StarCrossed: Conjunctions and Squares Testing the Collective's Communication and Emotional Intelligence
Find yourself within yourself, but don’t leave the rest of the world behind.
StarCrossed follows a hobby that keeps my passion for reading and research alive—astrology and astronomy. My love for the Universe goes beyond the spiritual and includes the scientific wonders of space.
Honestly, I didn’t think much about astrology throughout July—I was busy celebrating my birthday! That’s a whole-week affair and then some. But that means we missed talking about some significant events. Thankfully, I’m not an astrology-based content creator. I’m on Substack and a writer—that’s it. If you’re here because you need your astrology fix, you should find another, more consistent creator to avoid missing critical updates.
What Is a Conjunction in Astrology?
A planetary conjunction occurs when planets appear close to each other in the sky. This doesn’t mean they’re close—in reality, they’re very far apart. It’s an optical illusion! From an astronomical perspective, a conjunction is when cosmic beings share the exact ecliptic longitude or right ascension in the sky as we see it.
What do I mean by these words? The ecliptic longitude is an imaginary line—like all longitudes, I guess—which marks the Sun’s path across the sky during a year. The right ascension is the equivalent longitude on the Earth’s surface.
During a conjunction, planets amplify each other’s meanings and magnitudes—and that’s where many get their predictions. It’s not my jam to predict things, as I am just an enthusiast and not in any way a fortune-teller. But it is interesting to connect the way the celestial beings above were in place to what happened during that time.
July 15: Mars-Uranus Conjunction
Mars is the planet of aggression, anger, and activity. Uranus is the planet of freedom, originality, and unexpected changes. This conjunction calls for expressions of radical freedom, paths to break free from the status quo, or even violence coming out of nowhere.
We all know what happened around this time—from the Trump assassination attempt to Biden leaving the current presidential race, it’s been a lot to digest.
August 7: Mercury-Venus Conjunction
Like the Mars-Uranus conjunction, this one will also be difficult to observe—but can probably be seen without binoculars because they’re nearer to us. They’re both close to the Sun, so your best bet is to look up in the evening, very low in the west. Mercury will be on the border of the Leo and the Sextans constellations, while Venus will be in Leo.
This happens right after Mercury goes retrograde so most people will focus on that. After all, this type of retrograde happens often, and most will know how to adjust their daily activities so as not to feel its effect. But Mercury is the planet of communication and intellect, while Venus is the planet of love and harmony. I suggest preparing for communication breakdowns involving close relationships, such as with family members and partners.
August 14: Mars-Jupiter Conjunction
Unlike the previous conjunctions this year, this Mars-Jupiter conjunction is great, meaning the planets will appear very, very close to one another. However, it’s not the “Great Conjunction” capitalized. That one was in 1693 when Jupiter and Saturn traveled across the sky together.
Both Mars and Jupiter are in Aquarius, amplifying this conjunction’s effects. It’s a time to take action toward your goals, expand opportunities, and achieve success through hard work. If you’ve felt stuck in any part of your life, this conjunction may provide the energy and motivation to move forward. Use this energy wisely to avoid impulsiveness or overconfidence. With Jupiter as the planet of luck and abundance, unexpected blessings could come your way if you put in the effort.
This date is also around when Mercury, in retrograde, will leave Virgo and travel to Leo.
What Should You Know About This Mercury Retrograde?
August presents challenges on multiple fronts. With Pluto opposing Leo and a Mercury retrograde beginning on August 4, we may encounter disruptions in communication and be prompted to reevaluate our reliance on certain aspects of our lives. The entire month is a lesson in patience, as everything may feel delayed or off track. The bold may continue to act brutally, while those who take risks seek to validate their beliefs.
During its brief passage through Virgo, Mercury retrograde invites a period of analytical and introspective reflection. Virgo, known for its emphasis on self-analysis, is acutely aware of potential and focused on realizing it. As we retrace our steps through this earth sign, our self-examination occurs from a refreshed perspective. Mercury’s backward motion, influenced by the sign it governs, helps us uncover insights we may have overlooked and encourages a deeper reflection on the expectations we place upon ourselves.
As Mercury travels to Leo during its retrograde, you may feel like embracing themes of fire, self-expression, and inner authority—which is a good transition from the introspective reflection ushered in by Virgo. Throughout the Mercury retrograde in Leo, you may be empowered to reclaim your narratives around self-expression. For me, this means redefining what it means to be seen, to occupy space, and to nurture ourselves with love and validation. It offers a chance to redraw the map of our inner selves and reclaim that unique magic that defines us.
What Is a Square in Astrology?
A square occurs when planets are positioned 90 degrees apart and belong to the same modality—cardinal, fixed, or mutable. While conjunctions tend to amplify planets’ energies, squares create a dynamic tension akin to a tug-of-war. This aspect often manifests as conflict, stress, and drama. Squares can also embody action-oriented and impulsive energy, highlighting potential disagreements between the characteristics of the signs involved and their value systems. However, they can also serve as catalysts for action and inspire movement, leading to positive outcomes.
August 10: Mars-Saturn Square
We already know that Mars represents energy and assertiveness. Saturn embodies integrity, responsibility, and the ability to navigate challenges. This square can suggest a heavy burden on the collective as those prone to recklessness may disrupt unstable patterns, leading to significant frustration and uncertainty about the future.
Notably, Mars and Saturn are also connected to Jupiter, adding an intriguing layer to this configuration. Mars is within Jupiter’s bounds, and Jupiter is currently also in retrograde, preparing to turn direct. This moment reflects Jupiter’s last quarter moon phase, indicating a deep connection to its influence.
August 20: Jupiter-Saturn Square
This aspect invites a profound exploration of the emerging emotional landscape, compelling us to confront the suffering surrounding us. Our conscience seems to be urging us to acknowledge what we often overlook. Additionally, it may reflect internal and external obstacles on our paths to success.
Remember that Jupiter is the planet that embodies luck and abundance, while Saturn is the planet of limitations and structure. This square can signify a clash between our desire for growth and expansion and the reality of restrictions in our lives. It may also highlight power struggles within systems, such as politics or business. On top of that, what happens around this time may echo back on December 24, 2024, when this square occurs again.
What Should You Focus on This August?
Overall, August will be filled with powerful and challenging astrological aspects. While it may bring disruptions, delays, and conflicts, it also offers opportunities for growth, self-reflection, and action. As always, it’s important to remember that astrology is not deterministic—you have the power to shape your destiny by being aware of potential influences and making conscious choices.
Find yourself within yourself, but don’t leave the rest of the world behind. Talk again soon!
Photo by Carlos Kenobi on Unsplash
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