Back to All Planets
♂

Mars

Impacts energy, drive, and ambition. Actions may be delayed or redirected.

Detailed Description

Mars, the fourth planet from the Sun, governs energy, action, desire, and assertiveness in astrology. When in retrograde, Mars appears to move backwards, creating a period where our drive, ambition, and forward momentum often experience frustration or redirection.

This cosmic event occurs approximately every 26 months, lasting about 58-81 days each time. During Mars retrograde, we're encouraged to reassess our goals, how we assert ourselves, and the ways we channel our energy and anger.

Mars retrogrades are excellent times for strategic planning, revising action plans, and working on how we handle conflict and express our desires. Many astrologers suggest avoiding initiating major projects, confrontations, or physical challenges during these periods.

Mythology

Mars (Roman name) or Ares (Greek name) was the god of war, bloodshed, and violence. He was the son of Jupiter (Zeus) and Juno (Hera).

Notable myths:

  • His love affair with Venus (Aphrodite) and their humiliation by Vulcan (Hephaestus)
  • His defeat by Athena in battle during the Trojan War
  • His imprisonment in a bronze jar by the giants Otus and Ephialtes
  • As father of Romulus and Remus (with the Vestal Virgin Rhea Silvia), he was considered an ancestor of the Roman people

    • Unlike the strategic Athena/Minerva, Mars represented the brutal, bloody aspects of war. The Romans honored him more than the Greeks did Ares, as they saw themselves as a warrior culture. The symbol for Mars (♂) represents his shield and spear.

    Astrological Significance

    In astrology, Mars rules:

  • Aries zodiac sign (and traditionally co-rules Scorpio)
  • The 1st house of self and identity
  • The 8th house of transformation and shared resources

    • Mars influence covers:

  • Energy, drive, and initiative
  • Passion, desire, and sexuality
  • Courage and assertiveness
  • Action and competition
  • Physical strength and vitality
  • Anger and aggression
  • Independence and self-assertion

    • When Mars is well-aspected in a birth chart, it can indicate healthy assertiveness, strong drive, physical prowess, and passionate nature. When challenged, it may manifest as aggression, impatience, recklessness, or conflict.

    Astronomical Data

    Distance from Sun

    227.9 million km

    Orbital Period

    687 Earth days

    Rotation Period

    25 hours

    Diameter

    6,792 km

    Moons

    2

    Average Temperature

    -65°C

    Retrograde Status

    Direct Motion

    Retrograde Frequency

    Every 2 years

    Upcoming Retrogrades

    December 6, 2024 - February 24, 2025

    Duration

    79 days

    Sign

    Sagittarius to Pisces

    January 10 - April 1, 2027

    Duration

    81 days

    Sign

    Capricorn to Aries

    Effects During Retrograde

    Decreased energy levels

    Delays in projects

    Frustration and impatience

    Internalized anger

    Need to revise goals

    Tips for Mars Retrograde

    Channel energy into strategic planning

    Practice healthy ways to process anger

    Avoid initiating major conflicts

    Be patient with delays

    Focus on revising rather than beginning

    Softening the Effects

    Mars retrograde doesn't have to mean frustration! Here are some ways to work with this energy:

    Slow down and strategize rather than charging ahead

    Review and revise action plans and goals

    Explore alternative ways to express anger and desire

    Practice patience and mindfulness

    Focus on internal work rather than external achievement

    Revisit abandoned projects or desires

    Use extra energy for reflection and planning

    View obstacles as opportunities to refine your approach