Tag Archives: Galactic Core

Aurora Borealis, or northern lights, shines above Bear Lake, Alaska. Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Strang, U.S. Air Force, via Wikimedia Commons.

The Cosmic Breath that Quickens Capricorn

By Amanda Painter

I was thinking recently about how, each year, the Sun moves from its alignment with the Galactic Core in late Sagittarius (today) to its ingress of Capricorn (Saturday) within the span of a couple of days. I’m fascinated by this juxtaposition of energies, and what it might mean.

Aurora Borealis, or northern lights, shines above Bear Lake, Alaska. Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Strang, U.S. Air Force, via Wikimedia Commons.

Aurora Borealis (northern lights) above Bear Lake, Alaska. Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Strang, U.S. Air Force, via Wikimedia Commons.

Even though our Milky Way galaxy and its center are far from the most massive things in space, they’re still too huge and too far away for most of us to comprehend.

How do you relate something like that to your job or your breakfast, or your life’s goals, or even how long it takes you to fly on a plane from one continent to another? You can’t. And yet we’re part of the Milky Way.

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The Day of Flamboyance: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Dec. 9
The Day of Flamboyance | 2019-20 Sagittarius Astrology Studio | All Other Signs

Let your touchstone in the coming year be an enhanced ability to perceive yourself objectively. Work-related demands and building financial security will require sustained effort. Yet opportunities seized now can lead to substantial, long-lasting results. If commitments trigger resentment, or the balance of power in relationships impacts your self-esteem, analyze underlying issues. With awareness and focus, you can initiate effective and necessary communication about sensitive topics.
— 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

Mercury enters Sagittarius today at 4:41 am EST (9:41:26 UTC). Mercury being the planet of the mind, this activates awareness of what else is happening in Sagittarius: namely, the Sun moving between the Great Attractor (a deep-space phenomenon toward which our region of the universe is moving) and the Galactic Core (the center of our Milky Way galaxy). At this time of year, the Earth and the Sun are facing into the galaxy and into a larger galactic structure, focusing us on the Big Questions of Existence. Can you feel them tugging at the edges of your consciousness?

The natal placement of Mercury in Sagittarius tends to describe focusing on what is far-off and/or broad in scope, sometimes to the detriment of the details. Yet people with this Mercury are apt to be direct and sincere, even if they sometimes speak more candidly than others are prepared to hear.

Jupiter, ruler of Sagittarius, is making a conjunction to Pholus in Capricorn and a square to Chiron in Aries. Action is the name of the game with squares; in this case, putting your knowledge and spiritual theory to the test with some actual experimentation. How does it measure up against what you’ve learned previously? Notice if someone seems to be meeting you where you are in your experiment, or is showing you something about how to hold space for such a process in tangible ways.
— 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 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 Reformer — Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Nov. 19
The Day of the Reformer | 2019-20 Scorpio Astrology Studio available for instant access | All Other Signs

After a period of lying low, you’re finally ready to emerge, take charge and put yourself out there. You can accomplish a tremendous amount this year, and make quite an impression on those you work with. Just don’t be so assertive that you run others over. Take time to consider what you want to express, and keep your sensitivity radar tuned to the environment. Some kind of higher wisdom is trying to get through, so pay attention. What you receive can feed your soul, widen your mind and strengthen your sense of security.
— by Victoria Emory

Do you ever feel like your Scorpio Sun, rising sign or Moon gets a bad rap from astrologers? Eric Francis understands the potential held in your depths — and can walk you through how the planet Uranus in your relationship zone might be stirring things up. Order your 2019-20 Scorpio Astrology Studio reading to move past the stereotypes, and meet your life at full strength.

Written in the Planets

Mars finally entering its own sign today will no doubt relieve some of the edginess that has dogged the past few days. A spring has been uncoiled, and if the world has seemed a little unreal recently things will now feel like they make much more sense.

The last quarter Moon also takes place later today, at 4:11 pm ET (21:11 UTC). Quarter Moon phases, when the Moon and Sun are in a square aspect, tend to signify a phase of action. You may be spurred to move forward on matters that have lain dormant or appeared somewhat impassable. However, it’s worth holding back a little on the momentum until Mercury has had a chance to switch directions, since the station direct almost always comes with a revelation of some kind.

Jupiter catching up to the Galactic Core may bring a revelation of a different nature. This rare conjunction in Jupiter’s own sign could denote a turning point, or new ideas emerging, in terms of spiritual orientation — like a compass enabling you to make a steering correction. With the Galactic Core, though, you need to make sure you keep records as your understanding changes, since the information obtained through this point has a way of disappearing into the ethers.
— by Amy Elliott


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 Borderline: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Nov. 8
The Day of the Borderline | 2019-20 Scorpio Astrology Studio available for pre-order | All Other Signs

You’re in a position of greater stability than you might realize, with support systems available to help you make considerable headway this year. Tap your wealth of emotional and intellectual resources to maximum advantage, to plow through work and get your world in order. Demands on your time may accelerate, but don’t sacrifice self-care; healthy routines are important. Emotional healing also emerges as a theme, possibly involving old abuse patterns and karma related to responsibility. Healing is ultimately and always an inside job, but guidance from trusted counselors can play a pivotal role.
— by Victoria Emory

Do you ever feel like your Scorpio Sun, rising sign or Moon gets a bad rap from astrologers? Eric Francis understands the potential held in your depths — and can walk you through how the planet Uranus in your relationship zone might be stirring things up. Pre-order your 2019-20 Scorpio Astrology Studio reading (offered now at its lowest price!) to move past the stereotypes, and meet your life at full strength.

Written in the Planets

How are you doing with things like errands and purchases, following through on certain trains of thought, or connecting with people via clear, straightforward communication? Mercury’s continuing retrograde through Scorpio could be slowing things down — for example, by requiring more than one attempt to get something simple accomplished. Can you see what caused you to stumble or detour the first time around, and learn from that experience?

Think of Mercury retrograde in Scorpio as being like scuba diving deep under the surface of the sea. It’s harder to see far ahead; there’s an extra sense of pressure; actions tend to result in exaggerated reactions, so it helps to go slowly and stay relaxed; communication is trickier and the stakes are higher, so it’s essential to be very clear and direct with your buddies. And when something goes wrong, the simple ability to stop, breathe, and think can be an actual lifesaver. Most dry land hiccups associated with Mercury retrograde are not life-and-death situations, but the same principles definitely apply.

In less soggy news, the asteroid Pallas enters Sagittarius this morning. This shifts its tone from one of an ‘asexual’ approach to sexual politics to something more like big-picture planning, the long-game (spiritually as well as politically), and perhaps a strangely rational form of optimism. Notice whether those around you start speaking about their ideals in a slightly different way. Other activity late in Sagittarius suggests some cosmic-level nourishment of your joie de vivre and what turns you on. Sometimes to give is also to receive.
— 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 Vogue: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Oct. 20
The Day of Vogue | 2019-20 Scorpio Astrology Studio now available for pre-order | Order the 2019-20 Libra Astrology Studio | All Other Signs

Some rather beautiful astrology today is likely to help you focus your efforts on what means the very most to you. You may find it easier than usual to integrate the various facets of your life and align them with your main purpose. In addition, your creative powers are likely to be at their height, enabling you to experience the world at its most vivid. Soak it all in, and let the everyday wonders that surround you gently enrich and open up your perspective.
— by Amy Elliott

Do you have your Sun, Moon or rising sign in Libra? If so, Eric has much to say about stabilizing your relationships in the chaos of the internet, getting some traction in your career, and most of all, how to frame your own reality. in the 2019-2020 Libra Astrology Studio, now available for instant access. Check out the video preview for the reading here.

Written in the Planets

Have you ever noticed how taking care of things can bring feelings of security? That could mean taking care of others, taking care of yourself, taking care of business, taking care of your immediate environment and basic needs. Is it the simple fact of taking action, or is it the sensitivity and quality of attention that makes the difference? Probably all of the above — and today appears prime for the act of caring in any form, thanks to the Cancer Moon and the aspects it’s making. Domestic pursuits are calling, yet you might also feel drawn to extend the gesture beyond your home and immediate family.

One of the aspects the Moon activates today is a sextile between Venus in Scorpio and Saturn in Capricorn. If you have detailed creative projects or business tasks on your plate, you should be able to dive into them with ease, as long as you make the initial effort. This aspect also bodes well for embracing relationship ‘responsibilities’ without them seeming like burdens; in fact, it will probably feel like it deepens intimacy.

Caring actively is a win-win for all involved, and the Libra Sun is making aspects that offer another spin on the theme. In this case, you may have an opportunity at a second chance of some kind — for example, to “be the change you wish to see,” or to behave in a way that is more ethical or more focused on the highest good, or to act in greater alignment with your sense of purpose. Whatever it is, remember that deliberating on such a thing only gets you so far. Actually acting on the option to build more balanced and just relationships is where the subtle magic happens.
— 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 Current Taste: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Sept. 21
The Day of Current Taste | Order 2019-20 Virgo Astrology Studio | You can also pre-order the 2019-20 Libra Astrology Studio | All Other Signs

You’re likely to be busy this year, possibly spending a significant amount of effort on a longstanding project. This may well require some grit and determination, and a little chutzpah here and there; yet you can cover a lot of ground. Faith in your own powers is an important, and often underestimated, contributor to success. Likewise, knowing that you’re getting helpful advice from others, as opposed to added confusion. Choose your companions and confidantes wisely.
— 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

Jupiter in Sagittarius and Neptune in Pisces make their exact square today. Although they’ll remain within an influential distance from each other for a while yet, you may find over the next few weeks that you’re able to sense the ground beneath your feet a little more solidly. This weekend, though, things could still feel rather floaty, kind of indistinct, surprisingly optimistic, or extra expressive in a vague-yet-charming way.

Note also today that the late-Gemini Moon squares the late-Virgo Sun for the last quarter Moon — incidentally, the last Moon phase before the Sun enters Libra on Monday for the equinox. Minor planets and points in contact with the Sun and Moon include: Bacchus conjunct the Sun in Virgo; Chaos conjunct the Moon in Gemini; and Cupido (Uranian point), the Galactic Core, Pholus and Ixion in Sagittarius.

One thing this appears to describe is an opportunity to start again almost from ‘nothing’ with a second chance of some kind. It could be one that allows you to make a more ethical choice, or may relate to freeing yourself from something, or is in response to a higher calling or broader cooperative and creative partnership.

There’s also a reminder here to watch your intake of alcohol and other mind-altering substances through the weekend. This has been an ongoing caution for the last few weeks as Jupiter and Neptune have moved into position, and now the last quarter Moon is highlighting it again. There are other ways to get free — whether creatively, spiritually, mentally or physically — at a time when something in your life may be ready for restructuring, and for more balanced forms of inspiration.
— 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.

Now available for instant access!

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The Day of the Managers: Birthdays and Planet News

If Your Birthday is Sept. 20
The Day of the Managers | Order 2019-20 Virgo Astrology Studio | You can also pre-order the 2019-20 Libra Astrology Studio | All Other Signs

Who do you want to be? Who could you become? These questions are a fundamental basis for our highest aspirations. Any goal that involves bringing you closer to your full potential is a positive thing to strive for. Making this the cornerstone of your ambitions would probably help you immensely. If you decide you want something, perhaps consider your reasons, and where all that leads you in terms of self-development. You might benefit from taking a somewhat broader view.
— 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

What does it really mean to be of service? There are numerous ways to think of it, but try this idea on for size: allowing the ‘big truths’ of life and the universe (think love, compassion, the unity of everything, what goes around comes around) to spur you into action, but making those actions specific, local, tangible, physical. That is, you might not be able to dust everyone on the planet with universal love. But you can infuse the details of your interactions with the people you know with that spirit.

You can cultivate the core flame of your life force and creativity to be central to your everyday work — no matter how mundane, ‘non-spiritual’, intellectual or detailed it is. Today the Virgo Sun makes an exact square to the Galactic Core in Sagittarius; this is the action aspect. In this case, it could describe feeling a little overwhelmed by the scale of what’s either inspiring you or putting on the pressure. The Sun is also exactly trine the asteroid Vesta in Taurus. This is where the idea of service gets some earthy, visceral support.

Two things this particular idea of service does not encompass are criticism and sacrificing the core of who you are. In other words, it’s one thing to see what needs to be fixed or helped and then put your energy toward that goal; it’s another thing entirely simply to point at what’s wrong and complain (or to beat yourself up for not doing more). Similarly, putting yourself in service to a goal higher than self-satisfaction may entail a sacrifice of some time, entertainment or effort put toward other activities and tasks. That’s not the same as denying your own basic needs, your most cherished dreams, or the right to live a life that feels balanced (however you define that). And it’s definitely not about guilt or shame.

Even if you can’t enact what calls to you today, try to take some notes. Aspects to the Galactic Core can sometimes describe a rather fleeting sense of the bigger message, and having a reminder could be handy down the road. Jupiter and Neptune making their exact square tomorrow might be amplifying the sense of scale or the more nebulous qualities of what your antennae are tuning in to — making concrete documentation and steps that much more useful.
— 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.

Now available for instant access!

In These Times graphic