Winds of Change
Aquarius New Moon Dates and Time
Wednesday, January 29
4:37 AM, West Coast, USA
7:37 AM, East Coast, USA
1:37 PM, Rome, Italy
9 Degrees Aquarius
The Aquarius New Moon blows in the winds of change, innovation, and the power of collective vision. Symbolizing a new monthly cycle of growth, this lunation emphasizes the unique traits of Aquarius: individuality, progressive thought, and idealism oriented toward the greater good.
Problems arise when not everyone holds the same set of ideals. Aquarius' fixed air energy fosters intellectual focus and determination, making this an ideal time to embrace forward-thinking strategies and recalibrate long-term goals. It can also reflect a time period where different groups stubbornly insist their ideals are best for everyone.
This New Moon occurs amid a dynamic Aquarius stellium, amplifying the intellectual and innovative energy of the moment. While the air element stirs up conversations, brainstorming, and strategic thinking, the emotional undercurrents of water signs bring depth and sensitivity to these mental pursuits.
The minimal presence of fire and earth indicates that while ideas and emotions may flow freely, there is less natural energy available to ignite action or ground plans in practicality.
Mars continues in its retrograde in Cancer. This retrograde cycle highlights the importance of assessing how we allocate energy. Mars in Cancer often expresses itself indirectly, creating a buildup of pressure that can manifest in passive-aggressive behaviors or sudden, intense releases when the pressure can no longer be contained. It’s best to let out tension in your body in small spurts.
On a global scale, this New Moon points to karmic shifts and potential illusions, with Neptune conjunct the North Node. While new ideas emerge, there’s a cautionary note to look beyond appearances and avoid being swayed by overly romanticized narratives. Fact check everything.
With Jupiter in Gemini harmonizing with the Aquarius stellium (Moon, Sun, Mercury, and Pluto), the energy encourages collaboration, lively discussions, and a refreshing perspective on existing challenges. With Jupiter in the trickster Mercury’s sign of Gemini, watch for the illusion of words and propaganda. I’ll say it again, fact check everything.
This is a time of great change and a reminder that meaningful change often brings tension and resistance. As the square to Uranus builds from the Moon, Sun, and Mercury, this New Moon sets the stage for disruptions and breakthroughs leading up to the next Full Moon in February.
Keep in mind also that things happening now are precursors to the great change we will see with major planetary shifts this year, and the recent move of Pluto in Aquarius. This year, Saturn moves into Aries May 24, Neptune moves into Aries at the end of March, and Uranus enters Gemini July 7. Plus Jupiter changes signs every year, and will move into Cancer. Big change is on the horizon this year.
Sun and Moon in the sign of Aquarius
Aquarius Keywords: Idealistic, opinionated, freedom-loving, stubborn, responsible, altruistic, collaborative, democratic, egalitarian, gregarious, humanitarian, innovative, liberal, original, progressive, unique. Individualistic and with a great tendency toward abstraction. Takes initiative in advocating for change and innovation, often driven by ideals and progressive thought.
Fixed air associates the logical, social, and dynamic characteristics of the air element with constancy and perseverance of a fixed modality. Expression is intelligent, logical, and distant. Excellent focus.
When motivated by a cause, can be determined, loyal, persistent, steadfast, strategic, and mentally shrewd depending on which planet is expressing through this sign.
Challenges / Shadow: Aloof, anarchic, defiant, detached, eccentric, elitist, idealistic, impersonal, inflexible, insubordinate, malcontent, obstinate, stubborn, resistant to change, overly idealistic, uncompromising. Can become stuck on idealism to the point of being rebellious, uncaring.
Psychological Need: to innovate, be original, and create social change.
Archetypes: The Visionary, Rebel, Humanitarian
Saturn Ruled: Saturn represents the limitations and boundaries of the human condition. Aquarius is the proactive polarity of Saturn. The nature is one of independence, strategy, and focus.
Symbol: The Water Bearer.
Axis: Leo vs. Aquarius. Leo centers around self-expression, individuality, and personal pride, often seeking recognition for their unique qualities. Aquarius, however, focuses on collective ideals, innovation, and shared goals, valuing what benefits the group over individual accolades.
Aquarius Symbol: The Water Bearer
Connector of the Individual and Collective: The water bearer carries and distributes information. While the water bearer pours water for all, they act as an intermediary, symbolizing Aquarius' ability to bridge individuality with collective responsibility.
Detachment for Universal Service: Just as the water bearer pours water without keeping it, Aquarius focuses on serving humanity with detachment, prioritizing the collective over personal gain.
Innovation and Progress: The flowing water represents the continuous stream of innovation and forward-thinking energy that defines Aquarius' pursuit of progress and change.
The Rebel and the Idealist: Aquarius' fixed nature and strong ideals can lead to a rebellious insistence on their vision of what is ‘best.’ This unwavering adherence to ideals can inspire revolutionary change, but it may also create resistance when the collective good is overshadowed by personal or group-specific agendas.
Planetary Configurations
New Moon Conjunct Sun at 9° Aquarius
The New Moon conjunct the Sun in Aquarius stirs the winds of change, amplifying idealism and the resolve to stand firm in deeply held beliefs. Aquarius’ fixed air energy highlights a tension between steadfast dedication to ideals and the need for innovation, creating a dynamic atmosphere where belief systems clash or inspire progress.
This alignment invites reflection on how collective and individual ideals intersect, with different perspectives either gaining traction or facing resistance. The energy of this lunation emphasizes both the strength and the challenges of holding onto convictions during times of change.
Sun and Moon Conjunct Mercury
The conjunction of the Sun and Moon with Mercury heightens mental activity and communication. This aspect energizes brainstorming, discussions, and a free flow of ideas. However, with Mercury’s trickster archetype at play, navigating dogmatic idealism or over-glamorized ideas is important.
While new perspectives emerge, the challenge lies in distinguishing genuine insights from distractions. This is an excellent time to exchange ideas, but remain cautious about accepting the truth at face value. Fact check everything.
Sun and Moon Trine Jupiter
The harmonious trine between the Sun, Moon, and Mercury in Aquarius and Jupiter in Gemini infuses optimism and expansive thinking into this New Moon. Jupiter amplifies collaboration, offering opportunities to connect and explore innovative solutions.
While this aspect encourages the free exchange of ideas, it also highlights the shadow side of air energy. With Jupiter in Gemini, the sign of its detriment, there is potential for misinformation, exaggeration, or words that carry little substance.
Mercury’s trickster archetype adds complexity, emphasizing cleverness and adaptability but also the potential for two-facedness or conflicting narratives.
With an abundance of air energy, ideas may swirl endlessly, but the grounding needed for tangible results is in short supply, leaving much of this energy as unmanifested potential or loads of hot air.
Aquarius Stellium and Elemental Dynamics
The Aquarius stellium, comprising the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Pluto, and trine Jupiter in the air sign Gemini, amplifies intellectual and social dynamics. With air as the dominant element, the focus shifts to conversations, mental exchanges, and visionary ideas.
However, the emotional depth of water, represented by Venus, Saturn, Neptune, and the North Node in Pisces, and Mars in Cancer, adds a layer of complexity. This combination stirs innovation and emotional undercurrents, but the lack of fire and earth elements may delay tangible progress.
Mars retrograde in Cancer adds to this, creating undercurrents of passive-aggressive energy and volatility.
North Node Conjunct Neptune: Karmic Shifts
The conjunction of the North Node and Neptune marks a karmic moment where reality and illusion intertwine. This aspect brings a dreamy, romanticized energy that may obscure the full picture. On a global level, it suggests that events unfolding now could take unexpected turns, or aren’t what they seem to be.
Neptune’s influence encourages looking beyond surface appearances to discern what’s truly happening, avoiding the temptation to be swayed by overly idealistic narratives. Fact checking is highly advised.
Mars Retrograde Sextile Uranus
The sextile between Mars retrograde in Cancer and Uranus in Taurus injects dynamic energy into this New Moon. This aspect stirs the emotional waters of Cancer, encouraging breakthroughs and sudden insights, especially in areas where things may have felt stagnant.
Mars retrograde in Cancer highlights the indirect and reflective nature of progressive action during this time. Actions may be delayed, and the emotional pressure of Cancer’s energy can build like a simmering undercurrent.
This sextile provides an outlet to release pent-up energy, but the release may be unpredictable or erratic if emotions have been bottled up. The potential for volatility is real, but with awareness, this energy can be channeled into productive, transformative actions that provide a release and redirect emotional intensity into meaningful movement.
Mars Retrograde
Mars continues to be in retrograde motion. Mars retrograde is about how we use and conserve our physical energy. The Mars retrograde cycle began December 6 and ends February 24, 2025, a cycle that occurs every two years.
The retrograde period is a time to reassess activities and commitments and where adjustments may be needed in how you take physical action, what goes on or off your calendar, and how you find determination from within. It can indicate where you are spread too thin or where you need to adjust your energy reserves.
During Mars retrograde, you may feel a decrease in motivation. Pay attention to what is happening with your physical energy and where you apply it.
The themes and issues that arose starting in October offer a preview of the key themes likely to resurface during Mars's retrograde period. Unlike Mercury's retrograde cycle, which brings up key themes regarding communication, learning, commerce, and logistics, Mars's retrograde impacts our energy and actions.
Mars moved from fiery Leo to the nurturing waters of Cancer on January 6, shifting energy from outward expression to a more indirect approach. Mars in Cancer can bring passive-aggressive tendencies, volatile emotions, or a build-up of energy that needs healthy outlets.
Regularly releasing tension through physical activity or creative projects can prevent explosive or dramatic outbursts.
Look to your chart's Cancer and Leo houses to learn more about the activated topics and themes for the Mars retrograde. Or schedule a consultation with me to examine your chart.
Mars Retrograde Cycle Key Dates:
Pre-retrograde Shadow: 5 October 2024 at 17 degrees Cancer
Mars moves into Leo on November 4
Retrograde: 6 December 2024 at 6 degrees Leo
Mars changes signs in retrograde motion: Leo to Cancer: 6 January 2024
Direct: 24 February 2025 at 17 degrees Cancer
Post-retrograde Shadow ends: 2 May 2025 at 6 degrees of Leo
In Your Chart
To look deeper into the cosmic patterns of the Aquarius New Moon, find the astrology houses the planets are traveling through in your chart. Here are the areas to look for:
Taurus: Uranus
Gemini: Jupiter
Cancer: Mars
Aquarius: New Moon, Mercury, Sun, Pluto
Pisces: Venus, Saturn, Neptune
If you want to learn more about your natal astrology chart, schedule a consultation with me using the link below. If you don’t have a copy of your chart, you can get one free with one of the online calculators. I recommend either astro.com or astro-seek.com
Aquarius New Moon Activity Ideas
Vision Board for Innovation and Change
Create a vision board that reflects your forward-thinking goals and aspirations. Focus on progress, originality, and collective impact. Use images, words, and symbols that inspire you to embrace change and think outside the box. As you craft your board, reflect on how these goals align with your personal growth, your personal values, and contributions to your community or the larger world.
Collaborative Brainstorming Session
Host a small gathering in person or virtually with like-minded individuals to brainstorm ideas for innovative projects or solutions to shared challenges. This activity taps into Aquarius’ collaborative energy and ability to bring people together for a greater purpose. Set a clear intention for the session and allow the flow of ideas to spark fresh perspectives and connections.
Emotional Energy Release Practice
With Mars retrograde stirring up emotional undercurrents, engage in a physical activity that allows you to release built-up tension. This could be a calming yoga flow, a brisk walk, or even dancing to your favorite music. As you move, focus on releasing anything that feels stagnant or restrictive, creating space for the clarity and fresh energy this New Moon brings.
Aquarius New Moon Inspirational Quote
'Sometimes in the winds of change we find our greatest direction.' – Mimi Novic.
Aquarius New Moon Recap
The Aquarius New Moon brings a fresh perspective, urging us to embrace innovation, individuality, and collective progress. Its emphasis on intellectual focus and emotional undercurrents invites reflection on how our ideals align with both personal aspirations and the greater good.
As the winds of change stir, this lunation highlights the potential for groundbreaking ideas and the challenges of navigating conflicting beliefs. It’s a time to release stagnant energy, channel emotional intensity constructively, and remain open to the unfolding possibilities. Whether through visionary collaboration or quiet recalibration, this New Moon offers space to realign and prepare for what lies ahead.