Friday, August 01, 2008

August 2008 Eclipses

The New Moon Solar Eclipse in Leo on Friday 1 August signifies a time of beginnings, new directions, finding a new way of operating in the world or the opportunity to re-invent our selves. Things, people, habits and beliefs that need to change can do so now. The seeds of the current phase of change were sown earlier this year when we saw the Solar eclipse in Leo’s opposite sign of Aquarius in February. Since then our awareness of the issues facing the global community has increased. The urge now, prompted by the August eclipse cycle, will be towards a more humanitarian or inclusive approach to these common issues. A new understanding of our social role and the effect we have on others shows us that we can no longer operate in isolation. The eclipse prompts us to let go of established outworn ways whilst we adjust to the demands of the future. As the Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse of 16 August approaches we can establish the new pattern in a more tangible or practical way. Those feelings, ideas, inspirations or ideals that have been brewing over the last few weeks can now be put into action. By the time the second New Moon of August comes around on 30th we will have seen a turning of the tide as many old ways are washed “under the bridge” allowing for transformation and a fresh start in various areas of life.
In Astrology the eclipse path or locations of visibility have special significance for timing of events as these regions are often affected by the influence of the eclipse on a national level. Expect August to be quite a busy month as you watch international news headlines unfold. Traditionally an eclipse heralds a major political, economic or other momentous upheaval. The August Solar Eclipse is total but can only be seen from northern Canada, Russia and parts of China. There may be violent clashes of will when leadership is challenged as some individuals make a bid for freedom under the influence of Mars as it opposes Uranus on 6 August. The Lunar eclipse which can be seen from South America, Western Europe, West Africa, East Asia, Australia and New Zealand traditionally influences internal or domestic affairs. It coincides with several aspects to Pluto which brings hidden things to light, unblocks obstacles and transforms what it touches. Neptune is also involved which suggests, glamour but also deception whilst a trine angle between Jupiter and Venus is very fortunate, bringing luck, great gains and favourable outcomes!

The next New Moon is at 10° Leo on the 1st August at 11:32am. The August Full Moon is at 24° Aquarius on the 16th at 10:18pm and the second New Moon of August is on the 30th at 8:59pm at 8° Virgo.