The Lunar Theme for the
February 25, 2009 New Moon

Fortuity, Optimism & Trust
Humanitarianism

The Lunar Month of
February 25, 2009 - March 26, 2009

Nick Anthony Fiorenza

Copyright © 2009 Nick Anthony Fiorenza, All Rights Reserved

Astronomical Myth is a "picture language," imagery that articulates the qualities of cosmic intelligence expressing throughout the greater heavens and through our lives. We are not separate from the greater heavens, from the stars and planets around us, or from our beloved Earth, but are intimate parts of this dynamic, continually unfolding heavenly symphony. This entirety is our cosmic consciousness, the totality of our being. To explore the greater heavens and the heavenly cycles is to explore that which we are--our embracing consciousness and our spiritual evolution.

The stars would not be in the heavens
if we were meant to walk in darkness.

The purpose of the Lunar Planner is to learn to live in the experiential awareness of the present. Although the material below can provide philosophical context for your personal experience, the New Moon is the ideal time to experientially "tune in" to get your personalized lunar month's theme. Then, consciously participate with the changing Lunar Phase Characteristics in the unfoldment of that theme in your daily life using the Lunar Calendar and Lunar Planner Introduction (links at the bottom).

New Moon Phase Characteristics

Lunar Cycle Overview

Our New Moon of Feb 25, 2009 occurs in a very auspicious area of sidereal Aquarius producing a fortuitous lunar cycle--one of a humanitarian focus. Ceres, the mother of the primary asteroids, now appropriately classified as a Dwarf Planet, begins a new 470-day (synodic) cycle with Earth, also on the New Moon (the alignment is Sun-Moon-Earth-Ceres). Abundant Ceres, of Mother Nature, the cycles of life, and protectress of the collective, brings perspective to this lunar cycle about our environments, concern and caring for the land, agriculture, and of all that is nurturing, fertile, and of the womb.

Relationships become a key theme in this lunar cycle due to the interaction between Jupiter, Mars, Chiron, Neptune and Juno, the asteroid of interpersonal relating, diplomacy, mutual compatibility, and self-worth. Juno and Chiron make their exact conjunction on the equinox and Juno then conjoins Neptune a couple of days later. This lunar cycle kicks off this relations-related theme with inspiration for expansive mobilization and creative action in partnerships. Relationships must emotionally mature, veils of denial must lift, and new visionary ways of interrelating must form.

The Saturn-Uranus opposition comes into play once again, this time surrounding the Full Moon, with the start of a new 378-day Earth-Saturn cycle occurring just before the Full Moon, and a Sun-Uranian revelation just after. Our Full Moon involves a Uranus-Sun-Earth-Moon-Saturn alignment, which is also in aspect to the Chiron-Juno conjunction and a few of our other new Dwarf Planets, including Eris, the great disrupter, and largest Dwarf. Our previous lunar cycle propelled us through the second of five Saturn-Uranus oppositions and left us perched upon a threshold looking over an expansive abyss, but pointing toward the key required to cross that abyss, thanks to Chiron, albeit a path yet to fully precipitate into palpable form. This Lunar cycle begins our journey to create and cross that bridge into new realms of co-participation--with attention turning toward relationships, where we must first turn Chiron's Key. Mutual compatibility and cooperation in partnerships (Juno) is a primary pre-requisite that we must establish before we can start to structure a bridge through the times ahead. Issues surrounding relationships will become increasingly more significant throughout the year as Juno moves to join forces with Uranus over the month's ahead. Relationships will radically shift and change as we move through the middle of 2009. This interpersonal healing work and reorganization of partnerships is the prerequisite in order to lay the foundation for a new bridge required to move through "the challenge, the transition, and the mobilization of change" occurring over the next few years as outlined in the article "The Saturn Uranus Opposition."

Several new planetary cycles begin in this lunar cycle, each with their own unique themes, but that will all interweave and unfold over the months ahead. These include Mars, Juno and Jupiter; Venus and Ceres; and Earth and Makemake (pronounced MAH-keh MAH-keh) the third largest Dwarf Planet. Venus beings its retrograde in this lunar cycle as well, which precedes the new Earth-Venus 584-day (synodic) cycle that will commence on the following March 25, 2009 New Moon, where a new cycle of the heart begins.

Synodic cycles are created when two (or more) planets align in their orbits around the Sun. The synodic cycle theme, defined by the planets involved and the star alignments at the time, will unfold until the two planets align again, marking the completion of the synodic cycle and the beginning of the next one.

There are many synodic cycles with unique astrological themes occurring simultaneously creating a harmonic symphony of creative unfoldment in consciousness. Synodic cycles can be thought of as longer-term underlying currents, much like the backdrop chorus of a symphony, providing the underlying astrological context guiding our evolution.

Learn the basics about Synodic Cycles & Synodic Astrology.

Comet Lulin and Saturn conjoin just hours before the New Moon, during Lulin's closest approach to Earth and during the rare quadruple transit of Saturn's moons. See Comet Lulin for more information on this.

The New Moon

Our New Moon in sidereal Aquarius resides at one of the purest points of resonance in the ecliptic and one of the most fortuitous. Our primary New Moon star is Sadachbia of Aquarius, "lucky star of hidden things." Sadachbia indicates a physical gift of extreme value can be discovered, revealed, or claimed. Bringing context to Sadachbia are: Sadalmelik, Alpha Aquarius; Fomalhaut of the southern fish, Pisces Aus.; Deneb of Cygnus and the Pelican Nebula; and Baham of Pegasus; and Beta and Gamma of Sculptoris.

Companion to Sadachbia, "lucky star of hidden things," is Sadalmelik, Alpha Aquarius, the "lucky one of the kingdom." Sadalmelik creates an air of recognition and acceptance in the kingdom of human affairs--especially for those involved in the arts and sciences. Sadalmelik brings fortuitous opportunity for those with humanitarian interest, and who are in those arenas where such interest can be expressed.

Also of influence are Skat, Delta Aquarius and Zeta, On the Urn of the Waterbearer, from where the nourishing humanitarian waters flow. The Urn creates the means for humanitarian nourishment. Skat is "star of the foundation." These stars are of humanitarian philanthropic foundations, organizations, and business vessels through which material and financial support can flow for future-oriented humanitarian focused projects, and for the nourishment of an evolved human society flourishing in the arts and sciences.

South and under the Urn of the Waterbearer lies Sculptor, the sculptor's studio. Our New Moon lies at the start of Sculptor marked by Beta and Gamma Sculptoris. Sculptor articulates the type of work that is being supported by the humanitarian resources flowing from the Urn of Aquarius--principally the sculpting of an evolved human society, but also that of the arts and sciences.

Fomalhaut, one of the "Four Royal Architects" the administrative seat of the aquatic quadrant of the heavens. Fortuitous Fomalhaut embodies the essence of sidereal Aquarius--inspiring future vision for an evolved humanitarian-based society. Fomalhaut inspires new ideas and pursuits in the art-sciences and in social issues of the world. It is of the human populous and the flow of resources within that populous that creates a wholesome human condition.

The word 'social' is derived from the Old French or the Latin 'socialis', meaning 'allied', or from 'socius' meaning 'friend'--good words to describe the essence of Fomalhaut and Aquarius. Here all are recognized as allied friends, as one human family. Fomalhaut embodies the essence of philanthropy and a spiritually evolved society.

In the northern heavens lying upon the galactic equator we find Cygnus the Swan, also called the Northern Galactic Cross. Deneb, tail of the swan, is the principal star of Cygnus and marks the top (head) of the northern cross. Like Sadr, heart of the swan, Deneb lies along the galactic plane, but is quite close to the most northern point along the galactic plane--the primordial origin--which marks the location of Earth's pole at the start of Earth's ~25,000-year precessional cycle. This is a point of unity consciousness in the "evolutionary cycle of the soul," which is created by Earth's precessional cycle. This is where Earth's pole lies at rest, infused in the plane of galactic light. Deneb is the first primary star that Earth's pole encounters as Earth's pole lifts itself from its slumber in Earth's precessional cycle. It thus is the messianic head of the precessional Cycle of the Holy Cross--of the evolutionary cycle of the soul. Deneb governs the first of the seven heavens (evolutionary epochs) in the Earth's precessional cycle. Deneb embodies our God-essence; our unadulterated androgynous pure soul essence before fragmentation into race, sex, or creed. Deneb inspires us to stand in the awareness of our pure soul essence, in our God-self wholeness and to participate from the maturity of this awareness, unbiased, from beyond the segregations and categorizations common to modern-day mass-consciousness. Deneb of Cygnus embodies the principle of unity consciousness and invites us to particate as one mature world.

Providing Perspective
The Earth-Ceres Synodic Cycle

Ceres, Mother of the Asteroids and protectress of the collective, is of concern and caring for the land, agriculture, and of all that is nurturing, fertile, and of the womb. Ceres begins a new 470-day synodic cycle with Earth on the New Moon of Feb 25, 2009. Looking from the Sun, Earth and Ceres lie in the opposite part of the heavens, in sidereal Leo. Earth and Ceres conjoin Thuban, Alpha Draco; the Vela X-1 Neutron Star Black hole on the sail of the Argo; Alpha Sextans; and Al Kaphrah of the Great Bear.

" OUR LAND OUR LIFE "

'We don't own the land, the land owns us'
'The Land is my mother, my mother is the land'
'Land is the starting point to where it all began.
It is like picking up a piece of dirt and saying this is where I started and this is where I will go'
'The land is our food, our culture, our spirit and identity'
'We don't have boundaries like fences, as farmers do. We have spiritual connections'

Quote from: aboriginalart.com.au

In addition to this new 470-day Ceres cycle, this alignment (New Moon opposite Ceres) brings significant perspective to our New Moon Theme.

Thuban, in the far northern heavens, was Earth’s pole star circa 2600 BC near the "tear of the Bear," a point in Earth’s ~25,000-year "evolutionary cycle of the soul" at which a turning and fractioning occurred in the hierarchical powers governing Earth. This dramatized the separation between those choosing to fight for a greater evolutionary vision and those wanting to maintain totalitarian control of the Earth with their antics to do so.

The 180° point in the "Cycle of the Holy Cross," which occurred about 4880 BC, marked the epitome of darkness in the last temporal 12,000-year period in the precessionally driven, evolutionary cycle of the soul. Dark manipulative forces were specifically dominant from around 4800 BC to 2600 BC in Earth's evolutionary cycle of the soul.

Alignments with Thuban indicate a responsibility for having altered the direction of evolutionary affairs for life on Earth in a negative way with repercussions incurred at soul level, and with responsibility to ensure evolutionary fulfillment now. Thuban is not about the punctual moment, but more about the backdrop, the durative time-stream in which we find ourselves. Thuban's eminence in our celestial sphere demands we take responsibility for our past-future experience throughout our sojourn on Earth, especially for the destructive or disrupting use of force--in this case with Ceres, especially regarding the global environment and our personal environments, and their ability to support a healthy and nurturing evolutionary process for life on Earth.

Conjoining Thuban from the southern heavens is Vela X-1, a potent neutron star in the sail of the Argo that creates a relentless wind driving us to respond to life. It engages us to participate in creating our long-term evolutionary destiny. In typical black hole fashion, this is an all or nothing deal, as that which we set in course affects the nature of our evolutionary future. If we take no stance we are merely destined to chance.

The theme of the Sextant is about navigation. It reveals our need to determine our present position / situation, to set our bearings, and to take a new tack toward the direction we wish to move with conscious consideration for the changing evolutionary winds and currents upon which we ride.

The stars of the Great Bear are of the world powers, and their capacity to be a nurturing and stable force for humanity. Al Kaphrah, Chi of Ursa Major (miss-termed according to Allen but still used) lies on the hind-quarter of the bear and is of the massive power and foundation driving the Great Bear.

Mercury, Juno, Nessus and Mars

Leading into the Crescent Moon, Mercury, Juno and Nessus conjoin in sidereal Capricorn starting on February 26 (where the remnant of a stellium of planets still resides from our last lunar cycle). After the Crescent Moon, Mercury and Mars conjoin.

Inspiration for active and uncensored communication and assertive action in our personal relationships, in business and in political partnerships is highlighted.

Just as Chiron embraces the orbits of Saturn and Uranus, creating a link between the two, the eccentric orbit of the Centaur Nessus embraces the orbits of Uranus and Neptune. Like all of the Centaurs, which are a bit rebellious or unconventional in their approaches, are also healers, teachers, aids, or liaisons for those willing to awaken to a greater path of self-mastery. Nessus inspires our need to leave the conformity of the past and pierce our veils of illusion, to relinquish our denials, our sexual hang-ups, and to enter new realms of vision and creativity. Nessus teaches us about embracing our sensual and sexual nature, to enjoy this abundance in life, rather than denying it or shutting ourselves down to it due to righteous or erroneous beliefs and emotions of unworthiness.

In the context of this conjunction with Mercury, Mars and Juno, issues regarding healthy sexuality in relationships (and/or sexual misuse of power) is also highlighted. More about the discovery of Nessus.

Crescent Moon Phase Characteristics

Expanding on the Theme

The hours before the Crescent Moon provide a time when we relinquish patterns of the past that would limit our creative ability to expand on the lunar theme now unfolding. The Crescent Moon is the time when the sprouting seedling sloughs off its protective coat of the past and emerges in its new expression. As the Crescent Moon unfolds, the growing phase of the lunar cycle begins as we start to amalgamate our personal creativity with the original lunar theme.

The Crescent Moon occurs on February 28, 2009, just across the cusp of sidereal Aries. Classically, Aries is figured as a reclining ram with its head looking back over itself, admiring his own golden fleece. The theme of Aries the Ram, whether articulated by the Royal Family or Jason and the Argonauts search for the golden fleece, is about the initiatory challenges that continually create obstacles and limitations across life's path. These obstacles, often created by our righteous attitudes of arrogance, create painful and repetitive lessons in the fires of life about that very thing--pride, arrogance, and greed--lessons that ultimately produce the alchemical honing of self. The lessons of Aries awaken us from our denial and naiveté regarding how arrogance and greed create our own entrapment in the Jaws of Cetus--the jaws continually pulling us into the transmutational fires of human experience.

Here the Moon leaves the emotional Piscean aquatics and enters the airy Arian desert as it conjoins Beta Fornax of the initiatory and transformative Furnace. Here we find the spiraling and very active black hole galaxy NGC 1097 also of Fornax, where matter is consumed and new birth takes place. Fire on the shore is the theme crossing this cusp, eating e-motion (the undigested motion of experience). Also conjoining are Al Pherg, Eta Pisces; and the Cassiopeia-A Super Nova Black Hole.

Al Pherg of Pisces is of the long intestinal emotional entwining that occurs through involvement in the Human world. Al Pherg reveals that issues held are of the emotional / physical realm and need to be dealt with at the emotional / physical level of clearing, not from the typical, mentalized "I'm above it all" attitude of denial. Alignments with Al Pherg often bring out the self-proclaimed awakened one in full denial of all their emotional stuph' they have yet to dump--a long series of juice cleanses may help! Intestinal issues and ailments are not uncommon at the sidereal Pisces-Aries cusp.

Cassiopeia-A embodies the over-theme of Cassiopeia, the soul of the queen. Cas-A creates the need to see opportunity for attainment (articulated by the beautiful and conjoining Andromeda Galaxy M31) rather than opposition to it, and to have the courage to do the inner work required to claim it. In typical Cassiopeian style however, this can express as an explosive temper tantrum of outrage and anger when feeling deprived or a victim of one’s position or environment in which they find themselves; or victim to other forces attempting to manipulate and control one's freedom or birthright. But this is ultimately due to not having dealt with one’s own issues to start with. In the black hole model, Cas-A offers a powerful opportunity for transformation if we are will to surrender our arrogance that we deserve, and our focus on why we are being denied, to the beneficent grace bestowed by appreciating that which we do have and the beauty that is.

Mercury and Chiron
Logistics to Cross a Bridge

Mercury conjoins Chiron, and then Juno and Jupiter begin a new 19-year cycle leading into our First Quarter Moon of March 4, all adding to our "stimulus to action" in this lunar cycle.

Mercury and Chiron inspire communication about the logistics in our lives required to create and cross a bridge. Chiron has been and will continue to be of primary focus throughout the year--as presented in the January Lunar Planner and in the article "The Saturn-Uranus Opposition."

The stellar backdrop looking from the Sun toward Juno, Jupiter and Mars reveals the theme about this new and very significant compounded synodic cycle.

The conjoining stars in mid-sidereal Capricorn are: Theta Aquila, of the Eagle; Alpha Microscopium; the 1987A Super Nova Remnant in the Large Magellanic Cloud, which lies in Dorado, the gold fish; Gamma Sagitta, the tip of the missile of Zeus; and the Dumbbell Nebula M27 in Vulpecula cum Anser, the sly and cunning fox with the goose.

A precarious place in mid-Capricorn, here we find the ramifications of applying our arsenal of strategic tools (whether for war or peace)--hopefully strength applied in balance rather than a blind force applied from personal interest alone without concern for all involved--thus discernment and issues of trust arise. When force is applied without concern for its surrounding effect, the ramifications may be such that there is nothing left after the fact but few spectacular rings of light and dust (articulated by the stellar remnant 1987-A).

Theta Aquila is of equilibrium and poise; a place of removed stillness and astute observation. As Eagle sits high upon its perch, with eyes capable of focusing on the most minute detail (Microscopium), it assesses, examines, and awaits its opportunity. Removed and alone, Eagle embodies the willingness to examine our deepest emotions and hidden but true feelings; to establish our balance, to pin-point our objectives, and to then dive into the world with surety and boldness.

Alpha Microscopium articulates the need for magnification and examination of detail, which is required to see where to apply our knowledge and tools through the deceptive facades inherent to the human world.

Sagitta, the Missile of Zeus, extends over the first decan of sidereal Capricorn, with its tip, Gamma Sagitta, of significance here. Sagitta embodies our strategic arsenal of tools--whether applied for war or peace--this includes our personal tools to accomplish our goals in the material world. The tip of missile is of specific focus and inspires direct application of those tools.

On February 23, 1987, a star called Sanduleak suddenly blew to bits in a spectacular supernova, now labeled SN1987A. We normally see a neutron star in the midst of a Super Nova Remnant. A neutron star is the dead remains of the original star made of neutrons compressed into an extraordinary density. In this case there should have been a neutron star in place of Sanduleak, but perplexingly it was non-existent--fitting to the theme at this zodiacal longitude, surrounding the "Tip of Missile."

The point here is that we apply of our arsenal of tools, our attributes, and our creative power from a place of inner balance and with mutual respect and equality, as actions veiled in stupidity, arrogance, or the use of brut force can have damaging or utterly devastating ramifications. Either way, this commences a time for expansive mobilization in relations of all types.

First Quarter Moon Phase Characteristics

Initiate Action
Enterprising Stimulus for Partnerships to Cross a Bridge

The First Quarter Moon of each lunar cycle draws an external stimulus to initiate action as we move from the inspirational quarter of the lunar cycle into the action quarter.

This First Quarter Moon occurs on March 4, immediately following the Mercury-Chiron conjunction and the Juno-Jupiter synod. The Moon conjoins the asteroid Pallas and resides in sidereal Taurus conjoining The Shield, a sub-constellation of Orion; Kursa of Eridanus; and Rigel of Orion.

Rigel is of enterprising entrepreneurialship. Orions in general are known for their architectural capacity. Prominent alignments with Rigel (and Bellatrix) bring the capacity to embody, direct and execute large, extravagant and grandiose projects; bringing good through commerce and business affairs. Kursa marks the beginning of Eridanus, the River of Life. Kursa is of new beginnings, new journeys, new involvements, and new legs of our lives. Although it may be time to go forth anew, into a new phases of our lives, we must be aware of the tenacious perseverance required when staring new life journeys, to move from the wars and trials of the past to the freedom of the future. The Shield of Orion provides protection in the world of human affairs in a very physical way while we are embarking upon new journeys in life. These stars supports endurance and victory in this pursuit.

Pallas adds an interesting element to our First Quarter Moon. The immature expression of Pallas is spiteful withdrawal or vehement side-taking base in judgment that this side is right and the other side is wrong. Those expressing this mentally live in world of victim consciousness, negating every thing and everyone around them, and ultimately hurt themselves. Mature Pallas expresses artful creative intelligence that provides solution by honoring both sides of the fence.

In this light, our Pallas First Quarter Moon, along with the stimulus provided by the Mercury-Chiron conjunction and the Juno-Jupiter (and Mars) synod, may a dramatize greater contrast between those who act from a place of non-judgment, emotional maturity and mutual respect to create solution, from those who continue to biker and fight in their who's right who's wrong blues; and from those who simply withdraw from participation altogether, in total denial that serious change is required.

Venus Retrograde

Venus begins its retrograde period on March 7, 2009 in sidereal Pisces. Venus will complete its retrograde on April 17. In the midst of the retrograde, the Sun, Venus and Earth will align, which will start a new 584-day Earth-Venus synodic cycle. This will occur on the following New Moon. Now, as Venus starts its retrograde, we begin to disengage from the previous synodic cycle--resynchronization of Heart. The previous Venus synodic cycle's theme was presented in the August 12, 2007 Lunar Planner. It was also played a key role in the new 32-year Saturn-Orcus cycle.

Gibbous Moon Phase Characteristics

Attraction & Involvement

The 24-hour period just before the Gibbous Moon is a time of perseverance, of pushing through in the midst of the action quarter of the lunar cycle. The Gibbous Moon is when the pressure releases and we enter the Pollinating Phase of the lunar cycle, which begins a social and communicative time of magnetic attraction.

This Gibbous Moon occurs on March 7 in sidereal Cancer and conjoins Talitha (Iota and Kappa), forefoot of the Great Bear; Al Tarf & Tegmine of Cancer; and a Pulsar in Cancer.

The Moon also conjoins Comet Lulin adding the comet's stumulating and illuminating energetic to our Gibbous Moon. More about Comet Lulin.

This ecliptical longitude is also the North Node of Haumea's orbital plane. The North and South nodes of a planet mark the axis of intersection between that planet's ecliptic plane and Earth's ecliptic plane. The north and south nodes and the perihelion and aphelion points of a planet's orbit create a planet's cross in the ecliptic that helps reveal the nature of how a planet interacts with consciousness on Earth. The North Node is a point of action and emergence regarding a planet's character. In this case, Haumea inspires action to support a new birth in consciousness. More about Haumea.

Al Tarf of Cancer marking the southern back leg of the crab, although the brightest star of the constellation, it, like the others, is unspectacular. Al Tarf suggests a mass complacency, the sluggishness for humanity to change or emerge from its slumber; and hence a desire to be cared for but actually with need to be prodded to awaken.

The forefoot of the Great Bear, marked by Talitha (Iota) and Kappa of Ursa Major, I dub to be the protectress, guardian, and nurturer of humanity. This duo is also the Chinese "High Dignitary." Although minor stars, they should not be taken lightly, as they hold a principal office within the Bear. Of the Great Bear they are associated with the global scene and world powers. They inspire us to become a caring and nurturing force for each other, an enabling force that responsibly supports our emergence from darkness, dogma, and delusion, emergence from the limits and bounds created by selfish, fearful or controlling beliefs, a force that supports us to move into freedom and in greater personal fulfillment.

Also conjoining Talitha is the pulsar (APO 0823+26) in Cancer inspiring us to emerge from psycho-emotional issues common to collective consciousness and from our engrained limiting thought patterns. It inspires us to be independent and free thinkers rather than co-dependant followers of dogmatic belief structures of mass-consciousness or the groups we have been participating with that limit our ability to initiate creative action that supports the manifestation of our greater personal and collective fulfillment.

Pulsars are navigational beacons for the soul, guiding us if we listen. Generally pulsars lie along the galactic plane, but because this pulsar has a non-galactic orientation, one must watch the propensity to turn one's action into yet more human dogma, creating merely another blind ceremonial pattern. For the less aware, it may even reinforce behavior driven from such dogmatic consciousness, creating monotonous drone-like creatures of habit.

The Moon also lies just before the South Lunar Node, which conjoins Praesepe in Cancer, the beehive star cluster, also called the crib or manger. Here is a theme of hive-consciousness, with need to emerge from the dark deluded patterns of the past, from the nest of mass-consciousness complacency. Note also this is the time of the Mars-Jupiter synod mentioned above--which initiates a new 2.3 year cycle of vast and sweeping creative action; and the Mars-Juno synod occurring hours later. Despite our dynamic First Quarter Moon, which produces those who will take the lead in creative action, our Gibbous Moon brings our attention back to the inherent sluggishness of mass consciousness as well as to our own comfy ole' sticky patterns from which try to emerge.

Saturn's New Synodic Cycle

One of several key transition points occurring in the couple year long Saturn-Uranus Opposition is the start of the new Earth-Saturn 378-day synodic cycle, which occurs on March 8, 2009. This is when the Sun, Earth and Saturn align, which occurs in the middle of Saturn's retrograde.

Saturn's previous 378-day synodic cycle started on February 24, 2008. Its theme, defined by Alpha Sextans, The Vela Pulsar and Thuban of Draco was presented in the February 6, 2008 Lunar Planner. A quote about the last cycle: "This Earth-Saturn synodic theme brings to conscious awareness our responsibility to navigate our evolutionary course with the understanding of the long-term ramifications involved. In addition, we find the need to shift what was perhaps a long-standing momentum established in the patriarchal-based bureaucratic structures governing our world, as well as our need to take a new approach regarding those long-standing but now out-dated established life scenarios or modalities of being within our own lives." Note that the first two Saturn-Uranus oppositions (Nov 4, 2008 and Feb 5, 2009) occurred during the theme of Saturn's previous synodic cycle.

The stars in late sidereal Leo define the theme of the new Earth-Saturn synodic cycle starting on March 8, 2009. They are Asterion (Chara) the Beta star of Canes Venatici, the barking dogs (pronounced key' neez ven ah tee' see); the Pulsar CP1133 of Leo; and Delta Velorum, on the sail of the Argo. Also influencing is Mizar of the Great Bear, which resides a bit earlier in ecliptical longitude; and Denebola, tail of the Lion, and Apha Antlia, the hot air pump, both a bit later in longitude. Denebola, along with earlier Zosma and Chort, a triangle of stars, create the hind of the Lion. North in the heavens is the tail of the Great Bear, extending from Alioth to Mizar to Benatnasch, with the latter marking the tail's tip, and which resides at the Leo-Virgo cusp. Just under the tail of the Great Bear are the barking dogs (Canes Venatici).

Although Mizar and Benatnasch of Ursa Major are not principle stars of the Saturn synod, the synod lies between their longitudes, closer to Mizar. Thus a brief exploration of these stars and those of this entire area of late sidereal Leo will help provide context for this synodic theme.

Mizar, an overseeing predominant star of the Great Bear, embodies raw fiery energy that must express one way or another. Mizar must have a creative outlet, but for its proper expression, we must apply it with creative vision. Mizar brings attention to use of our creative energies; creative and destructive tendencies, and the fear to create lest it may result in destruction. Here we learn the nature of such volatile forces. Mizar, with averted alignments is also known for catastrophic fires or massacres. Mizar can however express quite artistically. Gunpowder can express as beautiful fireworks as well as devastating explosions. The expression of Mizar is always noticed in a grand way, in character with showy and dramatic Leo.

Denebola, Beta Leo and Alpha Antilia, the hot-air pump, express through the last few degrees of sidereal Leo. Also conjoining are Alkes of Crateris, the cup of salvation, and the very southern Avior of Carina, Argo Navis--the true seer. This creates a diverse polarity of energies that set Leo's "back stage." A bit further, on the Leo-Virgo cusp, is Benatnasch of the Great Bear, Cor Caroli of the Barking Dogs; M51 the giant diversionary whirlpool galaxy; and Zavijava of early Virgo.

Denebola is also of colon physiology and intestinal toxicity, along with earlier Zosma and Chort, which form the hind of the lion. This area of the Leo is of those behind the scenes, of the political religious figureheads manipulating the affairs of the world.

Benatnasch, the tip of the Bear's tail, is of the old totalitarian and dictatorial administrative seat directing the affairs on Earth. I derive this from the time when Earth's pole had fallen its furthest from the plane of galactic light in its ~25,000-year precessional cycle, which occurred about 6000 years ago (at 5° sidereal Virgo)--90 degrees ago in the precessional cycle. This also marked a phase-reversal in the precessional cycle where began a transition from matriarchal leadership to patriarchal leadership. Earth's pole then began to precess across the Virgo-Leo cusp and into late sidereal Leo (and over the star Benatnasch). This time, around the phase reversal, was the darkest period in the precessional cycle--hence in mythical terms, Benatnasch can be called a "fallen lord" due to the angular orientation of Earth's pole with respect to the galactic plane. This precessional phase transition led to the suppression of the matriarchal by the patriarchal, which led to the assumption that Egyptian pharaohs were male, and which later lead to a male papacy. This historical transition of matriarchal leadership to patriarchal dominance is articulated by Stephen Mahler (The Land Of Osiris); et.al., who suggest that in pre-dynastic Egypt the head of the 'high house' was female, who then choose a consort who became her male king--and that the postulate that pharaohs were male was due to a miss-translation.

The changing orientation of Earth's pole to the Galactic Plane can be observed in Earth's Precessional movies.

Just south of Benatnasch is the constellation Canes Venatici, the barking hounds, articulating that the totalitarian tactics are those of commotion and grand spectacle, ensuring the attraction of one's attention, the lure of the false prophets and spiritual / political illusionists. Cor Caroli is the Alpha star of Canes Venatici, and conjoining is M51, the giant whirlpool galaxy. Asterion is the Beta star of the hounds conjoining the hind of the Lion. This image articulates the expression of the Benatnasch directive simply as loud and grand global proportion spectacle, but as diversionary tactics. The paradox here is this racket is indicative of what not to follow, and more paradoxically yet, it keeps the self-proclaimed leaders from finding the real Cup they spout to be in possession of anyway. Examples are a government covertly selling war arms to the very country they are fighting, in the name of eradicating the war mongers, or covertly selling drugs to the country's drug lords while presenting to the public their cause is to fight the drug problem. Or the self-proclaimed guru spouting spiritual principles to sell their wares or to create their ego-gratifying followings.

It is not uncommon for such beings to pretend they are doing that which supports the greater freedom by creating dramatic and glamorous humanitarian projects (the barking greyhound and the glamorous Giant Whirlpool Galaxy) or stage shows performed in the name of spiritual growth, when what is hidden within these projections of smoke is that which is designed to maintain an egoic position of control and manipulation over the masses who are merely blind pawns in a game of who's following the biggest ego on Earth. Here we are asked to look behind the suits these beings wear, and peer deeply into the dramatic facade of their projects to see the trap of diversion designed to mislead and control. We are asked to look at our own insecurities within to see why we would follow such antics to start with rather than to cultivate the purity and integrity to claim our own grail by following the truth in our hearts. These self-proclaimed often call themselves Masters or Officials and lead others to address them as such without question so that they may then dictate action for and direct their follows to do their biding for their own manipulative purposes.

In modern mythological imagery, the Barking Dogs are said to be on the leash of Bootes, with Bootes being a hunter chasing the Great Bear as it circled the pole. I do not subscribe to this interpretation, especially when we recognize the true nature of Bootes as consort and protector of the Virgin in a more embracing mythical picture, and with Bootes protecting the Virgin from the governing and manipulating powers, not chasing them--also articulated by the Christian story of Joseph protecting Mary. See "The Astronomical Truth of the Virgin." Canes Venatici is also a rather new constellation, added by Hevelius in 1690, when many new constellations were being added in 1600 and 1700. Although constellations have been added and changed over time to articulate the heavenly energetics in the imagery of the times, we must also recognize that the conventional interpretation of the hounds belonging to Bootes occurred during a time when a greater esoteric understanding of the heavens was lost or had been bastardized--long after Chaldean or Babylonian astronomy. (See Richard Hinckley Allen's introductory section to the Constellations in "Star Names Their Lore and Meaning.") If there is any appropriate mythical association of the hounds with Bootes, it is of the hounds sniffing through the foul stench common to this few degree band of the zodiak to find the real truth articulated by Crateris and the wise seer Avior of the Argo - just my perspective.

Curiously conjoining Benatnasch, marking the Leo-Virgo cusp and lying south of the ecliptic, and below the egoic stage setting of late sidereal Leo, is Alkes of Crateris, the Cup of Salvation, the Golden Chalice. Here we find the way, the salvation, the greater spiritual fulfillment that we seek laying silently submerged under the diversionary shenanigans perpetuated by the puppet-masters directing the global stage. Most of Crateris expresses through early sidereal Virgo, but Alkes is first star of significance.

The mixed theme here at the cusp indicates either genuine spiritual figures or leaders, or hot–air wanna–be guru types--those spouting a lot of self important head tripping spiritual principle, but without any real substance or true wisdom. The issue of discernment arises, which is required to see the illusionists and diversionists from those of real spiritual and moral value--to grasp the grail of Alkes through the smoke of Denebola and the hot air they spout which is articulated by conjoining Alpha Antilia, the air pump driving the fire and swirling the smoke. Hence, as the old saying goes, if someone offers salvation from the human struggle, they most often are selling something.

As we transcend the egoic stage altogether, we find Avior, Epsilon Carina of Argo Navis and Delta Velorum on the sail of the Argo. These two stars are associated with the underlying spiritual truth and wisdom that guides us to our greater fulfillment and well being, a truth far hidden from the ego-driven wanna-be spiritual-political self-proclaimed authorities who spout principles they do not live. Avior articulates the true spiritual sage who often time is one without need to be on stage, one who is often found behind the scenes simply living their spiritual truth, transcendent to the smoke and follies common to the global stage. These are often those working with transcendent currents of wisdom (Delta Velorum) that influence the surface world in genuine ways--those who make a real difference but who do not need to at personality level.

Now that we have some context for this area of the zodiak, let us return to the longitude of the Saturn synod: Also conjoining Asterion and Delta Velorum is the pulsar CP1133 nesting at the hind of the Lion, in the triangle of stars created by Zosma, Chort and Denebola. Pulsars in general are beacons for the soul, providing an inner message or a constant reminder for those attentive to such subtleties. For the less conscious it may lure one into the monotonous drone of the diversionary propaganda and dramas offer by the media. For the more attentive it may act as a constant reminder about the prolific foul winds that could fuel a diversionary fire.

Thus, our new Saturn synodic cycle, expressing over the next 378 days, may yield a lot of hot air and foul winds producing a dramatic racket and fiery commotion, but which are mere diversionary tactics intended to distract the masses from the real issues at hand. This may accentuate the last dramatic gasps of the totalitarians and covert manipulators. On the other hand, we may also find those participating in the system (Saturn) with sincerity in their efforts to re-structure the foundation of the system and lead humanity through the diversionary smoke to a greater fulfillment. Remember that Uranus remains in opposition to Saturn--hence this radical upheaval and the challenge for change, to break us free from the conformity of the past. Either way Mizar's fiery expressive force is at work. The primary issue here is one of discernment, to extract a path that leads to our true wellbeing from the dramatic racket occurring in the world around us.

Although this predominantly occurs in the global arena, under the auspices of Mizar's dramatic fiery expression, in the totalitarian patriarchal dominant world of Benatnasch, in the midst of noisy Asterion of the barking hounds, and in the toxicity common to the hind of the Lion, we also experience this energetic in our personal lives, with need to discern and sort through the underpinnings of our own lives, of the systems we follow, of the junk we may have accumulated that clutters our lives, as the challenge for radical change is at hand. Hence the months immediately ahead may be of diversionary dramatics, but it is a time of sorting that which is of value from that which is not, one which precedes the point of turning in the Saturn-Uranus opposition to occur in September 2009, and the subsequent mobilization of change in 2010, when Jupiter joins Uranus in opposition to Saturn.

See the Earth-Saturn Synodic Cycles Chart 1958-2016 to learn more about Saturn's Synodic Cycles; Saturn's closest approach; Saturn's Ring Plane Crossings; and Saturn's Hex.

See the Saturn-Uranus Opposition for a discussion of the timeline covering the few years ahead.

Full Moon Phase Characteristics

Vision, Enthusiasm, & Realization of the Theme

The Full Moon marks the culmination point in the lunar cycle, the climax, the point of excitement and celebration. The hours leading up to the Full Moon provide a time of "vision and enthusiasm." The time just after Full Moon is a one of "realization of the lunar month's theme," a time to kick back and relax, to allow our realizations to surface in consciousness.

Our Full Moon occurs on March 10-11, 2009 in sidereal Leo and activates the Saturn-Uranus Opposition. The Moon conjoins Saturn just hours before its Full, while the Sun is about two degrees to its conjunction with Uranus, which occurs two days later.

Our Full Moon may feel a bit heavy or somber. It conjoins the same stars discussed above--specifically Denebola, tail of the Lion, and Alpha Antilia, the hot air pump. Hence it brings sobering attention to the diversionary antics and dramatics discussed above, and a serious and discerning look at our lives.

Quaoar and the asteroid Pallas lie opposite each other and create a Grand Square with the Sun and Moon. Eris, Vesta-Sedna, and Varuna aspect this grand Square as well.

Just the fact alone that we are discovering new orbiting bodies in our solar system (not to mention many new discoveries in the greater heavens), is a statement of our rapidly expanding consciousness. These newly discovered planets reveal additional facets and subtleties of our very beings, and they help us to recognize additional guiding forces expressing in the natural world and in our everyday lives.

Quaoar (pronounced kwah-whar), one of our recently discovered Dwarf Planets, has an orbital period of 288 years, an orbit that is remarkably circular compared to Pluto's orbit, which is highly elliptical. It is tilted only slightly (~7.9 degrees) to the ecliptic plane compared to Pluto 17° inclination--thus Quaoar has a gentler and more balanced nature.

Quaoar supports a return to the "sacredness of life"; to realize all things in life are sacred; that it is our responsibility to have respect for natural order and to live in harmony with nature; without this we do not have respect for our selves. Quaoar supports a natural and harmonious revolution by bringing our attention to a way of life that is in harmony with the fundamental forces governing nature. Quaoar asks us to cultivate our perceptual abilities to see, once again, these forces governing the natural world, to see the inter-connectivity in all things, to have respect for natural order and to live in harmony with this order, in the flow with the natural world. To honor the sacredness in all things, to see Spirit, the life force in all things, is to be spiritual. To respect the sacredness in life is to have respect for self, with out this we have but chaos and discord. Only by living in the sacredness of life can we return to wholeness, to health and wellbeing.

Pallas, as mentioned above, invites us to rise above judgment-based attitudes of spiteful behavior and to express an artistic creative intelligence that finds solution beyond the paradox of opposing forces.

This Full Moon Grand Square, in its higher octave, thus creates a challenging tension to move through this intense time with creative authority, with self-empowerment to rise to the occasion. There is a way, and it demands our active participation. Perhaps the scales have tipped such that it is time for humanity to realize, nay to embrace the fact, that we steer our evolutionary course and can no longer hide in denial. In fact, we are not separate from our beloved Earth, but are atoms (adoms) composing the harmonic signature of Earth. Each and every one us has an active role, whether we realize it or not, in creating the collective geo-physical resonance of our planet. We directly affect the stress and strain of our planetary system by the internal resonance we hold moment-by-moment--the synergy of our spiritual-mental-emotional-physical tone. We affect seismicity as well as the weather just as we affect the emotional tone of our daily lives and collectively compose that of the world. Consider that it is up to us if we move through this unprecedented transition occurring on Earth in harmony or tragedy--as the avatars (stars) are merely our guides. We must have mature audacity, not arrogant naiveté, to participate as responsible co-creators in this new consciousness emerging on Earth. This is why it behooves us to help all peoples on Earth through this time ahead, as all of us together create the majesty of this grand symphony.

The Venus-Ceres Synodic Cycle

Earth and Ceres began their new 470-day synodic cycle on the New Moon, and now, about 6 hours after the Full Moon, Venus and Ceres begin a new 265-day synodic cycle--both of which precede the upcoming new Earth-Venus synodic cycle.

This Venus-Ceres synod occurs in the center of sidereal Leo and conjoins Alioth and the Seyfert Galaxy NGC4051, both of the Great Bear; Beta Sextans; Suhail Velorum; and Zosma of Leo.

Alioth of the Great Bear teaches about the active use of personal will. Suhail Velorum, on the sail of the Argo is about the subtle evolutionary currents that guide our souls, and to which to align our will.

Our Earth-Ceres synodic theme, which began on the New Moon, is about responsibly setting a course with regard for the long-term ecological and evolutionary repercussions.

Our Venus-Ceres synodic theme is similar in regard to taking a new tack upon our journeys, to responsibly steer our course. However, it is more about the intentional use of personal will guided by the heart regarding the use of resources, both financial and natural. Here we are invited to act with true compassion and to attune ourselves to the subtle currents and breezes that guide our lives--in essence to get out of our own egoic-driven ways. This is about surrender and trust to nature's way, a need to breathe with the subtle winds of change and to let them carry us forward, to allow them to guide us in how we apply our personal and collective resources. For you guys--let the gals drive.

A Uranian Revelation

As the Sun conjoins Uranus on March 12-13, energizing revelations about radical change abound. This marks the midpoint of vision and realization in the current 370-day Earth-Uranus synodic cycle that began on September 13, 2008 Full Moon. The theme of this cycle was presented in the August 30, 2008 Lunar Planner: The Art of Personal Will. In brief this theme (Aquarius/Pegasus) is about making changes in the very physical aspects of our lives, how we use our physical bodies and how we live in the material world--about the physical vessels of life through which we live and express, vessels not only of a biological nature but also those in which we live and work, and that support our fundamental human needs. It is of a humanitarian focus regarding these issues.

Disseminating Moon Phase Characteristics

Manifestation & Demonstration

The hours leading up to the Disseminating Moon generally is an accelerated and busy time of last minute preparation that leads into the birth point in the lunar cycle, the time of bearing the fruit of the cycle, of claiming its gift.

Our Manifesting Moon of March 14 lies in mid-sidereal Libra. This longitude of sidereal Libra marks the feet of the Virgin. The constellation of Virgo, the longest ecliptical constellation, embraces about 46° of the zodiak, with the Virgin's legs extending from sidereal Virgo through the first half of sidereal Libra.

At the foot of the Virgin, marked by the star Mu Virgo, at mid-sidereal Libra, we come to the place of "pure intent." Directly south are the stars of the Southern Cross. The Centaur stands on the galactic equator and over the Southern Cross. Here we also find the amazing Omega Centauri globular cluster of Stars. North lies the Northern Crown and conjoining the Moon is the rotating star Beta Corona.

The benevolent Centaur is protector of the Southern Cross and teacher of its principles. The four stars of the Southern Cross (Cruces) embody the original cardinal virtues seemly lost to most of humanity. This is the cardinality (pure intent) of the soul. The Southern Cross embodies the pure intent of the soul before the aberrations, confusions, attitudes, and beliefs incurred by the soul throughout its entire incarnational sojourn.

The Centaur teaches the right use of will, the right way to live to attain self-mastery and evolutionary freedom. The Centaur teaches that it is essential to seek the original cardinality of the soul and live it. This is to claim that cardinality as our foundation as prerequisite to reach beyond the entrapments we find our selves in, the entrapments of duality-based experience--to claim the Northern Crown, which lies north of the Virgin's feet and the Chelae of the Scorpion. the Northern Crown is the embodiment of attaining our evolutionary freedom and fulfillment.

Here on our Disseminating Moon, we are asked to return to this place of pure intent, of clear unadulterated purpose, and to demonstrably live in this focus, and to go forth with an inner sense of peace and confidence in what may be a turbulent world of drama and confusion.

Earth Makemake Synodic Cycle

Earth and Makemake ("e" is pronounced "ay" Polynesian-pronounced MAH-keh MAH-keh), the third largest Dwarf Planet, begin a new synodic cycle on the cusp of sidereal Virgo on March 14-15, 2009. Earth and Makemake conjoin Cor Caroli, the Alpha star of the Barking Hounds, and Alkes of Crateris, the cup of fulfillment. These stars were discussed above under the auspices of Benatnasch, the tail of the Great Bear. Makemake lies about 19° north of the ecliptic however, and has just entered the constellation Coma Berenices, the crown (hair) of the Virgin, which predominatly expresses through this first part of sidereal Virgo. Makemake lies less than one degree from the Gamma star of Coma Berenices. Coma is home to our Super Galactic Centre, and is of spiritual truth, sustenance and guidance. Thus Makemake is currently imbued with this quality.

Makemake was discovered on March 31, 2005 by Mike Brown, et. al., as it was just entering the boundaries of Coma Berenices, but conjoining Denebola, tail of the Lion. I have not yet assembled material on Makemake, but a star map of its path through the heavens can be found on the Haumea & Makemake web page. Mike Brown's web page about Makemake's discovery is certainly worth a read as well.

Makemake is the Polynesian creator god of fertility in the mythology of the South Pacific island of Rapa Nui (Easter Island). Makemake is the chief god of the Tangata manu bird-man cult. An annual ceremonial competition was held in which islanders would compete to be the first to get a sea swallow egg from a precarious breeding site of the seabirds. This was a high-adventure contest requiring contestants to traverse dangerous cliffs over shark-infested waters--needless to say not all contestants survived.

There is little if any verified astrological influence of Makemake to date, and of course astrological verification is ultimately of essence. However, as Haumea seems to facilitate a new birth in consciousness, a new way of life, I am tending to think of Makemake as supporting the discovery or uncovering of that which is nourishing in the material / physical realm of life, of that which provides our physical sustenance. We might also surmise a quality of audacious braveness and physical agility in discovery, considering the perilous cliff-hanging egg-hunting contest. Let us also consider the significance of Rapa Nui itself; its prominent Earthgrid placement, its stone Moai statues, and that this is the first object being named after a god of an island of the southern hemisphere. And let us especially take note of Mike Brown's impulse, the discoverer who named this object and who takes the naming of objects in the Solar System quite seriously. He associates Makemake with "fertile abundance." The Easter theme is also of significance as Mike points out: i.e., the Christian re-birth; the March equinox, the current birthplace (vernal point) of the sun-son-soul; the pagan fertility goddess Oester, from which the word Easter is derived; and an Easter-egg-hunt.

Makemake's current passage under the auspices of Benatnasch, conjoining the principal star of the barking hounds, and Alkes of Crateris, the cup of fulfillment, may be a significant part of that which is stirring the financial pot in the global political-business arena; and the resultant "need to discover" how many will keep their homes or put food on their tables during a perilous economic crisis.

Sun Pisces

The Sun moves into sidereal Pisces on March 15, just after the Earth-Makemake synod.

The Venus Saturn Synodic Cycle

As Venus moves in its orbit to catch up with Earth, Venus and Saturn first begin a new synodic cycle on March 16. This occurs at the same location as the Earth-Saturn synod, which occurred just a week ago (March 8).  In terms of the orbital periods of these planets, this is a small time difference, thus there is a conjoining synthesis of Earth-Saturn and Venus-Saturn synodic cycles. The Venus-Saturn cycle is a welcomed addition. Although Venus and Saturn can be associated with a heavy or restricted heart and bring forth fear-related issues, it also brings attention to our responsibility to live true to heart, to take heart seriously. Here again with the conjoining stars involved, Asterion of Canes Venatici and Delta Velorum, we are faced with discerning that which is truly important from the diversionary racket in the world around us. Fear to trust heart is the issue while trust of heart is essential.

Last Quarter Moon Phase Characteristics