Astrology aficionados get ready! Pluto, the planet of transformation, is backtracking through rebellious Aquarius, kicking off a potent period of upheaval and change. Get ready for power struggles, buried truths resurfacing, and the potential to revolutionise how we approach the world. Hold on tight – it's going to be a wild astrological ride!
When a planet is said to be going retrograde, it means that it’s seen to be going backward in the sky. Of course, planets don’t go backward but hurtle endlessly along their personal orbit. As we view them from our seats here on Earth, their direction appears to be changing. Pluto will be retrograde until November 19, 2024, when it will station direct in Capricorn. Pluto will be in Capricorn for the last time in our lifetimes from September 1st-November 19th, and this three-month window will close out a more than 15 year cycle of transformation in the Capricorn area of our lives.
Pluto reverses its course for about six months out of every year, and so the impact won’t feel too unfamiliar. It is a swinging pendulum, concerning change. Every successful transformation creates a backlash, so as political tendencies swing back and forth, and personal directions pivot every six months, this consistent six-month retrograde would appear to be the natural way of the world.
READ: Pluto in Aquarius 2023-2044
As Pluto begins to shift into Aquarius forward and retrograde motion, the balance of power could slowly begin to tilt as the Water-Bearer concept of “power to the people” begins to take shape. The last time Pluto was in Aquarius (1778–1798), the American constitution and the French revolution took place. And since history speaks for itself, we could expect similar themes bubbling up in the collective vibration.
Since Pluto is the planet of transformation, when it goes retrograde, it slows transformation down to a halt, even reversing the subject of the transformation. If you've gone vegan, then during the Pluto retrograde you may trip up on a prosciutto pizza. Governments that signed a peace treaty may deal with an attack during the Pluto retrograde.
READ: PLUTO | The Planet of Transformation
Pluto’s retrograde phase from May 2, 2024, at 2° Aquarius 06' Rx to October 11, 2024, at 29° Capricorn 38' coincides with a critical period for the United States. During this time, the astrological climate reflects a significant overhaul of existing structures and systems, particularly in governance, economic policies, and societal frameworks. This retrograde suggests a revisiting of past themes and structures, potentially unearthing deep-seated issues that require resolution or transformation.
The upcoming retrograde period coincides with decision-making and potential upheaval in the United States political landscape. Pluto's energy at this critical degree can act as a catalyst for lasting changes in national affairs and individual lives, prompting introspection and reconsideration of past paths. Issues brewing under the surface may demand attention and action, encouraging reflection on personal and collective values, and how they align with political and societal realities. This period emphasises resilience and adaptability, calling for an examination of societal foundations to align with evolving needs.
READ: Pluto in the Signs
On a personal level, Pluto’s retrograde challenges us to reassess relationships with friends, communities, and technology. It encourages distancing from toxic relationships and aligning with groups and technologies that resonate with our highest values. This period offers an opportunity for personal evolution, allowing us to redefine our place within our communities and adapt technology to better serve our needs. As a transpersonal planet, this retrograde will mostly be felt on a collective level. However, if you have planets or points around 2 degrees of the fixed signs (Scorpio, Aquarius, Taurus, Leo), this period will likely be felt personally.