SkyWriting
2026: Riding the Waves of Change
The Astrology of 2026 highlights a year where momentum builds and change becomes harder to ignore. After a brief slowdown as the outer planets dipped back into earth and water, 2026 is when they fully re-enter fire and air signs, accelerating events and pushing long-developing themes into the foreground. This is a year that asks for flexibility, awareness, and a willingness to adjust as conditions shift.
Several major cycles define the landscape of 2026, including the Saturn–Neptune conjunction at the start of Aries, Uranus moving into Gemini, two eclipse seasons, and an intense Venus–Mercury retrograde later in the year. Together, these transits point to dissolving structures, rapid changes in information and communication, and periods of deep review around relationships, power, and trust. Some of these energies unfold quietly, while others arrive suddenly and reshape direction.
In the video below, I walk through the most important transits of the year step by step and explain how to see where they fall in your own chart. If you don’t know your rising sign, you can watch my tutorial on pulling up your birth chart on astro-seek.com. You can also download the slides and read the full transcript for a deeper look at how 2026 may unfold for you personally and collectively.
New Moon in Sagittarius: Following the Thread of the Quest
toward something new. Sagittarius is connected to vision, purpose, and the urge to step onto a path that feels meaningful, even if we can’t fully explain why. This chart brings that kind of spark, but it also brings tension. Saturn and Neptune square the New Moon, which can stir confusion, doubt, or the sense that something isn’t lining up as cleanly as we hoped. Uranus adds sudden shifts or changes of direction, the kind that make us adjust on the fly.
In the video, I talk through the chart, the decan this New Moon falls in, and why Sagittarius III often highlights the point in a process where we’re carrying a lot and deciding what’s still worth the effort. This isn’t about pushing harder. It’s about recognizing what’s asking for your attention and what might need to be let go so you can move toward something real.
I also walk through the rising signs so you can see which area of life this New Moon activates for you. Whether you’re starting something new, reconsidering a direction, or trying to understand why you feel pulled toward a particular project or idea, this is a moment to check in with yourself and set an intention that’s grounded and honest.
Gemini Full Moon: At a Crossroads
The Full Moon in Gemini on December 4th highlights a moment of choice or change, depending on where Gemini sits in your chart. This post looks at why this Full Moon can feel like a crossroads, the tension in the chart, and how each rising sign may experience it. Some people will feel this more strongly than others, especially if you have mutable placements.
Scorpio New Moon: Insight in Motion
On November 20, the new moon at 28° Scorpio lines up with Mercury retrograde cazimi and an exact Uranus opposition. This chart also forms a kite pattern connecting Jupiter, Saturn, and Neptune. The post explains these alignments in simple terms and how to see which areas of life they might influence based on your rising sign.
Planetary Dignity: “Fall” (part 4)
Welcome to the fourth video in my series on planetary dignities, a core concept in Hellenistic astrology. These talks are part of the Twin Cities Astrology Meetup, which I co‑host each month with astrologer Nicole Coenan. Over the course of this series, I’ve been exploring how planets gain or lose strength depending on their position in the chart—through both essential and accidental dignity.
In the video below, I take up the topic of planets in “fall,” the sign opposite a planet’s exaltation. A planet in fall isn’t ruined or diminished, but it does find itself in an unfamiliar place where its usual ways of expressing strength are challenged. Drawing from the work of Demetra George and other Hellenistic astrologers, I talk about how these placements invite us to develop empathy, wisdom, and resilience through lived experience.
I walk through each of the seven traditional planets, exploring how their energy changes when they’re in fall, and I share some personal reflections—particularly on my own Mars in Cancer—to show how these placements can evolve over time. As always, the emphasis is on understanding, not judgment: “fall” can be a teacher in humility and genuine connection.
You’ll find the full transcript from the talk below, along with a link to the video. For those new to the series, you might want to review the previous sessions first:
Domicile
Exile / Detriment — when a planet is in the sign opposite its rulership
Exaltation — when a planet is honored or elevated.
If you need help locating your planets, check out my short tutorial on How to Pull Up Your Birth Chart on AstroSeek.com
And for more symbolic depth, you can also explore my series on the 36 Decans
Feel free to share your thoughts or chart examples in the comment section on YouTube—I always enjoy hearing how these ideas resonate in your own experience. Thanks for reading, and I hope this talk helps you see the subtler strengths that come from planets in fall.
Taurus Full Moon: Balancing Security and Sharing
we share what we have. It’s a time to reflect on where you feel stable and where you might be holding on out of fear.
This lunation is influenced by a T‑square involving Jupiter in Cancer, Venus in Libra, and Chiron in Aries. That pattern pushes us to consider fairness and self‑interest—how to support others without losing our own footing. At the same time, Mars and Mercury bring sharper conversations and quick reactions, so it’s best to stay mindful in how you communicate.
If you make space to slow down, this Full Moon can bring clarity about what’s worth keeping and what it’s time to release. It’s a practical moment for gratitude, honesty, and taking responsibility for your own relationship with security and generosity.
Libra New Moon: A Moment to Rest and Reflect
The New Moon in Libra on October 21st invites us to find moments of peace and balance, like a calm eye in the storm of life’s chaos. Ruled by Venus, the planet of harmony, beauty, and justice, this lunation highlights themes of relationships, fairness, and emotional equilibrium. With Venus currently in Libra, her energy strengthens the desire to connect with others, find common ground, and create harmony in relationships. In the video below, I’ll guide you through the astrology of this New Moon, offering tips for setting intentions and exploring how its energy might unfold in your life.
A key feature of this New Moon is its complex backdrop. Mars and Mercury are together in Scorpio, adding intensity and a sharp edge to communication, while Jupiter in Cancer—where it is exalted—offers a counterbalance of nurturing energy and optimism. These dynamics create a mix of tension and opportunity, asking us to navigate conflict with patience and clarity. The video also explores the Tarot card associated with this lunation, the Four of Swords, which reflects the need for rest and centering yourself amid potential mental and emotional overwhelm. This moment offers a fertile ground for reflection, clarity, and intentional action.
This New Moon will have a stronger impact on those with rising signs or planets in the cardinal signs—Libra, Aries, Cancer, and Capricorn—especially near the late degrees. For example, if this New Moon falls in your first or seventh houses, it could bring new awareness to your identity and relationships. If it activates your fourth and tenth houses, you may notice shifts involving home, family, or career. In the video, I talk a bit about how the New Moon might influence each rising sign. If you’d like to see your birth chart or determine your rising sign, check out my YouTube tutorial on how to pull up your birth chart using AstroSeek. For additional insights, here’s a link to my Libra III decan video, which explores the deeper symbolism of this part of the zodiac. If you’d like a personalized reading to understand how this New Moon impacts your chart, feel free to reach out using the link below.
Aries Full Moon: Courage, Clarity, & Power
The Full Moon in Aries on October 6th comes with a bold and energizing force that encourages us to step into our courage and authority. Ruled by Mars, the planet of action and determination, this lunation highlights themes of independence, self-expression, and taking decisive steps forward. Mars is in Scorpio—its own sign—at the time of this Full Moon, which deepens the energy, allowing us to connect with our inner power and transform challenges into opportunities. In the video below, I’ll walk you through the chart, exploring what this means and how this energy might unfold in your life.
A key feature of this Full Moon is its connection to Jupiter in Cancer, a placement where Jupiter is exalted and functions exceptionally well. Jupiter’s expansive, supportive energy flows harmoniously to the Moon, amplifying confidence and optimism. Venus, the other benefic planet, also lends her support, smoothing out the intensity of Aries energy with a touch of harmony and sweetness. I’ll also discuss the Tarot card tied to this lunation—the Three of Wands—which reflects themes of standing in your light, envisioning the future, and claiming your space with confidence.
This lunation may have a stronger impact on you if you have planets or points in the cardinal signs—Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn—especially in the middle degrees. For instance, if this Full Moon falls in your first and seventh houses, it could bring clarity to personal identity and relationships. If it activates your fourth and tenth houses, you may experience shifts involving home, family, career, or public life. In the video, I’ll guide you through how this Full Moon will affect each rising sign, so you can better understand its influence in your life. If you’d like to see your birth chart and understand what your rising sign is, I have a YouTube video that shows you how to pull up your birth chart online. If you’d like to explore how this lunation impacts your unique birth chart in greater detail, feel free to contact me for a reading.
Virgo Solar Eclipse, Illumination and Individuation
On September 21st, the solar eclipse in Virgo offers a chance to reset and realign. Solar eclipses, which occur when the Sun and Moon align perfectly, act like a reboot—a pause in old patterns that allows new insights and perspectives to emerge. This particular eclipse, at the final degree of Virgo, is tied to the idea of individuation: the process of coming to know yourself more fully by integrating lessons from your experiences, including the difficult ones, and expanding your sense of who you are.
Virgo is a sign that emphasizes practicality, progress, and refinement. It’s about finding what isn’t working—not to criticize, but to improve and make things whole. During this eclipse, you may be called to explore how you approach growth and change, especially in the areas of life connected to Virgo and its counterpart, Pisces, in your birth chart. This might involve letting go of old habits, embracing new ways of thinking, or balancing self-criticism with self-compassion.
The astrology surrounding this eclipse adds some tension. With Mars and Saturn in a challenging aspect, you may feel pressures or frustrations bubbling up, particularly around responsibilities or unresolved issues. While uncomfortable, these moments can push us toward greater clarity if we slow down and reflect on what’s being stirred.
In this post, we’ll explore how this Virgo Solar Eclipse relates to themes of personal growth and individuation. We’ll also dive into how it may show up for you based on your rising sign, whether it’s shifts in home and career, relationships, or other areas of life. If you’d like personalized guidance, consider booking a reading to see how this eclipse season activates your unique chart. Scroll down for rising sign insights, practical advice, and more tools to navigate this transformative moment.
Pisces Eclipse: Release and Leap into the Unknown
The upcoming Pisces Lunar Eclipse on September 7th begins a new eclipse season, with its counterpart, the Virgo Solar Eclipse, following on September 21st. Eclipses always come in pairs and often signal significant shifts in our lives. They invite us to let go in one area so that we can step into new energy in another. This pair falls along the Virgo-Pisces axis, which may bring changes related to the houses these signs occupy in your chart. With the South Node in Virgo, eclipses on this axis encourage us to release the need for control, perfection, and over-analysis (Virgo) so that we can embrace intuition, compassion, and a deeper sense of trust (Pisces). These themes may show up in the areas of life represented by the houses where Pisces and Virgo fall in your chart.
For instance, if you’re a Sagittarius Rising, the Pisces eclipse might activate your 4th house of home and ancestry, while the Virgo eclipse could impact your 10th house of career and public life. This might look like deciding to let go of perfectionism at work so that you have more time to focus on caregiving or personal responsibilities.
This eclipse will tend to have the greatest impact on those with mutable rising signs—Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, or Pisces—or for those born near an eclipse. These transits often feel like turning points, where we’re invited to reflect on what no longer serves us and make space for new opportunities. The Pisces Lunar Eclipse, in particular, may feel like a culmination, while the Virgo Solar Eclipse may feel like a culmination or release. If you’re curious about how these themes might play out in your own life, I’ve created a YouTube video that dives deeper into the astrology of these eclipses.
To explore how these eclipses might impact your unique chart, you might consider booking a reading. Digging into the details of your rising sign and natal chart can help clarify what areas of life are being activated and how to navigate these changes with confidence. Scroll down for the video, expanded transcript, and more insights about this eclipse season.
Virgo New Moon: A Time of Reflection and Shakeups
The New Moon in Virgo on August 23rd is all about getting focused, refining your work, and being open to shifts—whether they come from within or the world around you. With Uranus, the planet of sudden change and wake-ups, in a tense aspect to this lunation, things might not go as planned. If you’ve been stuck or holding onto outdated ideas, this energy could push you to see things differently.
Virgo energy is about perfecting and improving the tangible aspects of life. Whether it’s a project you’re working on, habits you’re trying to refine, or a skill you’re mastering, this new moon asks us to get practical and intentional. But with Uranus in the mix, don’t be surprised if something shakes loose—especially if you have planets in the early degrees of Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces, or Gemini. It’s less about control and more about learning to adapt and flow with the changes.
We’re also working with a Yod, or “Finger of God,” aspect involving Pluto and Neptune, which adds an almost fated quality to this lunation. It’s like the universe nudging you toward growth, even if it feels awkward or uncomfortable at first. I’ll break down how this energy might show up in your life, what it means for your chart, and why this isn’t the best time for manifestation rituals but is perfect for self-reflection and recalibration.
Stick around as I also bring in tarot imagery—like the Eight of Pentacles and the Tower card—to help illustrate the themes of this new moon. These visuals can give us another way to understand and integrate the energy of the moment.
Understanding Planetary Rulership: An Introduction to Domicile in Hellenistic Astrology
In this post, I dive into the concept of domicile, or planetary rulership, in astrology. Domicile is all about planets being in the signs they rule—like a planet being at home, where it’s comfortable, strong, and able to express itself fully. I’ll explain what planetary dignity is, the different types of dignity, and why domicile is such a foundational concept in understanding how planets work in a birth chart. Using real-life examples, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s chart, I’ll break it down in a clear and straightforward way so you can start applying it to your own astrology practice. This post is part of the Twin Cities Astrology Meetup series, where we explore practical techniques from Hellenistic astrology each month.
Aquarius Full Moon: Truth, Illusion and the “Kite” Aspect
On August 9th, the Full Moon in Aquarius promises to be one of the most significant astrological events of the year, both on a global and personal level. This lunation carries complex and dynamic energy, with the potential to influence world events and spark meaningful shifts in our individual lives. In the accompanying video, I break down the astrological chart for this Full Moon, highlighting key aspects like the challenging opposition between Mars and Saturn, the transformative kite pattern, and the influence of Uranus, the planet of sudden breakthroughs. If you have planets in the early degrees of the cardinal or fire and air signs, this Full Moon may resonate even more deeply with your personal chart.
Throughout the video, I explore how this energy can manifest in both mundane (worldly) and personal contexts. On a global scale, the chart suggests a pivotal moment where new information could emerge, potentially sparking impulsive actions or significant decisions by nations. On a personal level, this lunation encourages us to pause, reflect, and carefully evaluate the truth of the information we encounter. Whether you're navigating tensions in relationships, career, or home life, the video offers guidance to help you center yourself amid the heightened energy of this Full Moon. Watch the video below for a detailed explanation and leave a comment if you have questions about how this lunation might affect your chart.
New Moon in Leo: Change is in the Air
On July 24th, we have a New Moon in the sign of Leo which in a tight aspect to all of the outer planets, bringing powerful energy and a chance to step into a new chapter of self-expression and creativity. Unlike a Full Moon, which highlights what’s already come to fruition, a New Moon signals the start of something fresh—a time to set intentions and take action. Leo, a fire sign ruled by the Sun, is all about embracing your individuality, standing out, and stepping into the spotlight.
In the video below, I break down the energy of this New Moon in detail, including its connections to the outer planets Pluto, Neptune, and Uranus. All of the outer planets have moved into fire and air signs and will remain there (except for a brief period later this year when Uranus and Neptune will retrograde into earth and water signs) until 2032 when Uranus moves into Cancer. This consolidation of outer planets into swift moving fire and air signs suggests rapid changes in our world. With all of these planets in a tight aspect to the New Moon in Leo, we’ll get a preview of the meaning of this energy as the New Moon unfolds over the next couple of weeks.
The energy of this New Moon, influenced by Pluto, Uranus, Saturn, and Neptune, may feel intense but also offers opportunities for growth and change. Pluto’s opposition could bring power struggles or force you to confront areas where you feel blocked or oppressed, especially as you try to express yourself authentically. Uranus provides a sense of liberation, encouraging bold, unexpected actions or realizations that help you break free. Saturn and Neptune, in a supportive trine, bring a mix of structure and imagination, but with Saturn in its fall in Aries, there’s a risk of impulsivity or acting without fully thinking things through. Neptune’s influence might add a sense of confusion or dreaminess, pushing you to clarify your vision.
To work with this energy, start by examining where you feel resistance or control and consider whether it’s time to release old habits, patterns, or relationships that no longer serve you. Be mindful of impulsive decisions and instead focus on taking deliberate, well-thought-out steps toward your goals. Stay open to sudden insights or opportunities from Uranus and use Neptune’s influence to dream big, while grounding those dreams with Saturn’s steady energy. Aim to balance bold expression with thoughtful action to navigate this dynamic time effectively.
This New Moon occurs at 2 degrees of Leo, making it especially significant for those with planets or key points (ASC, DSC, MC, or IC) near 2 degrees of the fixed signs: Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius, and Taurus. If you have placements in this range, you’re likely to feel the effects of this lunation more strongly, particularly in areas related to identity, creative expression, or personal power.
Full Moon in Capricorn: Finding Joy in Hard Work
On July 10th, we have a Full Moon in the sign of Capricorn, bringing clarity, culmination, and the drive to take action. This lunation encourages us to focus on our goals and take practical steps forward, making it an ideal time to reflect on what matters most and how to achieve it.
Capricorn, an earth sign ruled by Saturn, is associated with discipline, structure, and long-term achievement. As a cardinal sign, Capricorn carries initiating energy that motivates us to start or advance something meaningful. This makes the energy of this Full Moon perfect for making progress, setting goals, and building something lasting.
In the video below, I explore the energy of this Full Moon, the significance of Capricorn’s connection to Saturn, and the themes of collaboration and craftsmanship reflected in the tarot card associated with this lunation, the Three of Pentacles. I’ll also share insights into how this energy might show up in your life based on your rising sign, and how to work with the grounded, achievement-oriented qualities of Capricorn.
Cancer New Moon: Love, Tension, and Transformation
On June 25th, we have a New Moon in the sign of Cancer, bringing an opportunity to nurture emotional connections and plant the seeds for deeper relationships and personal growth. Unlike a Full Moon, which highlights completion and release, a New Moon marks the start of a new cycle—a time to set intentions and focus on what you want to grow. Cancer, a water sign ruled by the Moon, is associated with care, emotional depth, and creating a sense of security.
This New Moon will have the strongest impact on those with planets or points between 0 and 5 degrees of the Cardinal Signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) or between 0 and 5 degrees of Leo. If you have placements at or near these degrees, you may notice the energy of this lunation showing up more strongly in your life, particularly in areas related to emotions, family, and how you connect with others.
Sag Full Moon: Lighten the Load
On June 11th, we have a Full Moon in the sign of Sagittarius, bringing a culmination of energy and the opportunity to reassess what’s truly worth carrying forward. Unlike a New Moon, which begins a new cycle, a Full Moon shines a spotlight on what has grown and asks us to evaluate whether it’s aligned with our goals and capacity. Sagittarius, a fire sign ruled by Jupiter, is associated with exploration, optimism, and big ideas—but at this point in the lunar cycle, we’re being asked to balance those grand visions with practical realities.
This Full Moon occurs at 20 degrees of Sagittarius, meaning it will have the greatest impact on those with planets or points (ASC, DSC, MC, IC) near 20 degrees of the Mutable Signs: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces. If you have key placements at or near these degrees, you may feel this lunation more strongly, particularly in areas related to growth, responsibility, and the balance between ambition and practicality.
In the video below, I explore the energy of this Sag Full Moon in greater depth, unpack its astrological context, and share insights on how to work with its themes. Understanding how this lunation lines up with your birth chart can give you a clearer sense of what it means for you personally. If you’d like to explore this further, check out the video or reach out for a reading!
Gemini New Moon: Break Old Patterns
On May 26th, we have a New Moon in the sign of Gemini, bringing fresh energy and the opportunity to plant new seeds for mental and intellectual growth. Unlike a Full Moon, which illuminates and culminates, a New Moon marks the beginning of a new cycle—a time to set intentions and initiate change. Gemini, an air sign ruled by Mercury, is associated with communication, adaptability, and curiosity. This New Moon invites us to break free from old thought patterns, embrace flexibility, and explore new ideas with boldness and creativity.
This New Moon occurs at 6 degrees of Gemini, which means it will especially impact those with planets or points near 6 degrees of the Mutable Signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces). If you have key placements at or near these degrees, you may feel the influence of this lunation more strongly, particularly in areas related to communication, learning, and mindset.
May 12 Full Moon in Scorpio: Navigating Emotional Depth and the Intensity of Algol
On May 12th, we have a Full Moon in the sign of Scorpio that carries an intense and transformative energy. Scorpio, the sign of deep emotional waters, is known for its ability to confront themes of life, death, and rebirth. Opposite this Full Moon is Uranus, the planet of sudden change and liberation, which is conjunct the fixed star Algol—historically called the "demon star" and associated with themes of trauma, feminine rage, and injustice. This alignment creates a highly charged atmosphere, ripe for emotional breakthroughs or unexpected disruptions.
A Full Moon opposition in astrology highlights tension and polarity. In this case, the Scorpio Moon opposes the Sun in Taurus, which is conjunct Uranus and Algol. This configuration pits the stability and groundedness of Taurus against the emotional depth and transformative energy of Scorpio. Uranus adds an unpredictable, revolutionary quality to the mix, while Algol deepens the intensity, evoking themes of confronting buried emotions, grappling with trauma, and seeking liberation.
In the video below, I describe the energy of this Full Moon in greater detail. I’ve also included a modified and expanded transcript that elaborates on the themes discussed in the video. As always, the lunation will affect you differently depending on the placements in your birth chart. If you have planets or points near 22–26 degrees of the Fixed Signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius), this Full Moon is more likely to impact you significantly. If you’d like to know more about how this lunation might affect you personally, you can book a reading below.
Combining Sabian Symbols with Progressed New Moons: Lessons from MLK’s Life & Legacy
In the video below, I share a talk I gave at the Twin Cities Astrology Meetup on the Sabian symbols and the progressed lunar phases. These are two fascinating tools for understanding the themes and cycles that unfold in our lives. The Sabian symbols assign a unique image to each degree of the zodiac, while the progressed lunar phases track a 29.5-year cycle that begins with a progressed new moon. Together, they offer a way to explore the deeper patterns and turning points in our personal journeys.
In the talk, I dive into a detailed case study of Martin Luther King Jr., exploring how his progressed new moon in 1954 coincided with the start of his leadership in the civil rights movement, and how a second progressed new moon in 1983—posthumously—aligned with the establishment of Martin Luther King Day.
These examples highlight how astrology can illuminate the themes and challenges we navigate, both individually and collectively.
The video and transcript are both available below. If you find this content helpful, please consider liking the video or subscribing—it helps others discover this material. Thanks for watching, and I hope you enjoy it!