Two Gunslingers Walk Into a Bar

Before we dive into this week’s cosmic weather, I want to invite you to check my receipts. I recorded a second YouTube video about this Mercury Retrograde in Leo to capture how my predictions are unfolding in real time. It’s always affirming (and a little chilling) to see the patterns play out. 

We’re now approaching a dramatic Full Moon in Aquarius, a lunation that promises revelations. Aquarius governs the collective, systems, and societal pressure, and when the Moon is full in this sign, expect truth to rise to the surface. Podcast listeners know I’ve been anticipating major global developments, especially in Israel. As Pluto in Aquarius opposes Leo placements, collective power confronts individual ego. And we’re seeing this in action.

The Israeli public is demanding change. Anti-war protests in Tel Aviv gained momentum at the New Moon. Arab states are pressuring Hamas to disarm. France announced it will formally recognize the Palestinian state, with Canada and Portugal following suit. The velocity is growing, and it’s not slowing down. This recognition underscores the growing collective effort to find a resolution to the crisis. It’s another clear example of how Aquarian energy mobilizes movements and catalyzes geopolitical change. This is Pluto in Aquarius at work - the power of people and groups to force change.  Will the upcoming eclipse season signal the beginning of the end of this humanitarian crisis?

Mars Enters Libra: The Diplomatic Battlefield

Mars entered Libra this week, shifting the planet of war into the sign of diplomacy. Mars is in its detriment here. Libra rules peace, Mars governs conflict. When Mars is in Libra, conflicts often arise through partnerships: lawsuits, political disputes, and relationship breakdowns are common.

We’re already seeing this tension globally. At the first quarter, Moon in power gaming Scorpio, news broke that Trump is sending a nuclear submarine to deter Russian aggression. This escalation aligns perfectly with Mars in Libra’s tendency toward dramatic displays of force cloaked in the language of peace and diplomacy. Watch for partnerships turning adversarial, not just in politics or entertainment news, but in your own life. 

The Dicey Trio: Contentious, Skirmish, Misfire

Mercury is still retrograde, and as we move from Thursday through Saturday, the astrology becomes especially volatile. The Celestial Insights Podcast words of the day:

• Thursday: Contentious
• Friday: Skirmish
• Saturday: Misfire

Each of these days carries the potential for conflict, misunderstanding, and escalation. Mars opposes Saturn and Neptune during this time, a configuration I’ve called: two thirsty gunslingers walk into an elegant, upscale bar. What could go wrong?

Mars in Libra and Saturn in Aries are in mutual reception, but they’re both in the signs of their detriment. An astrologer likened this to two drunks trying to support each other. They’re leaning on one another, but still completely unstable. This setup carries high risk. Libra places include cultural events, lawyers' offices, courthouses, embassies, and wedding venues. We may see conflicts that lead to permanent rifts, dramatic fallout, or even violence. 

Be cautious of arguments and avoid ultimatums. The tension could escalate quickly, especially with Mercury retrograde, which increases the likelihood of miscommunication, cloudy thinking, and mistakes. Be especially alert over the weekend if you are in a big crowd. Give obnoxious or intoxicated people a wide berth. Avoid literal and figurative volcanoes.

Full Moon in Aquarius: The Power of Revelation

The Full Moon on Saturday, August 9, falls at 16° Aquarius, opposite the Leo Sun. This is the culmination of a lunar phase family that began with the Aquarius New Moon in February 2024. What started as a flash of insight or a bold idea is now fully exposed in your mind's eye. You may find yourself presenting your vision to friends, a group, or the world.

In the collective, this lunation lights up themes of rebellion, revelation, and reckoning. Watch for whistleblowers, viral social moments, and intensified group dynamics. People may band together to challenge authority, expose secrets, or call out injustice. Remember, Aquarius is the sign of the exile and the visionary.

Stay Present, Stay Grounded

This week could bring bold breakthroughs or painful breakdowns. With so much pressure building—politically, socially, and emotionally—it's essential to stay present and grounded for the next week. Keep an eye on the bigger picture. Use your tools: journal, pull cards, walk in nature. And remember that astrology doesn’t dictate your fate. It helps you read the weather so you can plan accordingly. Your awareness is your greatest asset.

Want more guidance?
💫 Book an astrology consultation: https://www.astrologybyceleste.com/

🎧 Listen to the Celestial Insights Podcast: https://celestialinsightspodcast.podbean.com/

🌟 Upcoming events and trainings:

• OPA Retreat in Utah: https://opaastrology.org/register/opa-utah-retreat-2025/
• Kepler Symposium: events.keplercollege.org
• Revolution Rising Free Summit: https://bit.ly/RevRising

Warmly,

Celeste

Celestial Insights Podcast Word of the Day

Sunday – Sideshow
The Sagittarius Moon opposes Uranus, fueling chaos, danger, and spectacle. Think reckless risk-taking, spinning tires, and emotional overdrive. Watch for people trying to steal the spotlight.
Prompt: Where might I be performing for attention rather than acting with intention?

Monday – Educate
The Sagittarius Moon squares the nodes, calling you to balance spiritual wisdom with facts. Teaching moments arise. Avoid info overload. Sometimes painting a bigger picture is more impactful.
Prompt: What higher truth do I feel called to share, and how can I share it with heart?

Tuesday – Bureaucracy
The Moon squares Mars before entering Capricorn and confronting Saturn and Neptune. Delays, red tape, and emotional shutdowns are possible. Capricorn demands patience and strategy.
Prompt: How can I stay grounded when faced with systems that don’t support me?

Wednesday – Petition
Mars enters Libra, and the Moon opposes Jupiter. Voices rise to challenge injustice. This is a day to stand for fairness. Think Harper Valley PTA. Advocacy may be personal or political.
Prompt: What would I like to see changed, and whom can I rally to support the cause?

Thursday – Contentious
Sun in Leo forms a semi-square to Mars in Libra. Tensions rise in relationships. Watch for ego flare-ups, power plays, or hurt feelings. Call a friend before confronting a foe.
Prompt: Can I stay true to myself without fueling unnecessary conflict?

Friday – Skirmish
Mars trines Uranus and opposes Saturn. Innovation and confrontation go head-to-head. Quick thinking wins the moment, but Saturn demands consequences. Snap judgments may escalate.
Prompt: Where do I need to respond with both courage and control?

Saturday – Misfire
The Aquarius Full Moon illuminates the tension between individual desires and collective pressure. Mars opposes Neptune. Confusion, delusion, or missteps are possible. Don’t rush.
Prompt: Where do I need more clarity before taking bold action?