The Blue Marble: Earth photos never cease to amaze as you peer back at our own planet from a NASA photo, and put space, distance, the galaxy and life itself into perspective. We live on a whirling ball of energy.

Astro-Weekend Update…

Sunday comes in with an interesting mix of celestial energies — a day when your power to break through involves a harmony of health and spirit. Ok… let’s break down what that means. Simply put, when you are in good spirits, your health is positively impacted, and you feel a surge of power to move ahead in your projects and relationships. But someone may be resisting your new ideas — hey, there’s always a challenge along the way. Pay careful attention to your love relationships.

“The important thing is to strike the right balance between holding principles that allow your love to grow, and being too restrictive.”

The week jumps to a start on Monday with some tension in the air. Jupiter (growth), and Mercury (Communication) play multiple roles as does Pluto (transformation). A communication block may be preventing you from a move forward. To get to the root of this, double-check the feelings you have about growth. What is causing you stress and why? Pluto is there to help you make progress when you get over any emotional tension and use good communication skills, including listening well (not waiting to talk), to get to the root of the matter.

The Moon (emotions) plays a key role on Tuesday, squaring off with Chiron and Neptune, but dancing in harmony with Uranus, Saturn, the Sun and Mars. What is the source of the Spiritual blockage? What is preventing you from feeling good about one aspect of your life? Work on that. Use creative ideas, within bounds, to take action to address conflicts — you have the power.  Keep your emotions balanced and things will work out fine.

Midweek brings energies which work to give you an opportunity to grow in your romantic relationship on Wednesday. Remember that some boundaries are healthy in relationshiops (ie. giving each other space), and others are not good (ie. shutting another out). It’s worth it to spend some time on this today — as you know, relationships take work, but the rewards are great. The important thing is to strike the right balance between holding principles that allow your love to grow, and being too restrictive.

Our Own Galaxy has Two Arms: In 2008, infrared images from NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope have showed that our Milky Way’s spiral structure is with just two arms wrapping off the ends of a central bar of stars. Previously, our galaxy was thought to have four major arms.

Astro-Weekend Update…

As the weekend rolls in, we find a mixed bag of energies in the heavens on Saturday. Mind and emotion are back in harmony, but another communication tension is close to you. Sometimes you can just see clearly a problem between two people you know well — clearer than they can see it. But when you are involved, it’s hard to have the same perspective. Is there something blocking progress in your relationships… at work, and in your personal life? It takes two to tango, so learn what you need to do to dance better, then give your mate some room to do the same.

“Is there something in your way — blocking your path — at home or at work, that is keeping you from an important break through? “

Happy Mother’s Day! The Moon is working with Jupiter on Sunday, which brings a feeling of growth — a good thing because each year of life brings opportunities to learn and move forward. It’s also a good day to say what is in your heart, even if it makes you a little nervous. Life is short. Honor those you love, and yourself, by finding the courage to speak about your feelings. Sometimes a new approach is all that’s needed. Listen to your gut instincts.

The week starts out with Pluto, planet of transformation interacting with both the Moon and the Sun, on Monday. Is there something in your way — blocking your path — at home or at work, that is keeping you from an important break through? Find out what it is by understanding your inner tension and learning where it leads. There are good changes, and bad changes, but the only thing constant in life is change itself. Pray for discernment, then do what it takes to advance.

Tuesday comes in busy with nine aspects at play in the cosmos. We see Venus, Neptune, Saturn, and the Sun all doubling their interactions today, which makes for a powerful mix of energies. Love, Restrictions, Spirituality, and Personality are all in flux as you work your way through the day’s tasks. Set smart boundaries, follow the guidance from Spirit, and you will find opportunities for growth and breakthrough.

Happy Easter. From the wise men that followed the star of his birth, to those that followed and informed the World — Christ is the Light from above, for all below.

Astro-Weekend Update…

As the weekend begins, Saturday brings an opportunity for you to concentrate on activities that are good for your health. What has been holding you back from taking more walks, exploring fitness opportunities, and eating better? C’mon — it’s Spring already. We see a bit of tension surrounding Communication today. Sometimes that is with another person… and sometimes with yourself. Huh? That’s right — listening is a very important part of Communication, and you will be in better shape when you listen to your instincts, gut hunches, and intuition — the emotional intelligence we all have built in, but often gets pushed aside.

“Focus your mind on growth in meditation and in prayer — remember that what you imagine will come to you… when you keep the Faith.”

Happy Easter. Pluto, the planet of Transformation dances in trine today with the Moon — ruler of the emotions, and key to the subconscious realms on Sunday. We also see harmony with both Neptune (Spirituality) and with Chiron (Health). These combine with the story of Christ rising to point the way to your own Spiritual breakthrough — follow your heart, be energized by emotions and allow the Spirit to guide the way. Sometimes time-worn Spiritual principles can appear to be restrictive and “old” — at first glance. But embrace them, and your the Spirit can take you where there are no bounds — a place of great wonder.

Monday kicks off the week with Mercury — the planet of Communication and Intelligence — playing a dual role. Mercury shows a blockage with Mars (Initiation), but a harmony with the Moon (Emotions). So, today, listen carefully to what your gut tells you — face it without hesitation. This internal “communication” is the key to what you need to do at work and at home. Follow your heart as you work things out — it will provide a good barometer to test the climate for growth in your life.

On Tuesday, be alert for breakthroughs that come in earnest conversation with those close to you. As you work to keep your emotional and rational self in alignment, remember that even when times seem challenging, this is still an abundant world and a rich life — at every step of the way. Focus your mind on growth in meditation and in prayer — remember that what you imagine will come to you… when you keep the Faith. The same energies that move the planets are there for you, when you are in tune and atoned.

What Wonders still may Come? The galaxy shown above, a type of object known as a “blazar.” Like many active galaxies, a blazar emits oppositely directed jets of particles traveling near the speed of light as matter falls into a central supermassive black hole. NASA scientists are not yet sure what it means, but one thing is certain — we are constantly influenced on earth by massive energies from the cosmos.

Astro-Weekend Update…

As the weekend rolls in, Saturday finds the Moon (Emotions) working in conjunction with both Neptune and Chiron. This makes for magical Pisces sort of day when your Spirit will carry you forward and heal some of the stress you may feel. If you have been trying to take action, but feel thwarted… relax. Let the Light of your Spirit shine today as you take a break from things. Recreation is in order as a light spirit carries the day.

“…your opportunity is to shine on as you enjoy talking with those close to you over a pleasant coffee break.”

Sunday finds Mercury — planet of intelligence and communication — working in conjunction with the Sun (Personality). The Moon (Emotions) shows harmony with Pluto (breakthrough). Putting these influences together means that your opportunity is to shine on as you enjoy talking with those close to you over a pleasant coffee break. Think about how much gets done in life by inspirations enjoyed in conversation. We also see a bit of stress regarding initiative — that’s ok… you can get started on bold new ideas as the week takes off.

Monday offers a rare day of quadruple conjunctions where planetary energies combine in several areas to bring about a strong start for your week. Mercury appears twice, lending its communicative energy to both the Moon and Uranus. Today you will find writing project plans, and communicating them to team members a successful effort. At home, the balanced feeling extends into family and romantic relationships. Enjoy it.

Tuesday looks good for starting new plans, and relationships. The Moon is dancing in trine with Mars — a good alignment to launch those things you may have put on hold. Pick up the phone and call that person you’ve been neglecting. Spring is here, and this is St. Paddy’s week — anything can happen now. That’s the magic that’s really all around us, and behind all that happens, at work.

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.

Golden Light: Light above is what brings the energy to all things in our world — good as Gold. Biblical wisdom explains that God is Light. This NASA show shows a distant galaxy sending gold Light our way.  Behave as Children of Light.

Astro-Weekend Update…

On Saturday, things get a bit busy in the heavens, heading into the weekend. The Moon shows harmony with Mercury, Pluto and Jupiter, but some stress with the Sun, Saturn, Venus, Uranus, and Mars. And, meanwhile, Mercury shows some stress with Chiron. That’s your key — Communication. Trust your instincts for when to speak and what to say. Sometimes the best way to proceed is to relax and roll with what comes — Saturdays are great for that.

“Communicating thoroughly and clearly up front will be key to your success.”

On Sunday, the Sun finds harmony with Saturn, while the Moon likes Uranus by squares off with Chiron, and Neptune. You will find some success at enjoying a simple new get-away… in town at a new spot in the city for coffee, or an affordable one day get-away in the country. We also see Mercury (Communication) at odds with both Neptune and the Moon. You will feel better when you speak about something you have been holding inside. Get it out, and move on.

Monday starts the week with the Moon in trine with Saturn, the Sun, and Venus. It’s also squaring off with Jupiter. The triple trine works in your favor to dazzle those close to you with your practical advice. Meanwhile Venus (Love) pops up again, this time showing tension with Uranus. You will find that someone close needs some emotional support.

Tuesday comes in quiet with four celestial aspects in play. The Moon likes Mars, so you can get things launched today. Ready to start that new project? Make sure you pay attention to communication, negotiation, and the most important skill for it — listening. There’s some stress showing with Mercuray (Communication), and that’s usually the case when a new initiative moves people out of their “comfort zones.” Communicating thoroughly and clearly up front will be key to your success.

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.