Astrology of Today – Tuesday, September 18, 2018

Today’s Moon:

• The Moon is in Capricorn.
• The Moon is waxing and in its First Quarter phase.
• We are in between the First Quarter Moon (which occurred on the 16th), and the Full Moon (which will occur on September 24th).

Retrogrades/Stations:

• Mars is in its post-retrograde shadow until October 8th (Mars was retrograde from June 26th to August 27th).
• Venus is in its pre-retrograde shadow (Venus will be retrograde from October 5th to November 16th).
• Current retrogrades: Uranus Rx, Neptune Rx, Pluto Rx, and Chiron Rx.

Daily Horoscopes/Astro Highlights for each Sign:

Aries

You are in no mood to feel tied down today, dear Aries, even though you recognize the need to follow a few rules! It’s important to be mindful if freeing yourself of something that has been holding you back, however, as there is a real tendency to be rash today. Try not to lash out when dealing with frustrating situations (or people), as it is unlikely to contribute positively to your life. A healthy outlet can be to focus on areas of your life that you may have been avoiding and sideline the things you’ve been overdoing. This will lead to a much more balanced feeling. There has been a more intense focus on your social life and happiness goals or long-term plans and dreams, which has bumped some of your practical goals down to second place. The results of this may make themselves known today, but don’t let the disruption get you down! Take this opportunity to see your practical affairs from a new perspective, as it may lead you to new possibilities. You may be taking action on a matter that feels long overdue today.

Taurus

A Mars-Uranus square involving your sign today can point to some tension, dear Taurus. If you feel restricted by something or someone, you’re ready to bail! The instinct may be to rock the boat, but do keep in mind that you’ll be far more effective if you take the time for some self-knowledge — knowing what it is you genuinely want makes any rebellion or reaction more effective. While you’ve been excited about pursuing your goals with Mars at the top of your solar chart, if you’ve been overdoing this or pressuring yourself to succeed, you’re likely to need a break that refreshes now. If schedules are interrupted, this may very well turn into a positive, since it’s possible the changes you make can bring you to a better place. Doing your own thing can be good for you, but it may be better to avoid making a splash as you do. Focus on goals that make YOU feel happy and accomplished, rather than focusing on what others think is right for you. This can also be a time for breaking free of a situation that you attempted a few months back but didn’t quite complete.

Gemini

Today you may feel a desire to break out of your usual boundaries, dear Gemini, but a small part of you may not be willing to change. Feeling moody or uninspired may be holding you back from entirely breaking out of your shell and pursuing or meeting your goals. These feelings may be arising due to uneasiness about a re-emerging problem in your life. Try not to act out or make decisions impulsively, as what may seem important today may be seen completely differently with some distance and perspective later. Try to focus on finding healthy outlets for expressing this need for freedom that’s been building inside of you. This may be a week in which you take action on a matter that first arose in May, and you now feel more equipped to handle. Putting something behind you is essential now, although it’s best not to be too hasty.

Cancer

With Mars in a challenging aspect to Uranus today, dear Cancer, impulsivity and willfulness can be themes. A strong desire for change in your life can be looming, but focusing in on exactly what and how you want to change is the part that is most challenging! You may feel some confusion on whether you wish for distance or want to jump in with both feet when it comes to your relationships. Although you have been feeling a need for more intensity lately, the parts of you that desire a healthy bit of distance can emerge now, which may lead to misunderstandings with others if you are not fully aware of why you are feeling this way. Look for ways to nurture the feelings of independence you are feeling, while also keeping yourself open to exploring your emotions. This is a week of feeling more empowered to make long-overdue changes, although you may need to do some battle with your feelings first.

Leo

Feelings of being ignored or not taken seriously may come to a head today, dear Leo. You may experience people disagreeing with the way you approach your work or your goals. Tensions and frustrations may arise in your career, but it’s best to avoid making decisions emotionally. You may discover later that you were not quite ready to jump into (or out of) something. Although you may feel like you don’t know how to get closer to or better understand some people in your life, conflict can lead to new ways of understanding and working with them that can leave the relationship in a better place in the end. The key now is to get in touch with what needs changing and improving so that you can take action that adds value to your life.

Virgo

Today can be a day where you feel like too many little things are going wrong, dear Virgo, but don’t let that get you down! Although these problems may seem to be coming about randomly, they are likely a result of a problem that wasn’t wholly dealt with in the past. Health and work-related tensions may reach a boiling point today after having expended a lot of energy on these matters in recent weeks. Take today to give yourself a break from these goals so that you can act more spontaneously or explore your feelings more fully. Disruptions in your schedule may allow for just that, in fact! However, if you really want to get things done, when deciding areas that need to change, avoid acting on a whim. Instead, release frustrations by pouring your energy into improvements.

Libra

Today is a day that pushes change and your life forward, dear Libra, as Mars and Uranus form a square today. This first happened in May and then again in August, and can now point to a release or turning point. Although you may be feeling intensely preoccupied and excited about a specific task, project, or relationship, you need to step back a bit from preoccupations. In fact, this may happen without trying with disruptions or changes in schedule that allow for these things. Areas of your life that have caged you in, even if it has happened willingly, can now feel overwhelming. Making plans to make improvements to areas of your life makes more sense and is far more helpful than resisting change or bringing on change through impulsive actions, so be sure to reflect and make deliberate decisions now.

Scorpio

Your close relationships and your domestic world may have some surprises in store for you, dear Scorpio. Keeping yourself flexible will be vital to moving through any surprises gracefully. You may clash with a romantic partner or a member of your family today. Or, a show of independence from someone around you may come about suddenly, leaving you to handle issues or tasks on your own. The day’s Mars-Uranus square can prompt a pressing need to release yourself from something or someone you have been focusing too much energy on. Take this opportunity to plan for improvements in other areas of your life, rather than focusing obsessively on one aspect, and it can be a fruitful time. This is a week of releasing yourself from a restrictive situation that feels a long time coming, so be as mindful and self-aware as possible.

Sagittarius

You may feel personal projects and interests to be especially engrossing these days, dear Sagittarius, with Mars in your solar third house. Don’t let this excitement lead to ignoring your other needs, however! Circumstances now may help you along if you have been a little too obsessed, as change is in the air. You may be feeling especially enterprising but there is also a tendency to push something forward rashly, which can set you back. If current activities are interfering with your happiness and the order or structure in your life, take the time to try to restore that order today. Identify which parts of your life require more flexibility, and carefully consider what needs to be done to achieve this even if you feel pressure to find a quick solution. Don’t let impatience prevail, as a Mars-Uranus clash today tends to lead to rash decision-making. However, do recognize the need for constructive change.

Capricorn

You may be feeling the more erratic or disordered parts in your life more strongly today, dear Capricorn, which can lead to tension and perhaps unexpected disruptions. Watch for stubbornness in regards to sticking to what you know and doing things on your own. If you’ve been resistant to change, Uranus won’t mind pushing you out of your comfort zone! It’s better to anticipate what needs to change and being proactive about it. Tension can arise in areas of your life that have been preoccupying your mind, leading to feelings of restlessness. Alternatively, you may experience conflict with someone over issues of values or respect. Frustrations can come from an inner clash between wanting to take a risk and preferring to stay in your comfort zone. Take both sides into consideration as you move forward — take steps forward rather than huge leaps for best results now.

Aquarius

Distractions and disruptions may be arising left and right, dear Aquarius, as Mars clashes with Uranus. Mars is in your sign, and Uranus is your ruler, so this is personal! Issues may come to a head for you, or for people around you, especially regarding matters that have remained stagnant and resistant to change, possibly since May. Keep an open mind when it comes to change, but don’t go all in by making rebellious and impatient decisions. Taking a small break from projects that you have been invested in lately can help restore a sense of order in your life. Take time to release some of the tension that has been building up from feeling restricted or overruled recently, but try to do so constructively! Rather than rushing into situations loudly and angrily, communicate your needs in healthy, constructive ways and take the time to understand yourself and your needs.

Pisces

Although you may be feeling unsettled, dear Pisces, you may want to avoid pushing things today. A feeling of a need for change is present now with Mars in your privacy sector forming a tense aspect with Uranus. Areas of discontent in your life may be harder to fully identify now, leading to a generalized feeling of frustration that may arise randomly. These days, you may be feeling more independent and perhaps introverted, while also keeping an interest in being open to connections with others and communication. Be wary of putting too much of your energy into one specific task or project, as it can backfire by disrupting many other areas of your life. Try to seek out a healthier balance by not over-focusing on one or two aspects of your life while ignoring other areas. Thankfully, you are exceptionally creative today, and you are more easily able to come up with interesting and successful solutions to inner conflicts.

* Remember to read horoscopes for your Ascendant sign and Sun sign. If you don’t know your Ascendant sign (and you know your birth time), you can look it uphere.

If Your Birthday is September 18th, If Today is Your Birthday full horoscope here.

Astrology of Today – The Details:

If you’re astrologically inclined and interested in the details of the Astrology of today, here are some of the factors considered in the forecasts:

Planet Color Key: The longer the bar, the slower the aspecting planet and the longer the duration of the planet’s transit.

The purple marker above shows where we are in the current moon phase cycle.

Today’s Transits (Eastern Time)

Date & Time: Sep 18 2018  0:00 am

Event: Moon in Capricorn

Description: The Moon in Capricorn

Consolidate. Pay attention to the foundations of life. Repair and restructure. Attend to financial or business matters. Make solid plans and get organized.

Date & Time: Sep 18 2018  9:53 am

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqq Jun

Description: Transiting Moon SesquiSquare 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: Sep 18 2018  12:54 pm

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sxt Nep

Description: Transiting Moon Sextile Transiting Neptune

This is a feel-good time if we allow ourselves to relax and tune into the subtle aspects of life – art, nature, beauty, dreams, and spiritual realms. We absorb things easily, our senses are in good form, and we more naturally accept things and people as they are. There is no need to look for definite answers right now.

Date & Time: Sep 18 2018  9:02 pm

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cnj Plu

Description: Transiting Moon Conjunction Transiting Pluto

Deeper feelings emerge. Emotional extremes can be experienced now. This can be a time that we crave or recognize the need for an overhaul – a deep, lasting change.

Date & Time: Sep 18 2018  11:25 pm

Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sxt Jup

Description: Transiting Moon Sextile Transiting Jupiter

A great time to take up new feel-good opportunities. Show your confidence and optimism and reap the rewards.

Date & Time: Sep 18 2018  9:16 am

Event: Tr-Tr Sun Cpl Pal

Description: Transiting Sun ContraParallel Transiting Pallas

Date & Time: Sep 18 2018  7:01 pm

Event: Tr-Tr Mar Sqr Ura

Description: Transiting Mars Square Transiting Uranus

The desire to assert independence and to dominate can be strong. Impulsiveness can be a problem. We can be rebellious and willful, ignoring others’ needs in the process. Resist if you can. With some self-control we might be able to break through obstacles in innovative ways. 

Strong Signs, Elements, Modes

Today’s Emphasized Signs of the Zodiac

VIRGO STRONG

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

SCORPIO STRONG

Intense, magnetic, penetrating perception, power to confront. Can be destructive, vengeful, jealous, overly dramatic.

CAPRICORN STRONG

Disciplined, responsible, reliable, industrious, conscientious, practical, achieving. Can be pessimistic, overly conventional, rigid, materialistic, callous.

Today’s Elemental Balance

FIRE WEAK

We are not very goal-oriented right now, or motivation to pursue our goals may be waning/lacking. Changes feel overwhelming. Enthusiasm may be low, we argue less, and we think more than we take action.

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.

Today’s Modal Balance

The modes are balanced.

Today’s Lunar Phase

LUNAR PHASE: FIRST QUARTER

Moon from 90 to 135 degrees ahead of the Sun. 

We are motivated to take action, perhaps due to a clash, conflict, or stress, as we are more aware of problems and differences now. Plans are beginning to take off or turn a corner. We should watch for pushing too hard.

The following aspects (major only) and positions are at noon (EDT) on September 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, Aspect, & Degree

THE MOON

THE MOON IN CAPRICORN

We’re seeking out more structure and working hard to achieve some measure of security with the Moon in Capricorn. We’re able to tone down our emotional needs so that we can focus on material or practical priorities.

15TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN

Part of Body: Left knee cartilage 

Sabian Symbol: Many toys in the children’s ward of a hospital.

ASPECTS OF THE MOON

SEXTILE NEPTUNE  Orb 0°26′ Applying

This is a feel-good time if we allow ourselves to relax and tune into the subtle aspects of life – art, nature, beauty, dreams, and spiritual realms. We absorb things easily, our senses are in good form, and we more naturally accept things and people as they are. There is no need to look for definite answers right now.

CONJUNCTION PLUTO  Orb 4°27′ Applying

Deeper feelings emerge. Emotional extremes can be experienced now. This can be a time that we crave or recognize the need for an overhaul – a deep, lasting change.

THE SUN

THE SUN IN VIRGO

This is a good time for taking care of business, getting organized, discriminating, analyzing, taking care of health, and paying better attention to daily routines.

26TH DEGREE OF VIRGO

Part of Body: Abdominal veins 

Sabian Symbol: A boy with a censer serves near the priest.

ASPECTS OF THE SUN

CONJUNCTION MERCURY  Orb 2°05′ Applying

Thoughts and communications about ourselves and our goals. We are expressing ourselves confidently, directly, and clearly.

TRINE MARS  Orb 6°06′ Applying

Energy and vitality are strong. A good time to take the initiative. Effective decision-making is possible now.

SQUARE SATURN  Orb 6°58′ Applying

We can feel temporarily blocked or thwarted, and possibly less than confident. We might want to delay important decision making until a more enlightened, positive time.

TRINE PLUTO  Orb 6°53′ Separating

You are a powerful person with strong leadership abilities. You know when to be assertive and when to compromise. You are able to apply yourself to the job at hand.

OPPOSITION CHIRON  Orb 4°38′ Applying

We can feel especially sensitive to criticism or fear rejection now, or could struggle with a situation where we may need to humble ourselves. People or circumstances may seem to be exposing or playing on our vulnerabilities. This can be an opportunity to recognize problem areas that need work, however.

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.

24TH DEGREE OF VIRGO

Part of Body: Capsule and ligaments of liver 

Sabian Symbol: Mary and her white lamb.

ASPECTS OF MERCURY

TRINE PLUTO  Orb 4°47′ Separating

This is a good time for serious and determined study and investigation. We are drawn to looking for truths and to unexplored topics and ideas. 

OPPOSITION CHIRON  Orb 6°44′ Applying

There can be insecurity about our own ideas or decisions, or we may not know who/what to believe. 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 SCORPIO

There is a love of investigation, intimacy, depth connections, and consuming relationships and pastimes.

6TH DEGREE OF SCORPIO

Part of Body: Right epididymus, uterine cavity 

Sabian Symbol: A gold rush.

ASPECTS OF VENUS

SQUARE MARS  Orb 4°03′ Separating

You may have some difficulty being patient with loved ones. You can be aggressive and irritable when others fail to keep up with your activities. You can be equally impatient with yourself.

OPPOSITION URANUS  Orb 3°58′ Separating

An exciting creative person or project might suddenly come to light, creating a little tension. Social affairs are unpredictable. There can be aloofness or rebelliousness in relationships, with fashion and trends, and in our tastes. There may be distancing in relationships. There can be issues with personal freedom and expression which seem to counter closeness or intimacy.

MARS

MARS IN AQUARIUS

You will fight for just causes. You are unpredictable, but will probably be a group leader. You may become rebellious when angry.

2ND DEGREE OF AQUARIUS

Part of Body: Left tibial nerve 

Sabian Symbol: An unexpected thunderstorm.

ASPECTS OF MARS

SQUARE URANUS  Orb 0°05′ Applying

The desire to assert independence and to dominate can be strong. Impulsiveness can be a problem. We can be rebellious and willful, ignoring others’ needs in the process.

SEXTILE CHIRON  Orb 1°27′ Separating

You have the opportunity to be an empathetic and powerful leader of the downtrodden people of the world.

CONJUNCTION THE SOUTH NODE  Orb 2°56′ Applying

You may experience difficulty being assertive and finding the drive to succeed, or alternatively you may have a tendency to misdirect your energies. Your current life lesson to express your energy positively and assertively. Your talent for independent action needs to be developed.

JUPITER

JUPITER IN SCORPIO

We are drawn to depth experiences and deep, transformative changes.  Prosperous areas are psychology, investigation, agencies, directing. (October 10th, 2017 to November 8th, 2018)

20TH DEGREE OF SCORPIO

Part of Body: Ligaments of penis, Bartholin’s glands 

Sabian Symbol: A woman drawing two dark curtains aside.

ASPECTS OF JUPITER

TRINE NEPTUNE  Orb 5°05′ Separating

You are artistic and may also be religious. You have a need to help others and may feel you have a calling. You have the ability to inspire other people’s talents as well.

SEXTILE PLUTO  Orb 1°05′ Separating

You have a chance to achieve a great deal. Your knowledge is broad as you are interested in so many things. You may make a career in the occult or studying the deepest mysteries of life.

SATURN

SATURN IN CAPRICORN

Conservation, moderation, definition, structure, simplicity, and realism are themes now. We might also be striving for more authority in a particular area of our lives now. This is a time for making clear choices and decisions, for weeding out what isn’t working for us, and for letting go of lost causes, particularly related to our life path choices, careers, and long-term goals. (from December 19, 2017, to March 21, 2020; and then from July 1 to December 17, 2020).

3RD DEGREE OF CAPRICORN

Part of Body: Cutaneous nerves of thigh 

Sabian Symbol: The human soul receptive to growth and understanding.

ASPECTS OF SATURN

TRINE URANUS  Orb 0°47′ Separating

You have a talent for investigation. You look at new ideas and are able then to put them into action. In business you achieve much in your own independent way.

SQUARE CHIRON  Orb 2°19′ Separating

There can be fears now of not being competent or effective enough to meet our responsibilities, or we could find it hard to strike out on a unique path, again due to fears or insecurities. The desire to break from the status quo is strong, but we may not have the necessary confidence to do so. We may have difficulties empathizing with others and understanding ourselves.

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). 

2ND DEGREE OF TAURUS

Part of Body: Palate 

Sabian Symbol: An electrical storm.

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)

15TH DEGREE OF PISCES

Part of Body: Left cutaneous veins 

Sabian Symbol: An officer preparing to drill his men.

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).

19TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN

Part of Body: Ligaments of left knee 

Sabian Symbol: A child of about five with a huge shopping bag.

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

CHIRON

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 which will be of service to humanity.

1ST DEGREE OF ARIES

Part of Body: Cerebrum 

Sabian Symbol: A woman has risen out of the ocean; a seal is embracing her.

VESTA IN CAPRICORN

You place importance on structure and order in the workplace. You have great discipline and personal ambition, and can succeed in administrative and management positions. Workers will turn to you for a sense of stability and authority.

1ST DEGREE OF CAPRICORN

Part of Body: Right patella 

Sabian Symbol: A leader claims power from the assembled tribe.

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.

8TH DEGREE OF VIRGO

Part of Body: Abdominal cavity 

Sabian Symbol: A girl takes her first dancing instruction.

JUNO IN TAURUS

You need to feel safe and secure in your relationships. You want your partner to be reliable and stable and are likely to want a traditional marriage.

29TH DEGREE OF TAURUS

Part of Body: Deltoid muscle and main neck muscles 

Sabian Symbol: Two cobblers working at a table.

CERES

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.

6TH DEGREE OF LIBRA

Part of Body: Pubis 

Sabian Symbol: The ideals of a man abundantly crystallized.

ERIS IN ARIES

24TH DEGREE OF ARIES

Part of Body: Zygomatic muscle 

Sabian Symbol: An open window and a net curtain blowing into a cornucopia.

THE NORTH NODE

THE NORTH NODE IN LEO
This a quest to develop your inner strength. You may find that you experience times of loneliness. These times are part of your lesson to forge your own creative life in order to give generously to the world.

5TH DEGREE OF LEO

Part of Body: Right carotid artery 

Sabian Symbol: Rock formations at the edge of a precipice.

THE SOUTH NODE

THE SOUTH NODE IN AQUARIUS
This a quest to develop your inner strength. You may find that you experience times of loneliness. These times are part of your lesson to forge your own creative life in order to give generously to the world.

5TH DEGREE OF AQUARIUS

Part of Body: Nerve of right fibula 

Sabian Symbol: A council of ancestors.

**Conjunctions to Select Fixed Stars on September 18, 2018.**