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
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August 1/2: Saturn ends its retrograde period in ecliptic conjunction with the Draco Warf galaxy, in parallel to the star cloud M24, indicating new possibilities and hidden resources

August 1/2: Saturn's direct station conjunct to the Draco Dwarf Galaxy and parallel to star cloud M24

     Saturn ends its retrograde period in the zodiac sign of Scorpio, stationary in ecliptic conjunction with a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way. This is the Draco Dwarf Galaxy, a small galaxy located in the northern constellation Draco, the Dragon. This galaxy has the peculiarity of being very difficult to observe, because it is one of the fainter objects known. Furthermore, it probably contains a large amount of dark matter. These features, at an astrological level, indicate an ability to hide, symbolizing situations that remain unnoticed, hidden, blocked, unconscious.

     On the other hand, the Draco Dwarf is a galaxy with a high metallicity, ie, its stars have been processing in their interiors many elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, the main constituents of the universe. This usually represenst astrologically a great sophistication, refinement, and a great value, in the same way as precious metals like gold are rare and valued on Earth ... So what the Draco Dwarf hides is not necessarily something bad or negative. In fact, it is describing hidden riches and values.

     Saturn's station on the Draco Dwarf suggests the need to expose our hidden wealth, perhaps in the form of talents buried in the depths of our psyche. Saturn, in its typical confrontational style can be compelling us to use these riches, forced by circumstances. The process refers to the ability to draw on resources that had not been taken into account, but they are available if we make the effort to make them work ...

    This is suggested by the fact that Saturn's station also happens in parallel to the star cloud M24, which in itself is not an object but a huge hole in the dust cloud surrounding the center of our galaxy. M24 is actually a window that allows us to see inside the Milky Way, a light tunnel that allows us to move to another plane of reference. Therefore, it represents doors that open, possibilities that arise and allow us to see beyond the present limitations.

    It is therefore an excellent time to dip into hidden or undervalued resources, but for this we must be willing to use them. To overcome any  difficulties, we must have enough mental flexibility to open our minds so  opportunities and solutions may appear. To remain stubbornly chained to our present limitations will make us to waste this trend, which will last at least for two weeks with great intensity...

    This is an authentic treasure hunt, only it happens within us, making this quest an even more interesting adventure... Let's start digging in our own psyche!

Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer

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July 8/9: Saturn ends its retrograde period in ecliptic conjunction with the Southern Pinwheel Galaxy (M83), generating drastic but positive changes and new projects

July 8/9: Saturn is stationary conjunct galaxy M83. Saturn resumes its direct motion, resonating strongly with M83, a galaxy as fertile as transformative. M83, also called the Southern Pinwheel by its appearance, has an enormous transformation potential, as 6 supernovae have been detected in it. This is a large number compared to most galaxies, and represents drastic changes that can certainly be activated by Saturn's station. And, while this station can cause shocks and practical problems, it may also create new projects and possibilities, since M83 is one of the more creative galaxies in the nearby universe. It has a large number of baby-stars (called Wolf-Rayet stars), which are highly unstable, so we will need to wait a few weeks for the events generated by the saturnine station to stabilize and grow.

     In the meantime, do not be afraid to implement changes, it is a great time to shake off the dust and remove stagnation in any area where it is necessary ... In fact, Saturn can help, with its tendency to structure, to create a brand new order, one that fits the needs of the present time. And Saturn's tendency to responsibility will undoubtedly be hepful to handle new projects and emerging trends, just like taking care of babies. But the time and the dedication that we give to the newborn projects will pay off in the coming weeks or months, when we see that our strategies bear fruit. In these circumstances, the worst we can do is standing idle with our arms crossed, just doing nothing. We should revolutionize our lives and take responsibility for the changes in order to make the best of this Saturn station... It's worth the effort!

Carlos Duarte
Research Astrologer

June 26th: Juno in parallel to the Horsehead Nebula highlights the current state of our relationships, bringing diplomacy, creativity, art, controversy, beauty and more

June 26th: asteroid Juno is in parallel with the Horsehead Nebula. The asteroid of relationships is at the same declination of one of the most spectacular nebulae in the constellation Orion. The Horsehead Nebula or B33 is a dark nebula that is dramatically highlighted by a background illuminated by the star Zeta Orionis or Alnitak. Therefore, one of its qualities is precisely to highlight, to underline, to emphasize and exhibit, to show.... making things evident. This can be done in various ways, depending on which planet transits through this great cosmic backdrop. In this case, the guest to this wonderful cosmic set is Juno, the asteroid of relationships, couples, marriage, who has to some extent the same trends of Venus about the need to be emotionally fulfilled through others: family, friends, relatives...social life.


     Therefore, it is quite possible that during this week the signals which indicate the state of our emotional life wil be brought to light. It is appropriate to review our ties to others and find out what is stable and what should be changed. Unmet needs in relationships will be exposed, and this will inevitably lead to adjustments in relationships of all kinds. On the other hand, positive connections between people also tend to be intensified, and that reflects many moments of fulfillment in marriage, family, friendship, business associations, any partnerships with people. This is fantastic, but it is also true that if there are relationships that need to be kept hidden or should be handled with discretion, these days they are at risk of being exposed. Implement extreme cautions then!

     At an international level,  relationships between various political figures will also be exposed, which obviously will generate controversy. The focus of marriage (Juno) prevails, there will be couples and weddings generating lots to talk about, and of course there will be progress and resistance to homosexual marriage, which will also probably be in the news too. Juno, however, represents the art of diplomacy, which is quite welcome in these times when Saturn stationary on the hypergiant star Eta Carina, as there may be excessive self-centered, aggressive reactions in the international community. Juno and the Horsehead Nebula highlight the possibility of reaching agreements, to talk, to dialogue... Let's hope Juno will prevail!

      Personally, there are other ways to direct this combination Juno / Horsehead. Juno stands out for her social skills: she is the perfect hostess. This can favor greaty social events, although rather intimate ones, but do not rule out large crowds as well. Juno is also the artistic talent that can not fail to be highlighted with such an elegant cosmic backdrop. Juno favors dramatic arts, music, theater and dance, but this combination has definitely an impressive visual impact, so graphics are very important in artistic creation. We can expected good, memorable shows this couple of weeks... You can also see great creativity flowing in any rehearsal or artistic activity. Finally, Juno represents the personal wardrobe, haircut and grooming, to which you can do an update. That will highlight you in a positive way, lifting your mood, either to raise self-esteem or to please someone special.

Saturn ends its retrograde period in ecliptic conjunction to the star Eta Carinae, indicating a time to work the ego and its boundaries

     Saturn is stationary in ecliptic conjunction to the star/nebula Eta Carinae. This is an important event as Eta Carinae is one of the most massive stars in the galaxy. If it was at the center of our solar system its surface would reach the orbit of Jupiter. This cosmic hypergiant has a great personality, and grabs a lot of attention, leading to extreme self-centered egotistic attitudes. On the other hand, it represents a great potential but very variable in its manifestation. Eta Carina is a star whose brightness increases and decreases over the years, because of the large eruptions it has had. It is therefore an indicator of instability.

     Saturn's station on this remarkable star represents a moment in which it is possible to stabilize situations that are unstable and that threaten to get out of hand. Saturn tests everything in its path, and its direct station puts a strong emphasis on limiting excesses, to give structure to situations so they can flow more easily and in a stable manner. In relationships, we must deal with ego structures. Whether putting limits on our own ego or that of others, it is possible to control it and put it to good use. The need to attract attention by itself becomes empty and arrogant. In fact, it can cause great strife, clashes between rival parties, wounds to the ego, and confrontations with one's own failures, shortcomings or excesses in our personality.

     It is therefore necessary to give the ego a motivation, a cause, a goal, a challenge, a dream to which  aspire. Thus, the tremendous energy of Eta Carinae can find a solid platform on which to define and promote, by its charismatic personality, good causes and worthwhile projects. Internationally, this obviously has to manifest in an arrogant rudeness of some countries in diplomatic relations. Or perhaps it represents authoritarian reactions, showing the excessive saturnine control. It can also involve the need to control unstable,dangerous and/or threatening social or natural situations.

     This trend will last intensely for about two weeks, and it is possible that some events in the past two weeks are related to Saturn stationary in the same ecliptic degree of Eta Carinae. Do you recognize an Eta Carinae event in your recent experience?

    Let's get down to work on the ego! Ours and other people's, too. Good luck!