Category: Articles

Your Earth Sky News for September 24: Full Harvest Moon September 24-25

Full Harvest Moon September 24-25

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Full moon falls on September 24, 2018 for us in the Americas, and on September 25 for much of the rest of the world (more about exact times below). It’s the first full moon of autumn for the Northern Hemisphere and first full moon of spring for the Southern Hemisphere. It’s the closest full moon to the September equinox. That makes it the Northern Hemisphere’s Harvest Moon!

No matter where you live worldwide, the moon will appear plenty full to you on both September 24 and 25, lighting up the night from dusk until dawn.

The exact time of full moon comes for all of us at same instant worldwide, but our clocks read differently by time zone.

The crest of the moon’s full phase is September 25, 2018, at 2:52 UTC; translate UTC to your time. For the mainland United States, that’s September 24 at 10:52 p.m. EDT, 9:52 p.m. CDT, 8:52 p.m. MDT, 7:52 p.m. PDT, 6:52 p.m. AKDT (Alaska Daylight Time), and 4:52 p.m. HST (Hawaiian Standard Time).

At the vicinity of full moon, the moon stays more or less opposite the sun throughout the night. A full moon (or nearly full moon) rises in the east around sunset, climbs highest up for the night around midnight and sets in the west around sunrise.

In this respect, the full moon displays this same characteristic in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Yet this closest full moon to the September equinox displays special characteristics for both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, related to the time of moonrise and the place of moonrise along your eastern horizon.

On the average, the moon rises 50 minutes later each day. For us in the Northern Hemisphere, the lag time between each day’s moonrise is at a minimum for the year. From 40 degrees north (Denver, Colorado, or Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), the moon now rises some 30 (instead of 50) minutes later. From Anchorage, Alaska (just north of 60 degrees north latitude), the moon rises only 10 minutes later.

The higher the latitude, the greater the Harvest Moon effect – the effect of no great lag time between sunset and moonrise – in the season of waning daylight.

At southerly latitudes in the Southern Hemisphere, where it’s now spring, the effect is opposite. In spring, the moon rises more than 50 minutes later on evenings following the September full moon.

Want to know when the moon rises for the next several days in your part of the world? Click here and remember to check the moon phases and moonrise and moonset boxes.

But we mentioned a second effect, along with the time of moonrise. It’s about the place of moonrise on your eastern horizon.

All full moons rise opposite the sun. That’s what makes a full moon look full. Close to the exact time of this September moonrise, from any part of the world, the moon rises approximately due east. On the next few nights after that – depending on where you are in the world – the place of moonrise varies.

From the Northern Hemisphere, you’ll find the moon rising farther and farther north along your eastern horizon each evening. Don’t know which way is north? No problem. As you stand facing eastward, north is your left. From the Southern Hemisphere, the variation in the place of moonrise along your eastern horizon – as viewed from one night to the next – won’t be nearly as great.

By the way, six lunar months (full moons) from now – on March 21, 2019 – it’ll be the Southern Hemisphere’s turn to enjoy a full Harvest Moon. At that time, from around the world, the southbound moonrises following the March 2019 full moon will provide southerly latitudes with the short lag time between successive moonrises.

Bottom line: From around the word on September 24 and 25, 2018 – enjoy dusk-until-dawn moonlight. It’s the Northern Hemisphere’s full Harvest Moon and the Southern Hemisphere’s first full moon of spring.

 

Originally Published On EarthSky

Your Solar Return

Navigate the next year of your life with guidance from the Sun

By Maria DeSimone

Sun, Birthdays, Astrology

Did you know that around the time of your birthday, a unique, temporary chart can be cast that encapsulates what you’re likely to experience over the next year of your life? You give birth to this chart annually when the Sun reaches the precise degree and minute it occupied at your birth. This can occur on the day of, day before or day after your birthday. Technically, this is the moment when you’re really supposed to make those birthday wishes. So just what is this?

Solar Returns 101

Known as a Solar Revolution or Solar Return, it’s a potent moment in time when you’re infused once more with all of the potential your Sun sign infused you with. Ever notice how saturated you are with vitality around your birthday? That’s the direct result of the Sun in the sky connecting to your natal Sun. This is your moment each year to begin the next chapter of your exciting life. What does that chapter contain? Well, interestingly enough, the outline can be found right there in your Solar Return.

Your Solar Return chart is cast for the date and time the Sun reaches your natal Sun placement. However, the location of your chart is not your birth location. Most astrologers prefer to use the location you are physically in during the moment of your return because this is technically where the energy imprint occurs. What is this energy imprint? Well, your birth chart works because at the moment you took your first live breath, the planetary energy patterns into the sky imprint onto your physical body. The same principle applies to the Solar Return chart. What’s the difference? In a natal chart you have this imprint for an entire lifetime, whereas your Solar Return chart is only active for one year. A Solar Return chart is read much like a birth chart, with an emphasis on the house placements of planets and their aspects. Of most important consideration in a Solar Return chart of course, is the placement of the Sun that year and any aspects it makes to the rest of the horoscope.

The Sun’s placement in different houses

A year where the Sun is placed in the 1st House of Identity, for example, suggests a time of focus on self-development. On the other hand, a year that you find the Sun placed in your 7th House of Partnerships will be a year you focus on others — particularly a close business or personal alliance. If other factors agree, a year where the Sun is in the seventh house might point to a marriage year. Is your Solar Return Sun in your 10th House of Career for the year? Expect significant themes surrounding professional advancement or shifts in your vocation. Wherever the Sun is placed in your horoscope is where you’re meant to shine your light for your entire life. Wherever the Sun is placed in your Solar Return chart will be where you shine your light specifically for that year.

Of course this is a general, bare bones analysis that does not include the aspects the Sun makes or other important considerations, but hopefully you get the idea. Remember: the Sun is the primary consideration in this Return chart.

The importance of comparing charts

Another major consideration in synthesizing a Solar Return is to then go and compare it with your natal chart. What sign, for example, is rising in your Solar Return chart? Where is that sign located in your birth chart? This means something vital since the Ascendant is an area of energy manifestation. Any angle is where the “stuff of life” happens. Do you have any natal planets conjunct a Solar Return angle? Again, this is important! All of these nuances add subtle but vital elements to a thorough assessment of your Solar Return.

As you can see, the Solar Return chart is an incredibly useful tool to add to your astrological toolbox. Think back on the years you had life changing moments such as a marriage, career milestone, move, divorce, or major life change. Check over those Solar Return charts and you will be amazed. Then, look into the future as you create your upcoming Solar Return chart. Anticipate what is yet to come.

Wishing you many happy returns!

 

Tarot.com is Part of the Daily Insight Group ©2018

Your Planet Tracker for Sept. 24: Mercury in Libra, Now Until October 9

Mercury in Libra: Friendly, Diplomatic, Easygoing

Now – October 9, 2018

By Tarot.com Staff

Mercury, Libra, Astrology

Mercury, the communication planet, gets nice and comfortable in the sociable Air sign of Libra. The Air element is very much about the mind and communication, so Libra meshes quite nicely with Mercury. Libra loves to build bridges and find ways to overcome our differences. It knows that there is more than one side to any situation, and wants to harmonize opposing points of view.

Mercury’s entry into this peacemaking sign signals a time when speech becomes a little bit softer to create more harmony in our relationships. We’ll all be a little more apt to bring down the noise level, allowing both sides of an argument to be heard. Because of this, Mercury in Libra is the perfect time to heal wounds caused by arguments or misunderstandings.

When Mercury is in Libra

When the planet of speech and the sign of one-on-one relationships get together, our communication with others comes into focus. This isn’t just love relationships we’re talking about — it’s also about our family, friends, and coworkers, too. If we’ve had any fights, or if we’ve been holding on to a long-term grudge, this is a good time to finally put them to rest.

Diplomacy takes center stage when Mercury is in Libra! Libra is represented by the Scales of justice in Astrology, so it makes sense that we’ll be more objective during this time, attempting to approach every situation in a fair-minded and balanced way. Think of this transit as a gentle reminder from the universe on the importance of considering others’ perspectives and embracing the beauty of compromise.

One challenge of this transit is the tendency to be a little too nice. Don’t sugar-coat things or withhold information just to avoid rocking the boat, as kindness could end up being a barrier to real communication. We need to realize there are many ways to connect with someone, and agreement is only one of them. Expressing opposing beliefs with respect and openness is a terrific way to strengthen any partnership.

Mercury Retrograde in Libra

It might feel like your love life has gone haywire when the planet that rules communication, perception, and thought retrogrades through relationship-oriented Libra. Mercury Retrograde in this sign can feel a bit like a not-so-welcome blast from the past because this energy likes to stir up drama, causing old relationship issues to reappear. If we’ve had any resentments in the love department, this is the time when they could come spilling out.

This is an especially tough since it might feel like we aren’t even speaking the same language as the people we’re normally in sync with. Miscommunication can easily happen, and our patience may wear thin. It’s best to take a deep breath and try to decipher what others are really trying to say during this Mercury Retrograde.

If you were born with Mercury in Libra

You’re a breath of fresh air — literally! With Mercury in an Air sign, you are quite the social butterfly, making friends no matter where you go. People tend to find you very charming, probably because you seem to have a knack for knowing all the right things to say. You like to keep things easy breezy, and your relaxed, go-with-the-flow approach is just another reason you’re so well-liked.

“Can’t we all just get along?” That should be your motto! You often play the peacemaker, avoiding (and preventing) confrontation if you can. It’s your ability to keep an open mind that helps you consider everyone’s input, and ultimately, find the middle ground. This, coupled with your cooperative and tactful nature, is especially helpful in situations that require collaboration or negotiation.

Do you find that decisions — no matter how big or small — are nearly impossible to make? You can thank your Mercury in Libra for that! Not one to be reckless or impulsive, you like to weigh all your options before making a move. Spending time considering the pros and cons can come across as indecisiveness to others, but you simply want to ensure the best outcome possible.

Art, design, music, literature — these are just a few of your favorite things! You enjoy dabbling in a wide variety of creative and cultural activities, and may even pursue a career in one of these areas.

 

Tarot.com is Part of the Daily Insight Group ©2018

Your Daily Charm for September 24 is Magick Nails

Today’s Meaning:
The spirit of someone you knew dearly is trying to guide you in this aspect. In a dark room light a single candle and focus upon its light. Listen carefully with your heart and you will know what to do.

General Description:
These Gnostic amulets were held in high esteem for their supposed magical properties. They were made of bronze, sometimes gilt, and covered with inscriptions and curious occult signs. The Gnostic’s were mystic sects which flourished in the second century A.D., in the Eastern provinces of the Roman Empire. The nails were carried as charms for protection from all evil influences, also to guard the living from the lemures, the ghosts of the unhappy dead. Nails with inscriptions were frequently buried with the body to prevent any haunting by the spirit.

Shuffling the Cards, Your Influences for the Week of September 24th

Your Weekly Influences

 

Tarot Influence:

Five of Wands

There may be obstacles on your path. Courage will be required to overcome them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Astrological Influence

Cancer

Creativity and a love of home are the key elements of Cancer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Element Influence

Air

Air denotes freedom and the ability to transcent the mundane. You may be, or may soon experience a spiritual or secular liberation.

Your Daily Ogham Reading for September 24 is Fearn

Fearn / Alder

 

This tree is a water lover. The oily water resistant wood has been used extensively for underwater foundations and pilings in Venice and elsewhere. It is used in dairy vessels and the branches in making whistles. It is associated with Bran, as He used His body as a bridge to span dangerous waters. It is used in the construction of bridges. Bran’s Head was oracular. Alder indicates protection and oracular powers.

Physical: Be aware of uniqueness in self and others. Keep your eyes open to see the unusual and acknowledge what is seen in another if at all possible.
Mental: You will utilize something you previously overlooked. Oracular skills are not easy to acknowledge. the mind is unwilling at times to deal with the intuitive part.
Spiritual: You offer spiritual aid and protection in a dispute. Let your intuition guide you.

Your Daily Witches Rune for September 24 is The Blank Rune

 

Witches Rune for the Day

The Blank Rune

Meaning: This is a rune of difficulty and negative influences will rule your life for a time, but as all difficulties are a learning experience it will lead to improved personal perspective and progress on your life’s path. Always consult the surrounding runes with this stone. If it lies with a positive stone, it indicates that the pain of this experience will lead to a beneficial change in circumstances.

Your Elder Futhark Rune for September 24th is Raido

Your Elder Futhark Rune for September 24th

Raido

“The journey is the destination.”

Raidho – “Ride-ho” – Literally: “Ride” or “Wagon” – Esoteric: Journey

Key Concepts: the journey of Life, stories, heroism, means of transportation, right action, movement, motion, taking charge, being in control, initiative, adventure, decision-making, direction, counsel, the right path, the inner compass, leadership, kingship, nobility held by merit, moral responsibility, integrity, respect for the rights of others, innate knowledge of right and wrong, celestial procession, rituals

Psi: the story ‘form’ in the psyche, freedom from imprisonment, self-mastery

Energy: cosmic cyclical law, rhythm, presence (active)

Mundane: street-smarts, common sense, travel, movement, taking action

Divinations: Rationality, sound advice, action, justice, ordered growth, journey; or crisis, rigidity, stasis, injustice, irrationality, control freak, hypocrisy, wrongful imprisonment, restlessness.

Governs:
Living in the present
Access to “inner advice” and our inner compass, following the heart
Movement within one’s natural limits
Blending with personal and world rhythms, consciousness of right and natural processes
Mastery of circumstance and control of situations, taking the lead
Establishment of creative rhythm in activities
Protection while traveling
Decision-making followed by immediate action

Your Egyptian Love Tarot for September 24 is The Tower

The Tower

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Tower card brings the possibility of freedom, awareness, and clarity to love and romance as it tears through the veils of illusion. Now is a time where you can see everything clearly and you will have a greater understanding of what kind of action to take. Though you may feel afraid at first, as you persist in the path of truth and freedom, you will make much progress.

 

Daily Tarot Card Posts are courtesy of Lady of the Abyss & Witches of the Craft

Your Egyptian Tarot Card for September 24 is The Judgement

The Judgement

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Judgment is the card at the crossroads of life. Whenever you get to a place of change, Judgment is the card that rules. No matter how confusing life gets, proper Judgment is the key to getting through it. Whether these are opportunities or entanglements, you only have three choices: bully your way through, leave it to destiny, or use your Judgment. Judgment dictates that it isn’t as important what you do as long as you do it right.

Your Daily Love Tarot for September 24th is The High Priestess

The High Priestess

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Love arrives today in the form of a mature and balanced partnership in which two people give as much as they get. They share their dreams. Be content if this is what you have. If a partnership is undergoing a rough patch at this time, balance comes in the form of compromise. It is easier to attain, and it works. This is especially true when we are slow to forgive and forget.

 

Your Daily Tarot Card for September 24th is Strength

Strength

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Strength Tarot card represents nature, which, however wild in its primal form, is tamed by our subtler, finer self — our feminine side, our inner self. The will and passion of our instinctive nature does not need to be broken, but refined and brought to consciousness, so that all levels of creation may come into harmony.

The feminine soul-force contains a persuasive power that can nurture and induce cooperation from others, stilling disruptive energies by harmonizing differences in the spirit of collective good will.

 

Tarot.com is Part of the Daily Insight Group © 2018

If You Were Born Today, September 24

TRUE LOVE

If You Were Born Today, September 24

Your goal is to find harmony and peace, as an organized, smooth-flowing existence is especially appealing to you. However, you seem to stir up controversy and opposition. Look within for contradictions if ups and downs are bothering you. Be careful not to give up your power in order to keep the peace, or you could find yourself resentful, irritable, and mischievous! Your heart is big and you are truly curious about how things work. At your best, you are compassionate and giving. At your worst, you may be somewhat controlling! You tend to stick things out in your relationships. Famous people born today: F. Scott Fitzgerald, Jim Henson, Linda McCartney, Phil Hartman, Brad Bird, Jessica Lucas.

Your Birthday Year Forecast:

The lunar phase at the time of your birthday this year is the Crescent Moon phase. This is a year in which you are striving to break free from habitual behavior patterns in order to free yourself up for new opportunities. While you may encounter some resistance from others, your path is to push forward and uncover new ways of expressing yourself.

This can be a year in which you experience important turning points, or you could begin new projects or goals that have a long-term impact on your life.

December and January may be a little more challenging than other months, but it’s also a great time for getting organized. This can be a time of fixing problems or taking on responsibilities so that your life runs more smoothly.

Relationships are mutually beneficial and naturally equal, fair, and balanced during this period. There can be a stronger inclination towards togetherness and sharing. Your negotiation skills are stellar this year.

This can be a busy year on a mental level, with personal interests, studies, exciting ideas, frequent lectures, debates, or animated discussions. You are more assertive or forthcoming with your ideas and advice or opinions. You are highly motivated to put your ideas into motion. There can be many errands, travel, and trips. You may be more actively involved with young people.

However, err on the side of caution if offers arrive that seem too good to be true. Some confusion or possibly deception could arise in communications this year, and you may be skipping important details without even realizing it.

Fortunate connections are likely to be made this year–connections that benefit you now and down the road and that enhance your chances of success at achieving your goals. A new relationship with someone that helps to broaden your horizons, expand your mind, and deepen your personal philosophy of life is possible, or existing relationships grow and improve.

A freer attitude towards expressing your affection is likely now. Your open heart may attract easygoing friendships or love opportunities into your life.

However, your energy can vary greatly from one period to the next, so take advantage of the “high” periods in order to offset the possible loss in productivity during the low-energy stages. This may be due to wavering motivation – you may be seeking out something more meaningful which can pay with your physical energy levels.

You seek out nourishment from — and naturally nurture and support — others during this period. Needs and cravings seem to be in harmony, or at least not in conflict, with those of your loved ones. It makes you feel stronger and good about yourself to help and support, and you seem to have a good support system in place for yourself.

You are very likely to attract loving relationships and/or new warm social contacts into your life this year. Your popularity increases and efforts to smooth over challenges in partnerships are more likely to succeed. This is an excellent influence for negotiations, marriage, and business partnerships.

The year ahead is strong for motivation, enthusiasm, and ambition. This can be a special year for your social or romantic life, which can be more interesting than usual. Fortunate connections can be made. You are embracing change and improvement in these areas. This is an excellent period for spreading your wings, trying new things, and taking on new and exciting interests, but you should watch for impractical choices and neglecting important details.

 

2017 is a Number Seven year for you. Ruled by Neptune. This is a year of preparation, chance, and refinement. It is not a time of dramatic changes. Instead, it’s a year when reflection on the past is helpful, and when refinements to your life path should be made. It’s a good year to study and analyze. Unexpected twists to your life story and “chance” meetings are probable. Advice – take stock of your life in order to prepare for more exciting years to come, examine the past and plan for the future, get in touch with your deepest needs and uncover your personal power, don’t strain yourself or actively try to expand.

2018 will be a Number Eight year for you. Ruled by Saturn. This is a year of power and accomplishment. Actively seeking to expand, taking educated risks, and moving forward are highlighted. This is a year of opportunity, particularly in the material and business world, and opportunities need to be seized. It’s generally not a year to find a new love partner, simply because the focus is on the material world and your place in the world. This is a problem-solving year in which you can expect real, tangible results. Advice – take action, plan ahead, seize opportunities.

 

Cafe Astrology

Fall Activities by Zodiac Sign

Use Astrology to find fun this fall!

By Simone Butler

Zodiac, Fall, Astrology

Autumn is a gorgeous season to be outdoors — the trees are decked out in their gold-and-russet finery, and there’s still enough sun to ward off the chill. So, tear yourself and your loved ones away from the all-consuming black hole of electronic devices, and pay a fun visit to Mother Nature. Where to go? Here are some ideas to jumpstart your imagination:

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

You like to be where the action is. Chasing storms out in the desert or another flat expanse would get your heart pounding — just make sure you don’t get too close! You could also take a fast-moving train or boat trip to enjoy the fall scenery and feel the elements whizzing by. Fall is a good time to run a marathon, as the weather has cooled down some. It would help you get in shape before all that holiday feasting, too!

 

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

A long, slow drive to savor the season would be right up your alley. Plan an all-day or weekend getaway, with stops at favorite restaurants or new ones that you’ve researched online. As a destination, a hot springs would be fantastic — you could enjoy a hike in nature, then soak for hours in healing mineral baths. You’d also enjoy visiting a picturesque town with lots of fun boutiques where you could stroll and shop for hours!

 

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Because your mind is so over-stimulated, autumn is a good time to chill out. An outdoor activity that focuses you completely on a goal — such as rock-climbing or archery — would clear and refresh your mind. Just be sure to leave the cell phone behind! An out-of-town film festival or wine-tasting tour would satisfy your need for variety and help you relax. If you’re in good shape, a back-packing trip will really get you grounded.

 

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Get thyself away from the kitchen, and out into nature where you can drink in the nourishment of the elements. You could drive to the mountains, hike during the day, then bundle up in warm clothes and view the stars at night. Or, plan an outing to visit family who live at a distance, and have them guide you on a walking tour of the area. If possible, plan your trip for the Full Moon, when your energy will be high.

 

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Horseback-riding would be an ideal autumnal excursion for you. Imagine yourself galloping through the trees in all their splendor, as the wind whips through your hair. Anything that gets your blood pumping, such as mountain-climbing or skiing (if there’s enough snow), would be good for both your heart and your spirits. If you need some motivation, be sure to reward yourself with a fine-dining experience afterward!

 

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

Planting a pre-winter garden, perhaps as a family or community endeavor, would be a lovely autumn activity for you. You could also round everyone up and visit a local farm or harvest fair to enjoy the animals and stock up on goodies like fresh goat cheese and homemade preserves. You might try planning an excursion to a lavender field to gather blossoms for sachets, or going on a hike and gathering white sage to make into fragrant bundles.

 

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

A romantic stroll down a wind-swept beach at sunset with a loved one would be your perfect autumn excursion. Or, take a trek around a beautiful lake and watch the ducks at play. A shopping expedition to a part of town that features clothing and home accessories from another country (such as Korea, Africa or India) would also be a fun outing when done in tandem. Treat yourselves to an exotic meal while you’re there.

 

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Getting away from time to time is essential for you. An excursion to the deep, dark woods would restore your soul this autumn. Go alone or with someone special, and commune in silence with the trees. Because your element is “fixed water,” which translates to ice, why not visit an ice-skating rink for an extra-special adventure? The simple, down-home pleasure of a rodeo or outdoor concert should also please you.

 

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

You love exploring unknown territory, even in your own backyard. This autumn, get out a guidebook to your city or a neighboring one, and plan outings to places you’ve never been before. Visit an observatory to see the constellations, an art museum to enjoy the latest exhibition, or go whale watching on a cruise ship. You could also go on a guided Sierra Club hike to learn about your local flora and fauna.

 

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

You love the past, so plan an excursion this autumn to an antique mall or open-air flea market to forage for treasures. Touring a local historical landmark or natural history museum would also satisfy the part of you that appreciates antiquity. You enjoy desert landscapes — the vast expanses soothe your soul — so why not plan a desert trek? Even better if you can add a trip to a local hot springs to soothe your weary bones.

 

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Autumn is a wonderful time to participate in team sports, from football to Frisbee. Even getting out to the park for a game of croquet or swinging in a swing can make you feel like a kid again. Because you’re interested in what’s new and progressive, you could also participate in a tour of “green” homes in your area, or learn how to landscape with edible plants by taking a weekend workshop on permaculture.

 

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

Visiting a marine park would be the perfect autumn outing for your watery soul, as would whale watching or sailing. If you’re seeking something tranquil, spend a day at the spa getting pampered, then go out for a delicious fish dinner. If a high-flying adventure sounds more appealing, hot-air ballooning or hang gliding might do the trick. Going to an outdoor concert where you can dance your heart out would also be fun!

 

Tarot.com is Part of the Daily Insight Group ©2018