September 5/6: Mercury stationary conjunct to supernova Puppis A, in contra parallel to the Butterfly Nebula (M2-9), reactivates the solar eclipse, blowing our minds while simultaneously allowing introspection and objectivity

      Many comments have been heard recently about this Mercurian retrogradation being very intense and heavy to experience. It is not easy to face the daily difficulties that Mercury involves in its apparent backward movement, just after the turmoil of a very intense solar eclipse coinciding with many disasters around the world, yet to be solved. Another article in the Galactic Guide mentioned the eclipse as a means of confronting and getting over discord. When humanitarian disasters arise, our egos have to be set aside, and it becomes evident that the differences between humans do not actually exist in depth. Social, racial, ideological, nationalist and religious barriers disappear when humanity becomes vulnerable and exposes its true essence through tragedy.

     This situation is likely to continue. Mercury is stationed in the zodiac degree corresponding to the latest solar eclipse (28 ° of tropical Leo), somehow reactivating it, something that has been noticed and commented by numerous astrologers in their blogs. It has also been said that it may involve violence because of the conjunction with Mars. Fortunately, a Mercurian station is a passing phenomenon: in a few days things will probably start to return to normal, while an eclipse's influence lasts approximately six months.

      This reactivation can be explosive in some cases, however, since Mercury is stationary only a degree away of an exact ecliptic conjunction with supernova Puppis A. Supernovae usually indicate drastic changes, and in the present conditions of human civilization and the environment , we are likely to hear some more heartbreaking news. Since Mercury represents communication, we may have to listen to many explosive phrases and a lot of aggression between people in conflict, decadent politicians and social networks...  But that's nothing new.

     Every supernova explosion, from the astrological point of view, creates turmoil, but also brings renewal. Supernovae destroy a previous scheme, usually in an unexpected way,  allowing us to contemplate, through its transformative effect, aspects of reality that we had not perceived until then. Although supernovae have a strong emission of energy at all levels of the electromagnetic spectrum, they are particularly strong on X-rays, which symbolically indicates introspection, awareness of something that had not been seen previously. What shall we learn this time?

     Despite this, and even in an environment so full of agitation, an interesting element arises: Mercury stationary is also in contraparallel to the Butterfly Nebula (M2-9). This means that it is placed at exactly the same distance from the Celestial Equator, only in the other hemisphere, acting as as a scale in equilibrium. The Butterfly Nebula (M2-9), which is in the constellation of Ophiuchus, is actually a star dying, expelling its atmosphere into outer space. As we see it from the Earth from its equatorial plane, we perceive its structure as two particularly symmetrical "butterfly wings". Although its form is complex, the symmetrical appearance of this celestial body suggests objectivity, contemplation of the two sides of a situation.

    So, in spite of the explosive tendencies, the possibility of appreciating things objectively is there. In the world, disasters probably will continue to predominate, but on a personal level we can do introspection and objective analysis of the issues we are handling and the situations we experience. This Mercurian station invites us to reach a good level of mental penetration in our reality, allowing insights and therefore an objective view of circumstances, just as they are. The Butterfly Nebula in particular indicates a process of mental balance, which considers pros and cons, which sees "the two sides of the coin," which considers the other's point of view without minimizing his own, and whose objective is to develop temperance, one of the most absent virtues in the collective human experience today.

     In a world of ideological extremism, objectivity and mental clarity are what is most needed to stop aggression and act constructively despite our differences. As individuals, this Mercury is ideal for research, psychoanalysis, psychotherapy, writing and deep reflection on any situation that requires it. The shots of awareness can be strong, but at the same time, refreshing, and discoveries might be surprising and revitalizing.

Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer

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April 9/10: Mercury in retrograde station in parallel with binary pulsar PSR 1913 + 16 indicates intense, influential relationships and a great boost for our creativity

     Mercury stops for the second time during the year, starting today its movement backwards along the zodiac for a little more than three weeks, until May 4. The retrograde phase of Mercury, although an optical illusion caused by a difference of speed with the Earth, has a strong effect from the astrological point of view, coinciding with difficulties and delays in  communication and daily life. At this point in the age of communication, the general public is well aware of the Mercury retrograde phenomenon, almost as well as the solar sign columns in newspapers and magazines. And while this might be a period of difficulties and alterations in our regular routine, the celestial objects to which it is associated can give us an idea of ​​how to handle it properly, in order to minimize possible conflicts and even take advantage of it.

     At the start of its retrograde phase of April 2017, Mercury is stationed in parallel (at the same distance from the Celestial Equator) as PSR 1913 + 16, a very interesting and relatively little known object. It is the first binary pulsar, discovered in 1974 (it earned the Nobel prize in 1993 to its discoverers). What is a pulsar? It is a neutron star, one of the densest objects in the universe, which is the result of the explosion of a star or supernova. The explosion puts the neutron star rotating at extremely high speed, which in turn generates a giant magnetic field around it: neutron stars have very dominant personalities. Often, these stars emit electromagnetic radiation, mainly in the frequency of radio and gamma rays, and they do so in pulsations (hence the name of pulsar) at very regular intervals. Pulsars are the most accurate clocks in the universe.

     A pulsar, by itself, suggests from the astrological point of view a strong, imposing personality and a great capacity of communication (radio) that in turn can produce strong insights and activate the higher mind (gamma rays). And well, the universe is so immense and so full of possibilities that on many occasions, on their way through the galaxy in which they roam, pulsars meet with other pulsars, and if the encounter is close enough, tehy get trapped in a mutual orbit, hopelessly mixing the power of their magnetic fields. A large number of stars in the universe form binary systems, but individual pulsars are less likely to meet other similar stars and share a mutual orbit.

     These binary pulsars symbolize influential encounters, magnetic and profound interaction, attractions by similarity of character, in which there is deep communication that leaves permanent traces in both members of the relationship. In the case of binary pulsar PSR 1913 + 16, which is in the constellation Aquila, the Eagle, the fate of the relationship is a permanent union: in about 300 million years, the two stars will collide and merge into a single one. Such a meeting is highly influential, and may seem very romantic in a symbolic (and also very real) sense, indicating events and relationships that alter forever the course of our individual existence.

     In this way, the Mercurian station points to this type of relationships and encounters. While not all will end in a literal or symbolic marriage, it does involve significant exchanges, which may alter for better or for worse our personal development - the result will vary on each individual case. If the encounters are too intense, they may last a short time and cause great disturbances. However, meeting people whose ideas or personalities are similar to oneself can result in great self-assertion and creativity. Seeing your personal values reflected in the mirror of another significant person is a certification of your assets, since you feel strengthened in your way of being.

     At its best, this intense identification is a great creative opportunity, and bringing together the good ideas of two people or a the whole team has a greater weight than that of a single person. Cooperation can make circumstances move on, make projects advance and break difficult obstacles, achieving things that one wouldn´t do normally alone. However, n the case of inadequate relationships or unfortunate cases, the effect can be quite destructive, so we must apply some selectivity and maintain common sense. On the collective level, given the destructive tendency of our civilization, this trend points of threatening and devastating associations, but also to the possibility of joining forces to put a stop to the devastating elements of our reality. Union means strength!

     On the other hand, the united effect of Mercury and PSR 1913 + 16 may point not so much to relations, but to different resources that mobilize one another. For example, a good idea that finds the adequate funding to be put into practice, boosting development. Also individually, the motivation of Mercury and PSR 1913 + 16 is very effective if we put to work the different resources within ourselves!

     It might be clear by now that this Mercury retrograde station is not soft or static, but highly energetic and represents in itself an enormous mental and material motivation to implement strategies and boost creativity, be it in pairs, in teams or individually. Be careful though: too much energy can get out of control and cause accidents, serious misunderstandings, and the loss of our original goals. But well managed, it is able to accelerate our progress and transcendence through creative encounters, mixing ideas and resources inside and outside ourselves. The delays normally associated with Mercury retrograde can then become the period of preparation to implement strategies that will make us transcend after May 4th.

Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer

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January 8/9: Mercury makes its retrograde station conjunct star cluster M7, emphasizing truthfulness and justice with an enormous expressive power

     Mercury's changes of direction, although only apparent as seen from Earth, often coincide with changes of opinion, communication difficulties, flaws in everyday life, and other complications. Therefore, it is always useful to know with which celestial object each Mercurian station is linked. The point of the celestial sphere in which Mercury seems to stop can coincide or align with a celestial body, whose astrological characteristics are blended with the Mercurian station and tell us where the experience of this event comes from ...

     On this occasion, Mercury is stationary in ecliptic conjunction to M7, a stellar cluster in the constellation Scorpius, the Scorpion. M7 is a cluster whose very high temperature, type-B stars symbolize an emphasis on the intellect, ideas, convictions and knowledge. However, the character represented by M7 is far from objective: its brightest star is type G, similar in temperature to our Sun, which emphasizes will and self-assertion. So M7 needs to affirm, convince, motivate, and in some cases, impose, dominate...all through ideas.

     In this way, the difficulties associated with Mercury retrograde can be entangled in discussions whose motivation is to dominate and not necessarily to reach an agreement. If the priority is to be right above the evidence of actual facts, it is obvious that there will be problems. Even more so when Mercury is in Sagittarius, the zodiac sign opposite to the one that it rules, Gemini, and this symbolizes a certain weakness caused by an inability to see things objectively. The Mercurian mentality, used to seeing the two sides of the coin, has to conform to moral, ethical, academic, social or other codes, indicated by Sagittarius. The information must be truthful or falsehood will become more than evident, because there will be no ways to defend it against the evidence.

     It is clear that Mercury's direct station of is pointing out that we must work on the inconsistencies of our belief systems, whether spiritual, political, scientific or otherwise, as well as the laws associated with the zodiacal sign of Sagittarius. Personally, it is possible to direct this work towards ourselves, modifying erroneous points of view and avoiding useless confrontations. On the other hand, if there is a real conviction, the great willingness to be heard from M7 indicates a very good time to promote ideas and projects, although this also facilitates propaganda and fanaticism.

      From a global perspective, the combination of Mercury and M7 represents a vehement need to express. Demonstrations will abound in various parts of the world, and of course, the actions of fanaticism and ideological confrontations will be accentuated. But if voices are raised for righteous and truthful causes, this will have an impressive, perhaps somewhat strident effect. Those who lie will be exposed. It may be necessary to raise the volume so that truth and justice predominate, but also it is advisable to take care of excesses of fanaticism, whether coming from others  or ourselves ... We must take care of what we say: words will be as heavy as bombs! Or perhaps fireworks, if we opt for a constructive version of Mercury's visit to M7.Carlos DuarteResearch Astrologer 

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August 30/31: Mercury retrograde conjunct galaxy M100 emphasizes the critical sense, enhances clarity and favors insights

      No tropical zodiac degree symbolizes more clarity than the last degree of Virgo, a zodiac sign that places great attention to detail. In addition, Mercury is at the midpoint Mars / Pluto, suggesting that the critical sense and the pursuit of clarity can trigger discomfort and conflict in daily life as well as plenty of perfectionistic activity. However, it is possible to channel this trend in a constructive way: M100 is a very symmetrical galaxy, of "Grand Design", and thus encourages artistic creation, harmony, balance. Great idea may arise, as well as excellent strategies that can be structured during the next three weeks of the Mercurial backwards movement, which ends on September 21st ... Thanks to Mercury's station over M100, it is possible to materialize great artistic achievements, and bring harmony to internal and external spaces.

            M100 represents the possibility of great introspection, too, since it has 5 detected supernovae, whose intense X-ray radiation suggests looking beyond the surface... When galaxies contain many supernovae, as in the case of M100, they become an indicator of awakenings, insight, and mental growth, emphasizing curiosity and research. Thus, for  some, Mercury's station will represent the need to investigate, psychoanalyze, question, think deeply, while others will apply this trend in the practical sense to achieve greater harmony around them. It would be a waste to let this trend manifest through an exaggerated and aggressive critical sense ... If there is criticism, let it be constructive and harmonious! It's in our hands not to let our clarity be tarnished by aggressiveness during the next weeks...

      May you have a very constructive Mercury retrograde!


   Carlos Duarte
   Research Astrologer

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January 25/26: Mercury ends its retrograde period conjunct Pluto, in opposition to star cluster M41, indicating deep thoughts, intense emotional expression, increased productivity ... and more

      Fortunately for those who have felt so intensely the recent Mercury retrograde, the phenomenon is about to end. The fastest planet in the solar system changes direction and returns to its forward movement, which is known as direct station (acronym: SD). This point is similar to a pendulum swing, before stopping and going in the opposite direction. The station points are often delicate, as the astrological effect is similar to the floor being moved suddenly in a reverse direction, which naturally complicates a wide variety of circumstances.

     On this occasion, Mercury may complicate things further, because its change of direction is around nothing more, nothing less than Pluto, recently visited by the New Horizons probe. It's like Mercury is embracing Pluto, passing twice through the same degree of the zodiac where it is now (15° Capricorn): once moving backwards, another moving forward, between January 22 and 30, the station being exact on January 25. The Mercury / Pluto mix may involve profound changes, and mental depth resulting from such changes, in the form of obsessions or concerns. It is therefore important to avoid impulsive actions during this period, of the kind that may cause drastic changes beyond the predictable and manageable.

    But this mental depth can also be channeled in other ways, as the combination in itself is excellent for research of all kinds, whether scientific, personal, through psychoanalysis or a simple mental exploration. It is advisable to avoid obsessive, destructive thoughts, and a visceral approach to circumstances. Mercury and Pluto are in ecliptic opposition to M41, a star cluster in the constellation Canis Major, whose prominent K-type stars suggest a strongly emotional, but also impulsive and passionate character of irrational nature. Therefore, the opposition between M41 and Mercury/Pluto can be interpreted as the need to resolve issues with a strong emotional charge with logical reasoning. It is likely that we may witness some crises here and there, but the chance to heal situations is within reach this week ... courtesy of Mercury's direct station.

    From a more practical point of view, M41 may represent an increase in productivity, after delays and difficulties during the last two weeks. Starting today, it is possible to redirect goals and start walking towards them. K-type stars, which stand out in M41, also symbolize creative and / or artistic activities, which may have an interesting depth during rehearsasls or performances. At the collective level, the combination M41 / Mercury symbolizes highly emotional news... In fact, the death toll of numerous artistic celebrities during the month of January 2016 began to rise with the retrograde station on January 5, a trend that began with the death of David Bowie. Pluto represents death as a transformation process and its leading role in this Mercurial station may indicate we may have a few more similar news; but it also signals the end of this trend. Hurrah!

      There is also the possibility that this is an indicator of crisis in the economy, transport and/or media sectors, depending on the country. Protests and demonstrations around these days will have a very Plutonian flavor, as in Haiti, marked by a strong emotional charge,  suggested by M41. The voice of change and transformation inwill be heard in many places, along with the lament for those who have been swept by this retrograde process. After all, Hermes (Mercury) was originally commissioned to carry the souls of the dead to Hades, a function then attributed to Charon.

     No one can't deny the good taste of his choices while moving backwards!

Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer

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January 4/5 : Mercury, Venus and star cluster M44 harmonize relationships, generating an expressive and communicative atmosphere, while Vesta and galaxy M102 indicate gentleness that balances difficulties

January 4/5: Venus in parallel to Mercury, in contra parallel to star cluster M44, the "Beehive Cluster". The Venus / Mercury combination suggests a harmonious communication, which can result in a day with good relationships and opportunities in the social and level as well as for emotions to be expressed. Both planets are in contra parallel to M44, an open star cluster in the constellation Cancer that has many type A stars, reinforcing the theme of communication. Since Mercury is entering its retrograde station process its relationship with Venus and M44 is not as fleeting as it seems, and the beneficial effect on social aspects and communication may extend throughout the whole week ... No need to rush on this one! (More on Mercury retrograde in another issue of the Galactic Guide).

     M44 also has many K-type stars, that suggest a strong emotional and romantic component in the need for expression. In short, it is an excellent day for relations in general, as dialogue can work wonders in most cases. There may be reconciliations and mending fences between people. This mix is also excellent for productivity in financial terms, as well as for artistic work. This trend is about  focusing the mind in aesthetic terms, with M44 giving an expressive and passionate touch. It is ideal for concerts, performances, exhibitions, tours, travel in general, good shopping and to bring harmony to the affairs of our daily lives. Avoid drama and exaggerations. But if you have something good to advertise, it is a very good time to spread the word, today!

     A few hours later, Venus makes a trine to asteroid Vesta, a combination that suggests peace and tranquility. However, the  Venus / Vesta mix seems to be related to a different theme: to maintain personal integrity in the midst of difficulties. The calmness within the storm! Vesta is in opposition to galaxy M102, the "Spindle Galaxy", so named for its resemblance to a spindle shape, as we see it edge-on from Earth. M102 has a thick layer of dust around its equatorial plane, blocking light from its core, therefore symbolizing obstacles.

    Vesta opposes M102 today, indicating the need to remain balanced even in the midst of difficulties. Venus' trine helps with a good dose of harmony and kindness, with an optimistic touch (Venus is in the optimistic zodiac sign of Sagittarius). It is a good day to be kind those who have been going through a difficult time, or simply to contribute to our own or another's welfare with love, gentleness, to strengthen our spirit and avoid entanglements with the endless tribulations of everyday life. Kindness may not solve anything fundamental by itself, but makes the process less painful. If things can be taken care of harmoniously, lets do it that way! It's a good trend to start the year in a balanced position ... illuminating and bringing warmth to the dark, cold corners of our lives.

Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer

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October 8/9: Mercury ends its retrograde phase in ecliptic conjunction to galaxy M86 and parallel to galaxy M77, indicating limitations to communication, great business deals, a distorted sense of time, control of information worldwide .. . demonstrations and many more manifestations! Which one do you connect with?

     Virtually every time Mercury is retrograde we find difficulties in communication and everyday life, especially around the days when it stops and seems to change direction. However, on reaching the end of its most recent retrograde phase, Mercury seems to indicate a strong tendency to mental acceleration, given its ecliptic conjunction with galaxy M86. This galaxy, located in the Virgo cluster, has a peculiar velocity of 419 kilometers per second, one of the fastest galaxies in that group. This acceleration is caused by the enormous gravitational pressure exerted on M86 from other galaxies in the Virgo cluster. M86 is literally in a cosmic "roller coaster", plunging toward the center of the cluster at high speed.

     The fact that Mercury makes its direct station conjunct M86  indicates the possibility of being subject to strong pressure from our social, family or work environments. These can have an accelerating effect, but to prevent stress, we must change our inner perception and begin to manage time differently. Celestial objects traveling fast through space distort the sense of time, making things seem to develop slower, when in reality it is our mind that is accelerated. Some may perceive the opposite, as if having a very slow pace with circumstances around going faster, and events succeeding one after another ...

     Anyway, Mercury, in its direct station, points to M86, showing that if we accelerate our pace is possible to anticipate certain circumstances ahead of time. In any case, we should be aware of these differences between calendar time and our inner clock, which can be accentuated during these couple of days and cause misunderstandings and complications.

      But there's more: M86 also indicates losses and suggests letting go what we do not need. The high speed of this galaxy causes a strong friction with the intergalactic medium, which has stripped M86 of a huge amount of hydrogen, element needed to make more stars. On the other hand, life becomes much lighter when you release your stuff... Undoubtedly, this feature corresponds astrologically with a tendency to suffer losses, so it is important not to take financial risks, avoid impulse purchases and take safety measures with our items or important values and make sure they ​​are under safekeeping. In a positive sense, it can also be good to release objects, people, emotions, ideas or situations that are not suitable for us anymore. To release the past is in itself a liberation, and psychologically, is one of the best manifestations that this Mercury station may have, if we follow M86's example...

    Internationally, the strong gravitational pressure exerted on other galaxies M86 indicates a susceptibility to social pressure. Mercury, the main significator of communication, is exposed to high pressures, which clearly coincide with the attempt to control and regulate information at a global level represented by the new Transpacific treaty. Mercury stationary in alignment with M86 is sending us a warning signal, an indicator of the dangers of manipulation and control which will of communication and information management in the world, which threatens individual human rights. On the other hand, perhaps this combinatio also refers to changes caused by pressure from many people on specific humanitarian  causes. It's a great time to support, promote and sign important petitions! Lots of protests are also likely!

     Of course, these petitions and demonstrations will be noticeable, because Mercury is also in an almost exact parallel with galaxy M77, a highly energetic, huge spiral galaxy, which is very bright in radio. This indicates a great need for expression and communication, already Mercury's specialty. But enormous M77, located in the constellation of Cetus, covers a lot of space, indicating a tendency to an egocentric need for communication, trying to draw other people's attention at all costs or to invade their space. The best way to channel positively this trend, however, is to promote ideas and projects we want others to see, or be taken into account. The size of M77 will do the rest: it just cannot be ignored... Promote your good ideas!

     On the other hand, the Mercury/M77 mix is excellent for finance, as M77 is also very bright in the infrared, which symbolizes the material basis of life. Mercury rules treaties, trade and exchange, so that, despite the typical complicated conditions of Mercury stationary, in many cases it may be good for the economy. In that way, Mercury's station also brings abundance, but we need to decide whether it is the abundance of attention needed by our ego that or one that can productively promote good plans and projects. Good business is likely!

     As you see, Mercury station is an astrological event that brings many possible manifestations. Depending on our approach, personal vision and position in particular circumstances, we can connect with one of them, or more. Now that you know the most important ones, you can at least see and decide if you like the frequency that you're connected with or not ... The goal is to be able to use this astronomical/astrological phenomenon to our advantage, because  anyway it will cause everyday problems. Somehow we have to use it in our favor!

Will you?Carlos DuarteResearch Astrologer

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Mercury ends its retrograde phase in contra parallel to star cluster M18, overcoming communication problems and revealing hidden information

Mercury ends its retrograde period in contra parallel to star cluster M18 and semisquare Uranus and the Moon.

     To the delight of the inhabitants of the Earth, the fastest planet in the solar system ends its retrograde period, which normally coincides with operational problems in our everyday life. This last Mercury retrograde phase, which has been going on in the zodiacal sign of Gemini, has been no exception, and may have been stronger than others, as Mercury is at home i his own sign, reviewing and questioning all issues related to our communication and daily functioning. It is a good time to make repairs and to review ideas and strategies, although this often involves delays and difficulties. Once the difficulties are overcome and Mercury moves forward from here to Sunday 14, things will gradually fall again into their normal course.

     Meanwhile, we should know what other specific meaning this Mercurian station may have in order to take advantage of it and thus balance any inconveniences that it may have caused. This time, Mercury will stop, then resume its forward movement, in contra parallel to star cluster M18, located in the constellation Sagittarius. A contr parallel means  two planets at the same distance on both sides of the Celestial Equator: it represents a symmetrical alignment that represents balance. Mercury balances M18: What does this star cluster mean?

     M18 is a very young cluster: just 32 million years old, which in cosmic terms, means that it is in its infancy. Hence, it symbolizes new projects, cutting-edge ideas, strong trends emerging, which will be strong in the future. M18 is idealistic: its stars of type B, A and F reveal powerful ideas that need to be expressed and circulated within a social environment. In addition, M18 is obscured by a cloud of cosmic dust that dims its light: that means blockages, difficulties. In such a young cluster, this may represent insecurity. M18 is the equivalent of a child who carries the seeds of great ideas but can develop insecurity because the difficulties it must go through.

    Fortunately, stationary Mercury can be the solution, because an equilibrium might be established with the contra parallel. Mercury's natural skills for communication can facilitate, at least temporarily, the resolution of the difficulties of expression associated with M18. In short, this is an excellent time to promote good ideas that have remained in the dark because of problems or insecurity. This also indicates a moment in which hidden issues are disclosed, as Mercury, on the other hand, spreads what should be a secret (symbolized by the dust in M18). Discretion on a personal level is recommended in order to avoid problems. But at the social and international level, there might be shocking information leaking, generating scandals, as well as the promotion or the emergence of great ideas or technology that will be part of our daily lives in the future.

     Do not forget that Mercury's station is at 45° of the Moon and Uranus, fact that reinforces the idea of ​​the emergence of ideas that can revolutionize our reality, while the futuristic tone emphasizes the emergence of new stars in M18. Information comes to light suddenly and this also coincides with important insights. The manifestations of Mercury's station on M18 can be multiple in the individual and the collective, but the background is something hidden that gets expressed, and causes changes.

     We must give priority to new plans, good ideas that emerged recently, or that will manifest in the following days, for about a week ... Ifwe take care of them, they can germinate very well later on. On the other hand, the Mercurial station on M18 may require us to work on our own insecurity as  circumstances force us to confront any  insecurities to express, to communicate and to materialize our good ideas. It is a good time to spot the roots of insecurity and find new solutions, playing with different possibilities. It may not be pleasant at times, but the process can be fruitful if any psychological impediment to adequate communication and/or expression is released.

Carlos Duarte
Astrologer Researcher

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Mercury retrograde in opposition to star cluster M10: an opportunity to grow mentally, to diversify ideas and to unify wills

     The Mercury retrograde cycle has begun, and, as always, its station point in the sky (in which it appears to stop to start moving backwards) is an indicator of the topics that will manifest during the following days. In fact, Mercury's change of direction almost always coincides with a number of practical and communication problems, with changes of opinion and reconsiderations of all kinds. Astrologers are well aware that despite this, we can take advantage of Mercury's retrograde period remaking or revising, resuming and reorganizing.

    Each retrograde event has its own individual manifestation, however. On this occasion, Mercury's station is in exact ecliptic opposition to  globular cluster M10, located in the constellation Ophiuchus. M10 is remarkable for its low number of variable stars, which are abundant in most globular clusters, because they are usually very old, containing a generation of stars that formed in the early universe. These stars, which are reaching the end of their lives, have begun to exhaust their fuel and therefore vary in brightness, suggesting a tendency to instability. Hence M10, having only 3 or 4 variable stars, is an indicator of stability.

    This is fortunate enough, since Mercury is so powerful in its own zodiacal sign, Gemini, whose characteristic is that it has a rational and dual approach to reality, which can lead to indecision and changes in perspective. The fact that Mercury stops exactly opposed to M10 suggests that, despite this duality, the trend is not in itself destabilizing. All the questioning and intellectual exercise are likely, in fact, to have a stabilizing effect.

     Moreover, this exercise can have a positive effect on the different societies scattered across the planet, and even from a global perspective. This is also suggested by M10, since another of its characteristics is that it has a heterogeneous population of stars. While many are old, some are younger and shine in photographs with two different colors, red and blue. This represents heterogeneity, diversity.

     Hence, for the purpose of Mercury retrograde station, the general trend is to question ideas or attitudes different from our own. As Mercury is at 150 ° from Pluto and 90° from Neptune, this questioning can lead to Plutonian manipulations, but the goal certainly is to clarify confusing, chaotic or misleading Neptunian situations. The prevailing trend, with Mercury strong, in the sign of Gemini, is rational, logical and objective. This process can occur individually, questioning our own ideas or strategies, or it can manifest at a collective level, with some sectors of society questioning the misleading ideas, unclear policies or downright dishonesty of others.

    In some cases, criticism will be fierce and destructive, but that should be avoided because the goal is not to crush other people's ideas, but rather that the questioning and discussions enrich everyone. In a multicultural society and globalizing civilization, it is very difficult to have a consensus on certain issues. But only through public debate and objective description of the matters, seeing the pros and cons and the different facets of each it is possible to have effective conclusions that can be of utility to the whole of society.

     Such is the indication of M10, whose mix of stars does not mean a crisis or confrontation, as in other star clusters like M15 or M30, in which the stars seem to be in conflict with each other. With M10 and Mercury, the goal is not to find the truth but only to discuss about it. Whether we like it or not, we all have a way of looking at things that may be in conflict with other people's viewpoint. No doubt many opportunists, especially in politics, will try to exacerbate differences between different social groups to capitalize discord. This is nothing new: "divide and conquer". But it is obvious that this kind of agitators do not take into account  the uniqueness and tranquility that M10 expresses in this Mercury station.

      If our intention is to think objectively, it is necessary to put ourselves in other people's shoes, which is not an easy task for most humans. It is easier to attack others for their way of thinking, but if we see it from a distance, we all share this planet and are responsible for keeping it in good condition to keep it running. It is necessary to question the way we produce energy, the uneven distribution of wealth, the way in which we nourrish ourselves and face social problems. It is necessary to question those people, ideas or groups with behaviors that are harmful to the planet and a threat to society, and we need to question ourselves about the individual  role we play in this.

     Faced with an ecological or social disaster, the ethnic, economic, sexual, philosophical or other differences are erased. While we're on the verge of collapse, the Mercury retrograde seems to give us a good opportunity to see things objectively. The public will be more sensitive than ever to appreciate reality with a clear, reflective mind that cannot easily fooled. Deception and fraud generated at this time will be so obvious that they will  collapse under their own weight. The number of scandals caused by dishonesty will undoubtedly increase this days. But in its highest manifestation, this trend is about understanding the  mental mechanism and postures of those who have different ideas from ours. This is not to convince them about our viewpoint, but to clarify and get something that will be useful for them and for us. How do we know we are not acting with bias, judging others? Sometimes we assume things are in a certain way when we haven't had the adequate time to really investigate what is behind the position of an ethni cor social group, a philosophy, a social movement. We have to put our ego aside and replace it with an open heart and mind!

    Obviously, the mercurial station on M10 favors debates, philosophical political, social, scientific, religious and artistic discussions. Of course, as it  is us who decide and not the planets (these are only indicators), we can use this retrograde period to divide people and move away more and more from others, taking refuge in our partial concepts, or otherwise, we can hear and understand the positions that are alien to us to develop greater understanding, tolerance, and eventually greater unification. If humanity has shown no unified trend in the last few thousand years, we can not expect this Mercury retrograde on M10 to generate miracles. But, within our personal position and in our own field of action, we can generate a few one; sometimes miracles at a small-scale are very valuable ...

     Differences should be enriching and not serve as a pretext to attack each other while deflecting attention from the urgent issues to resolve for our own survival and that of the future generations... United we stand, divided we fall. It is a time to look for the force that gives us unity. For all the differfences we may have, we all live in the same cosmic household, and we are not taking care of it right. That's a fact.

     In this atmosphere, extremist viewpoints, whether they are religious, political, social, scientific, artistic, personal or otherwise, will prove more than ever to be ineffective to change reality. Globally, the lack of awareness of most of humans will simply accentuate the differences, perhaps dramatically. Nobody has the Truth as a whole, because that is not a human attribute, while we all have it partially, and that is a human attribute. If we have the humility to learn from those who are different from us and to respect their way of viewing life, then there will be union.

I hope you have a pleasant and rewarding process of questioning in the coming weeks!
Love, Peace and Unity on Earth!

Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer

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February 5/6: Mercury retrograde gains strength combined with Vesta, Saturn and star cluster M93, structuring the mind with concentration but also expressing rigidity and confrontation

February 5/6: Mercury retrograde conjunct Vesta, sextile Saturn and in opposition to star cluster M93. This combination points to a very special mental concentration, which gives strength to thoughts and words. Vesta's ability to focus is mixed with the intellectual and communicative tendency of Mercury, and also with Saturn's sense of structure. This indicates this is a very good day to give some structure to scattered information and to advance in projects that require a strong mental concentration. Giving order to our mental chaos (or material as well) can be difficult at other times, but today, results can be excellent.The sense of duty may be to our advantage!

     However, the same combination can match a stubborn and limiting attitude. Mercury and Vesta are in ecliptic opposition to star cluster M93, which indicates the need to "be right". M93, a star cluster located in the constellation Puppis, has many G-type stars (like our Sun) and also of type A, suggesting a need to be heard and to impose viewpoints. With M93, ideas take on a connotation of power, and the sextile to Saturn represents "being right". It is possible that in many cases the truth will come to light, but the problem is that the trend is towards imposition, not objectivity, and towards rigidity, not flexibility. It is likely that today ideological extremes will manifest, and in many cases, repressive or controlling, as befits the dark nature of Saturn. Therefore, it is desirable to avoid confrontations and falling into power plays while focusing on one's own duties, in peace.

      Mercury is undoubtedly the busiest planet today: it also parallels the Sun and the Hyades cluster. This also represents great mental strength, and we should use it to put our mind in accordance with our inner will. Do our thoughts match with our actions, with what our intuition is telling us? When Mercury and the Sun conjunct or parallel, our mental programming is "reset", adjusting to the internal or external reality. This process can be enhanced by the presence of the Hyades, a naked-eye star cluster located in the constellation Taurus. The Hyades cluster contains stars of all spectral types, but has a particular deficiency in stars of very high and very low temperature (Types O and M). This suggests that the Hyades are "anti-extremist". It is therefore a good time to drop extreme views and seek moderation, to really redefine our goals and procedures in different areas of our lives...

      This reassessment of our ideas, combined with the mental power represented by Mercury / Vesta / Saturn can put things in place, neutralizing uncertainties, fixing unclear ideas. However, as we have seen, is necessary to prevent mental rigidity and not to exaggerate strict attitudes or criticism.

    There are several other astrological trends operating right at this time! Check the Galactic Guide on Facebook and Twitter, where you can find more comments about combinations that the objects in our solar system make with deep space objects:

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Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer

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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February 28/March 1st : Mercury ends its retrograde period conjunct star cluster M30, indicating an individualistic environment with communication difficulties; the Sun and galaxy M49 attract attention with intensity, and galaxy M106 confronts us with outdated ideologies tha need to be renewed

February 28/March 1st : The Sun is conjunct the North America Nebula, in parallel to Mars and contra parallel to galaxy M49. This combination is extremely powerful and represents a trend of competition, assertiveness and the tendency to attract other people´s attention. The Sun, no doubt , imposes its presence due to its extreme brightness. But combined with the M49 galaxy, it tends to further notoriety. M49 is a giant galaxy, which is the brightest of the Virgo cluster, its cosmic neighborhood. What's more, Mars, a planet famous by its self-assertion ways, is involved through a powerful parallel in this astrological combination. Therefore, it is an excellent day to draw attention to the issues that we need to promote; they will hardly go unnoticed . The North America Nebula, in the constellation Cygnus, is also very bright...

     This trend is ideal for project promotion, creative/artistic activity, spectacles and demonstrations of all kinds, which will certainly find considerable recognition. But, if you are looking for attention in a purely egocentric way, or you act as an exhibitionist at all costs, the effect will definitely be negative: a blatant, public and embarrassing rejection. Public confrontations should be avoided; try not to stress too much situations if resistance is shown. Moreover, it is likely an increase of violence in situations where rudeness prevails and there is little rationality... However, this astrological combination may be great for sporting competitions events or likewise .

          It is important to avoid aggression, as there are other astrological events that indicate that we must deal with rather stressful tendencies. Mercury ends its retrograde period (finally!), being stationary in conjunction with star cluster M30, and parallel to the Eagle Nebula (M16 ). When Mercury changes direction (although this is only an optical illusion), it  always coincides with communication and everyday life problems. But this time, the fact that this happens in conjunction with M30 indicates the need to address deeper problems. M30 is a highly compressed globular cluster located in the constellation of Capricorn, whose gravitational core has collapsed due to the enormous pressure from its stars. This symbolizes disorder, anarchy, disagreements, as the order that structures collective coexistence is broken.

     However, very few collisions have been detected among M30´s stars. This implies indifference. Thus, everyone has their own truth and it is difficult to get along with others. Therefore, this trend favors concentration on individual projects. This is not a good time to convince anyone of anything, but rather to act and think in an individualistic way. This can be used to focus on personal issues that have been neglected, ignored or that have been hindered by Mercury retrograde, during the last three weeks. Moreover, Mercury is in parallel with the Eagle Nebula (M16), abundant in O -type stars, whose high temperature symbolizes an ideological emphasis on religious, artistic, spiritual or scientific fields -the higher mind. This indicates progress in these fields, especially in terms of research. From this perspective, the worst thing one can do now is to have ideological confrontations, because they only lead to trouble. We´ll have to wait for another time to convince others of  (our) scientific, spiritual, political or other kind of truth.

      What's more, the Sun moves a little farther into the zodiac, trining Jupiter and passing in opposition to spiral galaxy M106. This combination enhances the conflictive mood, as it emphasizes traditionalist ideologies, particularly religious ones. How is this possible? M106 is a galaxy with many unique features, but two of them draw our attention in this astrological combination. One is that, despite being a fertile galaxy, it contains a "fossil " arm, in which the hydrogen has been depleted, and therefore, cannot produce more stars. This is equivalent to say that it is a window to the past, to ideas or situations that have not evolved or have remained intact for a long time: traditions or ideologies with an ancient perspective, conservative and/or outdated .

     Furthermore, M106 has one of the densest concentrations of matter in the known universe: 36 million solar masses contained in only 1/24 of a light-year. This symbolizes density, strength, but also stubbornness and obsession. In sum, this indicates stubbornness and obsessions with traditional views. The Sun in opposition indicates that circumstances foster the demonstration of overly conservative viewpoints, which are out of context in the present. Jupiter, associated with religion , knowledge and ideologies, as well as international relations, just magnifies this effect with its large size and huge magnetic field. In this sense, confrontations are needed, both personally and internationally, to balance obsolete points of view that need to be renewed because they harm development. This implies discussions, fights and arguments.

     As it can be seen, it is a difficult atmosphere, but being aware of this may enable us to decide whether we get hooked in these processes or just contemplate them as a passing reality. And in the best of cases, we can use them for our benefit, drawing people´s attention to promote our worthwile projects, focusing the mind on personal business, or looking for a needed renovation for this flow releasing the excessive weight of the past. ..

      The decision is yours, astrological knowledge is now in your hands... And get ready for the nearly simultaneous retrograde Saturn, Mars and Vesta, in the next two days! We will discuss this in another article in the Galactic Guide, right here and in Twitter and Facebook :

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Greetings (without controversy)

Carlos Duarte

Research Astrologer

February 6/7: Mercury retrograde, the Vela Supernova and stellar cluster M50 indicate a moment of inspiration and heightened perception that needs to be materialized

 February 6/7: Mercury retrograde in opposition to the Vela supernova, in parallel to stellar cluster M50. When Mercury station is aligned with the Vela supernova, we can expect lots of brainstorming, mental penetration, a heightened perception, a burst of creativity... The mental qualities represented by Mercury are reflected in the X-ray and Gamma-ray environment of the supernova explosion, which symbolizes higher, supra-conscious levels of experience.  What makes this Mercury station particularly interesting is that it is the mental qualities of Mercury that can rationalize to some point this sudden exposure to the unconscious. It's like dreaming consciously! Take advantage of this blend of rational and transpersonal qualities in psychotherapy, artistic inspiration, research and  using your intuition. On the other hand, the explosive, chaotic characteristics of the Vela supernova can distort the normal sense of time, and can lead to distractions, mistakes, disruptions. However, if chaos appears into your reality, use it creatively. Inspire yourself and select the best ideas to put into practice...

     This last is suggested by Mercury retrograde in parallel to stellar cluster M50, a group of stars in the constellation Monoceros. Most of the stars in M50 are type B, which emphasize the mind. However, it also has a lonely red giant star of type M related to the material plane. Therefore, M50 symbolizes ideas that are in the process of being materialized. This means that, after being inspired by our research or heightened perception, it is important to give a concrete shape to our inner visions, as well as finding the correct value and place for our ideas. Unless we try to give them a definite form, they will remain concepts, abstractions. The fact that the Mercury retrograde period starts in parallel to M50 is of great help to those who need to apply theory into practice and take the first steps for materializing plans.

     During the next three weeks, we will have plenty of opportunities to revise our theories and test them against reality. If we find some difficulties, perhaps we'll need to make some adjustments. But the power of inspiration will be strong, just as a supernova wind compresses the hydrogen clouds, stimulating the creation of new stars. Let's then use Mercury retrograde´s impulse to foster the projects which will shine as the stars of our own life in 2014!

    I wish you an inspiring, creative and enriching end of the week...

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Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer