Moon Dances
For the Northern Hemisphere
August 1 - August 30, 2008

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Look Up! The Moon, waxing and waning, impressively promenades across the dark sky, partnering with the sparkling stars and glowing planets. Who is the Moon dancing with tonight?

8/1 ~ A New Lunar Cycle Begins
8/1-3 ~ The Lion's Twilight Challenge
8/6-13 ~ The Moon Moves Toward Jupiter
8/16-18 ~ Sirius / Leo Supercharged Full Moon
8/23-27 ~ Luna Visits the Bull and the Twins
The Leo Night Sky
The Virgo Night Sky Under Construction
The Night Sky ~ Home Page

Current Phase of the Moon

Click on the Moon links for meditative insights and additional information.

New	Waxing Crescent	First Quarter	Waxing Gibbous	Full	Waning Gibbous	Last Quarter	Waning Crescent
8 /1 / 08		8 /8 / 08		8 /16 / 08		8 /23 / 08
3:13amPDT		1:20pmPDT		2:16pmPDT		4:49pmPDT
10:13 UT		20:20 UT		21:16 UT		23:49 UT

Note: When the right side of the Moon is illuminated, the Moon is increasing or waxing. When the left side illuminated, the Moon is decreasing or waning. (Of course, this only works in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere the effect is just the opposite!)

Moon and Sun Data
One Specific Day
One Year Table

Rise/Set/Transit Times ~ Major Bodies

UT Time Conversion

A New Lunar Cycle Begins
Total Solar Eclipse ~ The Sirius / Leo New Moon
Friday, August 1– 3:13am PDT; 10:13 UT
Emerging from Darkness

Image: Distant Suns / Adobe Photoshop

* Printable Image *

east–left, west–right, north–top, south–bottom

The New Moon is really a no Moon! This Moon is too close to the Sun to be seen. It is hidden from our view by the Sun's glowing light. However, during a solar eclipse the Moon passes directly in front of the Sun visibly showing off part or all of its entire dark disk.

Note: For those living in San Francisco this New Moon takes place below the eastern horizon 3 hours before sunrise. The Sun, New Moon and planets are located in the same constellations for other parts of the world; these constellations, in differing time zones, lie in a different location above or below the horizon.

Total Solar Eclipse

August 1 the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth and eclipses (hides) the Sun for millions of observers in northern Canada, Greenland, Russia, Siberia, Mongolia and China. The total eclipse begins at sunrise in Canada (09:21:07 UT), peaks midday in central Russia (10:21:08 UT), and ends at sunset in China (11:21:28 UT). Totality Path Viewers near Novosibirsk, Russia witness peak totality, which lasts just under 2 1⁄2 minutes.

A total solar eclipse is produced when the New Moon crosses directly in front of the Sun and is close enough to Earth to appear bigger than the Sun; hence, the Moon when viewed from Earth is able to completely cover the Sun.

Hmmm ... In other words, the Sun’s diameter, 400 times larger than the Moon’s, is balanced when the Sun is roughly 400 times farther from Earth than the Moon.

As the Moon journeys in front of the Sun, a lunar shadow is cast upon the Earth.

Mechanics of Solar Eclipses

Although millions experience a total solar eclipse August 1, billions witness a partial eclipse, when the Moon covers only part of the Sun.

The partial eclipse can be seen from about a quarter of Earth's surface, including all of Asia, most of Europe, the Middle East, India, and the Maine corner of North America. If you live in one of those areas, get ready for fun. Full NASA Eclipse Article

Maps and Info ~ Eclipse Animation

Anyone can observe the total eclipse broadcasted live online at 3:00am PDT; 10:00 UT on NASA TV. You may also want to check out these additional webcasts.

Watch the Replay ~ View the Eclipse Images
A team of Exploratorium and NASA heliophysics experts
broadcast the eclipse live from China and reveal its captured images.

BTW: Eclipses tend to come in pairs with solar and lunar complementing each other. The August 16 Full Moon is a partial lunar eclipse. Stay tuned to this edition of Moon Dances for details and reflections. Eclipse Frequency

Reflections ~ Solar Eclipse

A solar eclipse is always a supercharged New Moon that marks new beginnings. A new awareness is being offered to us by our shadow self, the dark void, the infinite unknown. This eclipse is a personal and global opportunity and challenge to come into a new balance and level of wholeness.

Eclipses are synchronistic with unexpected circumstances that challenge the perceived order of our lives. ... The earth is shifting beneath our feet. Here we are, there's no turning back. Be present with what is essential. One door closes and another opens. Eclipses dredge the past, wrinkle the present. ... We can gain perspective from looking back to the dates of previous eclipses that were closely aligned with the present cycle. Do you recall anything significant around these dates of these previous eclipses: July 30, 2000, July 22, 1990, July 10, 1972? Jacqueline Lasahn / AstroFlash 7/30/08

How To Deal With Eclipses

Reflections ~ The Sirius / Leo New Moon

The Sirius / Leo Festival is celebrated at the Full Moon occurring during the Sun sign of Leo. This great world Festival and its lunar cycle are dedicated to the task of making contact with the evolutionary forces of Sirius, our Spiritual Sun and brightest star in the heavens. The influences of Sirius are focused through the star Regulus, the heart of the Lion, found in the constellation Leo. Awareness of the Leo-Sirius connection has a unifying effect on all of humanity and its world religions. During this time Soul-infused, focused humanity has the opportunity to align with the greater cosmic energies beyond our solar system.

With every New Moon our soul goes into meditation; a potential is enlivened and a seed of consciousness is formed deep within. Take some time to create a sacred space. A new cycle is beginning.

Reflections ~ New Moon, Beehive,
Mercury, Leo the Lion's 3 Planets

Review the above map …

The New Moon, Sun and Mercury lie in conjunction with the Beehive star cluster (M44) also known as the Manger and Praesepe. It is found at the heart of the constellation of Cancer.

... Praesepe embodies the protective and nurturing environment supporting the birth / awakening / transmutation from darkness into light. But Praesepe primarily is of emergence, migration, new beginnings, shedding old skins, skeletons and cocoons ... Praesepe embodies the essence of the Scarab / Cancer theme: the emergence out of darkness, dogma, and delusion, and the re-awakening back to Light. ... Praesepe requires we trust in our magnetic sense, our inner compass to hone in on the new direction in the emergence process. Nick Fiorenza

Like the scarab rising out of its dung or the lotus rising out of the mud we can emerge from the darkness into the lighted house of the Christ consciousness, the Group Soul (Manger/Beehive).

The emanations of Mercury illuminate the higher mind creating a link between the Soul and the personality. Mercury conditions the personality life and creates Divine messengers.

Mercury along with the Sun and Moon are activating Leo the Lion and it's three residing planets, Venus, Saturn and Mars. These planets are found respectively at the head, belly and tail of the cosmic Lion. They are preparing us to work together with the will and purpose of Deity, as they potently underscore Leo's Law of the Soul. Learn more about Leo and these planets in the text below the following star map.

In Summary

The order of our lives is being challenged with this supercharged New Moon. The infinite unknown is offering humanity a new awareness and the evolutionary forces of Sirius are impressing us. An alignment with the greater cosmic energies is possible; these heavenly powers are beckoning us. We are being guided through a doorway of higher consciousness and are being prepared to work with the will and purpose of Deity. There is no turning back. We are emerging from the darkness.

Radiant Life Global Meditation
Celebrating the Sirius ~ Leo Festival
This meditation, which culminates at the
Full Moon in Leo, begins with this New Moon.

Mercury ~ Planetary Treat During Leo

Teltane

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The Lion’s Twilight Challenge
Looking West – 8:30pm
A Bright Golden Star Lies High in the West
Big Dipper Navigation

Image: AstroViewer / Adobe Photoshop

* Printable Image *

 

A bright golden star …

… lies high in the west just after sunset. It’s Arcturus. The Big Dipper lies to the right (north) of the star and Spica lies to the left (south). Arc from the handle of the Big Dipper to golden Arcturus, then spike down to Spica!

Big Dipper Navigation

The Lion’s Twilight Challenge

There is a 4 planet line-up low on the western horizon just after sunset. Three of the planets lie in the constellation Leo the Lion. The observation is challenging and binoculars are a must, though they may not be good enough to see the entire view. You’ll need a flat unobstructed horizon, clear skies and right timing. Rise & Set Times

Mercury (magnitude –2.0), too close to the light of the setting Sun, is not expected to be seen until August 8, and maybe not even then.
Venus (-3.8) is piercing through the twilight.
Saturn (0.8) brighter than Mars, in a lighter sky is difficult to spot.
Mars (1.7) dimmer than Saturn, in a darker sky, is difficult to spot.

August 1, Friday just after sunset, those in the Pacific Time Zone might be able to see the youngest Moon on the very night of the New Moon! Luna lies below and to the right of Venus. Scan the unobstructed horizon with binoculars or a telescope. The Moon sets in a light sky about 8:40pm, only 20 minutes after the Sun.

August 2, Saturday just after sunset, a sliver of a Moon lies between Venus and Saturn, near Regulus, which requires a telescope for viewing. Luna sets about 9:10pm. How many planets can you see?

August 3, Sunday just after sunset, a slim Moon guides us to Mars. Look above Luna to view the planet with binoculars. Good luck and clear skies! Moonset: 9:35pm.

BTW: Look southeast on any of the above days to view easy to see brilliant Jupiter east of the Sagittarius teapot. The cosmic Scorpion lies in the south with its red heart star Antares. 8/1 8:30pm Sky Chart Look for the Summer Triangle north of Jupiter. Star Gazer's fun 1-minute video reveals a binocular view above the Scorpion's stinger.

Reflections ~ Leo the Lion,
Regulus, Venus, Saturn, Mars

Leo the Lion’s highest expression is the fully integrated personality who stands out from the "herd" and is ignited by the fire of Divine Will. The Light of Leo is the Light of the Soul. Its illumination prepares one for participation in the New Group of World Servers.

Ancient cultures associated Regulus, the heart and brightest star in Leo the Lion, with the concept of royalty or kingly power. We know it as the Ruler, the Lawgiver. Regulus, the Lion-Hearted Lawgiver, focuses the evolutionary energies of Sirius and the Christ consciousness toward Earth, acting as a regulator for these liberating emanations.

In the constellation Leo a backward question mark of stars curves up from Regulus. It represents the Lion's chest, majestic mane and head, this pattern is also called the Sickle. The Sickle has the ability to cut through confusion; the Royal, Lion-Hearted Lawgiver can then stimulate a response in humanity that expresses the higher Law of the Soul, the quality known as love-wisdom.

Currently Venus, Saturn and Mars are potently activating Regulus and Leo the Lion. See map above. These celestial bodies are preparing us to work with the will of Deity by bringing forth the liberating Law of the Soul. Venus and the cosmic Lion bring into human awareness unjust relationships based on favoritism; together they create right relationship, which manifests the divine essence in all. Saturn in Leo brings about tests of leadership, honesty and integrity. Mars in the Lion's den, results in a difficult battle of transformation, when the dynamic vitality and creative urges of the lower self must come under the direction of the Soul. Mars positioned at Leo's tail star, Denebola the Changer, makes this especially so.

Leo the Lion and its three planets shine their energies down upon us during the daylight hours while most of us are awake and about. They are "invisibly" influencing humanity's daily activities. Watch soul force increase and old ways die, as these cosmic forces do their part in helping us emerge from darkness.

BTW: Because Regulus lies almost exactly upon the ecliptic, once a year around August 22-23, during Earth's orbit around the Sun, the Sun occults Regulus, channeling the Sirian forces, unimpeded throughout our solar system. Hmmm ... the Sun, the heart of our solar system, conjoins Regulus, the heart star of Leo the Lion, which focuses and regulates the emanations of Sirius, esoterically the heart of our Sun, toward Earth! In time the heart of humanity will grow more loving and wise with an ability to create a sacred planet, a radiant magnetic center in the universe.

Note: Each year, soul-infused humanity aligns with the spiritual light of the Sirian Path at the time of the Sirius/Leo Festival, which occurs at the Full Moon during Leo from July 21 – August 20. In 2008 this Festival is celebrated August 16. Stay tuned for the Full Moon map and reflections.

Venus ~ Planetary Treat During Leo

Saturn ~ Planetary Treat During Leo

Mars~ Planetary Treat During Leo

The Moon Moves Toward Jupiter
3 Birds Soar Above a Giant Planet
Wednesday-Wednesday, August 6-13– 9:00pm

Image: Heavens Above / Adobe Photoshop

* Printable Image *

Dated spheres represent the Moon's approximate postion.

Sky Chart Notes

Though the sky is still pretty light at 9:00pm, use binoculars to spot dim Mars and Saturn low in the west. Each day at 9:00pm, Saturn is seen lower on the horizon until it disappears from view 8/11. Mars, sinking much slower, remains at about the same altitude during the week.

Note: Venus, which sets just before 9:00pm during the week is moving closer to Saturn. Both are in conjunction 8/13 with Mercury below them. Map This is a difficult observation very low on the horizon. Brilliant Venus pops through the twilight; you'll need binoculars to see Saturn and Mercury. Keep your eyes safe by not focusing on the Sun!

The Moon anywhere in the vicinity of Jupiter is a dazzling delight. Three birds soar in a summer triangle above this gaseous giant planet. They fly the stream of the Milky Way (more below). Image Lyra at the western point of the triangle is frequently visualized as a vulture or eagle; its beak is the star Vega. Cygnus at the eastern point is a swan and its tail is the star Deneb. Aquila at the southern point is an eagle; Altair is its head star.

The sky view moves west 15º/hour.
(180º in 12 hours, horizon to horizon, 180º/12)
Stars rise and set 4 minutes earlier each night.

Look Up! Can you see the Milky Way?

The Milky Way sweeps from Scorpius in the south to Cassiopeia in the north. The Summer Triangle lies overhead in the center of its star-filled sweep. A dark sky away from the city is needed to view the Milky Way. Moonlight can interfere with the observation. Map

The mysterious band in the heavens, which we call the Milky Way, is closely connected with cosmic prana, or that cosmic vitality or nourishment which vitalizes the solar etheric system. Alice Bailey TCF p. 99

Check Out Scorpius!

Look for this cosmic scorpion, a sprawling "j" shaped constellation, in the south at sunset. Antares is the red heart star of Scorpius. Can you find the Scorpion's missing claws (now the constellation Libra) and its two stinger stars, sometimes called cat's eyes? Use binoculars to see M6 and M7 above the stinger. Track Bunny's Footprints in Scorpius throughout the year! Can you now name the two stars that the Scorpion, Kitty and Bunny have in common?

Reflections ~ Waxing Crescent Moon,
Virgo the Virgin, Spica

As the Moon grows in the light provided by our Sun,
we too grow in the light of our Soul.

Overcoming obstacles to the new incoming awareness begins with the waxing Crescent Moon. What was conceived at the New Moon, Emerging from Darkness, review above, is now in the process of waxing or gestating.

August 6, Wednesday, the waxing Crescent Moon lies to the south (left) of Spica. Spica symbolizing the sacred womb of Virgo the Virgin, accepts and nourishes the seed of Arcturus, the herder of the Divine Will, emanating from the 7 rishis of the Big Dipper in Ursa Major. The energies of Virgo nurture and shield the hidden divinity of each one of us. Namaste!

Reflections ~ First Quarter Moon

The First Quarter Moon, exact August 8 at 1:20pm PDT; 20:20 UT, squares the Sun at a 90-degree angle and brings up a tension between desires and emotions, as we struggle for fulfillment. Ideally any obstacles impeding the awareness conceived at the New Moon are overcome at this time. What new life is emerging within? Initiate actions that help it grow.

August 7-8, Thursday-Friday, the First Quarter Moon moves through the constellation Libra. The missing claws of Scorpius have become Libra, the razor edged path, where neither spirit nor matter dominates. It is the path that brings forth the "cutting edge" ideas that transform our world.

A point of balance is required. Choose the Libran Way, which synthesizes duality with compassion and the right use of the pairs of opposites.

Reflections ~ Waxing Gibbous Moon, Scorpius,
Divine Governance - Aldebaran / Antares Axis

The waxing Gibbous Moon is more than half lit, moving toward its full sunlit phase. Illumination and growth are offered by this lunar phase, only if the obstacles from the past are cleared away. This must happen, if the energy released with the coming Full Moon is to be utilized.

Review the above map …

August 9-10, Saturday-Sunday, Gibbous Luna transits Scorpius, the cosmic Scorpion. Luna first lies at the head of the Scorpion and then passes to the east of its red heart star, Antares.

When the Moon transits the burning ground of Scorpius, it activates the transformative power within us, the Kundalini Fire of Life. Scorpius is the seat of the coiled serpent power and Antares the serpent itself ready to be enlivened. Opposite Antares in the zodiacal wheel lies Aldebaran, the illuminating eye of Taurus the Bull, the star of enlightenment. Antares wields the Fire of God by its connection to Aldebaran. The Aldebaran / Antares axis is activated by the Moon's presence.

Aldebaran emanates a governing vision for humanity, while Antares keeps the enlightened vision of the people current, ensuring growth, evolution and change. This political balancing act keeps expanding our mortal limits, often through conflict that ultimately brings harmony. Compassion and cooperation ease humanity's transition to Divine Governance and its emergence from darkness.

... the New Structure for Planetary Management or Governance ... will emerge in the twenty-first century ... [and] represent Divine Government on Earth. [T]here will be two phases to this "project", and that the First Phase is already in operation. In this First Phase, you are being gradually shifted from a Planet of separate national identities based on a money economy, to a Fifth-dimensional Unified Planet based on an Economy of Love, Co-Operation and Sharing. In the First Phase, you will begin to create networks and structures that will express the Fifth-dimensional energy of Oneness and Unconditional Love. Now, as these networks emerge and strengthen, they will begin to take the interest of those in "governments", and in the Second Phase there will be a merging of the functions of various governments into this Planetary or Global network of Love. Heaven and Earth will merge in a very literal way, and what will emerge at the end of this process will be a Unified Planet under the Stewardship of a Council of Elders who will guide the Earth's development in Co-operation with Spirit. The New Earth Rising August 2008 / Archangel Michael through Celia Fenn

Reflections ~ Sagittarius
Realm of the Zen Archer

Sagittarius rides toward the light, bound for the Heart of our Galaxy (Galactic Center). This Zen Archer along with Jupiter and Pluto are impressing humanity to aim for the spiritual vision that expands our hearts and minds, which includes the “Whole” Truth that unites us all. This vision is essential for emerging from the darkness. Sagittarius Keynote

Review the above map …

August 11/12, Monday night / Tuesday morning, the Moon enters the realm of the Archer and marks the bulging Heart of the Milky Way Galaxy. Nearby, "invisible" telescopic Pluto the agent of death brings unrelenting transformation to humanity's most basic belief structures. Resistance is futile.

When Pluto is conjunct the moon, which is the seat of our personal subconscious beliefs, and also the Galactic Center, the time is ripe for a total shift in consciousness, a transformation of personal and cultural values on the broadest possible scale. Satya Center

Note: The Moon conjoins Pluto 8/12 at 2:04am PDT; 09:04 UT.

Pluto retrograde (4/2-9/7) insists we face and release the past in order to move forward. Breakdown, overhaul, repair and healing can be expected.

Pluto is named for the Greek god of wealth. When Pluto and the galactic center are in conjunction, wealth is symbolically joining the heart of our galaxy. The recent budding of abundance consciousness relates to Pluto’s galactic center alignment. Potential effects of this lengthy Pluto transit (2005-08) are the proper sharing of the world’s resources and the liberation of money for visionary services on Earth.

The Perseid Meteor Shower peaks this night. Begin looking northeast at 9:00pm, best viewing around 2:00am. Our hero Perseus, in the process of initiation and self-mastery, has the ability to transform and transcend darkness. With this heroic spirit raise any obstacles and inner demons into the light. Take action for the greater good by moving beyond judgment. Claim true personal power to complete the greater mission and purpose of the Soul.

Review the above map …

August 12, Tuesday, Gibbous Luna approaches Jupiter from the west. The star Nunki lies between them. This star represents the vane of the Archer's arrow. Open to its guiding and stabilizing force that ensures the spiritual target is reached.

The Moon moves closer to Jupiter as the night unfolds conjoining the planet 8/13 at 7:43am PDT; 14:43 UT.

August 13, Wednesday, the Moon and Jupiter form a striking triangle with Altair the head of Aquila the Eagle. This royal bird of Jupiter (Zeus) soars above representing vision and freedom, lifting humanity into the realms of higher mind and intuition. Jupiter retrograde (4/2-9/6) can deepen one's intuition and wisdom and cause one to re-evaluate what has meaning in life.

Watch this lunar triangle expand the next few nights with the Moon's easterly movement. Altair is also the southern point of the Summer Triangle, the Milky Way's transformational gateway leading one on the path to unity.

Look to this area of the heavens. Allow the realm of the Archer to expand your heart and mind with a divine vision. Know that beneficent Jupiter bridges our solar system with the cosmos, producing wisdom and the externalization of the divine Plan on Earth. Look Up! Receive the blessings of our solar system, galaxy and beyond! Open to humanity's divine destiny.

BTW: Saturn and Venus are at their closest setting in the west by 9:00pm. Map Their sobering energies of love shine down upon us during the daylight hours.

Jupiter ~ Planetary Treat During Leo

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Full Moon ~ Partial Lunar Eclipse
Sirius / Leo Supercharged Full Moon Festival
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Exact Full Moon: 2:16pm PDT; 21:16 UT

Image: Distant Suns / Adobe Photoshop

* Printable Image *

east–left, west–right, north–top, south–bottom

Note: For those living in San Francisco this Full Moon takes place below the horizon 6 hours before moonrise, hence the eclipse is not visible here nor anywhere in North America, except for a minor NE part of the continent. The Full Moon and planets are located in the same constellations for other parts of the world; these constellations, in differing time zones, lie in a different location above or below the horizon.

 

Partial Lunar Eclipse

August 16, Saturday, the Earth passes between the Sun and Moon and its shadow partially eclipses (hides) the Moon. Observers in Africa, the Middle East and parts of western Asia and Russia have the best view. North Americans miss seeing this eclipse except for those in a small northeastern part of the continent.

The event lasts 3 hours. It begins at 19:36 UT, peaks at 21:10 UT and ends at 22:44 UT. At maximum, 81% of the Moon is in the umbra, the deepest darkest shadow of the Earth. This is expected to change the color the Moon.

Maps and Info ~ Eclipse Animation ~ Shadow Zones

Live Webcasts ~ 12:30pm PDT; 19:30 UT
Netherlands, Norway, Canary Islands

Reflections ~ Lunar Eclipse

This lunar cycle, which began with a solar eclipse is now culminating with a lunar eclipse! Darkness appears where light once was. The perception of our lives is changing; a previously unknown dimension is revealing itself.

Between August 1st and the 16th, we are in a period of considerable shifts and changes. Not only are there two eclipses, but a significant transit of Mars opposition to Uranus which occurred on Aug. 6th.

... The combination of the Solar Eclipse with the Mars opposition to Uranus has created on one hand a willingness to change and look for alternatives, but also strong volatility. We may feel that we don't know what's going to happen next or that the ground under our feet isn't stable.

The last Eclipse on the 16th ends with a bang as that chart includes a very tight square between Mars and Pluto, indicating the potential for powerful clashes, the emergence of hostility that had been covert, and the possibility of very negative attacks if people do not seek more peaceful resolutions to long-standing issues. These are some of the negative possible manifestations and they are not to be trifled with. Jim Sher 8/8/08

A lunar eclipse is a supercharged Full Moon. It is a time of endings, culmination points and major changes.

The blocking of the Moon's reflection of the Sun's light by the Earth suggests that our material viewpoint stands in the way of our "seeing the light". It serves as a reminder that we need to realize how we are held in the dark by virtue of our perspective. Zodiac Arts 8/16/08

How To Deal With Eclipses ~ Eclipse Frequency

Reflections ~ The Sirius / Leo Full Moon

Any Full Moon experience can offer us greater illumination of our essential divinity. Issues worked on since the New Moon come to a climax. If the restrictions of the past have been released during the waxing Moon, then the Full Moon can bring fulfillment. If not, the Full Moon might bring serious mental conflicts, possibly affecting the physical body.

The Full Moon is exact 2:16pm PDT; 21:16 UT.

What was conceived at the New Moon, Emerging from Darkness, review above now comes to fruition and is birthed into the full light of our conscious minds.

During the Sirius / Leo Festival, the Soul Light within us is ever increasingly aware of the spiritual light emanating from Sirius. This great Sirian light is becoming more available, bringing to us a new opportunity, a new path. The Sirius / Leo Festival prepares humanity and in turn planet Earth for perfection and ultimate cosmic service, bringing us into contact with the Heart of God.

Full Moon Global Meditation
Celebrating the Sirius ~ Leo Festival
SouledOut.org invites you to participate
in the Leo Radiant Life Meditation

Reflections ~ The Full Moon's Position
Aquila, Neptune, Fomalhaut
Delphinus, Enif

Review the map above ...

The Full Moon lies just east of Neptune, having exactly conjoined the planet and occulted it for observers in NE Africa, E Europe, W and central Asia less than 3 hours earlier at 11:24am PDT; 18:24 UT. The exact Full Moon lies at the border of Capricornus and Aquarius.

The Moon is activating the diagonal line-up of Altair, Neptune and Fomalhaut. The emanations of Neptune and its constellation Capricornus tune us to a higher frequency of Spirit and its potential earthly expression. Altair, head of Aquila the Eagle, brings vision and freedom; Fomalhaut prepares humanity for the new age, as it drinks from the jug of Aquarius. This alignment pours new Life into humanity creating opportunities that make the spirit soar.

Note: Neptune reaches opposition, August 15, the day before the Full Moon, and is retrograde until November 1. This means we feel its ethereal energies more potently now and are learning lessons about living with groundlessness, as our illusions disintegrate and reality erodes, reshapes itself.

As the hours progress, the Full Moon enters the constellation Aquarius while it continues to transit Fomalhaut. The Moon and Fomalhaut are next seen diagonally aligning with Delphinus the Dolphin and then with Enif the nose of Pegasus the Flying Horse.

… Delphinus offers guidance for those willing to trust in greater forces than their personal efforts generate alone. The Dolphins, an expression of the angelic dominion, are guides … They reveal the way to make safe passage to our destination provided we listen to and follow the serendipity of life. Nick Fiorenza

Allow serendipity to guide your way in a seemingly groundless world. Surrender your reasoning mind to the Divine Intelligence that flows through the universe. Make the leap to intuition and awaken to the promptings of essential divinity and the group soul.

Enif brings intuitiveness and sensitivity to the humanitarian / Aquarian pursuit. Enif is characteristic of altruistic people, those with the intuitive awareness to recognize what is of essence, of value, and worthy of humanitarian support. ... A fortuitous star, Enif asks us to follow our intuition to do what is truly supportive to our greater well being. Nick Fiorenza

Reflections ~ Full Moon's Illumination

The Full Moon during Leo is illuminated by the Sun in the constellation of Leo, approaching Regulus the heart of this cosmic Lion. The Sun and Regulus are at their closest August 22-23. In addition, Saturn, Mercury and Venus, positioned in the belly of the Leo the Lion, are in very close proximity to each other.

In review, Regulus, the Lion-Hearted Lawgiver, focuses the evolutionary energies of Sirius and the Christ consciousness toward Earth, acting as a regulator for the liberating energies of love-wisdom.

Leo stands in a unique relationship to the sun at the heart of our solar system. The planetary and systemic alignment established at this Festival is a heart / soul alignment. The heart of humanity, the heart of the planet ~ the spiritual Hierarchy ~ and the heart of the sun create the channel which extends to Sirius ... This alignment is evocative of the cosmic principle of Love and Freedom, both of which flow through Sirius and Leo into our range of awareness. Lucis Trust website, 2005

Leo the Lion’s highest expression is the fully integrated personality ignited by the fire of Divine Will. The self-awareness gained in Leo opens the door to the group service of Aquarius, which stands opposite Leo in the zodiacal wheel. The three planets in the Lion's Den are preparing us to work with the will of Deity by bringing forth the Law of the Soul, each in their own unique way. Venus and Leo bring an end to favoritism by creating right relationship. Saturn in Leo brings about tests of leadership, honesty and integrity. Mercury the personality's bridge to the soul can aid in soulic manifestation while in Leo.

Whew! The Higher Law of Sirius and Leo the Lion is roaring through our solar system and it is bound to shake us to our core!

Note: Since these celestial bodies lie close to the Sun their emanations shine down upon us during the daylight hours, influencing our daily activities.

 

In Summary

The Lunar theme, Emerging from Darkness, continues to be impressed and affirmed with the Full Moon.

Both the solar and lunar eclipses reveal a dark or unknown dimension that is emerging into the light. The lunar eclipse suggests that our limited material viewpoint holds us in the darkness. This is the time for humanity to expand its awareness and align with the heart and soul, the Higher Law and its quality of love-wisdom.

BTW: Here's a photo taken of the Heart and Soul Nebulas taken 8/12/08 during the Perseid Meteor Shower. Synchronicity?

This is a cycle of supercharged beginnings and endings. Expect surprising circumstances to challenge the order of life as shadow and covert energies are illuminated. Know that new impulses of spiritually potent energies are reshaping lives, leaving a feeling of groundlessness.

It is time to open to transcendent guidance, to release the limitations and control of the reasoning mind and take the intuitive leap. Trust in the Divine Intelligence flowing through the universe and allow serendipity to bring safe passage. Expand awareness beyond the Earth and the solar system. Be receptive to the cosmic evolutionary forces of Sirius and a new Aquarian path of opportunity and service.

August 17-18, Sunday-Monday, the Moon approaches then passes Uranus. It exactly conjoins the planet Monday at 4:13pm PDT; 23:13 UT. Review the map above.

Uranus evokes the freedom urge and shakes us loose from constrictions, ultimately leading us to inclusiveness.

Uranus reaches opposition September 12 and is retrograde until November 26. This means we feel its energies more potently, down to our core and into the comfortable places in our lives. Review the Full Moon summary.

Luna Visits the Bull and the Twins
Saturday-Wednesday, August 23-27, 2008
Looking East – 5:00am
Orion's Belt Leads Us to Aldebaran and Sirius

Image: AstroViewer / Adobe Photoshop

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Reflections ~ Last Quarter Moon, Taurus the Bull

The Last Quarter Moon can bring a crisis in consciousness as the Moon squares the Sun. This cycle's experiences have culminated and one must now prepare for rebirth by initiating change.

The Last Quarter Moon is exact July 23, Saturday, at 4:49pm PDT; 23:49 UT.

Note: Anyone can view the "inexact" Last Quarter Moon overhead in the day sky from sunrise to 9:00am; it sinks in the northwest until moonset around 2:00pm.

Predawn Luna wanes as she transits the constellation Taurus the Bull August 23-25. This cosmic Bull is fully risen, low in the east-northeast by 1:30am. The enlightened mind is the gift of Taurus when one transforms desire into spiritual aspiration. Luna emphasizes our emergence.

August 23, Saturday morning, the Last Quarter Moon lies to the west of the sparkling Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters. The famous star cluster marks the shoulder of Taurus the Bull and can be viewed paired with the Moon from its rising at midnight until dawn's early light. The Pleiades align us with Buddhi or universal mind; they transmit the Light of God into our minds, enabling God's light to descend on Earth.

August 24, Sunday morning, the Quarter Moon lies northeast of Aldebaran, the eye of the Bull. The Pleiades can be seen to the west; the star Elnath lies to the east. This view can be seen from 1:00am until dawn. Aldebaran, truly the "Bull’s eye" star of enlightenment, holds a vision that is seeded by the Pleiades. It is a divine ideal that can aid humanity’s evolutionary process through its political systems.

August 25, Monday morning, a Crescent Moon lies east of (below) Elnath. Look east 1:00am - dawn. Elnath, the northern horn tip (upper) horn of Taurus the Bull, is also a southern star in the constellation Auriga. This star lies almost opposite our galactic center. When we look at Elnath we are looking toward the rim of our galaxy and the less-populated regions of intergalactic space, away from the crowded galactic hub. Elnath represents perseverance, breakthroughs and expanded horizons. It is aligned with the heart of our galaxy and its blessings.

As the waning Moon transits this area of the sky, know that along with our personal, national and global struggles comes the hope of breakthroughs and positive change. Know that divinity, the soul, is part of humanity and spiritual aspiration brings enlightenment. Invoke the divine essence and its illuminating light during all struggles. This action initiates change and the emergence from darkness.

Reflections ~ Waning Crescent Moon, Gemini Twins

The waning Crescent Moon phase brings enlightenment at a deep level, a time of conscious growth, clarification of values and the surrender to a new future. Rebirth can occur and playfulness can come forth.

August 26-27, Tuesday-Wednesday morning, Luna's thinning Crescent first lies above Gemini's knee star Mebsuta and then aligns diagonally with the Twin stars, Pollux and Castor. Moonrise: 1:45am, 3:15am

Mebsuta means treading under feet. This relates to triumphant Castor the mortal twin, who has overcome death and transformed evil into good because of the sacred covenant he has with his divine twin, Pollux.

As Luna transits the Gemini Twins we are reminded that each of us has an inner divine twin with whom we can make a covenant and work together to bring out the best in all situations. This sacred bond lifts us from darkness into the glory of Heaven on Earth. Take a moment to strengthen the bond with your divine Self. Be reborn in the Light!

A New Moon occurs August 30 at 12:58pm PDT; 19:58 UT. Stay tuned for the next edition of Moon Dances. This edition will be limited because it's time for me to take a vacation! May the greatest good come forth!

I'd like to know your thoughts about The Night Sky and
if you'd like reminders to Look Up! ...
send me an email.
May your Night Sky traveling always be filled
with Celestial Delights and Treats!
Susan Sun

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