As I do at the beginning of each year, I will be covering (1) the current Moon Update, (2) a forecast of any major events that are coming up astrologically in 2020, and (3) a forecast for the year 2020 from a numerological perspective.
I hope that 2020 is a year filled with peace, growth, healing, love, and laughter for all of us! Happy New Year!!
Full Moon in Capricorn & Lunar Eclipse
In the Pacific Time Zone, the Moon will be full at 11:21 a.m. on Friday, January 10. With this Full Moon, the Sun in Capricorn will be in opposition (180°) to the Moon in Cancer. To further clarify how this Full Moon will impact you on a personal level, locate 21° of Capricorn and 21° of Cancer in your birth/natal chart. The issues associated with those two houses are going to be most impacted by this Full Moon’s presence.
Full Moons are a time when we are being asked to review how things are going in the two signs that are involved in the opposition. With this one, we are being given an opportunity to check in on the balance between our family and home base (Cancer) and our career and accomplishments (Capricorn). These two signs have very different approaches to the world: (a) Cancer is very nurturing, emotional, sensitive, and intuitive, whereas (b) Capricorn tends to be serious, practical, disciplined, and responsible. Both approaches are important, as are both areas of our lives. Therefore, the question is whether we have a good balance between the two signs.
But this Cancer Full Moon is truly unlike any other. First, it’s also a Lunar Eclipse. The last Moon Update discussed the Capricorn New Moon, which was a Solar Eclipse. Any new habits that we tried to cultivate at that time may begin to take better form during this Lunar Eclipse. Although we may be developing new ways of approaching certain areas of our lives, remember that with all eclipses, the influence will often build over the next six months, until the next eclipse cycle. So, if everything hasn’t gelled quite yet, the energy of Capricorn will help us be patient.
However, adding fuel to the intensity of the current fire is the long-discussed exact conjunction (0°) between Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn, which will occur on Sunday, January 12. Saturn and Pluto only come together every 20 years, so it’s a pretty big deal. For those who are relatively new to astrology, major astrological events like this tend to ramp up slowly toward the exact conjunction, and then they ramp down slowly on the other side. The ramping up phase is often described as preparation, and the ramping down phase as implementation or integration.
For the last year, Saturn and Pluto have been getting closer and closer to each other, and we have all been feeling the growing influence of this meeting on a personal and societal level. This means that this energy is nothing new. Furthermore, after the exact conjunction on January 12, we will be feeling the waning influence for most of 2020. But be aware that if there are things that we have not released over the past year due to procrastination or avoidance, the time around the exact conjunction could be a major “kick in the butt,” because it has become imperative that we need to release the old to make way for the new.
So, what have we all been preparing for? Saturn is about responsibility, discipline, and structure and Pluto is about manifestation, transformation, and healing. The conjunction means that Saturn and Pluto are working together in tandem. This aspect could manifest in many different ways. For those who have been putting in the hard work, this could be a time when we see concrete results for all our efforts. Whatever we manifest will likely be very practical and down-to-earth, and it will likely involve taking personal responsibility for what we have created. This could range from something very personal, like new daily habits to something with a much broader impact, such as something that provides concrete services to our community or even to humanity. Additionally, given the involvement of the Moon and the Lunar Eclipse, we may feel a sense of emotional satisfaction for our hard work.
At the time of the Cancer Full Moon, the Sun, Mercury, Saturn, and Pluto are all located in Capricorn in a tight planetary configuration called a stellium. This occurs when several planets are all in conjunction (0°) with each other within 10° or less. In this case, the planets are within less than 3° of each other, which is very close. The Moon is in opposition (180°) to all the planets in the stellium, which brings in a strong lunar influence. It could be an emotional time.
All 4 of the planets in the stellium are in a sextile (60°) to Neptune, and the Moon is trine (120°) Neptune. Sextiles and trines are supportive aspects, so the higher expression of Neptune is more easily accessible. For example, we may receive intuitive insights or spiritual guidance that helps guide us through the energy of the Cancer Full Moon, Lunar Eclipse, and exact Saturn/Pluto conjunction. Or, we may become more compassionate due to our increased spiritual understanding that we are all interconnected and that what happens to one person impacts everyone. Or it could be that we gain an increased understanding of our need to be responsible (Saturn) for how we nourish ourselves or nourish those we consider our “family” (Moon in Cancer).
But in addition to these 4 planets being located in Capricorn, Jupiter and the South Node are also in the sign of the goat. With the South Node being involved, something from our past may be pulling on us and making it feel hard to move forward. This pull to the “old way” may be particularly strong on the days leading up to and following Wednesday, January 8, when Jupiter will form an exact conjunction (0°) with the South Node. Given all of this is happening in Capricorn, it may mean that old responsibilities could be tugging on us, as if to test last year’s resolve to let go of what is no longer serving us. The North Node (future) is in Cancer and is in opposition (180°) to Jupiter, so it may help us to focus on finding a balance between the responsibilities in the past and a greater compassion for self and others.
On the same day that Saturn and Pluto form their conjunction (Sunday, January 12), Mercury will form brief exact conjunctions (0°) with both planets. That day, issues involving serious (Cap) communication (Mercury) will likely be involved. It could be that words will come in the form of personal or societal news (Mercury). Secrets could be revealed (Pluto) that result in changes to structures (Cap). Another manifestation could be working hard (Saturn) to heal (Pluto) how we think or communicate (Mercury). Or, perhaps talking to someone (Mercury) may bring us clarity, even if it’s because they distract us for a while so we can come back with a clearer mind. We also need to remember that Pluto is associated with the use of power versus force. Therefore, we may need to make sure that our words (Mercury) are used in a responsible way (Saturn). If we use our personal power and words to try to force something to happen, it will likely backfire right now.
As I explained in the previous Moon Update, Mars moved out of heavy Scorpio on Friday, January 3, and into fun-loving Sagittarius. This optimistic energy will hopefully lighten the mood of January’s Capricorn-heavy energy. Mars in Sag may also support us in being willing to take some risks and go on the type of adventure that might usually feel too scary. (NOTE: Feel free to read more about the influence of Mars in Sag in last month’s Moon Update.)
Additionally, we also have support for taking courageous actions toward healing due to a trine (120°) between Mars and Chiron. We could even feel a sense of being on a mission. Regardless of how it manifests, it’s likely we will be feeling an increased sense of self-confidence. However, Mars is also in a challenging inconjunct (150°) with Uranus, which brings in an element of unpredictability. We may need to make adjustments in our plans. But having Mars in normally happy Sag will help counter any impatience and, instead, help us courageously face whatever comes up.
Speaking of Uranus, on the same day as the Cancer Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse (Friday, January 10), Uranus will end its annual retrograde phase and begin moving direct again. Given how slowly Uranus moves, the impact of this shift in direction will be gradual. The impact, though, will parallel and reinforce what has already been discussed above; namely, that Uranus is telling us that it’s time to start implementing some of those ideas that have been brewing below the surface while Uranus was in retrograde (since mid-August). But, it should be noted that having Uranus activated by this change in direction right around the Full Moon/Eclipse/Saturn-Pluto conjunct events does add even more unpredictability to the landscape. It will be important for all of us to stay as flexible and adaptable as possible during the middle part of January.
On Monday, January 13, Venus will leave Aquarius and move into Pisces, where it will remain until February 8. After the mental-focus of Aquarius, Venus enjoys the free-flowing, watery energy of Pisces. This placement tends to open our hearts, but it does mean we lose the objectivity afforded to us when Venus was moving through Aquarius. What we are drawn to may not always be in our best interest. We may also be a little too free-flowing with our finances during this time. Therefore, it is advisable to slow down and think through any major commitments involving relationships or finances.
Then, on Thursday, January 16, Mercury will leave Capricorn and move into Aquarius for a 3-week stay (until February 4). Mercury loves the objectivity and mental energy of Aquarius. Given everything that has been happening recently, this placement will help all of us take a much-needed step back and detach from recent events. Mercury in Aquarius also opens our minds to new ideas, and we are very willing to think outside the box.
Overall, this Cancer Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse is powerful and dynamic. It’s coming within 2 days of the exact conjunction between Saturn and Pluto. There are clear indications that something very practical is in the process of being born (or further developed) right now that could lead to healing and transformation. The optimistic energy of Mars in Sagittarius and supportive aspects to intuitive/spiritual Neptune will all help us stay positive. But, perhaps the best news of all is that with the upcoming Aquarius New Moon on Friday, January 24, we will see a decided shift in the energy. Therefore, for those us who are feeling that things are a bit heavy right now, don’t give up hope! The beautiful thing about astrology is that the planets are always moving through the sky above us, which means “shift happens”!
Major Astrological Events of 2020
As the new year begins, I always do my best to summarize the astrological influences for the coming year. Here’s my annual sneak peek:
The first part of 2020 will be strongly influenced by the Saturn-Pluto conjunction (0°) in Capricorn, which is described above. Its influence will be strongest in January but will continue to impact us throughout the year in various ways. We will all be taking steps to create a foundation for something new and important in our lives. These changes may require that we learn new boundary-setting skills as our lives shift in new directions. However, Capricorn is about achievement, so we can do this!
In addition to Saturn and Pluto being in Capricorn, Jupiter will be in Cap until mid-December. Also, the South Node will continue in Cap through June. In mid-February, Mars will also enter Capricorn, which will provide us with a 6-week shot of espresso to the Capricorn mixture. We will want to use the Mars in Capricorn energy to create something substantial and practical. The Capricorn energy is also about responsibility, so we need to be consistent, disciplined, and take responsibility for ourselves and what we are creating. If we don’t do this, we will be held accountable in some way. If we do use this energy productively, we can accomplish amazing things!
After over two years in Capricorn, Saturn will move into Aquarius beginning in mid-March. The last time Saturn was in Aquarius was back in 1994. Before the discovery of Uranus, Saturn was the planetary ruler of Aquarius, so it’s comfortable in this sign. Possible influences include bringing structure to groups and making realistic progress on our visions for the future. Although Saturn can bring to an end anything that is no longer serving us, it also has the ability to deepen connections between those who have a shared mission or purpose.
Saturn takes over two years to transit through a sign; so, when it shifts into a new sign, it’s a big deal. However, this shift is a bigger deal than usual. Later this year (exact on the winter solstice December 21, 2020), Jupiter will conjunct (0°) Saturn. Whenever these two planets meet up, it’s referred to as the “Great Conjunction” because it only happens every 20 years. But, this one is “special” in that this will be the first conjunction in an air sign since the year 1226. Since 1802, the conjunctions have happened in earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn). The conjunctions in air signs will continue through 2159 (i.e., Gemini, Libra, Aquarius).
Consequently, this 2020 “Great Conjunction” is important and will likely cause a shift in humanity’s focus. Air signs focus on the mental realm and on communication. There are many who are predicting what the next 100-plus years will see breakthroughs in technology, information processing, and science. They also see advances in how the scientific and spiritual realms are seen as complimentary to each other rather than diametrically opposed. This can include an deepening understanding of the power associated with the Law of Attraction. However, as with the conjunction between Saturn & Pluto, there is a period of preparation that leads up to the actual event. Consequently, during much of 2020, it is likely that old issues (Saturn) may surface so we can resolve them in preparation for this new cycle. Given Jupiter is involved, these issues may be related to our beliefs, ethics, or views regarding education.
Adding to the importance of air signs during 2020, Mars will join Saturn in Aquarius between April through mid-May. All this Aquarius energy will definitely feel like a shift toward being more objective and detached. However, having Mars in Aquarius can be a hit or miss proposition. There will be a dynamic energy surrounding us, but it can also be rather erratic and unpredictable (Aquarius is ruled by Uranus). But Mars in Aquarius also means we are often very motivated to be team players and to employ unconventional methods. Seeking out opportunities to be with like-minded others will be fun and exciting, especially if there’s a chance of creating something together that will be long-lasting!
Then in April, Venus will add to that air energy of 2020 by moving into Gemini. We become curious about everything, especial on a social or financial level. In our relationships, we prefer to keep things light and airy, and we love communicating about everything. Although Venus usually takes about 2 months to move through a sign, this year, Venus will go retrograde in Gemini. Therefore, it will be in this mentally-focused sign until August.
In July, Mars will move out of Pisces and into Aries. As with Venus, this will be the sign in which Mars will go retrograde. Consequently, Mars will remain in Aries until January 2021. Aries is ruled by Mars, so this will be a powerful time. We will provide us with the energy we need to achieve the goals we have set for ourselves earlier in the year, which could lead to great achievements. Mars in Aries also means that our energy will be spontaneous, we will be feeling courageous, and we aren’t likely to want to take “no” for an answer if we are working on something that is important to us.
However, a bit of a warning as the year draws to a close. I rarely give warnings, and I always believe we have free will choice about how astrological energy can manifest. I am doing this now so we can all begin to prepare ourselves. Late in the year, Mars (which will still be in in its home sign of Aries) will square (90°) both Saturn and Pluto. This will happen during the time of the presidential elections in the USA. As with all astrological events, we can choose to express the energy of this transit in a positive or not-so-positive way. A square means that a change in direction is needed, and this square is occurring between some of the most powerful and potentially explosive planets.
The lower expression of this match-up could result in aggressiveness, anger, and even violence. The higher expression could be a courageous (Aries) change in direction (square) that requires taking responsibility (Saturn) for how we use our power (Pluto). The challenge for all of us is to not get pulled into the lower expression. As Lightworkers, we will all need to be role models by expressing this powerful energy in positive ways (e.g., exercise, constructive creation) and by taking responsibility for our actions and acting with integrity. Of course, we will talk more about this when the times comes.
Numerology in the Year 2020
For those interested in numerology, the year 2020 is a 4 Universal Year (i.e., 2020 = 2 + 0 + 2 + 0 = 4). Everyone on the planet is influenced by the energy of the Universal Year number, so it is a subtle, collective experience. I once heard it described as the “landscape” through which we are all driving. In numerology, the influence of the Universal Year number is believed to fade during the last three months of the year. Therefore, by January 1, 2020, many of us may have already started to experience the waning influence of 2019’s 3 Universal Year and are beginning to feel the energy of a 4 Universal Year.
The previous 3 Universal Year (2019) was an active year. It was about expanding the partnerships and creating functional social groups that often originated during the 2 Universal Year (2018). Having this be a 4 Universal Year (2020) fits perfectly with the astrological forecast for the first part of 2020, as described above. They tend to be a year of discipline, hard work, and growth. There is a noticeably slower pace to 4 Universal Years than 3 Universal Years. They are much calmer, which helps us focus on what matters most to us. It’s a year in which great things can be manifested if we put in the effort. Finances are often profitable.
If we are committed to something, miraculous results are actually possible! All of this may take courage, but great things can be accomplished this year, including seeing our dreams become a reality. We need to be dedicated and to focus on how we can best serve. There is great potential here, and it’s time for us to step up.
For many of us, we will feel a need to pull inward, focus on solidifying any foundational changes in our lives, and complete our responsibilities and obligations. In order to successfully manifest what we want, we may need to slow down. This seems ironic when it’s a year of hard work, but we all need to avoid our tendency to overwork and make time for true relaxation.
Another focus of 4 Universal Years is our home and family, as we define them. It’s a time of healing in our homes, and some people may find it a good year to purchase a home or move to a new location. We are all seeking stability, security, and practical solutions to our problems.
Therefore, use the supportive energy of this 4 Universal Year to plan and build the foundation. We may be able to create and manifest something magical and magnificent. This may be in any area of our lives, but it has to be something practical and preferably something that focuses on home/family and/or gives back to humanity in some way.
Then, as we head toward the final months of 2020, we should strap ourselves in. 4 Universal Years are also a time of preparation for the increased activities, unexpected occurrences, and profound transformations that are typical of 5 Universal Years (2021). So, isn’t it interesting that, once again, the shift in the numerological landscape matches the astrological forecast mentioned above about the latter part of 2020.
But for now, let’s all enjoy the quieter and industrious energy of 2020. The year 2021 will be here soon enough!
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THIS BLOG POST WAS WRITTEN BY
- Anne Reith, Ph.D. (AnneReith.com)
- For information about Dr. Reith’s downloadable eBooks and meditations, feel free to visit her online Store
SOME INFORMATION TAKEN FROM
- The Mountain Astrologer (magazine)
- Various online sources (e.g., www.cafeastrology.com)
REMINDER
- New Moons and Full Moons often influence us for the 3 days before and 3 days after the actual event.
FULL MOON
Full Moon at 20° of Cancer
- Friday, January 10, 2020, 11:21 a.m. PST
- Friday, January 10, 2020, 2:21 p.m. EST
- Friday, January 10, 2020, 7:21 p.m. GMT