Astrology for December
Sagittarius New Moon on November 30th
After the deep dive in Scorpio, Sagittarius flares upward, broadening our views, supporting us to perceive more long term strategies and possibilities. This is fire birthed from watery depths of feeling. In Sagittarius the views are seen from the mountain tops, and from this point we set clear aims and intentions.
The New Moon in Sagittarius takes place on November 30th, 10:22 pm PST. This New Moon holds encouragement and movement and is woven into various planetary influences that slow us for thoughtful reflection, as we feel the fire of spirit to move us forward.
Mercury is now retrograde in Sagittarius, in its trickster phase, asking us to think again, to contemplate what’s next, and to attend to reviewing and editing. There’s upliftment, and also a slowing for revising and rethinking. (Mercury goes direct on December 15th).
The New Moon, Sun, and Mercury all highlight the Jupiter Saturn square. We have been experiencing this square since August, which continues until June 2025. This means the new Moon and Mercury emphasize the decision making process in which we are involved. Jupiter wants to expand and grow and Saturn wants to limit, set boundaries, and cut away. Where do you feel the desire to enlarge your world or influence, and how might defining limits and making clear distinctions be helpful? In the culture and society we also experience Jupiter and Saturn as they seek to define a renewed relationship between growth and limits. We want more abundance and yet we also want strong boundaries and clarifications. With Jupiter and Saturn squaring each other, we are at a crossroads to what we value and want to put in place for the next 15 years.
The New Moon is also trining Mars in Leo as Mars stations to go retrograde on Dec 6th. It adds a sense of boldness to our intentions. Mars now moves slowly to go retrograde as it opposes Pluto. This can intensify our encounters, bringing up old issues that call for transformation. It exposes ways of thinking or viewing things that are up for review, asking, how will we transform the way we do things? The more conscious expression of this Pluto Mars alignment is the courage to directly confront what is not true or is no longer supporting our evolutionary growth in consciousness, both within ourselves and in the structures of our society.
November 30 – New Moon at 9 Sagittarius, 10:22 pm PST
squaring Saturn in Pisces, trining Mars, opposing Jupiter
New Moon in Sagittarius
Affirmation for New Moon in Sagittarius
I embrace a broader view of situations which supports patience, clarity of thinking, and strategic planning. I am encouraged to aim for what I want to achieve, with awareness of rethinking and revising along the way.”
The outer planets, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto align in the harmonious minor grand trine, showing a dramatic shifting of themes toward a new future, with the potential power of breakthrough, building through the next 24 months. What ideals do we hold dear, and what vision will we carry forward to create our future? The alignment of outer transpersonal planets create a potent shift from the challenges of that last decade. How do we participate? What vision will carry us forward into this new time?
Celestial Events for December
Nov 30 – New Moon at 9 Sagittarius – The New Moon in Sagittarius can be a time of optimism, of feeling into what is possible, what we might adventure into. The new Moon brings out the Jupiter Saturn square, encouraging growth and expansion with an awareness to simplify and focus in, reining in excess. The trine to Mars in Leo prompts action, clarification and directness, confident actions.
Dec 2 – Venus at 24 Capricorn trines Uranus in Taurus – Relationships bring surprises and new encounters. There is both a valuing of tradition and a readiness for change and breakthrough.
Dec 4 – Mercury retrograde at 16 Sagittarius opposes Jupiter in Gemini – philosophical thinking, bigger ideas, lots of mental activity which can promote feeling scattered. Inner listening, supportive to writing thoughts.
Dec 4 – The Sun at 13 Sagittarius squares Saturn in Pisces – slow to listen, an obstacle or irritation can bring deeper insight and clarity.
Dec 5 – The Sun conjuncts Mercury retrograde at 14 Sagittarius, 6:17 pm PST – Mercury Sun conjunction seeds a new cycle of thought. Turn inward to listen. What messages are you receiving? Mercury Cazimi brings creative insight.
Dec 6 – Mars goes retrograde at 6 Leo – Mars goes direct February 23rd at 17 Cancer – Entering Mars retrograde, forward motion is slowed. We go deeper and investigate our motives and intentions. If you have to move or are involved in a big project, it’s helpful to be aware of the retrograde quality of slowing and reviewing desires, perhaps updating schedules for more spaciousness. We ask ourselves, What is it I really want? How might my actions better carry consciousness and presence? Issues arise around the masculine that need consideration and thoughtfulness. Something is asking to be seen and transformed with greater consciousness. (Better to schedule surgery once Mars goes direct).
Dec 6 – Mercury retrograde at 13 Sagittarius squares Saturn in Pisces – Deeper investigation is called for. What has been nebulous or vague now wants clarity, to revise what was thought before. Careful consideration.
Dec 6 – Venus enters Aquarius – (until January 2) – We value discussion with others, valuing friends and community. Open mindedness in relationship.
Dec 7 – Venus at 0 Aquarius conjuncts Pluto – With Venus conjuncting Pluto, we enter and weigh Pluto in Aquarius themes. How are we transforming social norms, revising our standards for community? What was hidden that now needs to be seen? A day of powerful and potentially intense encounters, which may bring up old issues to be resolved.
Dec 7 – The Sun at 16 Sagittarius opposes Jupiter in Gemini – New insights that bring hope. Expansion and growth.
Dec 7 – Neptune goes direct – Neptune’s influence has been strengthened for the last month. What’s truth and what’s illusion?
Dec 10 – The Sun at 19 Sagittarius trines Chiron in Aries – Potential for healing.
Dec 12 – Venus at 5 Aquarius opposes Mars in Leo – Cool intelligence meets passionate expression. The feminine and masculine consider each other in order to find balance. The Diplomat engages the Warrior. Relationships carry sparks.
Dec 15 – Full Moon at 23 Gemini, 1:01 AM – The full Moon in Gemini emphasizes our connection with others, sharing ideas and words. With the Moon next to Jupiter in Gemini there can be a lot of talk! We can feel more positive, or go to excesses. The Moon squares Neptune highlighting the imaginative, producing more spin, with the need to glean what’s true and what’s false. Excellent for creative pursuits.
Full Moon in Gemini
Dec 15 – Full Moon at 23 Gemini, 1:01 am PST
Affirmation for full Moon in Gemini
“I am aware of the power of my words and communication and bring awareness into my relations”
Dec 15 – The Sun at 24 Sagittarius quincunx Uranus – Adjustment to change and perceiving in new ways.
Dec 15 – Mercury goes direct at 6 Sagittarius – Mercury goes direct trining Mars in Leo. Plans move forward and mental energy increases.
Dec 18 – The Sun at 27 Sagittarius squares Neptune in Pisces – a good time for retreat and contemplation
Dec 19 – Venus at 14 Aquarius trines Jupiter in Gemini – a day for enjoyment with friends and loved ones. Community discussion is favored.
Dec 21 – Winter Solstice, the Sun enters Capricorn – in the dark of the season, the first day of winter brings the return of the light. For the ancient peoples this was considered the most sacred of times, the power of renewal and return.
Interestingly, the Virgo Moon highlights the Jupiter Saturn square as it comes to exact square, December 24th. This alignment brings forth the importance of this time, a turning point of decision. How will we grow? And what will we limit or cut away?
Winter Solstice 1:20 Am PST
Dec 24 – Jupiter at 14 Gemini squares Saturn at 14 Pisces – this is the 2nd square of Jupiter and Saturn of 3 squares, from August 2024 to June 2025. That which began in 2020 with the conjunction is now in the middle of recalibrating what will lead us forward. It is a time for decisiveness and clarity of intention.
Dec 26 – Mercury at 13 Sagittarius opposes Jupiter in Gemini – philosophical thinking, big ideas, a day for delving into thoughtful conversation. Reviewing future plans.
Dec 26 – Mercury at 14 Sagittarius squares Saturn in Pisces – time for logical thinking. Saturn checks Mercury’s big ideas.
Dec 30 – New Moon at 9 Capricorn – The new Moon in Capricorn is a time to plant our goals for the year ahead. With Mars approaching the 2nd exact opposition to Pluto, we want to review what motivates our actions and the passion we apply to them in reaching our goals.
Affirmation for New Moon in Capricorn
“The intentions I now plant for the year ahead carry wisdom and thoughtfulness from my contemplations of what I most want to create”
The Twelve signs for December: Sun and Rising Signs
Aries (Mar 20-Apr 19): Dear Aries, the new Moon in Sagittarius lights your fire, supporting an upbeat attitude. Gracing your house of philosophy and belief systems, it marks a time to explore beliefs that open you to more expansive views of what is possible. You might take the time to examine the beliefs you hold that feel limiting, or any old programing that says life is a struggle. With your planet, Mars, in Leo trining this new Moon, you feel more energy and encouragement. As Mars retrogrades on the 6th, take the slow approach. Review your past actions and when they supported you and when they didn’t. On the 7th, Mars opposes Venus, so be thoughtful about differing opinions in relationship. With Pluto opposed to Mars during this month, it seems you are in transformative passages. It’s good to be patient, and to learn the art of letting go. The Gemini full Moon takes place on the 15th, next to Jupiter, making it an enjoyable time for sharing ideas with relatives and friends. Writing is highlighted, as well as imaginative projects.
Taurus (Apr 20-May 20): Dear Taurus, December starts with intimate encounters that are both enjoyable and concerning. Because the new Moon takes place in your house of intimacy you have the opportunity to see into the deeper layers of conditioning around perception and judgment. This is positive to acknowledge, as Venus, your planet, is now in trine to Uranus, aligning with break through energy that liberates from the old. With Venus in Capricorn until the the 6th, when it enters Aquarius and conjuncts Pluto (the 7th), what a prime time to liberate yourself from old attitudes! Venus opposes Mars on the 12th, passion or conflict? Venus in Aquarius creates spaciousness in relationship, listening to others. The full Moon in Gemini on the 15th, reflects the light of the Sagittarius Sun, illuminating the polarity of self reliance and collaboration with others, your values and the values of others. With the square to Neptune in Pisces, distinction may be difficult at times, between what is mine and what is yours.
Gemini (May 21-Jun 20): Dear Gemini, when the Sun moves through Sagittarius it brings your attention to your relations with others. The New Moon on the 30th, finds both enjoyment and challenge in relating as it squares Saturn and opposes Jupiter. You are adept at being flexible and adaptable. With Saturn in Pisces, it’s good to know when to share and when to ask for space. With your planet, Mercury, retrograde in Sagittarius until the 15th, it’s an excellent time to review plans for the future, especially in regards to career and your own engagement with partnerships. The full Moon in Gemini takes place on the 15th, shining its light next to bright Jupiter. You may feel its blessings, a sense of well being and gratitude for your life. The full Moon squares Neptune. Take some time to dream and imagine new possibilities for yourself and your career.
Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 21): Dear Cancer, the new Moon in Sagittarius brings attention to your daily routines and how you take care of yourself. Do you feel aligned in body, mind, and soul? This is a perfect time to begin new health patterns, through exercise, nutrition and sleep. In our busy lives it’s challenging to find time for this attunement! With the Moon and Sun opposing Jupiter we may overdo, go to excess, yet with the square to Saturn, we can feel the need to limit and discipline. Mercury retrograding in Sagittarius gives us time and opportunity to think over what it is we want, especially with the trine to Chiron, supporting healing insight and wisdom. The full Moon in Gemini on the 15th calls us to regroup, to retreat and gather ourselves, to give ourselves both spiritual and physical nourishment.
Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 22): Dear Leo, are you feeling Mars in Leo? The last time Mars entered Leo was May and June of 2023. Perhaps you’re feeling its energy, it’s drive and motivation to accomplish tasks. With its opposition to Pluto, old issues may be up for review, difficult emotions needing to be processed. With the New Moon in Sagittarius in trine to Mars, it’s a good time to define your needs and wants, to write and/or express yourself, to honor your unique expression. The expressive nature of Leo is enhanced by the Sun moving through expansive Sagittarius. Find a place with a view, sit, and contemplate the mystery and beauty in which we live. Leos are known for their generous heart and this is a time for filling your heart with love. The full Moon in Gemini takes place on the 15th, next to bright Jupiter. It falls in your house of friendship and community. Connect with those you appreciate, share poems and stories. Bring out your creative voice.
Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22): Dear Virgo, the new Moon in Sagittarius focuses you on home and family, on your deeper self, the foundation of your being. During this Thanksgiving time you may be very grateful for your family and your home. Your planet, Mercury, is now retrograde. The busy Virgo mind might turn inward for deeper contemplations, even for rest from figuring everything out. Though Mercury in Virgo is know for its astuteness with details, this Mercury in Sagittarius seeks the eagle’s view from above, accessing a larger time span. It’s the philosopher’s Mercury, contemplating what it means to transform our perspectives. The full Moon in Gemini, highlights Mercury’s other sign of mental activity and shared connection, weaving together various points of view. That bright Moon falls in your house of public standing just as the Sagittarius Sun sits deeply in your roots. What is deep within is now brought out into the light of the public domain.
Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22): Dear Libra, the Sagittarius new Moon activates your house of the mind, communication, and connection with others. Thoughtful and diplomatic Libra has a fiery mind, philosophical and broadminded. Libra loves to learn, to teach, and to write. Under this new Moon, it’s helpful to affirm what you are intending to communicate. Sagittarius is the teaching sign. With Mercury now retrograde in Sagittarius, it is traversing this area of your chart 3 times, encouraging you to give thought and review to how and what you are communicating. Your ruling planet, Venus, now in Capricorn, trines Uranus, encouraging you to be inventive and creatively innovation in your approaches. Venus enters Aquarius on the 6th, aligns with Pluto on the 7th, picking up the energy of transformation. In airy Aquarius your relations with others and group energy is supported, sharing ideas and common interests. The full Moon on the 15th, also in air sign Gemini, continues to support teaching and communicating your philosophic views.
Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21): Dear Scorpio, the Sagittarius new Moon falls in your house of finances. What a perfect time to review your relation to money and to what you deeply value. Sagittarius is the sign of abundance and optimism, but the 2nd house is more conservative. How might you balance these two views? With Mercury retrograding in that area this is an excellent time to contemplate more long term goals in regards to finances. Your ruling planet, Mars, is in dramatic and generous Leo, in the house of career or public standing. It has the energy to pursue your goals. It seeks creative expression, and with its opposition to Pluto, it dives deep into the psyche to bring a powerful expression. The full Moon in Gemini, on the 15th, highlights intimate partnership. This is a time of balancing your values and needs with your partner’s values and needs.
Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 20): Dear Sagittarius, Happy Birthday! With the new Moon in Sagittarius it’s time to focus on yourself! What are you wanting for the year ahead? The new and full Moon this month align with your planet, Jupiter, bringing in abundance, good will, and sense of enjoyment. Under this Moon there is a new adventure, perhaps through partnership, or a new teaching. And there is also the need for simplifying, organizing, and scheduling to support whatever is changing and transforming in your life. Jupiter in Gemini has lots of plans and ideas. With Saturn squaring Jupiter, it keeps you grounded to the task at hand. The full Moon on the 15th in Gemini highlights partnership and collaboration. The Moon squares Neptune in Pisces strengthening your imaginative powers.
Capricorn (Dec 21- Jan 19): Dear Capricorn, the fire of Sagittarius fuels your determination. Capricorn works best with a goal in mind to work toward. The planning goes on behind the scenes and this is the job of Sagittarius in your chart. Take time for retreat and contemplation to tap your creative powers, with the new Moon in Sagittarius and the Sun moving through the sign. This is in preparation for your birthday and Solar Return. What would you like to grow and create in the year ahead? Your planet, Saturn, is in Pisces. It encourages you to feel and to dream of the next phase of your life. In 2025, Saturn enters Aries in May, and sparks a new cycle of learning, creating and achieving. The full Moon takes place on the 15th, in Gemini, illuminating your house of work, daily routines, and health. With the Moon next to Jupiter teaching and learning is supported. Movement and action is best for your health.
Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 17): Dear Aquarius, you may have an important role in aiding the collective transformation, now with Pluto in your sign! The Sagittarius new Moon graces your house of community and fellowship with others. Perhaps you are planning a community event or becoming part of a community event. Mercury retrograding through Sagittarius gives you time to contemplate what you might share, learn, and or teach. Jupiter in Gemini aligns with both the new and full Moons and activates your creative expression. Saturn, now in Pisces, is also aligning with the Moon and Sun, which engages your imagination at deeper levels. Your planet, Uranus, encourages a larger view, a vision for what’s possible. The full Moon in Gemini on the 15th, supports creative expression, highlights your uniqueness and self confidence.
Pisces (Feb 18-Mar 19): Dear Pisces, this new Moon takes place in fiery Sagittarius, setting the stage for a new kind of work or mission for you. It may be that you will have more freedom to pursue what most interests you. With Saturn moving through your sign, Pisces, you may also be experiencing a sense of obligation and responsibility. But now there is change and some kind of realignment is taking place. With Mercury retrograde you are reviewing the plan, noticing what is working and what might be changed so plans can be better implemented. Under the full Moon in Gemini, on the 15th, it looks like lots of plans for the family and home are busily taking place. Before all the activity, with the full Moon aspecting Neptune, your planet, take that day for yourself, a day for you with no responsibilities, just soul nourishment.
Susan Heinz is a professional astrologer in Santa Cruz for 42 years, bringing together traditional & esoteric astrology, Tarot and Qabalah. For info on her Friday monthly astrology groups, her Qabalah, astrology and/or painting classes, and for personal readings, call (831) 479-3751, or go to www.susanheinz.com