March 25/26: Saturn begins its retrograde period aligned with the Butterfly Nebula (M2-9) and the Eskimo Nebula, correcting extremist, egocentric viewpoints to generate objectivity and justice

March 25/26: Saturn retrograde in ecliptic conjunction with the Butterfly Nebula (M2-9) and contra parallel to the Eskimo Nebula.

    When it comes to correct things, nothing like the "Saturn effect", as its meaning of structure and order prevails in the most complicated situations. At the exact point of its retrograde station, in which it seems to stop and move backwards, Saturn points to two interesting planetary nebulae, which are actually dying stars expelling their atmospheres into space. The curious thing about this Saturn station is that the planetary nebulae it points to are different, almost opposite in meaning. While the Butterfly Nebula (M2-9) is seen from its equatorial plane, showing an almost perfect symmetry, the Eskimo Nebula is seen from one of its poles or extremes, giving it the appearance of a tunnel.

     The Eskimo Nebula is an indicator of extreme views, while the Butterfly Nebula represents objectivity, as we see both of its sides. And this is where Saturn, the great corrector between planets comes in, fittingly: its retrograde point indicates the need to correct extremist views and reach a middle point, an objective viewpoint. Most likely, both individually and collectively, we will have to confront our most passionate personal convictions and contemplate them in the light of a more objective light, including the different aspects of reality and not just our point of view.

       Will we be able to do so, in a world seething with passions produced by extremist views and prejudices of all kinds? We have six months to deal with this, as it is the duration of this retrograde motion, although it is clear that the crucial days in this process are the ones that follow immediately. Perhaps the next two weeks will be more powerful in this regard. But if we give ourselves the opportunity to see our extreme convictions in a globalized context, perhaps we can appreciate different points of view that will make us see reality in a different light.

      This will make us grow as human beings, but to do so we need to put our ego aside: it is precisely the work of Saturn, which places limits on the personal ego in order to discipline it. The general atmosphere will likely favor this ego control, and those who won't do it, will seem overly dominant, like tyrants, to others. Think well before showing your extremist side in social networks and personal relationships! Many politicians and public figures will certainly receive a lesson in humility.

    In short, the Saturn retrograde station will allow us to correct extremist attitudes and approach reality more objectively, opening the door for justice and balance. We need them more than ever, during this season!

Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer
    Check other trends of Deep Space in the Galactic Guide on Facebook and Twitter during the week:
http://www.facebook.com/GalacticGuide
http://twitter.com/galacticguide