All cultures have recognized the influence of the planets on our lives… above, is an astrological illustration from Nepal, circa 1900. The energy “deities” of the planets are depicted colorfully.

Astro-Weekend Update…

On Saturday, we see a series of tensions and oppositions at play in the cosmos. Remember, that just like your muscles require tension in order to move you… in the same way, energetic tension can help you get where you need to go.  Think of sports matches — lots of tension on both sides.  Mercury (Communication) plays a key role today, for healthy spiritual progress.  Listen carefully to understand what your own emotions, and those of others are telling you.

There is “something you must say to someone close to breakthrough and solve a problem you’ve been having.”

Sunday finds the Moon (Emotions) in a favorable position with Pluto, planet of transformation. But we also see opposition with Jupiter and the Sun — growth and personality.  Sometimes powerful emotions in reaction to something that occurs in your life can set off a chain of events that changes things — forever.  The important thing is to not react blindly.  Jupiter is also working in conjunction with the Sun so that personal growth is the key today.

Monday starts of the week, and a new month with a swirl of nervous energy in the air. We see tention with Neptune, Chiron, and Mercury, and an opposition with Venus and Uranus.  This configuration points to something you must say to someone close to breakthrough and solve a problem you’ve been having.  Mercury (Communication) and Mars (Initiation), show tension between each other, but Mars is in harmony with the Moon.  You feel like you want to proceed — but that communication thing is bothering you.  You know what to do.

Saturn interacts twice on Tuesday, showing tension with Mercury (Communication), and working in conjunction with the Moon as it wends its way through tension in the air. This can mean that you must be the voice of reason at work, and with your family — and some will not like it.  “Laying down the law,” is the responsibility of a good manager, and part of the role of adults in relationships.  Done with careful deliberation, it will work out well for all.

Black Holes — Powerful Galactic Wonders: This artist’s concept depicts a supermassive black hole at the center of a galaxy. NASA’s Galaxy Evolution Explorer found evidence that black holes — once they grow to a critical size — stifle the formation of new stars in elliptical galaxies. The grayish structure surrounding the black hole, called a torus, is made up of gas and dust. Beyond the torus, only the old red-colored stars that make up the galaxy can be seen. There are no new stars in the galaxy.

On Saturday, we see four harmonies, and three emotional square offs in play. This should be interesting since you will find it easy to talk about some new ideas with friends and family, but you will need to listen carefully to your own words, and those of others to see what blocks might be in the way. People resist change — that’s human. And, there are other emotions that get in the way sometimes. Have patience, and learn to work through these temporary challenges — the result will be all that much more worth the effort.

“Four strong harmonies lead the way into the start of the week on Monday, with Neptune (Spirituality) especially in play.”

Sunday finds the Moon (Emotions), dancing in harmony with Saturn, and in trine with Mars, but squaring off with Jupiter, and showing tension with Mercury. This configuration brings an opportunity to try some new things within the boundaries set by your relationships. It’s not the time to shoot higher. Listen well, and you may discover what the underlying tension in your communication is about. This will be healthy for your relationship.

Four strong harmonies lead the way into the start of the week on Monday, with Neptune (Spirituality) especially in play. Venus (Love) is working with Neptune, and the Moon (Emotions) is blending positive energy, so you will find that when you show your Spirit with your mate, it will be a positive force for growth. Keep your conversations to familiar subjects, and let your passion shine.

Tuesday brings a harmony with Jupiter — planet of expansion — as the Moon squares off with Saturn — planet of limitations. Around you at work and at home you will sense a feeling that growth is now possible. Financially, 2010 looks like a year when we continue to work out of the economic recession. This transformation will require careful consideration of the right moves to make for initiatives at work, and in your personal life. Move carefully, and strategically — and growth is possible.

Other Star Systems, Other Planets: NASA artist’s concept of the star Fomalhaut and the Jupiter-type planet that the Hubble Space Telescope observed. Observations taken 21 months apart by Hubble’s Advanced Camera for Surveys’ coronagraph show that the planet — named Fomalhaut B — is moving along a path around the star.

Friday finds the Moon in three trines, and two harmonies — a favorable day for getting things done. Pay attention to what your Spirit inspires you to do today, since that will perk up your personality and give you the initiative you need at work and at home. Neptune (Spirituality) is pleased with the Moon — a good feeling — but somewhat at odds with Mercury… a sign that you may need to express your thoughts about Spiritual matters with someone close to you.

“Listen to your intuition. It’s not the size of the gift or quantity that counts. It’s what is expressed from your heart.”

On Saturday, we see a balanced day with two harmonies, and two stress indicators. Remember, that there is such a thing as good stress — just like a bow requires tension to shoot a straight arrow, so does the right amount of stress bring an alert state of mind to help you reach goals in life. Keep your wits about you today, and watch for a breakthrough with friends and loved ones when you take time for honest communication.

Sunday brings an opportunity for healing those parts of your personality that need some new ideas to break through the hurdles of life. What hurdles? Well, sometimes when you follow what is in your mind, instead of what is in your heart, often there are problems to address later. There are four planets the Moon (Emotions) is squaring off with today. Look for where your Spiritual growth is blocked, and deal with it.

Monday shows the Sun (Personality) in harmony with Jupiter (Growth) while the Moon (Emotions) is in harmony with Saturn (Limitations). In the Holiday give season, this can translate to you thinking you have to buy more gifts, while in your gut you know you should stay on budget. Listen to your intuition. It’s not the size of the gift or quantity that counts. It’s what is expressed from your heart.

Rolling in on Tuesday is a good day for progress in your love relationships. The Moon is working in conjunction with Venus today, as the Sun plays nice with Neptune (planet of Spirituality). Again, Spirituality is your key — understand your mate and loved-ones Spiritual needs — listen to their desires and needs. Take a look at any emotions that blocking you from communicating honestly and fully. You can do it.

Beautiful Cosmos: NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope, Hubble Space Telescope and Chandra X-ray Observatory image of a bubble-shaped shroud of gas and dust that is 14 light-years wide and is expanding at 4 million miles per hour.

Saturday brings a lot of celestial activity. The Moon is making nice with Uranus, Venus and Saturn.  Think of some new, but practical ideas you can bring into your love relationships.  Could you spend the afternoon cooking together with some new recipes?  Then there’s some tension between Mars and Saturn.  Mars wants to get things going — Saturn wants to slow things down.  Go with your intuition there.  Remember to listen well to those around you — they have important ideas for you.

“What are you feeling that is holding you back?  Communication will lead you to your breakthrough answer.”

Sunday shows some emotional tension involving Pluto, Uranus, and Mercury.  This is a good day to practice good Communication skills. There’s a chance you can make a breakthrough if you listen well, and are open to new ideas.  The Moon is in trine with the Sun, also today, so your critical thinking and intuition should be in tune with one another.  This will bring greater understanding as you deal with family and friends.

Monday looks busy in the heavens as the week begins.  Mercury is cooperating with Pluto even as is squares off with Saturn. You will need to get beyond some restrictions in order to achieve a breakthrough.  Jupiter is working in conjunction with Chiron to bring healthy growth to your life. Meanwhile, the Moon opposes both Jupiter and Chiron throwing an emotional wrench into your plans.  What are you feeling that is holding you back?  Communication will lead you to your breakthrough answer.

Tuesday quiets down as Mercury (Communication) shows stress with Mars (Initiation), and the Moon (Emotions) squares off with both Venus (Love), and the Sun (Personality). What do you love about yourself?  What do you wish you could change?  Have a good talk about this with yourself, then consider who you need to talk with to take the next step.  A supervisor at work?  A college entrance counselor?  Someone in your family?  Prepare yourself with honest introspection… then go make the right moves.

What wonders, yet to be explored in our Universe? Witness NASA photo of Galaxy NGC 4697 – The point-like sources are due to black holes and neutron stars in binary star systems.

Weekend Astro-Update…

Saturday shows a mixed bag of influence, with an indication you should watch your communication carefully and try to proceed by reason, instead of passion. You’re feeling “whole” today, but at the same time wondering if some new ideas you have can lead to the breakthroughs you seek.  They can, but you have to proceed with patience and the education it requires.

“Healthy, Spiritual Growth.  There… you have a recipe you can help your mate and family enjoy life… and what a great gift it will be.”

Sunday looks like a quiet, late Autumn turning to Winter day. Perfect for enjoying the weekend with loved ones, we see that the Moon (Emotions) is tuned in harmoniously with Mercury (Communication).  Talk about the little things — you know, the “small talk” that actually carries with it the deeper bonds that make it much larger than it is small.  That’s the art of conversation, and it is why community and communication share the same root word.

Monday comes in busy on a US Holiday week — Thursday we will celebrate Thanksgiving, but we have to get there first. Emotionally, you have an opportunity to see what’s blocking your love relationships from proceeding.  Beyond simply good communication, we see the Moon (Emotions) working in conjunction with Jupiter, Chiron and Neptune.  Healthy, Spiritual Growth.  There… you have a recipe you can help your mate and family enjoy life… and what a great gift it will be.

Tuesday brings the energy of Pluto to bear in a positive light, while Saturn places a dual rol — both harmonious with the Sun… but at odds with the Moon. Along with the Moon squaring off with the Sun, this day presents the option to see why your gut is telling you something different than your head.  Good instinct and a trust in your intuition will save the day as you could be locked into daydreams that take you away from what’s really important.

Here’s to a Happy Halloween for all of the little “spheres” in your life.

Welcome to Friday, the Moon is comfortable with Uranus (New Ideas), but feeling a bit of stress with both Pluto (Transformation), Jupiter (Growth), and Mercury (Communication). This is a better day to capture your ideas in outline form — use your favorite office program — then organize them for presentation later. Clip out ads that intrigue you and save them for the right moment. Spend your time perfecting your message. Timing is important in life.

“Your mate may not be interested in new approaches right now, but will respond well to honest and heartfelt passion.”

On Saturday, we see a mixed bag of celestial energies into play as Halloween roles around. Happy Halloween. It is clear that you feel like taking charge of some of the festivities (good), and that Love will be good for your health… as it always is. There’s a bit of tension surrounding your spiritual beliefs and your personality. Good. This signals opportunities for you to examine yourself… and grow.

Sunday finds Mercury squaring off with Mars — not the best day to discuss new plans… just take it easy and enjoy the weekend. The Moon (Emotions) is dancing nice with Pluto and Neptune and in harmony with Chiron today. Concentrating on your Spiritual side can bring a transformation that’s good for your health. Remember — just like the body, the Spirit must be nurtured too… it is at the source of all you do and become.

Monday starts out the week busy with nine aspects comingling their energies. Venus, planet of Love, shows tension with Uranus (Inventions), but harmony with Neptune (Spiritual matters). Your mate may not be interested in new approaches right now, but will respond well to honest and heartfelt passion. Use the emotional tension in the air to search yoruself and find out what’s blocking you from making progress. Hint: communication.

As Tuesday rolls in, the Moon (Emotions) is found squaring off with Jupiter, Chiron and Neptune. There’s harmony with Uranus, however, so it’s going to take some creative thninking to deal with what’s been blocking your growth. Remember — what you imagine, you can do… and where there’s a will, there’s a way. Stand firm, but leave enough flexibility so you can listen to important people in your life and modify your plans accordingly.

The Light from the Stars is varied and Beautiful: Halo Stelsel Galaxy photography by NASA. What wonders remain yet to be explored?

Saturday looks harmonious for Health, Wealth, and the Spirit. Mercury (Communication) is in a good position to bring about this harmony, so engage in good discussions with those you love. Work things out. Speak from the heart. Remember how good it feels after you settle things together? Remember, negotiation skills include good listening. Agreements with those close to you are the true source of wealth… of the Spiritual kind.

“… let the sunny part of your personality shine on in your relationships.”

Sunday is looking kind of quiet — celestially speaking. While this works out to be more of a day for relaxing than starting something new (Mars — Initiation — is not in favorable positions), the Moon has a couple of interesting aspects for you. Since the Moon (Emotions) is working with the Sun (Personality) and in harmony with Pluto (Transformation) — go ahead and let the sunny part of your personality shine on in your relationships. Bringing a light-hearted Spirit to your day will pay off for you.

Monday starts off with some creative tension in the air. Jupiter (expansion) is squaring off with the Moon (Emotions) which gives you a “blocked” feeling about projects in your career. What is causing the blockage? Answering that question will pay off later — but today it is best to focus on routines and just get it done. When you take a break, do a meditation to get in touch with your emotions… they are the key to your success in business, and your personal matters.

Tuesday cranks up the energy with a number of favorable opportunities. Mercury in trine with Jupiter makes this the day to talk about plans for growth. The Moon is in harmony with Uranus, Saturn, and Mars, which means practical new tactics you put forward have a good chance of getting the green light to proceed. Communicate carefully, and give some attention to the emotional side of your personal relationships.

Ancient Charts of the Zodiac: From Andreas Cellarius Harmonia Macrocosmica, 1660/61. Chart showing signs of the zodiac and the solar system with world at center.

On Saturday, we see a good time for Love… whoo hooo! The Moon (Emotions) shows harmony with Venus (Love), perhaps as a cycle back to the positive from some stress earlier in the week. It’s always a cycle. We also see the Moon squaring off with the Sun, which can often mean that you are feeling like doing one thing, while your mind argues against it. What to do when logic and emotions collide? Well, there is such a thing as emotional intelligence, and ultimately the deciding factor will come from your own internal compass… pointing toward the right thing to do. Listen to your heart.

“If there is something bothering you, take some time to work through the emotional issues before talking about it… you do need to feel, deal, and heal.”

Sunday finds the Moon playing nice with Mercury, Uranus and Saturn, but opposing Mars. This may not be a day to start new projects, but you can have some relaxing conversations and talks with loved ones and friends — a good coffee and brunch sort of day. “Small talk” about practical matters will pay off. There will be a better time ahead to launch new plans. Just enjoy the day.

On Monday, the Moon forms a trine with the Sun (Personality), even as Mercury (Communication) shows stress on the emotional side. Don’t push it. If there is something bothering you, take some time to work through the emotional issues before talking about it. But you do need to feel, deal, and heal. Just remember that the dealing is best done after you work through the best approach to what you are feeling. Seek the counsel of someone you trust, first.

Tuesday finds the Moon (Emotion) in some creative tension with four planets, while working in conjunction with the energy of Jupiter (growth). This tells us that while you feel that you are making progress towards prosperity — there are still some “hoops” for you to jump through. Hey, noone ever promised you it would be easy. But you can do it. Make sure your heart is in the right place, then follow its lead.

This artist’s conception shows a binary-star, or two-star, system, called HD 113766, where astronomers suspect a rocky Earth-like planet is forming around one of the stars. At approximately 10 to 16 million years old, astronomers suspect this star is at just the right age for forming rocky planets. The system is located approximately 424 light-years away from Earth. (NASA)

On Saturday we find busy energies in the heavens as the Moon (emotions) squares off with three planets, works in trine with two (Chiron and Neptune), opposes Pluto (Transformation). The clues here are Spiritual Health as you meditate on what may be blocking needed renewal. Look specifically at communication — is there something you’ve been putting off discussing with a friend or colleague? The sooner you get it cleared — the sooner you can move on. That’s the Spirit.

“It can be tough, but you need to look at emotions in this area. Remember, feel, deal, heal. Talk about it.”

Sunday finds the Moon (emotions) showing stress with Venus (Love), Chiron (Health), and Neptune (Spirituality). When your Spiritual side is not in balance in your relationships, it’s not healthy. Do you both have common Spiritual goals? That’s important. Meanwhile, the Moon is also working in conjunction with Mars, so you can find the energy to get some new projects started today.

Monday shows more conflict between Love and Health. It can be tough, but you need to look at emotions in this area. Remember, feel, deal, heal. Talk about it. The Moon is happy today, with The Sun (Personality), Saturn (Practicality), Uranus (New Ideas), and Mercury (Communication). This alignment can play out well in your career as you bring forward plans of a practical nature and are seen in a favorable light at work.

Tuesday is looking a bit “edgy”, celestially speaking, with the Moon showing some stress with The sun, Uranus, Saturn, Pluto and Mercury. In Life, and relationships, there are always emotions to deal with. This creates energy, which though at times feels unsettling, can be used as the inspiration to move forward. Pray for discernment, and the wisdom to understand your mate and colleagues. Then use the energy to do the right things.