Lunar Eclipse 7/16/2019

The lunar eclipse comes at 10:32 PM GMD, or 5:32 PM EDT.

It has Moon conjunction Pluto and Saturn with the South Lunar Node. The Eclipse Moon is opposite Sun and Venus with the North Lunar Node. This brings great tension to the world.
Moon conjunct Pluto with Pluto in opposition to the Sun signals a complicated period with lots of confusion, eccentric behavior in political circles, plenty of dealings with the police, underworld figures and street gangs. Venus is exactly in opposition with Saturn, terrible for Venus, signaling waste, dissipation, carelessness, sickness, and losses.
Mercury is retrograde in Leo conjunct Mars in Leo and square Uranus in Taurus. This causes sharp words, much mental stress and confusion.
Where the lunar eclipse is visible, the effects are stronger. Where it is not visible it registers as a strong lunation.
It's effects will last over the next 3 months.

A lunar eclipse in the 3rd decanate of Capricorn (24:01 Capricorn) is said to bring the death of some king, or head of state, and sedition.
Countries corresponding to Capricorn include India, Afghanistan, Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia, Greece, Bulgaria, Lithuania, and Mexico, and the city of Brussels.
The eclipse is visible though Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and India, but extends from South America to New Zealand. It is a partial eclipse.

The eclipse chart for Washington DC has the eclipse Moon, Pluto and Saturn in the 2nd house opposite Venus, Sun, Mercury, and Mars in the 8th house, square Uranus in the 5th house. This shows  dangers of a serious loss of money and a fall in the markets within 3 or 4 months. With Uranus in the 5th house, this could be sudden and sharp. Nonetheless, Jupiter is in the 1st house conjunct the Ascendant (Jupiter 15:30 Sagittarius, and the Ascendant 12:32 Sagittarius) showing the public outlook optimistic and resilient. Neptune is in the 3rd house at 18:33 Pisces, showing the media lying to and misleading the people. Neptune is square Jupiter, and confirms that.
Jupiter, Saturn, Pluto, and Neptune are all retrograde, and rising on the east side of the chart. This could delay the effects, and cause them to repeat.

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Raphael offers Tarot readings, and readings of the Oracle Belline, a French deck of cards, at Quest Bookstore of the NY Theosophical Society. Call for an appointment 212-758-5521.

Raphael studied western astrology with the late Ivy Jacobson, and was her teaching assistant.

Raphael also studied Chinese astrology (Bazi, and Jiu Xing) and Feng  Shui withTerry Lee,  and wrote three  books on Feng Shui, published by Crown and Random House (Feng Shui Step by Step, Feng Shui Strategies for Business Success, and The Feng Shui of Love). 

You can contact Raphael at www.raphaelsimons.com or call 212-502-077

Solar Eclipse 7/2/19

The Solar eclipse happened at 8:23 PM GMD. It was directly over Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay. It is possible that an earthquake in that region will follow. There is a transit of Venus to the eclipse degree (10 degrees Cancer) on the 11th and 12th of July for a possible repercussion. The Moon also passes square the eclipse on the 8th of July (when Mercury turns Retrograde), and opposition the eclipse on the 15th of July for possible timings of repercussions as well. In other areas of the world, the eclipse, not being visible, acts mainly as a strong lunation.

A solar eclipse in the 2nd decanate of Cancer is associated with the drying up of rivers, and social unrest.
Countries and areas under Cancer include Scotland, Holland, north and west Africa, and Paraguay; cities include Tunis, Algiers, Amsterdam, Venice, Milan, New York, Manchester, Stockholm, Constantinople, and Genoa where effects may be felt.

The eclipse is in opposition to Saturn and sextile to Uranus. It gives the feeling of intolerance of restraints.

Mercury is conjunct Mars square Uranus. There will be loud arguing and danger of fighting. Mercury turns retrograde on the 8th of July exactly in conjunction with Mars. The week of the 5th - 12th of July looks particularly tense.

The eclipse chart for Washington, DC, has the eclipse plus Mars and Mercury all in the 9th house. It continues the troubles over foreign affairs, and restrictions over trade and commerce. Saturn is in the 3rd house, restricting communication with that foreign power, Iran. Uranus is exactly on the 7th house cusp bring unexpected complications to foreign affairs. Uranus is exactly opposite the Part of Fortune, or Lunar Ascendant,  causing extreme attenuation of ties and communication. I believe this is speaking about Iran.
Meanwhile, Jupiter is in the 2nd house square Neptune in the 5th. The market will go up, but the square to Neptune warns of over expansion.

The eclipse chart for Teheran, Iran has the eclipse in the 4th house, Mars and Mercury in the 5th house, and Saturn in the 11th house. This is a bad sign for agriculture in that land. Saturn in the 11th house causes difficulties to the government including dissensions, and possible party splits. Uranus is in the 2nd house. This brings unexpected losses. Mars and Mercury in the 5th house bring violent crimes against women.
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Raphael offers Tarot readings, and readings of the Oracle Belline, a French deck of cards, at Quest Bookstore of the NY Theosophical Society. Call for an appointment 212-758-5521.

Raphael studied western astrology with the late Ivy Jacobson, and was her teaching assistant.

Raphael also studied Chinese astrology (Bazi, and Jiu Xing) and Feng  Shui withTerry Lee,  and wrote three  books on Feng Shui, published by Crown and Random House (Feng Shui Step by Step, Feng Shui Strategies for Business Success, and The Feng Shui of Love). 

You can contact Raphael at www.raphaelsimons.com or call 212-502-0775

Summer Solstice

The Summer Solstice came at 4:55 PM GMD.

The Sun is at 00:00 Cancer, the Moon is at 19:02 Aquarius, sesquisquare the Sun, denoting dangers of losses especially in financial speculations, and/or tensions and dangers of breaks in areas of diplomatic relations during the course of the summer.
Saturn is retrograde at 18:31 Capricorn conjunct the South Lunar Node at 18:29 Capricorn and Pluto retrograde at 22:26 Capricorn. And these are opposite Mars at 23:26 Cancer and Mercury (in the dark, and prone to impulsive moves, or leaping before he looks, as he is rises after the Sun) at 25:00 Cancer. There is a continuation of threatening gestures and bravado, while big businesses behind the scenes are playing their cards close to the chest, being backward about being forward, or keeping their intentions secret. What appears in the news may only be half true, and a distraction.
Jupiter at 18:06 Sagittarius is opposite Venus at 15:22 Gemini and square Neptune at 18:43 Pisces. This is a T-square of Jupiter, Venus, and Neptune. And Uranus at 5:34 Taurus is sesquisquare Jupiter, and semisquare Venus and Neptune. Moon, however, is trine Venus and sextile Jupiter. While it spells over expansion. It also spells optimism. The part of wisdom advises being cautiously optimistic.

The chart for at Greenwich UK has Jupiter retrograde in the 2nd house, opposite Venus in the 8th, and square Neptune in the 4th. And Uranus is in the 6th house. Optimism will push up the markets this summer.
Saturn, Pluto, and Moon are in the 3rd house, opposite Mars, and Mercury in the 9th house. And Moon sesquisquare Sun, showing a lot of arguing and nervousness between UK and Bruxelles over debts. But Moon sextile Jupiter in the 2nd house and trine Venus in the 8th house is very good for financial growth.

The chart for Washington DC has Jupiter in the 4th opposite Venus in the 10th, square Neptune in the 7th, and Uranus in the 8th. The Sun is also in the 10th. There will not be a war with Iran, although the chart shows that there is treachery with danger of secret attacks on the part of foreign powers.
Venus in the 10th house afflicted, warns of scandals in the highest circle, but Gemini Venus trine Aquarian Moon is very lighthearted.
Venus rules the 2nd and 9th houses. That spells money from foreign trade, possibly with China; that may be a possibility.
The Sun in the 10th house, is favorable to the President, but, afflicted by the Moon, shows difficulties that he will have with the Government.
Jupiter in the 4th house afflicted affects the land from all the storms. This might not be so good for crops. But Jupiter is also sextile the Moon. This mitigates the problems to a large degree.
Venus rules the 2nd house in this chart. Because Venus is in Gemini, the 2nd house is in Libra, and because of the afflicted aspects on the one hand and the trine from the Moon on the other, it means that the market could be quite skittish this summer.
Saturn and Pluto are in the 5th house opposite Mars and Mercury in the 11th house. Mercury rules the Asc. meaning the people are angry, and the country is divided.
Mercury and Mars in the 11th house shows Congress in turmoil. Mercury also rules the 10th of the President. In opposition to Saturn and Pluto in the 5th house, it shows the President in strained relations with foreign diplomats.

The chart for Beijing, China has Jupiter in the 9th house. Despite everything else, this is very good for improvements in foreign trade.
Neptune is rising above the Asc (21:00 Pisces). The people are unconcerned with the recent developments in Hong Kong.
The Moon in the 12th house, favorably aspecting Jupiter and Venus, shows continuing improvements to public institutions.
Uranus in the 2nd house sextile the Sun in the 4th house shows the unexpected losses and gains of money, but the Sun in the 4th house is very good for crops.

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Raphael offers Tarot readings, and readings of the Oracle Belline, a French deck of cards, at Quest Bookstore of the NY Theosophical Society. Call for an appointment 212-758-5521.

Raphael studied western astrology with the late Ivy Jacobson, and was her teaching assistant.

Raphael also studied Chinese astrology (Bazi, and Jiu Xing) and Feng  Shui withTerry Lee,  and wrote three  books on Feng Shui, published by Crown and Random House (Feng Shui Step by Step, Feng Shui Strategies for Business Success, and The Feng Shui of Love). 

You can contact Raphael through his website: www.raphaelsimons.com or call 212-502-0775.

Full Moon 5/18/19

The full moon came at 5/12 EDT

Moon at 27:38 Scorpio is in opposition Mercury at 24:24 Taurus. Mercury is combust the Sun. This is an indication of mental strain affecting the entire political world at this time.

Moon is also sextile Saturn Rx conjunct Pluto Rx denoting rethinking. Saturn is conjunct the South Lunar Node, exact to the minute, in two days. There will be expected negative consequences, potentially disasterous consequences, or backfiring.
The Moon is in mutual reception with Mars. This gives the Moon a second reading. Mutual reception Moon is opposite Saturn-Pluto. This will bring losses and bad publicity.
Mars at 1:47 Cancer is the dispositor of the Moon. Mutual reception Mars is at 1:47 Scorpio opposite Uranus and Venus, bring vexatious emergencies, possible accident or disaster from an unexpected source, unfortunate changes, errors of judgment, and carelessness leading to waste, also trouble with partners. In other words, trouble comes as a result of trying to get around trouble.

The chart for Washington DC has the Sun and Mercury in the 8th house opposite the Moon in the 2nd house, bringing difficulties to financial areas. The Moon is trine to Neptune in the 5th house giving a sense of false optimism to financial speculation. Mars is in the 9th house showing trouble in areas of foreign trade. Saturn and Pluto are in the 3rd house of transportation and the press, giving the potential of a major accident and harsh criticism from the media. The mood is argumentative.
Venus and Uranus are in the 7th house bring trouble to foreign affairs, producing awkward and unexpected complications.

The chart for China has the Sun and Mercury rising in the 12th house opposite the Moon in the 6th. The Sun is 27:39 degrees Taurus and the ASC is 00:53 degrees Gemini. Mercury is in the 12th house combust the Sun. China is biding time, not making any decisions, watching and waiting, The positions of the Sun and Moon, however, can disturb affairs related to the military and the workers. Saturn and Pluto are in the 9th house - of foreign trade - it is bad for shipping. Saturn may bring disasters to vessels, collisions with losses and deaths. Mutual reception Moon in the 3rd house opposite Saturn warns about the same. Mars is in the 2nd house. There is anticipated trouble in the financial sector, including banks, and the stock market - which could fall for a while. Mutual reception Mars is in the 6th house - of workers. But for the past year, as a result of this trade war, corporations have been employing fewer people, and giving those working longer hours. Nonetheless, Mars in the 2nd house shows a very sanguine spirit to the future development of China. Jupiter is in the 7th house. China isn't interested in conflicts. Jupiter is favorable for foreign relations. China has plenty of irons in the fire.

The ASC of the chart for Washington is at 21:55 Libra (exact conjunction with Spica giving good fortune and honor which may help to ameliorate the more untoward readings). The ASC of China is at 00:53 Gemini. These two signs show the matter changing fairly quickly, over three months at most. There are also two eclipses coming up in July which will change the matter, as it now stands.

The Chart for Paris has the Sun and Mercury in the 5th house, and the Moon in the 11th. Jupiter is in the 1st conjunct the ASC. Jupiter is 22:12 Sagittarius, and the ASC is 18:26 Sagittarius.
Saturn and Pluto are also in the 1st house close to the 2nd house cusp, showing the upset that lies ahead. On the 10th house is Virgo, and on the 4th house is Pisces. The 10th house rules the incumbent and the 4th house rules the opposition. The ruler of the 10th house is Mercury, and the ruler of the 4th is Neptune and Jupiter. Mercury, the incumbent, combust the Sun and opposite the Moon, is weak. Neptune, the opposition, in the 4th house and trine the Moon, is strong. The ASC also is conjunct Jupiter. Jupiter is Rx. The same sign (Sagitarius) is on the 12th house and the 1st, tying the past to the present. Marine Le Pen has tried before, and it looks like more people are for her now. It is probable that she will win the election later this month.
Mars is in the 7th house. There will be a big uproar in Bruxelles. Conflict cannot be avoided. Mutual reception Mars puts him in the 10th house in opposition to Uranus and Venus in the 4th. And mutual reception Moon puts her exactly in the 8th (the Moon is 27:38 Scorpio and the 8th cusp is 27:28 Cancer) opposite Saturn conjunct the Lunar South Node. Saturn rules the 2nd house-of-what-is-coming-up, meaning the future. This election threatens the stability of the EU. It will precipitate, among other things, Brexit.

Raphael offers Tarot readings, and readings of the Oracle Belline, a French deck of cards, at Quest Bookstore of the NY Theosophical Society. Call for an appointment 212-758-5521.

Raphael studied western astrology with the late Ivy Jacobson, and was her teaching assistant.

Raphael also studied Chinese astrology (Bazi, and Jiu Xing) and Feng  Shui withTerry Lee,  and wrote three  books on Feng Shui, published by Crown and Random House (Feng Shui Step by Step, Feng Shui Strategies for Business Success, and The Feng Shui of Love). 

You can contact Raphael through his website: www.raphaelsimons.com or call 212-502-0775. 

The solar eclipse of July 13, 2018

There is a solar eclipse on July 13. It is visible primarily in Antarctica and Tasmania, Australia.

It comes on July 13 at 4:04 AM GMD.

It is at 20 degrees Cancer, opposite Pluto at 20 degrees Capricorn, denoting a confused and complicated period where someone depended on will be absent or alienated.  There will eccentric, uncooperative, rebellious behavior in political circles. There will be dealings with the police, underground figures, and probable street violence.

A solar eclipse in the 3rd decanate of Cancer will show sedition in politics. It also points to much disease.

The effects of this eclipse are not exclusively limited to, but include the following areas.
Countries ruled by Cancer include Scotland, Holland, New Zealand, West Africa and Congo, etc.
Cities ruled by Cancer include Tunis, Algiers, Amsterdam, Venice, Milan, New York City, Stockholm, Istanbul, etc.
The area of the USA under the influence of Cancer includes Missisippi, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Washington DC.

The charts for Britain and the EU have the solar eclipse in the 1st house opposite Pluto in the 7th, showing much unrest, discontent, ill health, and generally unsatisfactory conditions affecting the people. There will be many important changes coming as a result. Pluto's opposition to the eclipse shows lack of international cooperation, and increasing disintegration or separation.
There is a wide grand trine between the eclipse in the 1st house, Neptune in the 10th house, and Jupiter in the 5th house that will allow needed changes in the Governments to happen more easily.
Economic conditions as shown by Mercury and Venus in the 2nd house, and the 2nd house ruled by Leo, are good.

The chart for the USA has the eclipse in the 5th house opposite Pluto in the 11th. This shows a drop in the birth rate, and danger in places of public amusement, and schools. Pluto's position in the 11th house shows no cooperation, but deliberate political wrangling in Congress. The eclipse in the 5th house shows trouble with diplomacy which may complicate the North Korean situation.
This chart also has Neptune in the 1st house. Neptune in trine Jupiter in the 8th house. There is a danger of many deaths from drugs.
Saturn is in the 10th house denoting trouble affecting the President in connection to what is happening in Congress (Saturn rules the 11th house).
The economic conditions, shown by Uranus (in the 2nd house in the DC chart) trine Venus, are very upbeat. The job market is good.
There is a wide grand trine between the eclipse in the 5th house, Jupiter, in the 8th house, and Neptune in the 1st, giving the country, in spite of it all, a sense of optimism and hope.

The effects of this eclipse are sporadic, and last for one year.


Raphael gives in-depth personal astrological readings. For information, go to www.raphaelsimons.com

The solar eclipse of 8/21/17 in astrology

The solar eclipse occurs on August 21, 2017 at 2:14 PM EDT. It is at 28 degrees Leo, a fire sign. An eclipse in a fixed sign (Leo being fixed) will have a long lasting effect, especially in the United States where it is visible.

An eclipse in a fire sign is destructive to cattle; threatens the ruler, and causes dissension among the people. It can trigger the movement of armies, fighting, fires; and possible scarcity of fruits of the earth especially in areas ruled by Leo, i.e. California and Hawaii.
By resonance with Leo, the following countries and cities could also be effected: France, Italy, and the Alps; and the following cities: Philadelphia, Rome, and Prague. Philadelphia could experience an uptick in violent crimes.

How negative or positive this eclipse is is shown by aspects of the Sun, the ruler of the eclipse. The Sun is exactly trine Uranus at 28 degrees Aries. The Sun, in the Aries decanate of Leo, also points to Mars. Mars is 20 degrees Leo (conjunct the Sun) exactly trine Saturn, 21 Sagittarius (trine the Sun), and exactly sextile Jupiter, 20 degrees Libra (sextile the Sun). In short, Uranus and Mars give the Sun good support. This eclipse, despite all, ultimately proves more positive than negative in effect.

This eclipse is also conjunct the star Regulus, one of the 4 Royal Stars. With the Sun, Regulus gives power, authority, great influence over friends, honor and riches, but danger of violence and ultimate ruin. With the Moon, as the Moon is eclipsing the Sun, it gives powerful friends but danger from false friends and enemies. This could be taken as a warning to the President.

A solar eclipse in the 3rd decanate of Leo (between 20 and 30 degrees Leo) is said to cause profanation of holy places, churches, and sacred edifices, monuments, also rioting and destruction of towns. We have already seen this happening in the days leading up to the eclipse; there will be more following.

It is possible that this eclipse will also set off earthquakes. It is interesting to note that the maximum eclipse appears to happen near the New Madrid fault, but points as well to Oregon. There are a number of areas that may be touched off within a year.
Where the eclipse appears at the zenith, in MDT, is also where there could be earthquakes.

The eclipse taken at the Washington DC, the capitol, is in the 9th house. In the 9th house we find Mars, the North Node, Moon, Sun, and Mercury, retrograde. The eclipse is trine Uranus, Mars is exactly sextile Jupiter and Saturn. So, the 9th house stands out as very important. The 9th house is the law courts, legal matters, religion and clergy, foreign trade, science, invention, etc.
There will be important, far reaching developments in the area of foreign trade, as shown by this eclipse. Mars, the ruler of the 5th house, involves diplomacy, and Moon, the ruler of the 8th house, speaks of finances.

The eclipse is 28 degrees Leo exactly trine Uranus, 28 Aries. Uranus is in the 10th house of the New York Stock Exchange chart. This is indicative of growth.

The Washington chart shows the following about the President. He is ruled by Mercury, as Mercury rules the 10th house. Mercury is in Virgo in the 9th house retrograde in orb of opposition Neptune in the 3rd, also retrograde. Mercury in Virgo is in his best place and strong. Retrograde in the 9th is shying away from public notice. Opposite Neptune is subject to many false rumors. The media and press, ruled by the 3rd house, promotes false rumors. Mercury and Neptune, both retrograde, will repeat and repeat. There is a terribly dysfunctional relationship between the President and the media.

Mercury retrograde shows some plans falling through or being postponed. The President changes his mind and backs out of whatever he's planning. Mercury is zodiac square to the Ascendant showing his changes of mind disadvantageous to some, but is mundane trine to the Ascendant, showing the opposite. Some will like him and some won't is what it boils down to.

Donald Trump's birth chart, Ascendant is at 29:58 degrees Leo, and his Mars is at 26:47 Leo. The eclipse, at 28:52 Leo is midpoint his Ascendant and Mars. This will impel him to take some very strongly assertive actions. Nothing about war is shown.
If the eclipse were exactly conjunct his Ascendant or Mars, which it isn't, there would be reason to predict Trump's demise. However, it is unlikely. It is clear, nonetheless, that he has serious challenges coming up.

Early repercussions of the eclipse are shown on September 2nd and 3rd when Mars passes over the eclipse degree. Also on September 4th when Moon comes to opposition the eclipse degree. Also September 3rd through 7th Mercury stations conjunct the eclipse degree. Mercury turns direct on September 5th. So, the entire 1st week in September will be interesting to watch.
There will be a number of other times of repercussion; the coming solar eclipse on February 15, 2018 at 27 degrees Aquarius, opposite this eclipse, for example.
Stay out of trouble.

Raphael gives in-depth personal astrological readings. For information, go to  www.raphaelsimons.com

Summer solstice 2017 in astrology

The summer solstice arrived on June 21st at 5:25 AM GMD in Greenwich, UK, or 00:25 AM EDT in Washington DC.

Charts for the UK, the EU, and the USA were drawn up.

The UK and EU
The Sun, at 00:00 Cancer was in conjunction with Mercury at 29:30 Gemini, and with Mars at 10:54 Cancer at that time. Mercury is combust; not promising much reasoning. So close to the Sun, his main concern is facts. What that is may turn out to be not so factual as being head strong. Mercury at 29:30 is out of patience.  Mars, in his sign of fall in Cancer, and conjunct the sun and Ascendant, is scrapping for a fight. Mars is also square Jupiter, amplifying the matter. So, the climate this summer, especially in Europe, is fraught with conflict; Mars is conjunct the Ascendant in both London and Bruxelles. It moves very quickly.
Uranus is sextile Mercury and the Sun, and trine Saturn, Saturn being opposite Mercury and the Sun. This may actually help matters to some degree. Both Mercury and Saturn are intercepted in the 12th and 6th houses respectively. There are seriously difficult obstacles (hidden), behind-the-scenes; Mercury opposite Saturn points to shrewd dealings.
The Moon is in her sign of exaltation, Taurus, in conjunction Venus. This will affect Mars, as Mars is in the Moon's own sign, to soften him and calm him down to a degree over time. Moon and Venus in the 11th houses of the UK and EU along with Uranus promises to give the matter of Brexit a hopeful atmosphere and guarantees the respective governments will come up with a deal that will work for all, despite diplomatic opposition shown by Jupiter in the 5th house in T-square Mars in the 1st and Pluto in the 7th house, a very critical aspect.
The Moon and Venus are also sextile Neptune and trine Pluto. There is an intention to avoid the worst.
There is a Yod aspect between Jupiter in the 5th house, Moon-Venus in the 11th, and Neptune in the 10th house. It forces attention on the opposition.
Jupiter, 13:25 Libra, a critical degree, is square Pluto in the 7th house and Mars in the 1st house. Among other things, international relations and trade are in critical condition. Because Pluto is retrograde, it will take time to sort out. Mars on the other hand pulls toward resolution.

The chart for UK has the Ascendant at 7:44 Cancer, and Mars at 10:54. The chart for Bruxelles has the Ascendant at 10:38 Cancer and Mars at 10:54 Cancer. Mars in such close proximity to the Ascendant, especially in Bruxelles, sets the tone of the chart. It is warlike and aggressive. Not only affecting the UK-EU matter, but the whole of England and Europe this summer. It will not come as a surprise if there are several terrorist events this summer.

The USA
The chart for the USA has 11:25 Pisces rising with Neptune at 14:16 Pisces.  Neptune is ruler of the Ascendant. Neptune is trine Mars in the 4th house, and sextile Venus and the Moon in the 2nd. This is a very colorful position and promises a lot of money.
Jupiter, the other ruler of the Ascendant is in the 7th house in a critical degree, square Mars in the 4th house and Pluto in the 11th house. While there will be some disputes with foreign powers over finances and trade, adjustments, of necessity, are being made; Jupiter is in a Yod configuration with Neptune and Venus-Moon. The country will enjoy an increase in money this summer. It looks very good for the Stock market.
Saturn is in the 10th house opposite Mercury, and the Sun in the 4th house. This is not a good position for Saturn, showing, in spite of the increases of money, troubles to the Government and especially the President this summer. Saturn is retrograde, and in peregrine, therefore weak, and rules the 11th house in which we find Pluto. This bring up questions just how much respect and cooperation the President is getting from his own party at this point. The troubles affecting the Government and President are coming from members of congress, from the opposition party, and from difficulties in trade relations with foreign powers.
The Sun is in the 4th house, The Sun rules the 6th house. In spite of the money shown by Uranus, Venus and the Moon in the 2nd house, there is opposition developing in the country, as shown by the Sun in opposition with Saturn. Some kind of deal will have to be cut, as shown by Saturn opposition Mercury, to avoid the worst. The Sun, as ruler of the 6th points to the matter of health care. It looks like the President is caving to pressure from his own party now, and needs to step up.

Raphael is available for personal astrological readings. For information, go to  www.raphaelsimons.com

Vernal Equinox 2017 in astrology

The vernal equinox was on March 20, 2017 at 10:30 AM GMT. I have made charts for UK, Bruxelles, and Washington DC.

The chart for UK, has the Ascendant in Cancer, showing the effects of the equinox not lasting beyond the Summer Solstice. Sun is in the 10th house, separating from square Saturn in Sagittarius, and Moon applying to conjunction Saturn and square Sun from Sagittarius. There is an element of cruelty in this aspect. All the same, it favors for the government, but Moon, ruler of the Ascendant and the 2nd house in conjunction Saturn in the 6th house shows sickness and discontent among the people. Saturn in the 6th confirms illness among the people, and discontent among the lower classes and in the armed forces, in particular the navy.
Neptune, ruler of the Navy, is also in the 10th house, showing the importance of Naval affairs at this time. Neptune is also sextile Mars in the 11th house, showing trouble involving the liberals, and unrest among sailors. There also may be some scandal in military circles.
In the 11th house we have Venus, Mercury, Uranus, and Mars. This has much to do with the Parliament. Venus is in mutual reception with Mars. This puts Mars in the 10th house. Mars in the 11th house brings trouble to Parliamentary circles, and party splits, and discussions concerning arms. In the 10th house, it points a more bellicose attitude especially coming from the Prime Minister. She is determined.
Mutual reception Venus is sextile Neptune in 11, a very fortunate aspect. Neptune is the ruler of the 10th house. The sextile from Venus favors the Prime Minister; she gets help from hidden sources.
Mercury in 11 is square Pluto in 7 and opposite Jupiter in 5. This brings and element of extreme confusion to foreign affairs. There is a lot arguing with the EU, and with Scotland.
Uranus in 11 is also square Pluto in 7 and opposite Jupiter in 5. Diplomatic relations are being strained. Pluto in 7 also points to terrorism. On 3/23 Mercury comes to exact square Pluto. What this means is that during Brexit, Britain is under attack, not necessarily by arms, but, it seems the EU, in its desperation, will try anything.

The chart of Bruxelles has Neptune, Sun, and Venus in 10. Mercury is conjunct the 11th house cusp. Mars is intercepted in the 11th house, but comes out of interception and goes to the 10th house. Other then this there is no difference between the charts. The Ascendants are 3 degrees apart. The affairs in London will affect Bruxelles, and the EU very strongly.

The chart of Washington DC has its Ascendant in Pisces. Affects of the equinox will therefore last until the fall equinox. It has Neptune conjunct the Ascendant, the Sun, Venus, Mercury, and Uranus in the 1st house, Mars in the 2nd house, Jupiter in the 7th house, Moon and Saturn in the 10th house, and Pluto in the 11th.
Neptune conjunct the Ascendant in Pisces gives the country a vision, or visions.
Five planets in the 1st house are very strongly positive for the people of the country; the outlook is sanguine.
Mars in the 2nd house shows ups and downs in money, with possible losses in the stock market. Mars is also sextile Neptune, showing possible overoptimism and a need for caution. But Mars by mutual reception with Venus is taken out of the 2nd house, and replaced by Venus. showing financial increases. Money will move fast. It looks interesting for business. There will be a lot of money put into the military. Jupiter is in the 7th house retrograde. Foreign affairs may be subject to some dispute, but there is no war.
Moon and Saturn are in the 10th house. The President may take on a rather fierce, unbending attitude, but the country will become more productive. (It is interesting that the Moon and Saturn are pointing toward the galactic center; the President is convinced of his vision.) There is no sign of the President being impeached or ousted in any way. Jupiter is the ruler of the 10th house. Moon in 10 is separating from sextile Jupiter in 7. There may be those who like him and those who don't. But, the chart shows him productive and serious. And it looks like the people are generally doing well.
The T-Squares are between the 1st, 7th, and 11th houses. Pluto is in the 11th. This shows tension in the area of foreign affairs, and illegal aliens. Pluto in the 11th house complicates the affairs of Congress. Pluto in 11 shows the Congress confused. They may act eccentrically, undependably, rebelliously, and radically opposed or defiant to the President; they cannot be trusted. Mercury, ruler of the 4th house is in opposition with Jupiter, ruler of the 10th. There is no agreement between the Democrats and Republicans in Congress and elsewhere at this time.
The condition of affordable care would be shown by the Sun, as the Sun rules the 6th house. In the 1st house, it is very much on the minds of the people. Sun separating from square Saturn with the Moon applying to square the Sun, there is not much encouraging or conclusive that can be said about it. Pluto afflicted in the 11th house shows Congress no better than a mad house; it is full of duplicitous characters. Neptune exactly on the Ascendant in the 1st house suggests that the people are in the dark. Venus, ruler of the 3rd house of the media is in mutual reception Mars saying that the media is shifty. So, where that is is undetermined at this point.

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The full Moon of 3/12/17 in astrology

The full Moon came on 3/12 at 2:55 PM GMT, or 10:55 AM EDT.  The Sun is at 22:13 Pisces, and the Moon is at 22:13 Virgo. Moon is in a T-Square with Mercury and Saturn. Mercury 27:31 Pisces is square Saturn 27:18 Sagittarius. And there is a T-Square of Uranus 22:40 Aries opposite Jupiter 21:21 Libra retrograde, square Pluto 19:01 Capricorn.

In the UK and EU the Moon is in the 2nd house, showing a full awareness and a coming of changes or a turning point in matters of economy. Mercury is the dispositor of the Moon and is ruler of the 2nd house. Mercury in the sign of his fall and square Saturn shows that these changes are disadvantageous. Opposite Moon, Mercury shows headaches to come. Mercury is in the 8th house of debt, and Saturn is in the 5th house of diplomatic relations. An afflicted Mercury in the 8th house shows changes coming to the Privy Council. The Privy Council is a formal body of advisers. Its membership consists of senior politicians who are members of either the House of Commons or the House of Lords. 
Jupiter is in the 3rd in T-Square with Uranus in the 9th, and Pluto in the 5th. Jupiter in the 3rd retrograde shows talks delayed. They pertain to foreign trade and matters of diplomacy. This pertains to Brexit, no doubt.
Moon in the 2nd house afflicted by Mercury and Saturn shows great uncertainty and fluctuation in the money and stock markets with resultant losses.

The chart in Washington DC has Sun, Mercury, Venus, and Uranus in the 11th house, giving emphasis to affairs in Congress. Moon is in the 5th house opposite the Sun and Mercury in the 11th, square Saturn in the 7th. Saturn, in mundane trine, eases tensions to a degree, and allows for productivity, so that, even though there is considerable tension especially between Congress, (11th house), and diplomats, (5th house), they may be sorted out, but not without considerable pains. Saturn in the 7th house is just not good for foreign affairs, and will bring up problems with foreign powers, danger of depressed foreign trade, and long term difficulties especially involving Arab countries. (Saturn is in Sagittarius; Sagittarius rules all Arab countries).
Mercury rules the chart at Washington. The Ascendant is Gemini 7 degrees. Mercury is in the 11th house in the sign of his fall, Pisces, square Saturn, conjunct the Sun and opposite the Moon. The general outlook is a bit troubled. The press, also ruled by Mercury, is making sure of that.
The President is ruled by the 10th house and its ruler. In the 10th house we have Neptune. Neptune is domicile in Pisces, and is semisextile Venus, but Venus is in mutual reception Mars, putting her in sextile Neptune. Venus sextile Neptune is a very fortunate aspect. The President appears to be acting independently and eludes attention. Venus' sextile Neptune comes from interception. It also suggests a woman, unknown because of interception, helping him.
Uranus, the ruler of 10, is in 10 opposite Jupiter retrograde in 5, and square Pluto in 8. The President, although under a lot of fire, rises above his opposition. Uranus is surpassing Jupiter and Pluto. Nonetheless, Jupiter in 5 causes failure in speculative adventures. Uranus in 11 runs into extraordinary difficulties in dealings with Congress, and Pluto in 8 shows losses of money. The matter of Obama care is a mess.
Generally as long as Mars is in Taurus and Venus is in Aries (until April 2) it's a good period for cutting deals. The mutual reception means there's nothing you can't get out of that you got in to.

Generally the effects of the full Moon last two weeks until the next lunation, but can last for 6.

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The new moon of 6/5/16 in astrology

The new moon came on 6/5 at 4:01 AM GMD. 

This is a very interesting new moon in that it forms a very tight grand cross in mutable signs, the Sun, Moon, and Venus in Gemini; Saturn in Sagittarius; Jupiter in Virgo; and Neptune in Pisces. (Sun and Moon at 14:53 Gemini, Venus at 14:24 Gemini; Saturn retrograde at 12:59 Sagittarius; Jupiter at 14: 18 Virgo; and Neptune at 12:01 Pisces). The Sun, Moon, and Venus are opposite Saturn, and square to Jupiter, and then Square to Neptune. The energy is completely discordant, and, being in mutable signs, extremely complicated. This means that during the coming days we will see a massive proliferation of arguments, with a lot of confusion and seriously misleading information circulating in the world. Effects of this grand mess will also include lots of swindling, a good chance of increasing illness, violence, and a general rise in collective insanity.

The new moon is rising in the chart for the UK. Saturn is in the 7th house, Jupiter is in the 5th, and Neptune is in the 11th. This new moon in the 1st house of the UK adversely affects the general outlook of the people. The new moon with Venus combust and opposite Saturn in the 7th house shows a great deal of unhappiness over differences of opinion. Venus opposite Saturn is not at all happy; social relations are being tried, not only with respect to the question of the EU, but in very personal ways. The squares to the new moon: Jupiter in the 5th house and Neptune in the 11th house, show disagreements reaching into diplomatic circles and Parliament. Mars is retrograde in the 6th house at 27 degrees Scorpio, conjunct the 7th house cusp. This means, Mars casts a shadow over international relations. It concerns not only the matter of the EU, but the matter of the rising migrant population. The ASC, at 28 degrees Taurus, is conjunct the Pleaides and opposite Mars, showing quarrels and violence. The people are angry. The Part of Assassination is conjunct the ASC opposite Mars. Possibilities of violence over the coming couple of weeks leading up to the referendum are to be taken very seriously.

The new moon in the chart for the USA is in the 5th house, opposite Saturn in the 11th, square Neptune in the 2nd, and square Jupiter in the 8th, the 2nd, 5th, 8th, and 11th houses all having to do with finances. The financial and business picture at this new moon looks shaky. The stock market will be shaky. Mars retrograde in the US chart is in the 10th house, pointing to deep, possibly hidden and/or long festering trouble in the highest circles of the Government. Neptune afflicted in the 2nd house points to financial losses due to fraud, theft, swindling, and everything underhanded and secret. This does not only affect individuals, but is happening on a large scale, as in banking and the stock market, if not in government agencies.

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The USA at age 239: July 4, 2015

July 4, 2015 marks the 239th birthday of the USA. Astrological progressed and directed charts were drawn up to see what's in store.

At a glance, between all of these charts, Mars has most aspects.

1. The progressed chart has progressed Mercury trine natal Mars;
2. converse progressed chart has converse progressed Mars separating from opposition to natal Mars;
3. converse progressed Jupiter is conjunct natal Mars;
4. converse progressed Mars is opposite converse progressed Jupiter;
5. directed Mars is separating from square to natal Mercury;
6. directed Saturn is applying to trine natal Mars;
7. converse directed Mercury is square natal Mars.

Of these seven aspects, two are good (Mercury trine Mars and Saturn trine Mars), and the other five are essentially evil. Mars is violent. Mars in the natal chart is in Gemini, denoting arguing. Mercury trine Mars this year denotes plenty of that, and plenty of costly legal wrangling. It also denotes dangers of violence on the streets and in schools; this includes potential acts of terrorism.

This is a year of strife. The contentious spirit in America will continue through this year and into 2016, the election year.  Saturn's trine to Mars comes to perfection in 2016 at the time of the elections. A constructive movement is working its way up through all the fighting. Saturn represents the Democrats. They will win the presidency.

The planet of age 239 is Moon. The planet of age 240 is Saturn. This year, significant developments denoted by the Moon are to be noted. In the Gemini rising chart from 1776, the natal Moon is in the 10th house. It points to a woman or women in the highest circles of the Government. It also points to the people in general. The natal Moon is in Aquarius denoting a universal spirit that is developing in the country through this year with all its strife. The people are rising up and are making their voices heard. Next year, 2016, significant developments denoted by Saturn are to be noted. The Gemini rising chart has Saturn in the 4th house denoting the land itself. We have to consider what is happening to the land. Politically, Saturn is also the planet of the Democratic party. Jupiter is that of the Republicans. Since Saturn is in the 4th house of the natal chart, the 4th house being the opposition to the incumbency, we can expect there will be a very loud and strong stand taken by the opposition to the incumbent party in DC toward the elections. The lunation chart of 10/30/16, however, favors the Democrats. Compromises will be reached.

Other outstanding aspects of the charts show Uranus in tight conjunction with the Gemini rising Ascendant. This is a revolutionary time we are in, whether you like it or not. The way Uranus moves, it will transit Gemini in the later '20s when there will be tremendous changes in this country. The last times Uranus transited Gemini were WWII, the Civil War, and the American Revolution.

We also see converse progressed Neptune conjunct the converse progressed Ascendent. This happens in the natal 9th house. It denotes a blind spot and insane opinions this country has to deal with in regard to such things as religion, education, and foreign trade. Natal and converse progressed Neptune are in Virgo. Conjunct the converse progressed Ascendent it points to issues concerning dishonesty connected to foods, medicines, and chemicals. The country is being poisoned. The 9th house placement of this conjunction points to legalization of these crimes.

We also have the directed Sun applying to square natal Moon as read in the Gemini rising chart. This only confirms the currently developing strife.

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Fall equinox in astrology

Fall equinox arrived on September 22 at 9:45 PM GMD. It marks the mid-point of the astrological year.

The most outstanding aspect in the chart for the equinox is Saturn applying to exact conjunction with the north lunar node, Saturn at 9 degrees 9 minutes Scorpio and the north lunar node at 9 degrees 34 minutes Scorpio. This conjunction marks fatal events coming to the world. Searching the charts for the different places where this aspect is in an angle (the 1st, 4th, 7th, or 10 house), it shows up in the 4th house in Pakistan. A huge earthquake happened there almost immediately after the equinox. Affecting the entire fall season, we may expect other violent events to happen because of this aspect. Areas in the world that resonate to Scorpio, the sign in which we find Saturn and the north lunar node, include Syria, Brazil, Norway, Catalonia, the Congo, Kenya, Turkey, Crete, Egypt, Greece, Iraq, western Alaska, the Hawaiian Islands, California, and such cities as Jerusalem, Baghdad, Washington D.C, Boston, New Orleans, Baltimore, Los Angeles, and so on.

In the chart made for the US, we find the conjunction of Saturn and the north lunar node in the 9th house. The 9th house points, in addition to the areas in the US listed above, to the Appalachian region, including southwestern New York state; most of western Pennsylvania; West Virginia; the southern half of Ohio; Kentucky; the eastern side of Tennessee; the northwest part of Georgia; and the northeast part of Alabama, including the city of Birmingham. Scorpio has correspondence to chemicals and ground water, as well as to atomic power. There is a lot of fracking in the Appalachian region. The Saturn conjunction with the north lunar node may also point to earthquakes. The Appalachian region and the far west are possible.

In addition to the Saturn conjunction with the north lunar node the chart has a T-square of the Moon in Taurus opposite Venus in Scorpio, and Venus and the Moon square Mars in Leo. In the chart for the US Mars is in the 7th house pointing to international disputes, bad foreign relations, and danger of war. Saturn in conjunction with the north lunar node in the 9th house points to serious difficulties in international trade relations.

We also find in this chart the Sun in Libra in a T-Square with Pluto in Capricorn and Uranus in Aries. In the chart for the US this T-square occurs with the Sun in the 8th house, Pluto in the 11th house, and Uranus in the 2nd house. It affects great difficulties in financial affairs and brings confusions to the activities of Congress influenced by underworld, or shady figures.

The charts made for the EU and the UK show the Saturn conjunction with the north lunar node in the 6th house, with Venus in the 6th house opposite the Moon in the 12th and Mars in the 4th, adversely affecting public services and arousing resentment amongst the people. The Sun is in the 5th house opposite Uranus in the 11th, and square Pluto in the 8th causing difficulties in diplomatic relations, especially over finances, while Jupiter in the 2nd house shows the bankers getting richer.

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The Virgo new moon

The new moon occurred at 7:37 AM EDT in DC. Sun and Moon were in the 12th house sextile Jupiter in the 10th house. This shows possible benefits coming to and from public institutions this month. But Jupiter being opposite Pluto and square Uranus limits the benefits.

Mars is in the 11th house square Saturn in the 2nd house. There is serious fighting in Congress (11th house) having to do with the nation's future (2nd house) and with financial problems the country is facing.

Pluto is retrograde  in the 4th house square Uranus retrograde in the 7th. The country reacts against the idea of war. Uranus afflicted in the 7th house is bad for foreign affairs. It depresses foreign trade, damages foreign relations, and it threatens war. Because Uranus is retrograde, war at this time is not altogether likely. Retrograde denotes backing down.

Jupiter in the 10th house is afflicted. It doesn't show war, but it does show financial difficulties and damage to the national honor.

Venus is conjunct the star Spica in the 2nd house. This says that as bad as the economic picture looks there is reason for hope in the future.

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The Taurus solar eclipse in astrology

The solar eclipse at 19 degrees Taurus occurred at 1:21 AM GMT on May 10. It was in conjunction with Mars and Mercury at 14 and 17 degrees Taurus, respectively. And it was widely opposite Saturn at 7 degrees Scorpio. The eclipse was visible over eastern Australia, New Zealand and across much of the Pacific, affecting the Ring of Fire where we may expect increased seismic and volcanic activity. The affects of the solar eclipse last over one year.

Where the eclipse appears in the angles of the chart (the 1st, 4th, 7th, and 10th houses) is where it has noticeable physical affects in the earth itself. Accordingly, the eclipse appears in the 1st house in Tehran, Iran, in the 4th house in Reykjavik, Iceland, in the 7th house in San Francisco, California, and in the 10th house in Tokyo, Japan and Sydney, Australia. There will be increased seismic and volcanic activity in Ring of Fire in the western Pacific and along the coast of north America and down into Mexico and beyond; there will be earthquakes in Iran, possible volcanic activity in Iceland and/or the Canaries, and possible tremors in the mid Atlantic and Caribbean.

The chart for Iran amplifies the prediction of earthquakes there from the lunar eclipse of April 25. A significant earthquake will very probably happen in the area around Iran, the Caspian sea and the Caucasus this year.

The solar eclipse in the middle decanate of Taurus conjunct Mars opposite Saturn is violent. A traditional reading of a solar eclipse in this part of Taurus points out dangers to travelers, and to women in childbirth.

The solar eclipse in the UK is in the 3rd house. it brings increased dangers of accidents in connection to roads and railways. Stocks in railways may lose value. It also spells losses in areas of literary undertakings, including publishing ventures in books, newspapers and magazines, and internet activity. There is also plenty of arguing and anger on the streets. The 4th house of the UK chart is at 25 degrees Taurus, conjunct the star Algol, saying that quarreling goes to the point of people losing their heads.

The solar eclipse chart in the EU as seen from Bruxelles is almost the same as in the UK. There is a lot of arguing going on. The 4th house cusp of the Bruxelles chart is at 29 degrees Taurus, conjunct the Pleiades. This says that the quarreling becomes a weeping matter.

The solar eclipse in Iran has Mars, Mercury, Sun, Moon, and Venus in the 1st house. Mars is closest to the Ascendent. The country is in a warlike spirit. Mars opposite Saturn in the 7th house is extremely unfortunate. It causes the people to become discontent. There are possibilities of riots, terrorist activity, crimes. The people are angry. If Iran is attacked this year it will be extremely unfortunate.

The solar eclipse in Australia, as well as Japan, has Mars, Mercury, the Sun, Moon, and Venus in the 10th house. An eclipse in the 10th house spells defeat of the current Government. Mars in the 10th house opposite Saturn brings much trouble to the Government, and a notable death in the highest of circles, possibly in the Government.

The solar eclipse in the US is in the 6th house with Mars and Mercury in the 6th house as well. This is unfortunate for the working class; there is an increasing sense of discontentment; the job market is weak. The general health of the people will suffer; Mars, Mercury and the eclipsed Sun in Taurus show a mood of depression. The eclipse in the 6th house also suggests that there may be a notable death in military circles, and that military affairs will tend to be unfortunate.

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Vernal equinox in astrology

The vernal equinox came on March 20 at 11:03 AM GMT. The vernal equinox marks the astrological new year. The chart has two main planetary configurations: a grand trine and a T-Square.

The grand trine is in water. It is between Moon in Cancer, Neptune and Mercury in Pisces, and Saturn in Scorpio. Mercury and Neptune are in conjunction. This brings to the world a broad and deeply expansive emotional and imaginative energy thorugh the spring. The trine of Saturn to Neptune and Mercury is generally favorable for those in employment of the state and suggests general political reforms and changes to the advantage of the people, especially the poor. Mercury in conjunction with Neptune modifies the more sanguine indications of this grand trine, as it hints of scandals, secret crimes, frauds, and dishonesty and trickery in Government deals. Subversive elements are in the works. This is confirmed by Mercury square and in mutual reception with Jupiter in Gemini. The square of Mercury and Jupiter tell of secret crimes, frauds and swindles, as well as unsavory news and scandals involving religious figures. The Moon trine Saturn increases the power of the people. The Moon in good aspect with Mercury favors literary persuits and publishing. as well as scientific progress. It also brings much flapdoodle, i.e. political speech making, and favors trade agreements. The Moon trine Neptune favors all forms of charity and democratic, socialistic developments. The people are a major force this year. They will come to clash with the powers that be.

The Moon at 7 degrees Cancer is in her 8th mansion and 10th lunar house. The 8th mansion, called Amathura, favors the people. It also favors traveling, or movement toward the goal. The 10th lunar house also favors traveling. It also brings dangers of illness. It demands perseverance and flexibility; success does not come easily.

The second major configuration of planets, the T-square involves Venus (at 27 degrees Pisces), the Sun (at 00 degrees Aries), Mars (at 6 degrees Aries), and Uranus (at 8 degrees Aries) square the Moon and Pluto, the Moon being opposite Pluto. The Sun, Mars and Uranus all in conjunction are bringing up violent force. Square to Pluto and the Moon this will become explosive. So, we see the expansiveness of the above mentioned grand trine combining with the extreme dynamism of the T-square to bring turmoil to the entire world this year. The energy will be tremendous. There will be large events in the earth and in the weather, and the people in large number will be engaging in loud protests, especially in Europe, but in other places as well. The Moon opposite Pluto compounds complications in all spheres of activity involving the people, and it brings out criminal elements; popular movements will be infiltrated by underground crime and secret military forces. Moon and Pluto square Mars and Uranus confirm this. Violence is coming. Sun, Mars and Uranus are in Aries. Countries ruled by Aries, (and influenced by Aries), are prone to violence. These include UK, Germany, Israel, Palestine, Denmark, (France), Iceland, (Japan), (New Zealand), Poland, (Spain), Syria. Places ruled by Cancer and Capricorn will also be places of turmoil and violence. The Moon in Cancer points to the Netherlands, and New York City. Pluto in Capricorn points to India, Punjab, Afghanistan, Bulgaria, Greece, Mexico, the states of Saxony, Hesse, Styria, and to the all-important city of Bruxelles. Bruxelles is the king pin of the EU. The EU is in hot water this year.

To find out what happens where charts were made for various capitals in the world. What they show is as follows.

The vernal equinox in the UK has Venus, Sun, Mars and Uranus in the 10th house square Moon rising in the 12th and Pluto conjunct the 7th house cusp. This puts tremendous pressure on the current Government. The Sun afflicted by conjunction Mars and Uranus, square Moon, and square Pluto points to illness and death among royalty, serious troubles in the Government and loss of national honor. Mars conjunct Uranus and square Moon and Pluto points to much violence if not involvement in war, and shows death in royal circles. Afflicted Uranus in the 10th house points to sudden developments with much trouble in Government circles which may result in defeat and resignation. It also points to attacks against members of the royalty and of the ruling party. The conservative Government may be defeated this year. The Moon in the 12th house opposite Pluto points to increasing poverty, much illness among the people, scandals involving hospitals and charities, increasing crime against women and children, and a general rise in crime and violence through the nation.

The vernal equinox in Bruxelles chart is almost exactly the same as in the UK. The conditions shown in the UK will be similar in Bruxelles, therefore in all of the EU. We can expect turmoil in Government circles with leaders being defeated, while violence and crime, poverty and illness are on the rise everywhere in the Euro zone.

The vernal equinox in Germany chart is also the same s in the UK. The indications lead us to anticipate the coming defeat of Mme. Merkel's Government. The Sun, Mars and Uranus are in interception in the 10th house in this chart. That says that there is coming conflict and interference in the Government process. While this is happening, however, Germany's foreign trade relations, especially overseas appears to be growing.

The vernal equinox in Russia chart has the Sun, Mars and Uranus in the 9th house square the Moon in the 11th, and Pluto in the 7th house. This points to potentially productive tensions in foreign trade relations, possibly involving oil and gas. Moon in Cancer trine Mercury and Neptune in Pisces, trine Saturn in Scorpio shows the increasing development of oil and gas reserves. Mars rules the 10th house. In the 9th, Mars shows the Putin Administration appearing to aggressively take advantage of foreign trade opportunities amidst troubled conditions abroad. Mars and Uranus afflicted in the 9th house also point to violence as well as possibilities of large fires in one or another of the provinces.

The vernal equinox in Israel, as shown by the chart made for Jerusalem, very similar to the chart made for Moscow, has the Sun, Mars and Uranus in the 9th house square Moon in the 12th house and Pluto in the 6th. It shows the Government aggressively persuing foreign trade. There will be continued violence in the Palestinian territories, and there will be an increase in poverty in Israel as well as in the territories with increase of disease and crime. No foreign war is showing in this chart.

The vernal equinox in India chart has Jupiter at the zenith. This is very fortunate for the Government. But Jupiter square and mutual reception to Mercury tell that there is much finagling going on involving the opposition party and foreign relations that complicate and confuse Government affairs. The Sun, Mars and Uranus straddle the 8th house cusp with Moon in the 11th house and Pluto in the 5th telling that there is much bickering in the Parliament involving diplomatic relations connected to financial concerns. Mars and Uranus afflicted in the 8th house show many suicides, and many sudden and violent deaths by accidents and crimes.

The vernal equinox in Pakistan chart is similar to that of India. Jupiter in the 10th house protects the Government, but square Mercury, the Government is entangled in many complex affairs involving much trickery. Sun, Mars and Uranus in the 8th house warns of dangers of violence and sudden deaths, possibly in the east and southwest of the country.

The vernal equinox in China chart has Venus, Sun, Mars and Uranus in the 6th house with Moon conjunct the mid-heaven and Pluto conjunct the nadir. Mars and Uranus afflicted in the 6th house point to much infectious and inflammatory disease coming. It also points to fires, explosions, and serious accidents with losses of life in military installations and places of labor that will be of great concern to the Government. Pluto conjunct the nadir square Mars and Uranus, and opposite the Moon warns of the housing bubble imploding. Saturn in the 2nd house retrograde points to poor revenue and danger of financial stagnation. But Saturn trine the Moon, Mercury and Neptune will mitigate the danger to some degree.

The vernal equinox in Australia chart has Sun, Mars and Uranus in the 5th house with Moon in the 8th and Pluto in the 2nd. This brings much crime against women and children, danger of violence in places of amusement including theaters and sports arenas. It also brings danger of violence, accidents and fires to schools and to parties. There will be notible deaths among entertainers. Sun, Mars and Uranus afflicted in the 5th house also brings diplomatic troubles. Moon in the 8th house and Pluto in the 2nd show this in connection to financial interests. Mercury in the 4th house square Jupiter in the 7th shows finagling in land deals with foreigners. Who is buying up Australia?

The vernal equinox in New Zealand chart has Venus, Sun, Mars and Uranus in the 4th house square Pluto in the 1st and Moon in the 7th. There will be violent earth activity there. It is almost certain that there will be a large earthquake. The 4th house cusp is in Pisces. There may be a tsunami as well. At the same time, Sun, Mars and Uranus are in Aries, a fire sign denoting fire. There may also be a volcanic eruption. This, of course, is also possible in all of the islands in the region.

The vernal equinox in the USA chart has Venus, Sun, Mars and Uranus in the 1st house with Pluto in the 10th and Moon in the 4th. This points to the people becoming very angry with the Government. There is serious danger of violence in the country. Pluto in the 10th opposite Moon in the 4th shows the incumbent and the opposition at odds with one another over things that have nothing to do with the people and at the same time passing legislation that is to the disadvantage of the people. It appears that the Government becomes more and more entangled in more and more complicated affairs while ignoring the people. Jupiter rules the 10th house, and Mercury rules the 4th. Jupiter is in the 3rd and Mercury is in the 12th. Fruitless arguments and chicanery are indicated, and the press is misdirecting the attention of the people. The Ascendent of the US vernal equinox chart is in Pisces denoting that this conditions will continue about half the year. And while there is talk about possible war with Iran, this chart does not show it.

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Winter Solstice 2012 in astrology

Winter solstice 2012 occurs on December 21 at 11:13 AM GMT. Short of the end of the world, it marks the 3rd quarter of the astrological year whose beginning is at the vernal equinox. On this stupendous occasion we find the majority of planets in cardinal and mutible signs and in fire and air, which makes for a lively energy this winter quarter, but the Moon moving relatively slowly slows the course of change and makes for relatively fewer events this quarter than if the Moon were moving quickly.

The Sun forms the following aspects: conjunction Pluto, square Uranus, sextile Saturn, and sextile Neptune. The Sun's conjunction with Pluto, sextile to Saturn and sextile to Neptune tends to generate a more or less calming influence. Saturn and Pluto, exactly sextile one another, are in mutual reception, bringing a constructive, cooperative influence to the world in areas of large scale Government and corporate organization. The mutual reception also means that the situation is more or less flexible and different strategies are being tried out in order to find what works and what doesn't. The Sun sextile Neptune is peaceful, and favors large social groups, especially the poor and less fortunate. But, while this is true, the Sun and Pluto square Uranus will continue to generate tension and resentment in the world. While the world is tending more at this time toward cooperation tension and discontentment will continue to plague us.

The Moon forms the following aspects. The planet directly behind the Moon is Uranus. This brings some surprisng developments and turns of events this winter. The influence of Uranus tends to bring the unexpected and sudden. The chief aspects formed by the Moon are a trine to Mercury, and a square to Mars. Mars is at 26 degrees Capricorn, a critical degree. The Moon coming to square Mars points toward critical conflict in the world.

So, where do we find the conflict? The strongest indications appear in the Winter Solstice charts of eastern Europe and the Middle East. Charts were made for Moscow, Damascus, and Jerusalem. Mars at Winter Solstice is at 26 degrees Capricorn. The Midheaven of Moscow is 24 degrees Capricorn, the Midheaven of Damascus is 23 degrees Capricorn, and the Midheaven of Jerusalem is 22 degrees Capricorn. Mars is conjunct the Midheaven of all of the countries in this longitudinal region (approximately 37 degrees east). The Middle East, especially Syria, will continue to be a hot spot this winter, and the possibility of Russia entering the conflict is not to be ignored.

The chart for the UK has the Sun in the 10th house and the Moon in the 1st. Neptune rising and conjunct the Ascendent shows a liberal socialistic sentiment developing amongst the people, and needing to be heard by the Government. Pluto is in the 11th house. The Sun conjunct Pluto and square Uranus shows the Prime Minister and his party in Parliament engaged in a quarrel with the people. The issues are over money and debt; Pluto rules the 8th house of this chart. The Moon in the 1st house applying to trine Mercury shows productive talks. But, the Moon coming to square Mars in the 11th says that the people challenge the course the current Government has been taking. But, because the Moon and Uranus are intercepted in the 1st house, the people will not as effective as they would like to be, and are not being heard as they might wish.

The chart for Bruxelles, therefore the entire EU, are similar to the chart of the UK. Pluto, however, is in the 10th house. The Sun in the 10th conjunct Pluto and square Uranus in the 1st is a harsher aspect than in UK; it shows the Government acting with heavy hand.

What the above suggests, is that the peacefulness shown in the charts may amount to little more than Goverrnment suppression of popular opposition in the UK and EU.

Looking at the other side of the world, the chart for Australia has Jupiter is in Gemini, in the 10th house. Jupiter is retrograde and in mutual reception Mercury in Sagittarius in the 4th. This opposition and mutual reception in some ways shows the Government in a favorable light at this time. It also shows the Government consideratly bowing to opposition, but the mutual reception by opposition suggests that both sides are at a disadvantage, and won't benefit in their interactions at this time. Jupiter ruling the 8th house, and Mercury ruling the 2nd show that the clumsy dance is around money, and nothing short of a lot of wasted breath can be expected. The Moon is in the 8th house, and is applying to the square of Mars in the 6th. This warns of an epidemic, and points to difficulties in services, labor, and the military.

Looking at the chart for Brazil, we find Mars in the 12th house with Moon applying to square from the 3rd. This points to increasing anger and violence on the streets and in poor areas and neighborhoods. There will be an increase in crime. The chart shows a strongly emphasized Yod configuration between Saturn in the 10th house, Jupiter in the 5th house, and Uranus in the 3rd. This is saying that the Government must adjust. Saturn rules the 12th house in this chart. It strongly involves the poor and the disenfranchised.

Looking at the chart for the USA, we find the Sun rising in the 1st house, and the Moon in the 4th. Mercury is conjunct the Ascendent. Mars is in the 2nd house. The Sun in the 1st house shows, despite the complaints of so many of the people, a period of increasing prosperity. But to whom, and from where? The Sun rules the 9th house. Money is coming into the country from abroad, and money is to be made in iternational trade and commerce.The Sun coming to conjunction Pluto and square Uranus, however, shows that, despite the more sanguine indications, the people will continue to be discontent, and the public health will not be good. Saturn in the 11th house trine and mutual reception Neptune in the 3rd house shows the Democrats in Congress having a strong influence over the press, and the press flattering them. The Yod to Saturn in the 11th house from Jupiter in the 6th and Uranus in the 4th shows the Congress having to make adjustments to accomodate the different demands of labor and of the opposition from the Republicans. Jupiter, ruler of the Ascendent in the 6th house retrograde and opposite Mercury shows a lot of useless talk and bickering while everybody compromises around serious economic issues to nobody's liking. Saturn rules the 2nd house. Compromises are based on economic limitations. Mars is in the 2nd house. The Moon coming to square Mars at a critical degree there presages critical trouble coming up in financial affairs, the general economy, banking, stock market, and the housing market. Mars rules the 4th house. The 4th house signifies real estate. The Moon applying to square Mars shows the Republicans and Democrats not cooperating well at all in the contested area of the economy. In the area of international politics, the opposition and mutual reception between Mercury and retrograde Jupiter amounts to a lot of noise, wasted breath, and agreements to disagree. Jupiter is the ruler of the Ascendent in this chart. Retrograde means that the USA backs down. Mercury, the ruler of the 7th house says that there is a strong and confusing influence in this country from foreign interests.

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Raphael is available for personal astrological and psychic readings. To find out more visit www.raphaelsimons.com.

The solar eclipse as seen in astrology

The solar eclipse at 21 degrees Scorpio was at 10:19 PM GMT, November 3. The affects of a solar eclipse unfold over one to three years, the first year being the most significant. 21 degrees Scorpio is in the 3rd decanate of that sign. A solar eclipse in the 3rd decanate of Scorpio denotes the rise of a tyrant, and the hatred of the people against their rulers. We now have in the United States a surprising movement of people to secede. It won't happen at this time, but it is an ominous sign of the deep discontentment of the people that has been brewing for years as well as secretive maneuvering involving certain individuals in the military, political circles, and the Government.

The eclipse happens in the 19th lunar mansion. This lunar masion, called Azarala, unsettles commercial activities, but favors the persuit of personal ideas; it is a good time to go hunting, as it were. Mars, the dispositor of the eclipse is forming sextile aspect with Neptune. This favors the adventurous spirit that the eclipse is showing.

Scorpio, the sign in which we find the eclipse, is ruled by Mars and Pluto. The aspects of Mars and Pluto are Mars sextile Neptune, and Pluto square Uranus. These say that the affects of the eclipse are mixed good and not good. We see also that Mercury is retrograde and is exactly square Neptune, and that gives Mars licence to do some pretty adventurous mischief, so the eclipse has an air of danger of treachery. The square of Mercury and Neptune is very significant, as it denotes fraudulence and underhandedness in world affairs. It also denotes scandals happening everywhere.

The eclipse was visible in the far southwestern Pacific, and passed over northern Australia. It reached total in Australia at 9:19 AM on November 14, in the 11th house. This denotes upsets in Parliamentary affairs. Mercury is also in the 11th house and, square to Neptune in the 3rd house, denotes deceptions by the press. There are also dangers of mishaps while traveling, especially on water. Mercury retrograde also rules the 10th house. Applying to square Neptune, who rules the 4th house, it appears the Prime Minister or other leading figure in the Government would wish to avoid a potentially chaotic quarrel with the opposition; some ugly and distorted things will come out. The media in Australia, as shown by this eclipse, is in the dark, and is distracting the people and lying about something. Mars is in the 12th house showing trouble behind the scenes.

The eclipse in New Zealand was at 11:19 AM in the 10th house. It is telegraphing a significant earthquake or volcanic eruption to come over the course of the year. The solar eclipse in the 10th house is also very unfortunate for the Government. The eclipsed Sun rules the 8th house of this chart, and denotes the death of a leading figure in the country, very possibly someone in the higest circles of the Government.

The eclipse in the UK and the EU was in the 4th house denoting the land itself, and the opposition to the Government. Harsh winter conditions will develop. The eclipsed Sun rules the Ascendent of this chart. This denotes that the people are tremendously upset. Serious problems in the Eurozone are coming. Pluto will transit the Euro Sun and UK Sun to bring worse turmoil in this region in December and into 2013. Pluto is square Uranus. Deep organizational crises are working out. Greece is at the brink of defaulting. It may happen in December. In the eclipse chart for the UK and EU we have Mercury square Neptune in the 7th house denoting treachery and double dealing on the part of foreign powers. Mercury rules the 2nd house. The 2nd house is the treasury and banks. Double dealing involves money and banking. Europe is vulnerable to international crime, plots, schemes, secret attacks, and scandals.

The eclipse in the USA was in the 6th house with Mercury in the 6th house square Neptune in the 10th. A scandal in the military involving the Administration is unfolding. The press is involved as shown by the Moon ruling the 3rd house of the chart. The eclipse happens in interception in the 6th house. This shows that the trouble is very deep and that much of it escapes attention. There is more to it than is being revealed. Mercury ruling the 2nd house square Neptune in the 10th house mutual reception Uranus in the 11th house shows alot of tricky business involving the economy, the Congress and the Executive branch of the Government. The eclipsed Sun ruling the 4th house is showing that the opposition to the President, while eclipsed, is involved in a deep and secret way in what is showing on the surface to be a scandal involving Petraeus. There appears to be some deep power brokering happening involving the military, the highest circles of the Government, and the economic forces. The eclipse does not show international conflict coming. Jupiter who rules the 7th house of this chart is retrograde and in the 1st house. It shows foreign powers disinclined to conflict with the US at this point. The eclipse Sun ruling the 4th house also shows that the opposition to the Administration is extremely discontent. The Sun at 21 degrees is on a critical degree. The discontentment is being experienced as a crisis. This explains the secessionist movement.

Mercury is the ruler of the Ascendent of the USA eclipse chart. Mercury is retrograde. The people will back down. There won't be any secession at this time. The movement is running into confusion as shown by Mercury exactly square Neptune. It is possible, from what this chart looks like, that people in the Government and/or military are involved in this secessionist movement. The eclipse Sun rules the 4th house. The 4th house is the opposition to the Administration. The eclipse happens in interception in the 6th house. It involves the military, and interception means secrecy. It is this writers opinion that there is a connection between the recent firings of Petraeus and other high ranking military personel and the secessionist movement; it is possible that the secessionist movement is in part triggered by individuals connected with the military and opposed to Obama. This is more complex than it may appear to be.

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Raphael is available for private personal readings. To find out more visit www.raphaelsimons.com

The full moon of 9/30 in astrology

The full moon occured on September 30 at 3:20 GMT. It marks a uniquely tense moment, what with the Moon conjunct Uranus, Square Pluto, and the Sun opposite Uranus and square Pluto, while Venus and Mars are square, and Saturn is at the end of his tether at 29 degrees Libra. Violence may attend forced changes. People are not in a peaceful mood.

The full moon at Greenwich is between the 8th and 2nd houses with Pluto in the 4th. Venus is in the 12th house square Mars in the 3rd, and Saturn is in the 3rd. The indications of this chart hold true for all of western Europe including Portugal and Spain. The greatest tension is over money and property. And while there is a lot of angry protesting going on in the streets, Jupiter in the 10th house is protecting the Government. This is setting up the Governments for a lot of trouble to come.

The full moon chart for Bruxelles shows the same indications as that for Greenwich except that Saturn is in the 2nd house. This is a very dangerous place for Saturn in that it seriously affects the financial outlook for the entire EU in the midst of extremely tense conditions. Saturn in this afflictive degree in the 2nd house is very evil. It confirms the Sun's position in the 2nd house opposite Uranus and square Pluto, serously threatening financial stagnation, disruptive conditions, and depression. Yet, we see Jupiter in the 10th house protecting those in the highest circle. This bodes great ill. The Governments are out of touch with the people. Jupiter is in Gemini, the sign of his detriment. He gets caught up in all kinds of intellectual nonsense and doesn't see what is right in front of his nose.

The full moon in the chart of Israel is between the 7th and 1st houses, with Pluto in the 4th. This brings troubling disputes and complications to Israel. The Moon rules the 10th house, directly involving Netanyahu; Netanyahu is in an unfortunate position. Afflicted Uranus conjunct the 7th house cusp plays havoc with foreign affairs, causing unexpected, serious complications, and agitation against the country.

The full moon in China is between the 10th and 4th houses with Pluto in the 7th. Here also we see dangerous agitation in international affairs, in this case, involving a dispute between China and Japan. Afflicted Uranus in the 10th house shows sudden and unexpected emergencies in Government circles. There is internal strife in the highest circle.

The full moon in the US is between the 4th and 10th houses with Pluto in the 1st, again showing great tension, but here it is in the relationship between the incumbent and its opposition. Jupiter in this chart is in the 7th house showing, at least for the time being, no danger from foreign regions. Pluto is in the 1st house, and rules the 12th. This shows the crucial connection between the poor and disenfranchised in the political contest. Mars is in the 12th house of this chart showing a sharp increase in crime, murder, and violence. Mars squares Venus in the 9th house, with Venus ruling the 11th. Crime involves international gangs.

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Raphael is available for personal astrological and psychic readings. For more information visit www.raphaelsimons.com.