post, where I discussed the astrological events of the last six weeks of 2020, I mentioned that “Mars has a pending boxing match with Saturn and Pluto. The Mars-Pluto fight takes place from December 17 to December 31. The Mars-Saturn face-off takes place between January 6 and January 27. When Mars squares off against these two heavy hitters, anger and resentment surfaces. Whatever has been festering finally comes to a head so it can be addressed once and for all — head-on.”

The January 6, 2021 breach of the United States Capitol by pro-Trump rioters was an unprecedented event. And, yet, given the current astrological landscape (that puts a magnifying glass over our collective societal shadow so we can finally face it and do something about it), I was not surprised. Not only did this take place during a square (combative aspect) between Mars and Saturn; it was also planned during a square between Mars and Pluto. That’s a lot of mismanaged anger — with extra kerosene, to boot.

There’s another major astrological influence currently at play — the United States’ Pluto return. As I wrote in this June 3, 2020 post, this aspect “is exact on February 21, 2022, but its effects will begin to be felt as early as January 2021.”

The Pluto return (which happens roughly every 244 years, and therefore is the country’s first-ever) requires that we:

  • tear down structures and systems that are rotten at the core and start over;
  • forget band-aid solutions; identify foundational problems and look to foundational solutions;
  • face all the “ugly things” that have been swept under the rug;
  • embrace systemic change.

Pluto — regardless of whether you talk about it in a person’s chart or a country’s chart — represents whatever has been repressed for a long time. It represents our shadow; the unpleasant side(s) of ourselves that we often avoid, or project onto others.

“Shadow work” can really pay off. Consider, for example, the tremendous power and insight that can come from someone accepting that their own deep-seated insecurities about “not being good enough” are at the root of their constant desire to dominate conversations and have the last word (as opposed to less-evolved perspectives like “everyone I meet is so boring,” or “I’m just a say-it-like-it-is kind of person; if other people don’t like it, that’s their problem.”)

Alas, we often hear about what happens after people do “shadow work”. The clarifying “a-ha” moments. The amends they made. Their improved, authentic life. The albatross they took off their shoulders. The success they achieved.

What is often left out of the equation is the experience of doing the shadow work (much like how fairy tales end at a happy climax; we never hear how Prince Charming and his betrothed had a shitty honeymoon where they gave each other the silent treatment for 48 hours).

It’s important to understand that, as a backdrop to the astrology of 2021, we have the very beginnings of the United States’ Pluto return. We will all, collectively, do societal “shadow work”. A lot of unpleasant things will surface.

I’m not sharing this to scare anyone or deflate hopes of “things getting better”. It just so happens that, astrologically, we now have to address a malignant tumor that has been growing for a while. And, in order to excise it, we’ll need to face it and analyze it from various angles. When Pluto comes knocking, hiding isn’t an option. Neither is downplaying its seriousness, using humor as a defense mechanism, or playing dumb until it leaves. Pluto has unfinished business for us to address, and there is no grace period.

What we in the United States witnessed on January 6 was the manifestation of a dark collective unconscious that, for decades, lurked in the shadows. As the country approaches its Pluto return, we will be asked to acknowledge this underbelly.

Remember: the December 21, 2020 Jupiter-Saturn conjunction in Aquarius is the bridge to a new era that will be in full swing by the time Pluto enters Aquarius “for good” in 2024 (in 2023, Pluto will dip its toes into Aquarius from March 23 until June 11).

Until then, we will come face-to-face with very ugly truths about who we are as a people. If this journey through Pluto’s psychological caves is handled well, it can help bring long-standing societal shifts that help us evolve. However, this can only be accomplished if we embrace our collective shadow.

That doesn’t mean we have to self-flagellate, go down a shame spiral, or engage in self-hatred. However, it is vital that we recognize the inherent problems in many of our country’s societal foundations, historical institutions, and customs. “People are crazy!” is not an acceptable response during a Pluto return. Pluto wants us to look inward and surrender to the fact that some of the ugliness we see (and will see) is part of our collective identity.

In the wise words of Carl Jung: “knowing your own darkness is the best method for dealing with the darknesses of other people.”

To be very clear: that doesn’t mean making excuses for other people’s terrible behavior or engaging in problematic “both sides”-ism. It simply means to resist the initial urge to project negative qualities externally — and to understand that this isn’t “their mess”; it’s “our mess”.

THE MAIN ASTROLOGICAL EVENT OF 2021

While 2020 had three significant astrological events, 2021 has one — a square between Saturn in Aquarius and Uranus in Taurus.

This aspect takes place approximately every 22 years. In 2021, it will be exact at three different times:

  • February 17
  • June 14
  • December 24

Given these two planets’ slow speeds, I will keep an eye on those dates — with a three-week window on either end.

Saturn represents structures, authority, the status quo. Uranus upsets the apple cart, sparks revolution, and wants to march at the beat of its own drum.

While it’s great that we have essentially been given the tools to “build something new”, this year’s astrological landscape has two powerful entities fighting for control of that blueprint: Saturn (representing those who want a return to what they already know) and Uranus (representing those who want to go with a brand new concept).

This aspect encourages us to tackle old habits that have gotten in the way of our progress. It also provides opportunities to cement (Saturn) new and creative solutions (Uranus).

With that said, the main ask of this aspect is to find the sweet spot between Uranus (“blow it all up and start from scratch!”) and Saturn (“don’t change a single thing; we’ve done it this way for the last 100 years!”).

Given the current global landscape, I suspect that as the year goes on, we will see two opposite ends of the spectrum as COVID-19 vaccinations are rolled out. Some nations — or parts of the country — will quickly go back to “the way things were”, while others will be looking to create a new normal. And, at times, these opposing perspectives will clash.

The ask of this aspect, of course, is to determine what can be kept from “the old” and what has to be reinvented. Alas, that process will get a little dirty sometimes.

This aspect also reminds us that change (Uranus) needs a framework (Saturn). One of the pitfalls of tipping the scales toward too much Uranus is simply stating that “the status quo has to go” without first thinking about what would replace it. Too much Uranus is chaotic.

As I always tell my clients in private readings, there is no such thing as a “good planet” or a “bad planet”. It can be very tempting, when discussing Uranus and Saturn, to think of Uranus as the progressive, forward-thinking, freedom-loving planet… and of Saturn as the stodgy, boring, firm authoritarian.

Resist that cognitive trap. They both offer benefits and challenges.

After all, Saturn is the brakes on our cars (imagine driving a car without breaks), traffic lights (imagine driving without traffic lights), and laws. Sure, you can err on the side of too much Saturn and have too many rules and regulations. But, the absence of limits, boundaries, and order is just as problematic.

And, while Uranus represents virtuous traits like egalitarianism, creativity, and revolutions that move society forward, it can also be disruptive and chaotic. Uranus rules, among other things, earthquakes. Too much Uranus is the equivalent of experiencing an 8.0 magnitude earthquake on a weekly basis.

As we begin to build new foundations during this new Aquarian era, we’ll need to embrace change (Uranus) that is sustainable (Saturn) and well-rooted (Saturn).

By the way: Taurus — Uranus’ current home — is associated with the economy. So, in my eyes, this Saturn-Uranus square indicates major economic restructuring as we embrace a new (Uranus) world.  When Uranus entered Taurus on March 6, 2019 (it will be there until April 27, 2026 — except for a brief stint in Gemini from July 8 to November 8 of 2025), I published an Instagram post where I wrote:

“The planet of change, rebellion, technology, invention, and novelty has entered the sign that rules — among other things — finances, values, the earth, and resources.

The last time Uranus was in Taurus (1934 – 1942), we experienced the the worst part, and end, of The Great Depression. It also included the creation of the New Deal, the Social Security Act, and the Banking Act of 1935, which ‘changed the structure and power distribution in the Federal Reserve System.’ You can’t get more Uranus-in-Taurus than that!

No, you don’t need to stockpile food. Life goes on. Society evolves.

Since Taurus rules the earth, it isn’t surprising that the Soil Conservation Act — which called for changes (Uranus’ favorite word!) in plowing techniques — passed during Uranus’ previous sojourn in Taurus.

Expect ecological-focused technology to advance by leaps and bounds during this transit.”

As Saturn squares Uranus, the above-mentioned themes will dominate much of the conversation in 2021. Specifically: how do we redesign a new financial reality?

I expect major volatility in global markets — and especially with cryptocurrency — as this aspect plays out.

PS: Saturn and Uranus will be in an almost-exact square (literally half a minute from being exact)  from October 1 to October 12 of 2022. So, while the squares are only exact in 2021, the effects of this aspect will reverberate through the majority of 2022.

WHY OCTOBER OF 2021 SEEMS SIGNIFICANT

Within a twelve-day period in October of 2021, four planets will end their respective retrogrades:

  • Pluto turns direct on October 6;
  • Saturn turns direct on October 10;
  • Jupiter and Mercury both turn direct on October 18.

This is a lot of concentrated astrological activity. I have found that multiple reversals in direction (especially from retrograde motion to direct motion) align with a flurry of activity and developments.

Additionally, from October 16 to October 28, Mars will be square Pluto. This is always an aspect that brings tensions to a head. Sometimes, this can result in forceful, yet productive, discussion. At its worst, though, it can incite anger and violence.

WHO WILL BE MOST AFFECTED BY PLANETARY MOVEMENTS IN 2021?

When it comes to feeling astrological effects, I only focus on the movement of the slower-moving planets: Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. Their slower speeds mean that their effects are felt for a significant period of time (as opposed to the moon, which has an orbital period of 28 days and, if it affects your chart, only does so for roughly eight hours).

If you don’t know where you have your sun, moon, and planets: head to Astrodienst, enter your birth information, and create a free chart. Then, read below to determine if you will be affected by the planets’ movements over the next twelve months.

HELPED BY SATURN

Anyone who has the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, or a sensitive angle (ascendant/descendant; IC/Midheaven) between 7 and 12 degrees of Aries, Gemini, Libra, Sagittarius.

If this is you, 2021 will help you solidify and crystallize. Even when Saturn is helping, it is still Saturn. In other words — you will be asked to “do the work” and put in significant effort. But, Saturn on your side is a lot like having the best coach training you. You will be put through the paces. But, by the time you are done, you will walk away with a tremendous set of skills.

CHALLENGED BY SATURN

Anyone who has the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, or a sensitive angle (ascendant/descendant; IC/Midheaven) between 7 and 12 degrees of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius.

While I don’t do “doom and gloom” astrology, I also don’t sugarcoat things. Saturn challenges are a doozy. There’s no way around it. As I tell my private clients, a Saturn challenge has a purpose and a lesson. We aren’t challenged because of “bad karma” or for the sake of suffering.

This simply comes down to Saturn’s role in astrology: the auditor. Saturn wants to make sure everything is running smoothly. And, to make sure that’s happening, Saturn stress tests our lives. Whatever is on its last leg will not make it through a Saturn challenge. This can sometimes be difficult because, prior to the Saturn challenge, it’s easier to live in denial (“okay, so maybe this relationship isn’t the healthiest… and I don’t feel listened to… but at least we’re not cheating on each other!”). Once Saturn comes along, anything built on a shaky foundation will crumble.

HELPED BY URANUS

Anyone who has the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, or a sensitive angle (ascendant/descendant; IC/Midheaven) between 11 and 15 degrees of Cancer, Virgo, Capricorn, Pisces.

When Uranus supports your chart, the winds of change blow quite strongly — and in your favor. It’s important to remember that beneficial aspects from a planet don’t mean we can avoid a given planet’s archetypal energy; rather, it means we have an easier time integrating it. Supportive Uranus transits also make us seek change and reinvention.

CHALLENGED BY URANUS

Anyone who has the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, or a sensitive angle (ascendant/descendant; IC/Midheaven) between 11 and 15 degrees of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius.

When Uranus challenges something in our chart, we learn lessons about detachment and going with the flow. Irrevocable change takes place (often times at the hands of others, and the kind of change we have no say over, but nevertheless has tremendous downstream effects). Challenging Uranus transits become a hundred times more challenging if our response is to fight change and maintain everything as it is.

HELPED BY NEPTUNE

Anyone who has the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, or a sensitive angle (ascendant/descendant; IC/Midheaven) between 20 and 23 degrees of Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio, Capricorn.

True to form, Neptune is the most subtle of the slower-moving planets. Nevertheless, the effects of supportive transits are felt — mainly as a time of increased inspiration, sensitivity, and compassion. Many people often discover an artistic talent or skill during beneficial Neptune transits, too.

CHALLENGED BY NEPTUNE

Anyone who has the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, or a sensitive angle (ascendant/descendant; IC/Midheaven) between 20 and 23 degrees of Gemini, Virgo Sagittarius, Pisces.

This is the “buyer beware” transit. When Neptune challenges our chart, we must remember that our perception of reality is temporarily skewed. What looks and sounds fabulous now will look and sound much different when the transit is over. I strongly advise against making major life changes and decisions during a challenging Neptune transit to avoid buyer’s remorse down the line. Challenging Neptune transits are the equivalent of Alice falling down the rabbit hole. The risk of wanting to escape life’s troubles to such a degree that we find ourselves in the midst of an addiction is higher than ever. The best way to navigate a challenging Neptune transit is by ensuring we have things — and people — in our lives that help ground us and provide a realistic perspective of what is taking place. These transits are also often rife with dishonesty and delusion (from others as well as self-inflicted).

HELPED BY PLUTO

Anyone who has the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, or a sensitive angle (ascendant/descendant; IC/Midheaven) between 24 and 27 degrees of Taurus, Virgo, Scorpio, Pisces.

I refer to beneficial Pluto transits as “power transits”, because these are the transits that can potentially help us uproot our lives, level up, and become our best selves. This is still Pluto we are talking about, so any changes deployed as a result of this transit will be systemic and life-changing. As I often tell clients, Pluto’s idea of change isn’t “let’s change the color of the walls in the bedroom!”; it’s “let’s completely demolish this house and build a new one.” For many people, beneficial Pluto transits allow them to finally heal from unresolved trauma and address baggage that has gotten in the way of their evolution and fulfillment. If you’re willing to go deep and transform, this transit can give you the emotional makeover of your dreams.

CHALLENGED BY PLUTO

Anyone who has the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, or a sensitive angle (ascendant/descendant; IC/Midheaven) between 24 and 27 degrees of Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn.

Think of a Pluto challenge as a category 5 hurricane that decimates whatever isn’t strong enough to sustain its power. And, whatever is strong enough will nevertheless be put through the wringer. It’s important to understand that challenging Pluto transits have a purpose: to facilitate regeneration. It can be difficult for (most of) us to recognize when something is over or when a cycle has come to an end. During a challenging Pluto transit, we are faced with that truth. Sure, at first it can be harrowing and a tough pill to swallow. But, Pluto transits are quite long (often times up to two  years) because Pluto then sticks around to supervise the rebuilding process.

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As 2021 goes on, I will — as always — share more details about these transits (and other events, like eclipses) on my Instagram page. So, please follow me there as the conversation continues!

The United States’ Birth Chart Shows A Country In Dire Need of Repair

Think back to a moment in your life when you could no longer escape a hard truth.

One that made you wince just thinking about it, but had been building for a while and continually resurfaced no matter how hard you tried to push it down.

Now, recall the exact moment when that truth could no longer be ignored or obscured. You likely felt angry, confused, deflated, hurt, pained, and shocked. But, perhaps resolute as well.

That’s what the United States is experiencing after the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020.

The current events taking place across the country are no surprise to those of us who regularly monitor the United States’ birth chart.

There are several factors at play that I want to bring you up to speed on:

  • Transit Jupiter conjunct the United States’ Pluto
  • Transit Neptune opposite the United States’ Neptune and square the United States’ Mars
  • Solar arc Jupiter square the United States’ Uranus
  • The United States’ upcoming (but currently building) first-ever Pluto return

TRANSIT JUPITER CONJUNCT THE UNITED STATES’ PLUTO

Of course Pluto is heavily related to current events. Its keywords include:

  • Abuse
  • Crisis
  • Destruction
  • Metaphorical death
  • Our dark side/shadow side
  • Power
  • Rebirth
  • Transformation
  • Trauma
  • Whatever is hidden/beneath the surface

As I explained in an Instagram video a few months ago, Jupiter isn’t just about opportunity, luck, and growth.

Jupiter also acts like a magnifying glass, expanding whatever it touches — with no judgment of what “it” is.

Scroll up and re-read Pluto’s keywords. Now, imagine a temporary magnifying glass making all those concepts a hundred times more visible and obvious. That is the current astrological energy happening in the United States’ chart.

It’s also why covert (Pluto) forms of racism are coming to light (to the mainstream; I am aware that, to many, this is not news).

This graphic brilliantly captures what that looks like — Pluto represents everything  in the “covert white supremacy” grouping (click here for a more readable version):

In the current astrological landscape, everything that has festered in the darkness is coming to light. Pluto demands systemic and profound change. Band-aid solutions are not going to work.

In true Pluto nature, this transformation will initially be cataclysmic, traumatic, and uncomfortable. That doesn’t mean it will be that way eternally or that “there is no way out”. Quite the opposite, actually. Pluto’s message is that the only way out is through.

TRANSIT  NEPTUNE OPPOSITE THE UNITED STATES’ NEPTUNE & SQUARE THE UNITED STATES’ MARS

Neptune represents the subconscious.

At its best, it aids in spiritual enlightenment. At its worst, it is wishy-washy; it stands for nothing and is hard to pin down. Empty promises simply to appease others are the lowest vibration of Neptune.

Neptune, when involved in squares and oppositions (and conjunctions, though that is not the case here), lets us know where — and how — we have been deluding ourselves.

Neptune squares and oppositions are especially challenging because the delusion becomes obvious, but, in true Neptune form, it can be difficult to determine the next step while the transit is at play.

Remember, Neptune rules things like fog and mist. So, Neptune squares and oppositions are a lot like walking through thick fog. We can very easily become disoriented; we know the general direction we need to move in, but we don’t know how, exactly, to get there.

As I always remind my clients, every single astrological event — even the ones that make us uncomfortable and upset — has a purpose. These kinds of Neptune transits aim to help us (as a collective) tap into the highest vibration of Neptune: spiritual enlightenment.

Alas, the road to spiritual enlightenment does not consist of pricey Ayahuasca retreats where, in the span of one weekend, we drink a “magic potion” and then resume our regular lives with a newfound mystical perspective.

Neptune’s role is to help us realize that enlightenment requires empathy and compassion (two Neptune traits). It does so by exposing vulnerabilities that touch — and befuddle — the human spirit. Here’s the rub: many people are unequipped to handle those vulnerabilities. And, rather than absorb them and sit with them, they deny them (denial is a negative Neptunian quality) by blindfolding themselves to reality.

How this particular Neptune opposition plays out will ultimately come down to how many people choose empathy and compassion over denial.

The square from transiting Neptune to the United States’ Mars is, essentially, a cosmic “time-out”. Mars represents action, drive, forward movement, and initiative. Think of Mars as a fiery flame. Now, think of Neptune as a bucket of water. When Neptune square Mars, Mars’ fire is diminished and the usual “go-go-go” energy that was easily within reach is now not as available. As movement slows, one has no choice but to look around and take note of the environment.

Neptune’s role in this — once again — is to give Mars the opportunity to take a break from its usual “bull in a china shop” energy, reevaluate the direction in which it is going, and take inspired (Neptune keyword!) action (Mars keyword!).

Of course, free will is at play here. If one doesn’t choose to take inspired action, then this Neptune-Mars square is experienced as a disorienting and confusing time during which very little is accomplished.

SOLAR ARC JUPITER SQUARE THE UNITED STATES’ URANUS

Solar arcs do not reflect the actual movement of planets; instead, they are theoretical (every planet is moved one degree for every year of life). Over my almost twenty years in astrology, I have seen solar arcs, without fail, align with milestone moments.

Since solar arc theory moves planets at a very slow rate, it is very common to have very long periods (up to twenty or thirty!) without any major solar arc aspects. So, when they happen, we pay attention.

Right now, the United States is the midst of a square from solar arc Jupiter to its natal Uranus. This particular solar arc square has been at play since June of 2019 and is in effect through July of 2021.

Let’s, again, think about the most basic archetypes these two planets represent. Jupiter expands; Uranus revolutionizes. Enough said.

Uranus fun fact: Uranus was extremely active — by transit, not solar arc — when the Voting Rights act of 1965 passed and when the Civil Rights Act of 1968 passed in the United States. During those years, Uranus (progress/revolution) and Pluto (transformation) met in the same part of the sky, directly across from Saturn (the status quo). For what it’s worth, Pluto and Uranus will not meet up again until the year 2104.

The United States last had this solar arc from 1838 to 1840. The astrological landscape looked different at the time, but it’s important to note that, during those two years, famed abolitionist and writer Frederick Douglass escaped from slavery and began his journey toward becoming a prominent figure.

In fact, his first speech (at the annual convention of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society, which catapulted him into a public figure and speaker) occurred during this solar arc.

Pennsylvania Hall — an abolitionist venue built in Philadelphia by the Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society — was burned down by anti-abolitionists just three days after it opened.

Although the burning of Pennsylvania Hall represented bigotry and hatred, historians point to it as a watershed moment that ultimately expanded (Jupiter) the abolitionists’ (Uranus) support as many sympathized with their plight (and finally recognized the opposition they faced).

THE UNITED STATES’ PLUTO RETURN: WHY IT’S A BIG DEAL

Although this doesn’t kick into high hear until 2022, it is such a monumental astrological event that I’ve been talking about it on Astrology with Andy Instagram account since February of 2019.

A Pluto return makes the first Saturn return (the astrological milestone that relates to adulthood and takes place when we are approximately 28.5 years old) look like child’s play.

Since Pluto moves so slowly (it takes roughly 248 years for it to make a full revolution around a birthchart), no human has ever experienced a Pluto return. In fact, very few things have. Remember: everything has a birth chart. Countries, companies, your next family reunion… everything!

Historically, one long-lasting empire many astrologers look to for clues about a Pluto return is the Roman empire — which underwent two Pluto returns. Interestingly, the United States Pluto (at 27 degrees of Capricorn) is exactly opposite the Roman Empire’s Pluto (at 27 degrees of Cancer). The term “karmic connection” comes to mind…

The Roman Empire’s first Pluto return took place between the years 217 AD and 220 AD — a time of significant political turmoil during which a revolving door of various emperors all ended up being executed. Let me make something very clear: that does not mean we can “predict” the death or assassination of a political leader in the present time. Astrology deals with cycles and themes, and the common theme is political turmoil and revolts (which can take on many forms).

In astrology, we do not simply look at event ‘A’ and event ‘B’ and state that event ‘B’ will be an exact carbon copy of event ‘A’ — down to the last detail — simply because they share one astrological puzzle piece.

The Roman Empire’s second Pluto return took place between the years 463 AD and 465 AD. Although the empire (or, really, the Western Roman Empire) did not fall until 476 AD,  this time period marked the beginning of the end. Libius Severus, the Emperor of the Western Roman Empire during this time, was an ineffective and weak puppet manipulated by Flavius Ricimer (who was unable to be emperor due to his German origins).

Severus’ rule severely weakened the Western Roman Empire and essentially kicked off a decade-long descent that led to the fall in 476 AD.

One important thing to keep in mind is that the Roman Empire and the United States have vastly different charts. So, we can not possibly expect the exact same events to happen (just like how we can’t “predict” how you will experience your Saturn return by looking at how one of your parents experienced theirs).

However, we can look at themes. And, one common theme in a Pluto return has to do with chaos and crises that are meant to nudge us towards evolutionary change.

Not only are the Roman Empire’s and the United States’ charts different; we also have to consider where each one was/is energetically (in the same way that someone who hasn’t shrugged off responsibility will have an easier time with their Saturn return, a country that is aware of its problems and is making an effort to change them can undergo a Pluto return as more of a rebirth a permanent ending).

Pluto transits — whether you are a person or a country — demand that you shed skin, write a new chapter, and embrace a new identity. They only become problematic and challenging when we try to cling to to the status quo in hopes of avoiding change.

 THE UNITED STATES’ PLUTO RETURN: DATES AND “TO-DOS”

The United States’ Pluto return is exact on February 21, 2022 but effects will begin to be felt as early as January 2021.

To clarify: the current situation relates to the first transit I mentioned in this post: Jupiter conjunct Pluto. Think of Jupiter as the magnifying glass being used to identify what will need to be repaired during the Pluto return.

The United States’ Pluto return has four “peaks” (moments of high intensity):

  • February 2022
  • July 2022
  • December 2022
  • October 2023

After that final peak in October 2023, this return’s energy will begin to dissipate, but it will be in effect until January 2024.

A Pluto return brings up the following:

  • Tear down structures and systems that are rotten at the core and start over.
  • Forget band-aid solutions; identify foundational problems so you can come up with foundational solutions.
  • Face all the “ugly things” that have been swept under the rug.
  • Embrace change.

 THE UNITED STATES’ PLUTO RETURN: IN CONTEXT

As I always say, astrology has to be looked at holistically and in context. After all, every planet is located somewhere… and is doing something. The question, then, becomes: what else is happening during the United States’ Pluto return?

Two things stand out to me.

First, Uranus is in Taurus during the entirety of this Pluto return. Taurus relates to finances, material resources, stability, and values; Uranus revolutionizes, disrupts, and democratizes. I think the next four years will bring significant dialogue around — and structural changes to — where financial resources are allocated.

Second, this Pluto return takes place after Saturn and Jupiter meet at 0 degrees of Aquarius on December 21, 2020. This is a very significant aspect I will write an extensive blog post about as we get closer to the date. For now, I’ll simply say that this planetary meeting lays the foundation for significant Aquarius (humanitarian, egalitarian, progressive, revolutionary) energy over the next two decades.

P.S.: AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON THE DANGERS OF OVERSIMPLIFYING ASTROLOGY

I was recently sent this post that has apparently made the rounds on Instagram (it has been sent to me by a few people, but I don’t know who created it):

The question I was asked: “Is this true?”.

Look, here’s the thing. I know people mean well when they share this type of information. And, while the information isn’t wrong or false, it’s inaccurate.

That post is like saying that “a banana has as much sugar as a candy bar!”. Yes, that is technically true, but that doesn’t mean it’s accurate to conclude that a banana and a candy bar are basically the same thing. Once you consider nutritional nuances, you realize they are two very different foods.

I share this Instagram ‘meme’ because it helps explains why I started this blog. There are a lot of nuances in astrology that simply can not be summed up in an image or a meme (at least not in a way that is accurate); instead, they require a 2,400-plus-word blog post.

If you’ve made it this far, you now understand that the current US situation is the result of a combination of astrological aspects at play.

It is not as simple as “Pluto is in Capricorn” — it’s “transit Jupiter is conjunct the US Pluto and the United States is about to have a Pluto return.” And, Neptune in Pisces has absolutely nothing to do with the fall of Rome (as you’ve now learned).

It’s precisely this type of overly simplistic astrology that resulted in some astrology accounts claiming COVID-19 would result in as many deaths as the Spanish Flu — roughly 50 million — simply because of Neptune’s placement in Pisces.

Bottom line: the United States has begun a period of change like no other in its history. How it plays out depends entirely on who is at the helm and what its citizens accept or defy. Just keep in mind that this is merely the beginning. That is not meant to sound ominous. Rather, it’s a reminder that change and evolution take place over years and decades.

Which side of history do you want to be on when we look back in fifty years?

COVID-19 & The Astrology of 2020: Where Do We Go From Here?

There’s lots to say about the current global situation and the many shifts we can expect over the next few years, so let’s get right to it.

For easier reading, I have divided this into sections.

What Happened, Astrologically Speaking?

The current global situation can be traced back to the January 20, 2020 conjunction (meeting) of Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn.

Although the conjunction was exact on January 20 (that was the date when Saturn and Pluto were literally on top of each other), the buildup to that aspect started in November. Astrological aspects operate on a bell curve. The date of the actual aspect is the peak of the bell curve; the energy slowly intensifies during the buildup phase and slowly decreases during the decline phase.

I first posted about the Saturn-Pluto conjunction on my Instagram page in June of 2019; I described the aspect as a harbinger of “political changes and foundational collapse”.

I don’t do “doom and gloom astrology”; foundational collapse was not meant to invoke fear. It was simply a literal translation of the aspect. Saturn is about foundations; Pluto is about collapse. When these two planets meet in a conjunction (as they do roughly every 38 years), that’s the order of the day.

Establish paradigms and foundations (Saturn) collapse (Pluto). The status quo (Saturn) is transformed (Pluto). Subconscious (Pluto) fears (Saturn) surface (Pluto) and must be addressed (Saturn).

FYI: Periods when Saturn and Pluto square (are 90 degrees away from) each other or oppose (are 180 degrees away from) each other also make ripples. The most recent Saturn-Pluto opposition occurred weeks before the September 11 attacks.

Astrology reminds us to maintain perspective. Throughout human history, Saturn and Pluto have interacted with each other hundreds of times. And life has continued. Uncertain times can undoubtedly be challenging, stressful, and emotionally taxing. But, nothing is the “end of the world”.

Why Didn’t Astrologers Predict a Pandemic?

As I always tell my clients, there are limits to astrology (in the same way that your GPS won’t tell you that, thirty minutes into your road trip, a blue car will honk at you and that you’ll stop to buy snacks after two hours).

Most times, astrology tells us the “what”, but not the “how”.

For example, when Saturn travels through a person’s seventh house of personal and business relationships, there is usually at least one monumental relationship-focused event. It could be a significant breakup or a relationship that evolves from casual to serious. In some cases, other factors in the chart can help the astrologer determine the “how”. More often than not, though, the exact details are unknown (because astrology informs us of cycles and themes, not minutia).

All astrologers, for years, had kept a careful watch on the January 20 Saturn-Pluto conjunction. We knew it would bring significant shifts and a definite “before” and “after”. It would, undoubtedly, leave a mark on society.

There’s another reason why astrologers didn’t “predict” (I’m not a fan of this term in astrology, as it only perpetuates the silly idea of astrologers as all-knowing, crystal ball-gazing fortune tellers) a pandemic…

This Pandemic is the Symptom and The Means to An End

COVID-19 is actually not “the significant thing” heralded by the Saturn-Pluto conjunction.

Yes, it’s the only thing we hear in the news. And, yes, it has significantly changed our way of life at the moment.

However, this virus is the means through which we are being asked to address what the Saturn-Pluto conjunction in Capricorn wants us to tackle as a global society:

  • Business
  • Governments
  • Large industries
  • Monopolies
  • Politics

In early March, one of my Instagram followers asked me to weigh in after they had come across a Facebook astrology page which stated that COVID-19 would be just as much as a public health catastrophe as the Spanish Flu of 1918.

I disagreed at the time — and still disagree. COVID-19 has, sadly, resulted in 170,455 worldwide deaths as of April 21, 2020. COVID-19 is real. It’s contagious and can rapidly deteriorate health.

However, comparing it to the Spanish Flu is a gross exaggeration. The Spanish Flu killed 50 million people at a time when our planet housed 2 billion inhabitants. So far, COVID-19 has killed 170,000 out of 7.6 billion.

That is not to say COVID-19 is “harmless” or “not a big deal”. My point is that the astrological landscape clearly shows that this current global situation relates to economics, governments, money, and structures — NOT medicine or public health.

This pandemic has not upended our idea of virology or human biochemistry. It hasn’t made us realize that the way we’ve been doing medicine for the last few decades has been totally wrong. It has, however, rapidly brought some very “Capricornian” themes to our attention:

  • Resource management (e.g.: many hospitals don’t have the financial, material, or human resources to endure this)
  • The economic safety net (e.g.: specifically, its absence)
  • Finances (e.g.: the unsustainability of the current economic landscape)

When they join forces in a sign, Saturn and Pluto let us know if — and how — we have gone too far down that sign’s negative qualities (all signs and planets have positive and negative expressions). If that’s the case, we’re then asked to tap into that sign’s positive qualities and strike a balance.

The negative qualities of Capricorn include:

  • Coldness/lack of empathy
  • Division (“You are different from me; you and I have nothing in common”)
  • Extreme hunger for power
  • Fear and suspicion
  • Greed
  • Materialism
  • Rigidity
  • Ruthlessness
  • Selfishness
  • Unwavering conformity

Capricorn’s positive qualities include:

  • Dutifulness
  • Hardworking
  • Humility
  • Pragmatism
  • Realism
  • Resourcefulness
  • Wisdom

So, let’s put all this together. The lessons and asks of COVID-19 are to:

  • Recognize that power structures rooted in materialism and greed are unsustainable and, ultimately, a house of cards: this pandemic has demonstrated why public health must be prioritized over profits.
  • Realize we are all in this together (and get away from Capricorn’s lack of empathy): everyone has been impacted by the effects of this pandemic.
  • Stop using material objects and money as gauges for happiness or success: it is very “negative Capricorn”, for example, to utilize the stock market as a measure of how “well” a country is doing (without taking into account things like rates of anxiety/depression, stress levels, rates of chronic disease, and the health of the environment).
  • Acknowledge the fundamental problems in unchecked capitalism: among them, the disappearance of safety net that leave hundreds of millions extremely vulnerable at a time like this.
  • Redirect financial resources wisely: this pandemic has made it evident that many public hospitals around the world are severely underfunded.

What’s Next In 2020? Two Time Periods to Watch

There are two time periods of significant astrological activity that I am watching because they pack a significant amount of important aspects. These aspects have global effects (though some countries will be more affected depending on their individual birth charts)

First, June 6 – July 13. Here’s why:

  • Mars will conjunct Neptune on June 13: Neptune rules viruses; a conjunction from Mars accelerates things. This aspect will begin building on June 6.
  • Mercury will retrograde from June 19 to July 13: Although Mercury retrograde can be helpful for fixing past errors and acquiring information that was once overlooked, it can also cause confusion and delays.
  • Jupiter and Pluto will be conjunct on June 30: these two planets met in Capricorn on April 4. Jupiter acts as a magnifying glass and Pluto is the great transformer and rules whatever is hidden or has been out of sight.
  • A lunar eclipse takes place on July 5: lunar eclipses bring the end of a cycle — and this one falls very close to the United States’ sun.

To me, this first astrological landscape could manifest as a second wave, or second spike, of COVID-19 cases. Since this is still a few months away, there could be some advancements in treatments by then.

Alternatively, parts of the United States and world that weren’t as affected the first few months of 2020 may find themselves as new “hot spots” at this time, essentially having their first significant wave of cases.

The other significant window of time takes place September 30 – December 30. Here’s why:

  • Saturn turns direct (AKA: “stops retrograding”) and squares Mars on September 30: the days surrounding a planet’s change of direction are significant. In this case, we have “reality check” Saturn, which also squares off against warrior Mars that same day. Saturn-Mars squares bring conflicts to a head.
  • Mars squares Jupiter on October 19: Even though this is a square, Jupiter doesn’t get into a fight with Mars. However, this aspect blows up Mars’ energy, passion, and desire to get things going and moving.
  • Jupiter and Pluto will be conjunct on November 13: these two get together for a final (third) time before saying goodbye. They won’t see each other again for another 13 years, so their final goodbye can be over-the-top and be accompanied by significant events.
  • A lunar eclipse takes place on November 30: This eclipse indicates the end of a cycle.
  • A solar eclipse takes place on December 14. This solar eclipse kicks off a new six-month period. Since it takes place in Sagittarius (which rules travel), I suspect the second half of December will likely see international borders opening up and will be the time when air travel begins its return. Or, since this solar eclipse takes place in Sagittarius (the sign of hope and optimism), the surrounding days can bring hopeful news.
  • Saturn and Jupiter will be conjunct on December 21: a very important aspect (see below for more information).

I believe this window of time will contains the first significant signs that things are “moving”. With so many Jupiter aspects, I think this is when travel will begin to pick up and when there will be the first real semblance of hope. The Saturn-Jupiter conjunction in Aquarius in December may bring news about a novel medical treatment, a vaccine, or some technological development that will allow us to move forward in some way.

The Next Four Years Are a Bridge to “The Age of Aquarius”

“The Age of Aquarius” has been an overused (and misused) term for decades, practically as a panacea for all of humanity’s ills.

While we are not about to enter a land of fairy tales, we will entering a very “Aquarian” era when Pluto enters Aquarius in 2024 (it will dip its toes in 2023, but will then retreat back to Capricorn for a few months before finally taking the plunge into Aquarius on January 21, 2024).

Pluto will spend twenty years in Aquarius.

Between now and, then, several astrological events will provide a hint of what’s to come:

  • Saturn will be in Aquarius from December 17, 2020 to March 7, 2023 (with a prior “toe-dipping period” from March 21, 2020 to July 1, 2020);
  • Saturn and Jupiter will meet in Aquarius on December 21, 2020.

Saturn in Aquarius: What to Expect

Saturn governs authority, boundaries, foundations, governments, labor, laws, limits, stability, and structures. Aquarius governs the airwaves, egalitarianism, humanitarianism, new ideas, progressive thinking, the public domain, revolutions, science, technologies, and the greater good.

Let’s take a look at what happened the last time Saturn was in Aquarius (February 6, 1991 to May 20, 1993; June 29, 1993 – January 28, 1994).

Keep in mind that the last time Saturn was in Aquarius, the other planets were in different places than they are now. So, while events won’t be the exact same, overarching themes will arise again:

  • The “World Wide Web” opened to the public.
  • The first text message was sent.
  • The Simon Personal Communicator (now considered the first-ever “smart phone”) launched.
  • Janet Reno became the first female Attorney General of the United States — a new (Aquarius) kind of authority (Saturn).
  • The first-known reference to Y2K (then-termed “The Year 2000 Problem”) is published in ComputerWorld magazine. Remember, Saturn is the “better safe than sorry” planet; it identifies problems relating to whatever sign it is in. In this case, Saturn rang the alarm about possible trouble with technology (Aquarius).
  • The first prescription nicotine patch reached the market.
  • Thelma & Louise, a movie that revolutionized (Aquarius!) a male-dominated genre, was released to critical acclaim.
  • The Innocence Project, a criminal justice reform non-profit, launched.
  • The Maastrich treaty (which founded the European Union) was signed.
  • Apartheid was dismantled in South Africa. VERY Aquarius; remember, Aquarius is the sign of “we’re all equal… we are one race…”
  • The North American Free Trade Agreement was signed between Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

With that in mind, here are some of the things I believe we can expect over the next three years:

  • Major technological advancements (to be invented/initially introduced, not necessarily go mainstream)
  • Significant shifts in power structures — especially “who” is in power
  • Technological solutions to address humanitarian and environmental problems
  • A massive increase in remote work and technology to support working from home
  • Less nationalism/isolationalism; more globalism (with Pluto in Capricorn and Uranus in Taurus while Saturn is in Aquarius — a planetary combination that is unprecedented — we’ll see the start a new era of globalism with vastly different financial rules and systems).

The Jupiter-Saturn Conjunction of 2020

Jupiter and Saturn meet up in one spot in the sky roughly every twenty years. While that in itself is astrologically significant, the 2020 Jupiter-Saturn meetup is especially important since it serves as a bridge to Pluto’s entrance into Aquarius in 2024.

This conjunction sets a sociopolitical and cultural background tone for the next 18 – 20 years. When Jupiter and Saturn meet, new (Jupiter) paradigms (Saturn) are solidified (Saturn). Belief systems (Jupiter) are expanded (Jupiter) and locked into place (Saturn).

This particular Jupiter-Saturn conjunction is a big deal because it takes place at zero degrees of rebellious and unpredictable Aquarius (zero degrees is a very sensitive point where a particular sign’s energy is highly concentrated).

This aspect suggests the next two decades will bring rapid and significant shifts in Aquarius-related matters (such as technology, social revolutions, community-building, humanitarianism, progressive politics, and social uprisings).

Pluto In Aquarius: The Beginning of a New Era

Everything mentioned until this point will serve as a bridge to connect 2020 to 2024, the year when Pluto enters Aquarius for a twenty-year stint.

Pluto — which brings upheaval, change, crisis, and deep transformation — was last in Aquarius from 1778 to 1798.

As a reminder, here are some of the things Aquarius governs: the air/airwaves, egalitarianism, humanitarianism, new ideas, progressive thinking, the public domain, revolutions, science, technologies, and the greater good.

Keep in mind that, during that time, all the other planets were now where they will be in 2024. So, while the coming transit of Pluto in Aquarius won’t be a carbon copy of the previous one, we can expect similar themes.

Here are some important events that took place during Pluto’s last visit to Aquarius:

  • The moral theory of utilitarianism (which, among other things, posits that everyone’s happiness counts equally) is introduced. Free basic education and affordable housing for low-income families are examples of utilitarian policies.
  • The French Revolution
  • American Revolutionary War
  • Start of the first Industrial Revolution
  • The first untethered manned hot air balloon flight
  • The phenomenon of black holes is first published in a scientific journal
  • Benjamin Franklin invents bifocals
  • The United States’ first recorded riot — The Doctors’ Mob — takes place (Aquarius rules riots and social uprisings)
  • The United States patent system is established (Aquarius is new ideas, and Saturn is law… sometimes astrology is extremely literal).
  • Development of the smallpox vaccine — the first successful vaccine.
  • Development of the modern telegraph
  • The first steamboat is built by Claude de Jouffroy (steam is water in the gas phase — and Aquarius rules gases; additionally, this revolutionized trade and transportation at the time)

Some things we can expect during Pluto’s upcoming transit of Aquarius:

  • Significant advancements in holograms, nanotechnology, and robotics
  • The next industrial revolution
  • A wave of political progressivism (one thing to watch: Aquarius is a fixed sign that, prior to the discovery of Uranus, had Saturn as its ruler… with Pluto in Aquarius, the chance of authoritarian [Saturn key word!] left-wing regimes is higher than usual).
  • Power struggles around — and new definitions of — intellectual property
  • Political revolutions
  • The emergence of new political parties
  • Significant developments relating to outer space and space travel
  • New technologies that will decrease our dependence on oil (now that the Saturn-Pluto conjunction in Capricorn has resulted in oil prices plummeting)
  • And, in true Aquarius form, technologies we can’t even fathom in 2020!

Over the next few weeks, months, and years, I will delve further into each of these important astrological aspects (either here or on my Instagram page).

We’re certainly living in interesting times!