It’s been a tough year to interpret astrological symbols of this intensity, to a world of diminishing morale. I deliberated on whether I should post a quick update on the planetary conditions right now because it seems I have been talking about Mars and Saturn all year – two planets whose natures are less desirable, yet necessary. But, it is what it is and as an astrologer, I must remain objective and neutral of personal bias. The world is under the influence of these two sparring powerhouses until January 2021 and it looks like this pressure is only ramping up, especially in September and October 2020 . So, if you’re willing, read on…

BACK IN March 31st, I wrote about the conjunction of Mars and Saturn in Aquarius:

“Mars is a planet that we need to watch out for this year. It’s is on a trajectory of open war and destruction as he fights for what’s right..……The honeymoon period of enforced isolation will be over by the time Mars conjuncts Saturn on the 1st April 2020.  This is sure to bring about experiences of annoyance, impediments and obstructions which can lead us all to feel extremely annoyed, frustrated and possibly defeated. We may question whether what we’re doing is worth continuing or forced to look at possibilities that are more practical.”

THIS WEEK, Mars is at the first waxing square with Saturn. The nature of the waxing square is a dynamic tension that’s likely to manifest into tangible events. It’s a time of collisions, decisions and actions around literal and metaphorical structures, which revolve around themes commenced at the conjunction.

Conjunction vs Waxing Square

We can expect to see a higher octave of the pressures we experienced at the Mars Saturn conjunction 4.5 months ago. At the conjunction point, things are still relatively nebulous and unformed, though there’s a subconscious sense of something brewing which may result in more unconscious reactions and thoughts. By the time the waxing square occurs, awareness and familiarity builds and forces tangible decisions and actions to be taken. This may result in more thresholds being reached which pushes people to their limits and forces explosive reactions.

Which planet has the upper hand?

While at the conjunction in March, Saturn had the upper hand, being in it’s home sign and at an oriental position to Mars. Mars was under the rulership of Saturn and had to submit  to some degree.

This week at the waxing square, Mars has suddenly gained more power, being in its home sign of Aries, squaring off a Saturn which is retrograde and thus on slightly lower ground. Under the doctrine of Essential Dignity, both planets will also be under the terms of Saturn, meaning that ultimately, Saturn has the upper hand. Obstacles, limitations, rigidity and authority will most likely prevail. However, this time round Mars will be much louder and more obvious than at the conjunction, so it will challenge Saturn at every opportunity. Mars’ modus operandi is conflict, contests and battles with the view to fight for what’s right. It favours personal agency over authoritarian control and is likely to act now and beg for forgiveness later. Know any Aries or Scorpios (ruled by Mars)? You’ll most likely sense this determination about them. And by ‘what’s right’ – that’s a purely subjective matter!

The quality of this time

Expect to see lots of fighting, arguments, debates, protests, shouting and voicing of opinions. Mars has stepped into power and can no longer stand the limitations of Saturn. Look at the world around you this week, and think about how these events are symbolically reflected within yourself. Do you feel a rising frustration and stronger temptation to act? Is there something you can no longer submit to?

The thing is, this square is going to happen two more times – one on the 30th September 2020 and the last one on the 13th January 2021 – emphasising the tension of this time. The events of this week will likely return on these dates for consolidation and resolution. In other words, this difficult planetary alignment is here to stay for another six months. A tough and arduous road lies ahead.

On a more constructive note, we will see action. No two better planets to handle the hard work than Mars and Saturn. One thing you can do is to look at where Mars and Saturn will be travelling through in your chart. These are the two areas of life that will set the the scene for the next six months of frustration, decision-making, structure-building, contests and fights of will and the conflict between authority and personal agency. Understanding these two houses and what they mean for you will prepare you for the grind over the next six months.

And as a little minor bonus, Venus is currently in Cancer until the 5th September, bringing some coolness to balance the heat and dryness of Mars. She also brings moisture to tame the dryness of Saturn, helping to boost the sensitivity and compassion of this authoritative planet. While Venus is in Cancer, it’s a great time for self-care, spending quality time with family or loved ones, taking a break from the mundane, rest, sleep and nourish your soul and body. Use this while you can as it’s a long grind ahead.

If you’d like to explore the next six months in more personalised detail, contact me or book a session here.