Mercury retrograde in parallel to star cluster M47 indicates a dramatic, eloquent, passionate, inspiring, creative and productive atmosphere

       Every astronomical event is unique. Even when it is a recurrent phenomenon, as is the case with Mercury retrograde, it always manifests in different conditions and levels. And, as well as it usually reflects communication difficulties, the retrograde period of the fastest planet of the solar system drives us to seek alternatives to channel it constructively rather than suffering from it. In fact, under certain conditions Mercury's station can be considered a very positive event. And while we can entangle in some minor or big delays and difficulties, it is good to consider some different options that belong to the same phenomenon. This time Mercury retrograde station -in which the planet appears to move backwards for about three weeks occurs in parallel to star cluster M47, located in the southern constellation Puppis.

      If Mercury is associated with everyday communication in general,  with M47 it can have a fairly dramatic tone, because M47 has several very bright stars. Among them are two orange K-type stars that shine each with the intensity of... 200 suns! Obviously, this is an excellent indicator for the promotion of projects. Advertising, publicity and broadcasting are extremely favored. Under these circumstances, one can hardly go unnoticed. That's why, on the other hand, this combiantion suggests a tendency to indiscretion. Private matters can easily get public if certain precautions are not taken.

      The K-type stars usually represent strong emotions as well, so communication in general tends to increase emotionally. Of course, this smells conflict, so if you see risque situations, it is better not get caught in them. The emotional exaltation may have other more constructive channels to manifest, as for instance doing good negotiations. Mercury is the ruler of commerce, so quite possibly this mercurian station may be favorable for contracts, sales, negotiations and promotion. The persuasiveness of Mercury is exalted, so you may try to convince others of your arguments. Speeches, the expression of ideas and feelings may be more energetic than usual, but this involves some degree of irrationality. Carrying too far this trend, unconsciously or purposely, can generate aggression.

      At another level, the mercurial persuasion can also translate into flirtation and seduction, since K type stars are also associated with sexuality and generative capacity in general. The mercurial psychological type is someone who flirts cerebrally and noncommittally, but in this case, the behavior may be more intense than usual due to the parallel with M47. Call it one of the passionate moments of Mercury, which can lead to great romantic, passionate and seductive conversations, even to intense sex, but definitiely it is not suitable for deep commitments... avoid putting high expectations.

     However, the generative capacity of M47 is also associated with artistic and financial productivity. The combination of mercurial intellect and creativity of the K stars may lead to moments of great inspiration, as well as an increase in the productivity of many projects. It is therefore a time to act, not to wait too long or let ideas in the pipeline.

       There's no need to hurry, though; we must be patient. M47 is one of the slowest galaxy clusters as it moves at the extremely low speed of... 9 kilometers per second. With this velocity, even a human may desperate. So this may be reflected in circumstances moving very slowly in our everyday life, especially in transportation or paperwork. If you are caught in a situation like this, there is no better option than to accept the rate imposed on us by circumstances. Trying to accelerate circumstances will not help much and can be counterproductive, particularly if emotions run high. The velocity of M47 also suggests a moment to slow down and counteract stress, perhaps meditating or consciously reducing mental pressure. Sometimes we have to let projects progress at their own pace, even if it is slow.

     The current Mercury retrograde period will last until February 11, crossing the zodiac sign of Aquarius, suggesting innovative ideas as well as much distraction. Armed with patience, we can achieve a more productive and inspiring effect. There is also the possibility of entering dramatic confrontations and exaggerations. For artists, this can be great, but most people will have the option to choose between one or the other attitude. That depends on us, no ont Mercury retrograde and its passionate relationship with M47. He just shows that going back is not always negative if we do it at the right time and with the right attitude.

    Have a very productive and passionate retrograde period!

Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer

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