July 31, 2023 Moon’s Current Phase and Northern Hemisphere’s Planetary Positions

Moon’s Current Phase

You can use this link to go forward or backward in time for Moon phase information. If you are curious, you can even find out what phase the Moon was in when you or anyone else was born.

From MoonGiant.com

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is a Waxing Gibbous phase. Visible through most of the night sky setting a few hours before sunrise. This phase is when the moon is more than 50% illuminated but not yet a Full Moon. The phase lasts about 7 days with the moon becoming more illuminated each day until the Full Moon. During a Waxing Gibbous the moon rises in the east in mid-afternoon and is high in the eastern sky at sunset. The word Gibbous first appeared in the 14th century and has its roots in the Latin word “gibbosus” meaning humpbacked.

Visit the July 2023 Moon Phases Calendar to see all the daily moon phase for this month.

Today’s Waxing Gibbous Phase

The Waxing Gibbous on July 31 has an illumination of 98%. This is the percentage of the Moon illuminated by the Sun. The illumination is constantly changing and can vary up to 10% a day. On July 31 the Moon is 13.28 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

Phase Details

Phase: Waxing Gibbous
Illumination: 98%
Moon Age: 13.28 days
Moon Angle: 0.54
Moon Distance: 366,216.57 km
Sun Angle: 0.53
Sun Distance: 151,849,300.20 km

Useful Moon Resources

The 8 Lunar Phases

There are 8 lunar phases the Moon goes through in its 29.53 days lunar cycle. The 4 major Moon phases are Full Moon, New Moon, First Quarter and Last Quarter. Between these major phases, there are 4 minor ones: the Waxing Crescent, Waxing Gibbous, Waning Gibbous and Waning Crescent. For more info on the Moon Cycle and on each phase check out Wikipedia Lunar Phase page.

If you need to calculate the planetary positions in either hemisphere you can use this for a specific use and time in your local time zone, click on this link

Currentplanetarypositions.com

To figure out GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) to your local time use this link  

For Your Local Time and Date 

Northern Hemisphere’s Planetary Positions

Northwestern Hemisphere

This local time is in Los Angeles, California, USA

July 31, 2023
11:00 pm GMTM 4:00 PM PDT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:08 Leo 29
Moon:26 Capricorn 52
Mercury:04 Virgo 10
Venus:27 Leo 02 Rx
Mars:13 Virgo 13
Jupiter:13 Taurus 41
Saturn:05 Pisces 43 Rx
Uranus:22 Taurus 45
Neptune:27 Pisces 26 Rx
Pluto:28 Capricorn 54 Rx

True Lunar Node:28 Aries 32 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:28 Aries 59 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):22 Leo 54

Chiron:19 Aries 56 Rx
Ceres:12 Libra 25
Pallas:09 Virgo 55
Juno:22 Cancer 04
Vesta:15 Gemini 37

Eris:25 Aries 15 Rx

Fire:7
Earth:7
Air:2
Water:3
Cardinal:8
Fixed:5
Mutable:6

Northern Hemisphere

This local time is in Chicago, Illinois, USA

July 31, 2023
09:00 pm GMT 4:00 PM CDT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:08 Leo 24
Moon:25 Capricorn 36
Mercury:04 Virgo 04
Venus:27 Leo 04 Rx
Mars:13 Virgo 09
Jupiter:13 Taurus 40
Saturn:05 Pisces 43 Rx
Uranus:22 Taurus 45
Neptune:27 Pisces 26 Rx
Pluto:28 Capricorn 54 Rx

True Lunar Node:28 Aries 33 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:28 Aries 59 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):22 Leo 53

Chiron:19 Aries 56 Rx
Ceres:12 Libra 23
Pallas:09 Virgo 52
Juno:22 Cancer 02
Vesta:15 Gemini 35

Eris:25 Aries 15 Rx

Fire:7
Earth:7
Air:2
Water:3
Cardinal:8
Fixed:5
Mutable:6

Northeastern Hemisphere

This local time is in Frankfurt, Germany, Europe

31 July 2023
02:00 pm GMT 4:00 PM CEST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:08 Leo 08
Moon:21 Capricorn 11
Mercury:03 Virgo 41
Venus:27 Leo 10 Rx
Mars:12 Virgo 59
Jupiter:13 Taurus 38
Saturn:05 Pisces 44 Rx
Uranus:22 Taurus 44
Neptune:27 Pisces 26 Rx
Pluto:28 Capricorn 54 Rx

True Lunar Node:28 Aries 36 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:29 Aries 00 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):22 Leo 51

Chiron:19 Aries 56 Rx
Ceres:12 Libra 17
Pallas:09 Virgo 44
Juno:21 Cancer 52
Vesta:15 Gemini 29

Eris:25 Aries 15 Rx

Fire:7
Earth:7
Air:2
Water:3
Cardinal:8
Fixed:5
Mutable:6

Divination Journal

Tarot

Today’s Tarot card reading comes from The Celtic Dragon Tarot by D. J. Conway. With art done by Lisa Hunt. This deck is unique as the cards are never read in reverse. 

 

Nine of Cups – Minor Arcana

Wishes granted.

A majestic Water dragon rises out of a lake with an ornate chalice full of jewels in its claws. A Woman stands with outstretched hands to take the chalice. She has realized she has the right to ask for help in attaining her goals, symbolized by the eight rich-looking chalices that sit around her feet on the shore. Abundance is unlimited, whether the abundance is spiritual growth, emotional contentment, physical health, or material possessions. The wave on the water symbolize the constant movement within the realm of universal possibilities.

Divinatory Meaning: Your wish will be granted. Success, accomplishment, and satisfaction will soon enter your life.

Today’s Animal Spirt Guide card comes from Messages from Your Animal Spirit Guides Oracle Cards by Steven D. Farmer

Animal Spirit Guide or Helper

Humpback Whale

“Music is essential to your healing and well-being, whether sing, playing an instrument, or listening”

In order to diagnose their patients, one of the questions, that shamans often asked was when the patient stopped singing. If it had been quite some time, the shaman was certain to recommend sing (among other remedies) as an essential aspect of recovery. All that’s involved when you sing — the fullness and rhythm of your breathing, the opening of your mouth and jaw, and the soulful and creative expressions of your spirit — serves to enhance your health and raise your vibrations.

Similarly, playing an instrument can touch those inner creative depths that yearn to be expressed through song. Simply Listening with your full attention to you favorite tune or melody can also inspire and heal. Make music as essential to your lifestyle as eating and breathing.

You can breach the inhibitions about expressing yourself musically that you’ve acquired over the years in some very simple and easy ways: Sing, chant, or play an instrument! Take a few voice lessons as a means to shore up your confidence. Let the magical child inside help you rediscover the joy of creating music. Dive in and play!

Associations: Singing; Breathwork; Sound Healing; Sensitivity; Alchemy; Ancestral Wisdom; Creativity; Inner Depths; Insight; Healing; Release; Guardianship

Rune

Dagaz

Sound: “d”
Stands for: Day
Color: Yellow
Casting meaning: Dagaz represents a stability between opposites, such as light and dark. It can stop harmful energy from getting to you but at the same time allow the good energy to slip through so that you can make good use of it.

Witches’ Rune

Scythe

This rune means to cut away, to put an end to something, to sever or separate, possible something you have depended on vanishes from your life. You can now move to the next level and begin anew

When the Scythe Rune turns up in a reading this indicates certain changes must occur and time must pass before a coming to terms with something that is hard to accept.

You may experience a passing through of difficulties before reaching a new level.

Walls and blocks may see insurmountable at the current time. But the Scythe implies you have the strength and fortitude to overcome all difficulties that you now encounter.

Ogham

Saille

S is for Saille, pronounced sahl-yeh, and is associated with the Willow tree. The Willow is often found near water, and when nourished it will grow rapidly. This symbol is representative of knowledge and spiritual growth, as well as being connected with the month of April. Willows offer protection and healing, and is closely connected to the cycles of the moon. Likewise, this symbol is tied to women’s mysteries and cycles.

In folk medicine, Willow has long been connected with healing. A tea of willow bark was used to treat fevers, rheumatism, coughs, and other inflammatory conditions. Nineteenth century scientists discovered that the Willow contains salicylic acid, a synthetic version of which is the primary pain-relief ingredient in Aspirin. In addition to its use as a healing herb, Willow was also harvested for wicker work. Baskets, small curricles, and even bee hives were constructed with this bendable, flexible wood.

Saille Correspondences

Mundane Aspects: One cannot evolve without changing. Realize that part of life’s journey includes learning lessons–even unpleasant ones. This is a natural part of the human experience.

Magical Aspects: Give yourself a break periodically, and take time to rest spiritually. Know that change will come when you are ready for it. Allow yourself some flexibility in your spiritual life as well.

I Ching

Hexagram Thirty-Four/34

Name: Ta Chuang.

Keyphrase: The power of the great.

Formed By The Trigrams: Thunder over Heaven.

General: To win an advantage you not only need increase your strength but to accompany it with responsible action.

Love: You will find others have a powerful attraction to you – use this power wisely.

Business: This is a favorable time for business but do not try and go to far. Make sure you protect yourself and those around you.

Personal: Problem issues can be favorably overcome if tackled with honor and compassion.

Overview: Ta Chuang relates to the chance to take advantage of the current situation. Unlike Tun which urges a temporary retreat, Ta Chuang urges you to make the most of it. It carries the warning though, that overconfidence can lead to a downfall. Don’t be rash, plan your strategy wisely and minimize damage wherever possible. Feeling empowered is good, but don’t be narcissistic about it.

Numerology

Eight – BALANCE & POWER

In Numerology, both novices and professionals alike tend to focus on the “money and power” image of the 8. Often when a client requests a name change consultation, it’s because they want to add 8s to their chart with the mistaken belief it will bring them money and power

It is true that the 8, more than any other number, emphasizes the areas of career, business, finances, and authority.

As with other single-digit numbers, the shape reflects its most important attribute; in the case of the 8 it signifies balance. The 8 is the great Karmic Equalizer, a force that creates just as efficiently as it destroys. When the 8 comes knocking, you can be assured you will reap what you’ve sown.

The 8 creates a balance between the material and spiritual worlds.

At its best, it is as spiritual as it is materialistic. The sacred side of the 8 is practical, rational, and intelligent. It knows the difference between make-believe and genuine realization.

July 23rd to July 31st Astronomy Picture of the Day

To see any of the astronomy pictures of the day please click on the date or dates you would like to see.

2023 July 31: Phobos over Mars
2023 July 30: Spiral Aurora over Icelandic Divide
2023 July 29: Apollo 11: Catching Some Sun
2023 July 28: Young Stars, Stellar Jets
2023 July 27: Galaxies in the River
2023 July 26: IC 4628: The Prawn Nebula
2023 July 25: The Eagle Nebula with Xray Hot Stars
2023 July 24: Chemicals Glow as a Meteor Disintegrates
2023 July 23: The Antikythera Mechanism

Weekly Horoscope Sunday, July 30 to Saturday, August 5, 2023

All Signs

Mercury will be retrograde from Aug. 23 to Sept. 15. However, Mercury slows down before that, hence my recommended “buffer dates” which are from Aug. 10 to Sept. 30. Naturally, Mercury always moves forward, but three or four times a year it “appears” to go backwards relative to planet Earth. Mercury has domain over everything that moves forward. Cars, trucks, ideas and words. When Mercury is retrograde, these are the things that tend to stall or glitch. Car problems. Buses are late. Traffic jams. Communications are confused. Missed appointments. Misunderstandings. (Each Mercury retrograde is in a different sign, which means it affects you differently.) Fortunately, it’s a wonderful time to finish old business. Important: Avoid buying pricey Mercury-related items like cars, trucks, cell phones and computers during the “buffer” dates Aug. 10 to Sept. 30. So say we all.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

This is a productive week! You will work hard. You will delegate to others. Very likely, whatever you do might boost your income now or in the future. Meanwhile, the Full Moon on Tuesday could create problems dealing with your kids. (Hissy fits and meltdowns). It can also trigger problems with romance. (These problems might begin several days before Tuesday’s Full Moon.) Patience is your best ally when you’re dealing with emotionally, upset people. (Including you.) Take a breath and remember it is your outgoing breath that really calms you. In and ooooooout. In and ooooooout. The good news is this weekend is a fabulous time to socialize! Friday is an amazing time for romance and Saturday is fun city!

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Home and family continue to be your top priority. Many of you are entertaining at home as well as redecorating and making things look better. Mercury and Mars urge you to express your creativity and explore social outings, including sports and fun times with kids. Please note that as Mercury starts to slow down, you will likely hear from old flames and romantic partners from your past. Parents might hear from kids who have been AWOL. Tread carefully at the beginning of the week because Tuesday’s Full Moon creates a tug-of-war between home and family versus your professional obligations. Cope as best you can. Plan for fun times Friday and Saturday. Yay!

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Very soon, your ruler Mercury will start to slow down before it actually goes retrograde on Aug 23. Be smart and stock the fridge because relatives you haven’t seen for ages might be camped on your doorstep. (Do you have an inflatable air mattress?) However, this Mercury retrograde energy will allow you to settle family matters that have been up in the air or double parked for too long. Now is the time to wrap things up and solidify domestic plans. Be careful at the beginning of the week because Tuesday’s Full Moon is accident-prone for your sign. Slow down and take it easy and pay attention to everything you do and say. Do this fast because you think and talk fast.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

You will feel the effects of this particular Mercury retrograde more than other signs because it’s happening in your House of Communications, and that is the “home” of Mercury. This means that you can expect car problems, truck problems, motorcycle problems, public transportation delays this month and next. Communications with others will be jinxed. Computer problems are likely. Missed appointments, tardiness and misunderstandings about meeting places are just a few things that will be exasperating. Don’t freak out. Most of the problems of Mercury retrograde are minor, but they’re annoying. On the upside, you can finish papers, coursework and learning projects. Done!

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

During this particular Mercury retrograde, cheques in the mail will be late. Money and financial issues will stagnate. Tasks related to your possessions – dry-cleaning, mending, repairing will grind to a halt and things will sit there getting dusty. On the upside, this is a great time to finish financial matters that have been delayed along with issues about which you have been procrastinating. It will be easier to finish your To Do list versus starting new ventures. Don’t forget that this weekend promises fun socializing! (It’s possible to boost your income this week, as well.)

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

This week you’re happy to keep a low profile. Nevertheless, with your ruler Mercury in your sign plus fiery Mars, you will surface now and then to express your views in a confident way. Mercury is your ruler and when it goes retrograde this month, you will hear from people from your past, including ex-partners and old friends. Because this particular Mercury retrograde will be in your sign, you’ll be frazzled because of misplaced items, moments where you draw a blank, mixed-up communications, missed appointments and silly, goofy errors and delays. Fear not. You are not losing it. This is a temporary thing while Mercury retrograde is in your sign. Use this in a productive way by finishing old business, which will go easily and swiftly! You’ve got this.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

This is a popular time for you, which is why you’re reaching out more than usual to contact friends and interact with clubs and organizations. In particular, your interest in creative, artistic people is stronger. (Perhaps the theatre?) Be diplomatic at the beginning of this week because the Full Moon on Tuesday might create problems with your kids as well as romantic partners and social occasions. Fortunately, this tension is brief. It’s gone by the end of the week, which will then be a fabulous time to socialize! Meanwhile, this particular Mercury retrograde will help you to research and study history or anything from the past. You can use this!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Heads up at the beginning of this week because Tuesday’s Full Moon might create some angst as energy builds up today and Monday before the Full Moon peaks on Tuesday. You might feel pulled between the demands of home and family versus the demands of your career or your public reputation. You might find yourself at odds with a parent or an authority figure. Handle this as gracefully as you can. Remember, you look good to others right now. Meanwhile, Mercury retrograde will start to attract old friends back into your life. You might also meet people you knew from clubs and organizations. Something might happen that makes you rethink future goals. Get ready for a fun-filled weekend starting on romantic Friday!

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Starting today, you are floating along in an accident-prone “bubble”. Oh yeah. This means you have to pay attention to everything you say and do. Be vigilant for your own safety and welfare, especially because you will be a bit impulsive right now. (You want a change of scenery and more stimulation in your life!) Meanwhile, this particular Mercury retrograde is taking place at the top of your chart, which means you will hear from old bosses you haven’t heard from in a while, or parents or authority figures, even the police. You can use the influence of Mercury retrograde to finish a projected goal or project you’ve been putting off. This is the time to get ‘er done! Fun socializing this weekend!

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

You might be ensnared in power struggles about shared property, taxes, debt or the ownership of something. They might involve your finances and the finances of others or shared responsibilities. Something a bit nasty might come to a head on Tuesday. Remember: Your first loss is your cheapest loss. (My father-in-law told me that years ago.) Meanwhile, Mercury retrograde will be in the part of your chart associated with travel, education, legal matters, and medicine. You might experience delays or mixed-up communications in these areas. If you’re dealing with important matters, double check details so you have no regrets later. Meanwhile, this weekend is a wonderful time to party and schmooze! Friday is a romantic day and Saturday is just plain fun!

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

This week on Tuesday, there will be the only Full Moon in your sign all year. The build up to it is starting now. This is why you might be at odds with partners and close friends. Remember: Friendships are important to you. Meanwhile, life is short (and fat). Don’t waste your precious time embroiled in angry encounters with people who are important to you. The reason you feel strongly about issues is because these people matter to you. At one time, you had a vested interest in them. Wake up and smell the coffee. Meanwhile, Mercury retrograde might create delays in shared property and financial matters.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

As this week begins, the buildup of energy before Tuesday’s Full Moon might create problems with coworkers and issues related to pets or your health. Stay chill. Be part of the solution not part of the problem. Remember: Your objective is to be happy. Meanwhile, Mercury is starting to slow down in a few days, before it goes retrograde this month, and this astrological phenomenon will attract ex-partners and ex-spouses back into your world. (I once tried to hide in a remote aisle of a video store but got busted at the cash register.) Look your best when you go out because living well is the best revenge. Keep working because this will be like therapy. Fun weekend ahead!

Good Day WOTC Family and Friends!