Astrology of Today – Friday, August 18, 2023

Today’s Transits (Eastern Daylight Time)

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  0:00 am

Event: Moon in Virgo

Description: The Moon in Virgo

We crave organization and order, and are quickly disturbed by anything standing in the way of these things. This is a good time for chores, organizing, and tidying. It’s also a time for scheduling health appointments and checkups, starting new routines, and generally tending to details.

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  1:04 am

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Pll Chi

Description: Transiting Moon Parallel Transiting Chiron

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  1:47 am

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Tri Jup

Description: Transiting Moon Trine Transiting Jupiter

We want to do good and to honor our inner code. We don’t sweat the small stuff right now. We are generous with our energy, time, and money. A great time to take up new feel-good opportunities. Show your confidence and optimism and reap the rewards.

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  4:18 am

Event: Tr-Tr Mon SSq Jun

Description: Transiting Moon SemiSquare Transiting Juno

There may be clinging or controlling behavior if we are driven by our fears. Hypersensitivity and moodiness are possible. Tread lightly with tricky emotional issues. 

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  6:29 am

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Pll Ven

Description: Transiting Moon Parallel Transiting Venus

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  7:36 am

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cnj Pal

Description: Transiting Moon Conjunction Transiting Pallas

This is a time of imagination and intuition, when we can draw upon our internal wisdom. There is a good ability to successfully combine logic and intuition, and to understand problems taking into account the human element. There is sensitivity to people’s issues now. Cooperation. Effective, sensitive decision making.

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  11:04 am

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Qnx Chi

Description: Transiting Moon Quincunx Transiting Chiron

Hurt feelings may be opportunities for healing. Now is the time for building bridges, not burning them.

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  11:29 am

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Pll Pal

Description: Transiting Moon Parallel Transiting Pallas

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  1:08 pm

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cnj Mer

Description: Transiting Moon Conjunction Transiting Mercury

Ideas flow freely and surface spontaneously. We express feelings and thoughts with clarity. We are busy, alert, curious, and communicative. This can be an excellent time for cooperative projects.

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  3:45 pm

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqr Ves

Description: Transiting Moon Square Transiting Vesta

We can be a little stiff with our emotions, and we can be distracted from our work or focus. There can be difficulty expressing tenderness, concern, or care.

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  5:51 pm

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Tri Ura

Description: Transiting Moon Trine Transiting Uranus

We are open to new ideas. A break in the routine is pleasing now. We could be experimenting with new ideas or feelings. There can be chance meetings, events that occur that open our minds or our awareness. 

Date & Time: Aug 18 2023  8:57 pm

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cnj Mar

Description: Transiting Moon Conjunction Transiting Mars

Emotions are all-consuming. We desire adventure, change, and action. We can be hasty and rash, but if we use common sense as well, it can be a good time for getting the courage to do something brave. Instinctive reactions are quick. Courage, mon brave! Make those quick decisions. It’s a time for showing leadership skills.

Strong Signs, Elements, Modes

Today’s Emphasized Signs of the Zodiac

LEO STRONG

Self-confident, generous, warm-hearted, powerful leader, dramatic. Can be overly proud, vain, extravagant, arrogant.

VIRGO STRONG

Meticulous, discriminating, pure, practical, health conscious, hard working. Can be hyper-critical, petty and perfectionistic.

Today’s Elemental Balance

EARTH STRONG

Earth signs are Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. We are especially in touch with the physical world. We consider what we’ve learned and experienced in the past in order to make the most of the present. We can be cautious, practical, and possibly unimaginative. We are deliberate and can pace ourselves well. We need hands-on experience and are not impressed with theory as much as we are with results. Routines are tolerable and comforting.

AIR WEAK

We may have a difficult time being objective or detached. We may not be especially communicative.

WATER WEAK

There may be some insensitivity or lack of empathy now. We may be out of touch with what we’re feeling or with our emotional needs. We may be tougher than usual now, and more inclined to follow mental or practical considerations than we are to listen to our intuition.

Today’s Modal Balance

CARDINAL WEAK

This is not a time that we tend to naturally initiate actions. We may be stronger at following up than starting anew. Survival mechanisms may be weaker now. 

MUTABLE STRONG

The Mutable signs are Sagittarius, Pisces, Gemini, and Virgo. We are flexible, adaptable, willing, open to change, and possibly flighty or nervous.

Today’s Lunar Phase

LUNAR PHASE: NEW MOON

Moon 0 to 45 degrees ahead of the Sun. 

This is an energetic, impulsive, and subjective period of time. We are looking for new projects and opportunities. 

The following aspects (major only) and positions are at noon (EDT) on August 18th:

Note that when an aspect is applying, it has not yet happened but is within orb – it’s pending. When an aspect is separating, it has already happened/perfected and is moving away from the aspect. Depending on the speed of the planet/body involved, the aspect will have perfected–or will perfect–in a matter of hours (often the case with the Moon), days, months, and possibly years in the case of the very slow-moving outer planets and bodies.

Note that the Moon moves at a rate of approximately one degree every 2 hours so that if an aspect involving the Moon is applying and has an orb of 5 degrees, the aspect will perfect (be exact) in about 10 hours. If the Moon is separating from an aspect with an orb of 2 degrees, it has already formed said aspect approximately 4 hours ago (since the following are positions at noon today, then it would have occurred at about 8 AM today).

**I suggest paying close attention to applying aspects. The energy of the aspect builds as it gets closer to exact. Once an aspect involving inner planets has happened, it’s over. Separating aspects are good to know for context, but in terms of energy that is with us today, applying aspects are most important. (This is the case for daily astrology influences involving inner planets, which pass quickly, and not natal astrology aspects, which are with us for a lifetime).

The Moon through Pluto: Signs, Aspects, & Degrees

THE MOON

THE MOON IN VIRGO

We have an emotional need for order with the Moon in Virgo. Diet, nutrition, health matters, work, and routines are in stronger focus. If we’re feeling out of sorts emotionally, we might also experience symptoms on a physical level now.

21ST DEGREE OF VIRGO

Part of Body: Cystic duct 

Sabian Symbol: A girl’s basketball team.

ASPECTS OF THE MOON

CONJUNCTION MERCURY  Orb 0°32′ Applying

We are speaking with feeling or intellectualizing our feelings. We express feelings and thoughts with clarity. We are busy, alert, curious, and communicative. This can be an excellent time for cooperative projects. Ideas flow freely and surface spontaneously.

CONJUNCTION MARS  Orb 4°11′ Applying

Emotions are all-consuming. We desire adventure, change, and action. We can be hasty and rash, but if we use common sense as well, it can be a good time for getting the courage to do something brave. Instinctive reactions are quick.

TRINE JUPITER  Orb 5°01′ Separating

We can be motivated to honor our inner code. We don’t sweat the small stuff right now. We are generous with our energy, time, and money. A great time to take up new feel-good opportunities. Show your confidence and optimism and reap the rewards.

TRINE URANUS  Orb 2°53′ Applying

We are open to new ideas, ways of expressing ourselves and our feelings. A break in the routine is pleasing now. We could be experimenting with new ideas or feelings. There can be chance meetings, events that occur that open our hearts or our emotional awareness.

OPPOSITION NEPTUNE  Orb 6°57′ Applying

We may be looking for emotional happiness outside of ourselves, and have a tendency to glamorize the past or what we don’t currently have. We can be more vulnerable now.

QUINCUNX CHIRON  Orb 0°27′ Separating

We could be misjudging our sensitivity levels and making poor choices as a result. Decisions made now may not reflect our hearts, and can be regrettable later on.

THE SUN

THE SUN IN LEO

You are good-hearted, have a sunny personality, and a strong need for attention. You have a generous nature, but can be arrogant.

26TH DEGREE OF LEO

Part of Body: Myocardium 

Sabian Symbol: As light breaks through the clouds, a perfect rainbow forms.

ASPECTS OF THE SUN

SQUARE URANUS  Orb 2°26′ Separating

We may want to break free from restrictions or responsibilities, but if we aren’t in touch with this need, we could cause some problems or feel restless and irritable. There could be rebellious feelings. We don’t want to be told what to do. Use this time to see what changes need to be made.

QUINCUNX NEPTUNE  Orb 1°37′ Applying

Dreaming, creating, and imagining have better results than hard decision making right now. There can be a temporary loss/lack of clarity. We can be questoning whether what we are doing or pursuing feeds our spiritual needs. Make adjustments if there is a discrepancy.

TRINE CHIRON  Orb 5°47′ Separating

We find it easier to bounce back from criticism, rejection, or feelings of insecurity; to humble ourselves. We can be filled with a sense of purpose. We more easily cooperate with others.

MERCURY

MERCURY IN VIRGO

We’re more focused on precision, attention to detail, and practical affairs. We’re inclined to pick problems apart. We’re discriminating and critical.

21ST DEGREE OF VIRGO

Part of Body: Cystic duct 

Sabian Symbol: A girl’s basketball team.

ASPECTS OF MERCURY

CONJUNCTION MARS  Orb 3°39′ Separating

Questions are raised, discussions can become heated, and there can be nervous excitement now. Enthusiasm is strong, particularly for ideas and topics. Impulsive speech or other communications, and possibly lacking in sensitivity. Resourcefulness.

TRINE JUPITER  Orb 5°34′ Separating

Good judgment. Taking in the full picture. Speculative thought. Positive thinking. Interest in learning. Teaching.

TRINE URANUS  Orb 2°20′ Applying

We are mentally alert and aware, and might be experimenting or opening our minds to new ideas. We could be feeling inspired, and our thinking is inventive. Varying our usual routine may be rewarding.

OPPOSITION NEPTUNE  Orb 6°24′ Applying

Our minds open to many different possibilities and options. We can feel inspired or we might be thinking in imaginative or possibly impractical ways. We see beyond physical or material concerns and solutions. There is extra sensitivity now. We may be dealing with deceptions or self-deceptions, and it can be difficult to be discriminating. We may not be seeing the obvious, and instead are imagining more complicated scenarios.

QUINCUNX CHIRON  Orb 1°00′ Separating

There can be less confidence in our decisions temporarily. Words, or lack of, can hurt right now. There is greater sensitivity to what is being said, choice of words, and syntax.

VENUS

VENUS IN LEO

We take more pride in our tastes, relationships, and personal possessions. We are more affectionate, expressive, and generous, and we tend to crave admiration and appreciation. 

18TH DEGREE OF LEO

Part of Body: Right cardiac cavity 

Sabian Symbol: A chemist conducts an experiment before his students.

ASPECTS OF VENUS

SQUARE JUPITER  Orb 2°12′ Applying

We are easily distracted, craving pleasure or leisure. We may be overdoing things, overselling ourselves, overbuying, or overstating our affections. There can be a lack of self-discipline now. However, we can also push ourselves to reach a little further than we usually do, particularly on a social level.

TRINE CHIRON  Orb 2°20′ Separating

Opportunities for relationships or socializing can arise now. Interactions are open, warm, and supportive of growth.

MARS

MARS IN VIRGO

You will pursue your personal desires in a practical and methodical manner. You may be critical if opposed.

25TH DEGREE OF VIRGO

Part of Body: Liver 

Sabian Symbol: A flag at half-mast in front of a large public building.

ASPECTS OF MARS

TRINE URANUS  Orb 1°18′ Separating

It’s easy and natural to break through obstacles, to find alternative methods of going after what we want, and to take progressive action or to take the lead.  There is more courage, confidence, and energy available to us. We embrace change, progress, and new methods.

OPPOSITION NEPTUNE  Orb 2°45′ Applying

This is a time for resting, escaping, or taking a break as we reconsider our needs. We might temporarily lose focus or direction.

TRINE PLUTO  Orb 4°10′ Applying

Ambitions and determination increase to pursue our goals. It’s easier to see what we want and to devise a plan to pursue it. We may be focusing on redoing or reworking something from the ground up.

JUPITER

JUPITER IN TAURUS

You are on a persistent search for the truth. You have the ability to be a loyal and wise teacher. You have a strong desire for abundance.

16TH DEGREE OF TAURUS

Part of Body: Carotid arteries 

Sabian Symbol: An old man attempting vainly to reveal the mysteries.

ASPECTS OF JUPITER

CONJUNCTION URANUS  Orb 7°55′ Applying

You are enthusiastic about new ideas and are always keen to learn. You do not take well to restriction. The occult may appeal to you or you may prefer computing.

SATURN

SATURN IN PISCES

Acompassionate and intuitive worker, although sometimes anxious and fearful. Strong karma to be worked through. A time to assess our dreams, mental health systems, and sense of compassion and empathy. (Saturn is in Pisces from March 7th, 2023, to May 24th, 2025, and then from September 1st, 2025, to February 13th, 2026).

5TH DEGREE OF PISCES

Part of Body: Right cuboid bone 

Sabian Symbol: A church bazaar.

URANUS

URANUS IN TAURUS

(1934 – 1942) We approach money and personal possessions in new ways and learn how to free ourselves from certain material constraints. Innovative ways to make ourselves comfortable emerge. We’re less inhibited about expressing sensuality, self-love, body love, and pampering. We’re challenging what we previously valued. There can be abrupt changes with money, valuables, possessions, and income that lead to a reshuffling of priorities or values. Income might come from non-traditional sources or ventures. We’re bringing progressive ideas to the world of business. New ways of doing business, as well as making, viewing, and handling money are likely. Income and the energy we put into making money can be variable. (May 15, 2018, to November 6, 2018, then March 6, 2019, to July 7, 2025, and then November 7, 2025, to April 25, 2026). 

24TH DEGREE OF TAURUS

Part of Body: Upper jaw 

Sabian Symbol: A warrior rides proudly.

ASPECTS OF URANUS

TRINE PLUTO  Orb 5°28′ Applying

Your generation is full of ideals for a better society. You accept social change and work to bring it about. You will fight against injustice.

NEPTUNE

NEPTUNE IN PISCES

A long-term influence in which fantasy, imagination, compassion, and spirituality are in stronger focus. (April 4, 2011, to August 4, 2011, then February 3, 2012, to March 30, 2025, then October 22, 2025, to January 26, 2026)

28TH DEGREE OF PISCES

Part of Body: Phalanges of the left foot 

Sabian Symbol: A fertile garden under the full moon.

ASPECTS OF NEPTUNE

SEXTILE PLUTO  Orb 1°24′ Separating

You belong to a generation which is able to bring about social change. You are part of the changes in government and the approach to human rights. Spirituality and the occult are given more credence or power. Alternatively, some of your generation will choose to drop out of the system.

PLUTO

PLUTO IN CAPRICORN

Tests of our boundaries; breaking down and rebuilding structures and rules. (From January 25, 2008, to June 14, 2008, then November 26, 2008, to March 23, 2023, then June 11, 2023, to January 20, 2024, then September 1, 2024, to November 19, 2024).

29TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN

Part of Body: Left genicular arteries 

Sabian Symbol: A woman reading tea leaves.

Chiron, Major Asteroids, and Moon’s Nodes: in Sign and by Degree

CHIRON IN ARIES

Your sense of being has been violated in some way and you may fear asserting yourself. You may also over-compensate by attempting to be the first at everything. Physically you may suffer head wounds. You may become a pioneer in a way that will be of service to humanity.

20TH DEGREE OF ARIES

Part of Body: Hyoid bone 

Sabian Symbol: A child feeding birds in winter.

VESTA IN GEMINI

Networking and coordinating are two key factors in your work. You enjoy communicating and exchanging information, particularly at work. You have a tendency to avoid emotions, in favor of intellectual conversations. You may be a committed writer.

22ND DEGREE OF GEMINI

Part of Body: Upper arm 

Sabian Symbol: Dancing couples crowd the barn in a harvest festival.

PALLAS IN VIRGO

You have an analytical mind which you can apply to detailed and exhaustive projects. Your powers of discrimination are strong. You also have executive abilities. You may become involved in the field of health.

19TH DEGREE OF VIRGO

Part of Body: Oesophageal groove 

Sabian Symbol: A swimming race.

JUNO IN LEO

Our egos are heavily invested in our relationships during this cycle. We want to take pride in them, and we want to enjoy them fully.

2ND DEGREE OF LEO

Part of Body: Aorta 

Sabian Symbol: An epidemic of mumps.

CERES IN LIBRA

You feel cared for when your loved ones create an atmosphere of peace and beauty. You like to co-operate with those close to you.

19TH DEGREE OF LIBRA

Part of Body: Calyx major 

Sabian Symbol: A gang of robbers in hiding.

THE BLACK MOON IN LEO

25TH DEGREE OF LEO

Part of Body: Pericardium 

Sabian Symbol: A large camel crossing the desert.

ERIS IN ARIES

26TH DEGREE OF ARIES

Part of Body: Skull 

Sabian Symbol: A man possessed of more gifts than he can hold.

THE NORTH NODE

THE NORTH NODE IN ARIES

This is a quest to become assertive and self-empowered. You have a tendency to be indecisive, always considering the needs of others first. Now you need to discover a sense of your own identity and initiate your own projects.

27TH DEGREE OF ARIES

Part of Body: Fornix/frontal bone 

Sabian Symbol: Through imagination, a lost opportunity is regained.

THE SOUTH NODE

THE SOUTH NODE IN LIBRA

This is a quest to become assertive and self-empowered. You have a tendency to be indecisive, always considering the needs of others first. Now you need to discover a sense of your own identity and initiate your own projects.

27TH DEGREE OF LIBRA

Part of Body: Vascular system of skin 

Sabian Symbol: An airplane hovering overhead.

**Conjunctions to Select Fixed Stars on August 18, 2023.**

Aspects to Jupiter 15°Ta06 +15°08′

 conjunct 14°Ta38 MENKAR — A victim of the Unconscious

Aspects to Saturn 04°Pi29 -11°30′

 conjunct 04°Pi11 FOMALHAUT *** Success through noble ideals

Aspects to Vesta 21°Ge56 +18°49′

 conjunct 22°Ge11 CAPELLA Love of movement

 conjunct 22°Ge29 PHACT To quest, adventure.

 conjunct 21°Ge16 BELLATRIX ** Success through the Shadow.