Tag Archives: Centaurs

Friends, Benefits, and the Leo Full Moon

By Amanda Painter

We’re heading toward a Full Moon on Feb. 9, and Mercury stations retrograde one week later (on Feb. 16). That would be more than enough provocative energy on its own, but there are additional elements of the sky that will be sparking up the weekend.

Disco lion's mane or crystallized moonlight? Photo by Amanda Painter.

Disco lion’s mane or crystallized moonlight? Photo by Amanda Painter.

One of those elements gets cooking tomorrow: Venus enters Aries at 3:02 pm EST (20:02:17 UTC) Feb. 7. Venus in Aries (the sign of Self ruled by Mars) tends to be lusty and assertive, idealistic yet impulsive, charming but sometimes inconsiderate without realizing it.

So remember your empathy, especially if any interpersonal situations get confrontational or intense as the Full Moon builds.

Yet it’s the conjunction of Venus to Chiron and the object Salacia that really focuses the qualities of Venus in Aries. Salacia appears to relate to sexual maturity (particularly the lack thereof) and to the kinds of sexual activity that get people all flustered.

In the U.S. media at least, that seems to be anything taboo or ‘scandalous’. In your personal life, it might mean the same things — or simply your perception that certain facets of your desire and sexual activity could be seen that way. But aren’t those always the hottest fantasies?

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Capricorn Shore, Dancing Waves: Cancer Full Moon and Eclipse

By Amanda Painter

Today the Moon enters Cancer at 3:43 am EST (8:43:07 UTC) on its way to Friday’s Full Moon and penumbral lunar eclipse. I keep looking at this chart — with the Moon, seemingly by itself, facing off against a host of objects in Capricorn — and all these sea-related catchphrases keep popping into mind. I’ll get to those in a moment.

Light dancing on waves, waves dancing on shore; Higgins Beach, Maine. Photo by Amanda Painter.

Light dancing on waves, waves dancing on shore; Higgins Beach, Maine. Photo by Amanda Painter.

For some orientation: the eclipse peaks on Jan. 10 at 2:10 pm EST (19:09:58 UTC). Eleven minutes later, the Sun-Moon opposition (Full Moon) peaks at 2:21 pm EST (19:21:10 UTC).

Astrologically, the Moon rules Cancer. It is strong there, and emphasizes this water sign’s tendency toward cycles, intuition and sensitivity. Astronomically, the Moon’s movements dictate the tides of our actual oceans.

Meanwhile, in Capricorn (sign of business, government, tradition, leadership) we have: the Sun (conscious self-expression), Mercury (intellect and communication), asteroid Ceres (food, nourishment), Saturn (structure, limits, authority), Pluto (compelled evolution, ‘what is below’), and centaur Chariklo (holding space for another).

Full Moons imply a meeting or confrontation. In the chart for this one, the Moon seemingly floats in the water all by itself, reflecting the light of the Sun, and opposing all those other objects that are aligned on the rocky shore. Among those objects: a Saturn-Pluto conjunction — exact just two days later, on Jan. 12 — that describes much of the upheaval and major change we’re witnessing around us.

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The Day of Abandon: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Dec. 8
The Day of Abandon | 2019-20 Sagittarius Astrology Studio | All Other Signs

Draw upon the wellspring of inspiration bubbling up from your psychic depths to help dispel confusion or uncertainty. You’re on the verge of a conscious breakthrough, and clarity will emerge soon enough. Creative work of some kind looks promising, in terms of your quest for greater financial security, just don’t waste time chasing rainbows. Your open heart works best with open eyes.
— by Victoria Emory

If you have a Sagittarius Sun, rising sign or Moon and could use some insights on such real-life matters as work, relationships and career, your 2019-2020 Sagittarius Astrology Studio reading by Eric Francis will cover your ruling planet Jupiter’s conjunction to the Galactic Core, a preview of Jupiter in Capricorn, and many other potentially life-changing facets of your astrology.

Written in the Planets

All week, the Sagittarius Sun and Neptune in Pisces have been in a square aspect, exact today. Neptune, especially in Pisces, is a diffusing and dissolving agent. It can obscure, mislead or embellish. But it also represents the kind of universality at the heart of concepts like agape: unconditional, divine love. The Sagittarius Sun is open in spirit and forward thinking in its most evolved forms.

Generally speaking, Sun-Neptune squares can describe deceit, disillusionment, and an inability to see clearly where emotions are concerned. However, this aspect can also describe something that stimulates your idealism.

With the Sun and Neptune in aspect to the Great Attractor — a deep-space phenomenon that’s pulling everything in our region of the universe toward it — we get an image of consciousness in contact with something too big to comprehend. Yet it’s strangely attractive or compelling. Consider this an invitation to explore some of the mysteries you contain, and how they relate to the greater mysteries of existence.

If that feels too broad or ‘woowoo’, you have another option. Chiron in Aries* is square Pholus in Capricorn. These two centaurs speak of multi-generational patterns — and how you differentiate yourself from them, while owning how they’ve influenced you. A modest step in this process could release more tension than you’d expect. If you think of it in terms of ‘traditions’ that no longer fit, you may see the pieces more clearly.
*(Eric wrote on Chiron in Aries in a section of this essay.)
— by Amanda Painter


In 2020 we have not one but two conjunctions that mark the turn of a generation, and of an era in history. On Jan. 12, Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn form their once per 33-year conjunction. Then on Dec. 21. 2020, Jupiter and Saturn, both now in Aquarius, form a conjunction in the first degree of that sign. Read more here…

The Day of Distinctive Manner: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Nov. 26
The Day of Distinctive Manner | 2019-20 Sagittarius Astrology Studio | All Other Signs

A New Moon birthday is a pretty solid indicator of embarking upon a new phase in your life. Shoring up financial security is a priority, and even small steps taken now can yield rewards. So follow through on leads and don’t hold back. Creative self-expression or a bit or romance (or both) can help you discover more of who you are.
— by Victoria Emory

If you have a Sagittarius Sun, rising sign or Moon and could use some insights on real-life matters of life, work and relationships, your 2019-2020 Sagittarius Astrology Studio reading by Eric Francis will cover your ruling planet Jupiter’s conjunction to the Galactic Core, a preview of forthcoming Jupiter in Capricorn, and many other potentially life-changing facets of your astrology.

Written in the Planets

Today the Sun and Moon meet for the Sagittarius New Moon (read additional coverage about it here). This is exact at about 10:05 am EST / 7:05 am PST (15:05:28 UTC). At its essence, the Sagittarius New Moon is about spirituality and truth. Yet it’s in contact with a couple of centaur planets. In astrology, centaurs represent healing processes — and healing processes can be uncomfortable for a little while, as you make new choices and eventually emerge into a space of greater clarity.

In this case, the Sagittarius New Moon is square the centaur Nessus in Pisces. This looks like spirituality and truth running up against resentment and jealousy. You cannot have both — not if you want to feel better. So which are you going to choose? You have resources available to lean on, even if your bank account is empty or you feel lonely. For example, you know which activities, people and environments leave you feeling nourished and cared for, and which leave you feeling depleted. Chances are you also know that when you nourish and care for others, the world suddenly feels a lot friendlier.
— by Amanda Painter and Eric Francis

Please note: Written in the Planets will be on a brief hiatus this holiday week, and will resume on Monday, Dec. 2. The “Birthday” reading portion of these posts will continue to publish this week.


In 2020 we have not one but two conjunctions that mark the turn of a generation, and of an era in history. On Jan. 12, Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn form their once per 33-year conjunction. Then on Dec. 21. 2020, Jupiter and Saturn, both now in Aquarius, form a conjunction in the first degree of that sign. Read more here…

The Day of Irreverence: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Nov. 23
The Day of Irreverence | 2019-20 Sagittarius Astrology Studio | All Other Signs

Recent epic changes have prepared you to embark on this new cycle more secure in your own unique identity. Your path of self-actualization ties in directly with creative self-expression over the coming year. Keep your emotional radar tuned to the subtle, interior channels, and don’t be afraid to examine whatever you pick up. Artistry requires honesty, especially with yourself. This is a year to stay connected: those who share your ideals might be key to bringing certain desires to fruition.
— by Victoria Emory

If you have a Sagittarius Sun, rising sign or Moon and could use some insights on real-life matters of life, work and relationships, your 2019-2020 Sagittarius Astrology Studio reading by Eric Francis will cover your ruling planet Jupiter’s conjunction to the Galactic Core, a preview of forthcoming Jupiter in Capricorn, and many other potentially life-changing facets of your astrology.

Written in the Planets

Today and tomorrow, the astrology is marked by two rather different major aspects. One is a conjunction of Venus and Jupiter in Sagittarius: the planets of love and expansion in the sign of optimism. On its surface, this describes fantastic social energy, compassion, and ‘luck’ or abundance — especially for relationships of all kinds. Yet it comes with a twist, in the form of the Galactic Core (our ‘cosmic homing signal’) and the centaur Ixion (amorality), which are also part of the conjunction.

You might notice today how you respond to restlessness, opportunities for indulgence, and second chances. What do you do when you think nobody is looking? Do you take the abundance in your life for granted, or do you try to stay conscious of making the most of it and sharing it?

The other big aspect in the works is Mars in Scorpio (anger, sex and secrets) opposite Uranus in Taurus (disruptions of routine). This can describe unexpected ego conflicts — particularly the explosive release of long pent-up anger, whether yours or someone else’s. Recent activity in Scorpio might have kept something quiet that now needs to find a way out. That said, if you’ve been consciously seeking creative ways to redirect your life, encounters this weekend could offer the resistance you need to galvanize your efforts.
— by Amanda Painter


In 2020 we have not one but two conjunctions that mark the turn of a generation, and of an era in history. On Jan. 12, Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn form their once per 33-year conjunction. Then on Dec. 21. 2020, Jupiter and Saturn, both now in Aquarius, form a conjunction in the first degree of that sign. Read more here…

The Day of the Fearless Crusader: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Sept. 12
The Day of the Fearless Crusader Order 2019-20 Virgo Astrology Studio | All Other Signs

Remember that your primary relationship is really with yourself, and fulfillment in every other kind of setting comes much more easily if you can give yourself love. This may sound a little counterintuitive, because society teaches us that we are lacking, and that self-acceptance is allegedly arrogance. Yet in truth, embracing who you are is an important aspect of your wellbeing. Love is not a zero-sum game; it’s more like music. The more you practice on your own, the more you have to offer to others.
— by Amy Elliott

If your Sun, Moon or rising sign is Virgo, you are heading into a most unusual solar year, set up to do the thing Virgo is designed for: integrate the elements of your being, find your direction and purpose, and act on it. Eric lays it all out in your 2019-2020 Virgo Astrology Studio, now available for instant access.

Written in the Planets

While you might not actually have the Golden Touch right now, you may in fact be able to create some ‘luck’ for yourself today. Yet that’s unlikely to come through impulsive risk-taking, and more through intelligent foresight and planning, with Mars in Virgo making a square to Jupiter in Sagittarius.

Running off with a “so crazy it just might work!” idea could be enticing, and the thought might be just the boost you need to take some initial steps. But Neptune’s proximity to Mars and Jupiter is likely having a slight dissipating effect on what is usually a high-energy aspect. That might actually be for the best. Patient persistence appears to be the more conducive option this week.

Are you experiencing any déjà vu regarding self-critical thoughts or speaking critically to someone else? Mercury and Venus are in a T-square with Ixion and the Galactic Core in Sagittarius, and the asteroid Chaos in Gemini. One of the silver linings to feeling like you keep repeating the same lessons is that each time is an opportunity to make a different choice — one that’s focused on things like ethical behavior, empathy, alignment with dharma, or the highest good of all concerned. That does not always feel fun in the moment. But there appears to be an opportunity to imagine that you’re in the space before all decisions — before any guilt or shame entered into your thinking. From that primordial (or less compromised) mindset, what could you do?

Final note: we’re getting close to the Pisces Full Moon, which is early on Saturday. The Moon enters Pisces today. Keep tabs on any interpersonal situations that are feeling edgy, extra sensitive, or just plain unclear. Gently inquiring about matters is likely better than trying to pin the other person down, though another couple days of patience could be all that’s needed.
— by Amanda Painter


My readings offer a place of refuge, an opportunity to suspend self-judgment, and my careful reading of the charts. I offer you reasons to be motivated, and strategies for handling the strange complexity of society at this time. To this work, I bring all of what I have learned as a journalist, editor, astrologer, spiritual student and man of the world; and I offer it to you for an affordable price. Read more here.

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The Day of Dramatic Choice: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Sept. 11
The Day of Dramatic Choice | Order 2019-20 Virgo Astrology Studio | All Other Signs

Like other people, you are ever changing and evolving, and you can’t be expected to remain exactly the same for any length of time. The same goes for the structure of your daily life — your work, your habits, your schedules — which you build around yourself, and have the power to reshape. If you want to change something, if you decide to set your feet on a particular path and are determined to put in the requisite level of effort, there is ultimately very little that could stop you.
— by Amy Elliott

If your Sun, Moon or rising sign is Virgo, you are heading into a most unusual solar year, set up to do the thing Virgo is designed for: integrate the elements of your being, find your direction and purpose, and act on it. Eric lays it all out in your 2019-2020 Virgo Astrology Studio, now available for instant access.

Written in the Planets

The unusual thought, emotion or impression could be what helps you to get un-stuck in some way today. It may relate to a plan you’ve become emotionally attached to, or to some ‘conventional wisdom’ that does not go deep enough to be useful; or could be an intuitive hint about what’s going on beneath the surface of a situation. The aspect I’m looking at here is an opposition between the asteroid Pallas in Scorpio and Uranus in Taurus, while the Moon travels through Aquarius today.

Bear in mind this is happening against the backdrop of the Virgo-Pisces oppositions that are calling the major tune lately, all square Jupiter in Sagittarius. So if an eccentric, innovative or non-habitual insight comes your way, it’s likely advisable to apply it gradually. Understand it might require some tweaking down the line, as new information becomes known.

Venus is also making interesting aspects of its own. Notice if some kind of second chance is making an appearance. Possible realms where it might emerge could include (but are not limited to): love, friendship, work and work relationships, service, finances, material possessions, and your values around any of these things. Remember that it’s never too late to make a more ethical choice, or one that serves more than your own interests (maybe even the common good). Also, sometimes being in the mystery of not knowing, or of multiple options, is a more productive and less stressful place than committing to something you know does not feel right. Ultimately, honesty is the most liberating action of all.
— by Amanda Painter


My readings offer a place of refuge, an opportunity to suspend self-judgment, and my careful reading of the charts. I offer you reasons to be motivated, and strategies for handling the strange complexity of society at this time. To this work, I bring all of what I have learned as a journalist, editor, astrologer, spiritual student and man of the world; and I offer it to you for an affordable price. Read more here.

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The Day of the Symbolic Herald: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is July 26
The Day of the Symbolic Herald | The 2019-20 Leo Astrology Studio is available for pre-order | All Other Signs

You can accomplish big strides toward a particular goal this year if you connect with your passion and use it as fuel. As a fixed-sign native, you know how to keep the hearth burning for a long time. Working actively with your imagination and thinking laterally will very likely help you focus your attention where it’s needed. As you make progress, you may well find also that some deep emotional healing is taking place. Be sure to give this quest a priority space in your schedule.
— by Amy Elliott

Do you have a Leo Sun, rising sign or Moon? Your last couple years may have left you reeling trying to figure out which path forward is best. Hear Eric’s thoughts on expediting your post-eclipse process in your 2019-2020 Leo Astrology Studio reading.

Written in the Planets

Have you checked your jealousy meter lately? This might be a good time to take a reading; not only are the asteroid Juno (often a symbol of jealousy) and Mars moving in a conjunction in Leo, but they’re also opposite the asteroid Psyche in Aquarius. One way to read this relates to whether you feel like you’re getting adequate attention, recognition or inclusion by a particular group — especially if it seems like a recurring issue. Yet is the problem truly a lack of inclusion? Or is a sense of never being able to heal the feelings brought up by situations like this the thing that the universe is trying to point out? (Hint: if you are noticing that sensation, chances are it can be healed.)

Retrograde Mercury is also in an interesting position: conjunct the centaur Cyllarus in Cancer, and square Eros and Haumea in Libra. There seems to be something here about reviewing, re-living or re-feeling mental and emotional energy that might seem like it was wasted on something or someone; yet, at the same time, there’s a need to tap into and share one’s life force, creative energy or erotic energy, specifically in the process of generating new ‘life’ in some form.

Do those two sides of the equation balance each other, or do you feel torn inside? Is it feasible for you to lean into one side of the equation fully enough that it brings you to a new understanding of the other side? Squares are about energy needing to be expressed; with Mercury being the planet of communication, where do you feel tension regarding speaking to someone? What is it you need to say? True, more insight may arrive when Mercury stations on the 31st, but that does not mean you cannot use this time to move toward a clearer position. If taking this kind of action feels out of the norm for you, that could work particularly in your favor now.
— by Amanda Painter


COMING SOON FROM PLANET WAVES…

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