Dear NightFall Astrology readers,
Prepare to embark on a celestial odyssey as this week unfolds a cosmic tapestry of drama, introspection, and unexpected revelations!
With Mars offering flashes of genius and a New Moon stirring the pot of bold declarations, there’s no time for monotony. As Venus re-emerges as a Morningstar, relationships take on a brighter hue and creative collaborations beckon. Whether you’re channelling your inner Athena or redefining your values, change is in the air.
So, hold on tight and dive into the details of this week’s astrological transits to discover what the stars have in store for you!
I. Mars trines Uranus:
From August 13th through August 20th, a pivotal cosmic alignment will be unfolding, reaching its peak on August 16th. This auspicious event will see the planet Mars, in the meticulous and detail-oriented sign of Virgo, forming a trine with Uranus, the planet of innovation and change, situated in the stable sign of Taurus. This alignment is set to have a powerful influence on our work ethic and the way we approach tasks.
As the planet of action and energy, Mars embodies our drive to get things done, and in Virgo, it channels this drive into a highly analytical and precise mode of operation. Think of a surgeon, operating with a steady hand, utmost concentration, and an eye for detail – that is the essence of Mars in Virgo. This placement imparts a certain degree of perfectionism in our work ethic, urging us to examine every nuance and refine our actions until they are impeccable.
The trine with Uranus, however, introduces an entirely new dynamic. Known as the planet of unpredictability and genius, Uranus brings sudden flashes of insight and innovative ideas into the mix. In Taurus, a sign associated with steadiness and practicality, Uranus’s revolutionary energy is grounded and applied in a tangible and realistic way.
As these two planets come into alignment, there will be a palpable shift in how we work. Rather than adhering to the same routine and methods, we will find ourselves spontaneously upgrading our approach. New, ingenious ways of working will present themselves, and we’ll be able to view our tasks and responsibilities through a different lens. This will be a time of breakthroughs and inventive solutions, as the Virgoan precision and analytical skills combine with the spark of Uranian insight.
This alignment is a call to break free from monotony and infuse fresh energy into our efforts, especially regarding our work ethic. The influence of this trine encourages us to think on our feet and adopt a more adaptive and inventive approach to our responsibilities. It’s a time to capitalise on the innovative ideas that spring forth and channel them into our work, making our efforts more efficient and more inspired.
This alignment will be most auspicious for Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn placements.
II. New Moon in Leo:
The upcoming New Moon on August 16th, 2023, at 11:38 AM (CET), promises to be one of the most dramatic, memorable, and startling celestial events of the year, making a bold statement that is sure to grab attention. In Leo, a sign known for its extravagance and outward expression, the energies are set for dramatic declarations rather than introspection.
This New Moon will see the Sun and Moon come together at 23 degrees in Leo, a time typically associated with new beginnings and fresh starts. However, Leo, with its flamboyant and assertive energy, suggests that these new ventures will be far from private affairs.
Positioned in the third decan of Leo, the Sun and Moon will be influenced by Mars, a planet known for its aggression, courage, and determination. This part of the zodiac is also associated with the Seven of Wands tarot card, known as the Lord of Courage. Therefore, the energies of this New Moon are likely to inspire acts of bravery, perhaps even pushing individuals to go above and beyond their normal limits, despite the discomfort that may come with it.
Adding to the mix, the New Moon will closely align with Venus in retrograde at 18 degrees of Leo. Venus retrograde is a period for reevaluation and reassessment of our values and what we hold dear. As a result, this New Moon, conjunct Venus retrograde, signifies a new chapter emerging from deep contemplation and redefinition of priorities. This introspection may lead to a shift in direction, particularly in the Leo aspect of our astrological charts.
{ If you’d like to know where and how this New Moon is showing up in your own chart and life, order your personal “New Moon in Leo” forecast HERE! }
However, this New Moon is far from tranquil, as it forms an exact square with Uranus at 23 degrees. This aspect is a recipe for chaos, disruption, and unexpected events, akin to the shock one might experience after abruptly ending a relationship and starting another, seemingly out of spite. The actions during this period may appear vengeful or vindictive, possibly eliciting reactions of surprise and offense from others.
Despite the chaotic nature of this New Moon, its square with Jupiter offers a glimmer of optimism and motivation. The energies are not inherently malicious; rather, it is the choice of words and communication style that may cut deep. With Mercury and Mars conjunct in Virgo, communication will be sharp, precise, and potentially hurtful. The words spoken during this period may be aimed to strike right at the heart of the matter, making a lasting impact.
Contrary to the directness of communication, actions are likely to be passive-aggressive, as Mars, positioned opposite Neptune, implies a reluctance to engage in direct confrontation or competition. The energies of this New Moon may manifest in a grand spectacle or announcement, perhaps revealing a new relationship or venture intended to shock or provoke others. Yet, despite the dramatic exterior, the core of these actions may not be as aggressive as they seem.
In summary, the New Moon on August 16th, 2023, promises to be an eventful period marked by bold declarations, reevaluations of relationships and values, and dramatic new beginnings. While the actions and words during this time may be shocking and provocative, they ultimately stem from a deeper introspection and desire for change.
This New Moon will be felt most intensely by Leo, Aquarius, Scorpio, and Taurus, particularly if you have planets and/or important chart points around 23 degrees of these signs (give or take 1-5 degrees).
III. Venus rises as a Morningstar:
On August 20th, a celestial shift will occur as the planet Venus (still retrograde) becomes visible to the naked eye, emerging from the pre-dawn darkness to grace the sky as a radiant Morningstar. This rebirth of Venus holds great significance in the realm of astrology, heralding a period of enhanced cooperation, agreement, and harmony in relationships.
The appearance of Venus as a Morningstar corresponds to two distinct archetypes in ancient mythology: Pallas Athena of ancient Greece and Ishtar of Akkad (also known as Inanna). Both figures embody aspects of the Venusian energy, yet each brings a unique perspective to its influence.
Pallas Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and handicraft, was revered as the protectress of cities and the patron of various crafts. Syncretised with the Roman goddess Minerva, Athena was particularly associated with the city of Athens, which likely derived its name from her. Born from the head of Zeus, fully armoured and mature, Athena embodies wisdom and strategic warfare. She was known to aid heroes and guide them in their quests, providing counsel and support in times of need.
On the other hand, Ishtar was a multifaceted deity from the Akkadian pantheon, associated with love, beauty, sex, fertility, and war. Known as Inanna in Sumerian mythology, she was celebrated and feared for her passionate and unpredictable nature. Ishtar’s most famous myth, the Descent of Inanna, tells the story of her journey to the underworld, where she undergoes a process of death and rebirth. This myth mirrors the cycle of Venus, as the planet disappears from the sky, only to re-emerge as a Morningstar.
As Venus rises in the morning sky, it carries with it the energies of both Athena and Ishtar. This period is marked by the confluence of wisdom and passion, strategy and spontaneity. Relationships are likely to experience a renewed sense of harmony and cooperation, making it an opportune time to initiate partnerships, collaborations, and new ventures. This celestial event is particularly auspicious for those with Sun, Moon, or Ascendant in Taurus or Libra, as they may find themselves feeling rejuvenated and ready to manifest their desires more effectively.
Whether signing agreements, entering into marriage or embarking on artistic projects, the appearance of Venus as a Morningstar brings a wave of favourable energy for forging connections and nurturing bonds. In this period, the combined archetypes of Athena and Ishtar remind us to approach relationships with both wisdom and passion, to seek harmony while embracing the depth of our emotions, and to move forward with a sense of purpose and vitality.
Thank you for reading.
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Your Astrologer – Theodora NightFall ~
Remember that this is a general horoscope and is NOT your personal one. If you’d like to know what your birth chart says about your personality and your life’s purpose or discover what the upcoming astrological alignments mean specifically for you, you can:
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