Retrograde Planets

A retrograde planet looks as if it is moving backward through the zodiac. It is an optical effect. All planets keep moving forward, but when Earth overtakes or is overtaken by another planet, that planet seems, for a while, to slide back against the stars. Think of passing a slower car on a motorway: for a moment it appears to drift backward. Thai astrology calls this พักร.

Who does it, and how often

The Sun and Moon never turn retrograde. The others do, at different rhythms:

• Mercury: about three times a year, for roughly three weeks.
• Venus: about every 19 months, for around six weeks.
• Mars: about every two years, for roughly two months.
• Jupiter and Saturn: once a year, for around four months.
• Uranus, Neptune and Pluto: once a year, for five months or more.

So at any time, several planets are usually retrograde, and that is perfectly ordinary.

What it symbolizes

Retrograde is read as a turn toward the inside. The planet's themes are not canceled, but they are reviewed, reconsidered or expressed in a less direct way. Mercury retrograde, for example, is a popular excuse for muddled messages, yet its real invitation is to double-check, revise and finish old business.

In a birth chart

A natal retrograde planet suggests a function you work out privately or at your own pace. It is a style, not a defect.

Without the fear

A retrograde period is a good time to review, repair, rest and reconnect, and a less convenient time to rush into something brand new. It will not ruin your week. Natalora marks retrograde planets with an R in the chart tables, flags the days a planet turns in the ephemeris, and lists the planets that are retrograde right now on the Sky page.