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Uranus

Brings unexpected changes, innovation, and disruption to the status quo.

Detailed Description

Uranus, the sideways-spinning planet, governs innovation, rebellion, sudden change, and awakening in astrology. When in retrograde, Uranus appears to move backwards, creating a period where our drive for freedom, originality, and revolution often turns inward.

This cosmic event occurs annually, lasting about 155 days each time. During Uranus retrograde, we're encouraged to reassess our relationship with change, our authentic expression, and the areas of life where we seek liberation and innovation.

Uranus retrogrades are excellent times for reviewing what truly makes us unique, reconsidering how we approach change, and reflecting on revolutionary ideas. Many astrologers suggest using this period to identify internal rather than external restrictions and to prepare for authentic change from within.

Mythology

Uranus (Greek name, also used by Romans) was the primordial god of the heavens and sky. He was the son and husband of Gaea (Earth) and father of the Titans, Cyclopes, and Hekatonkheires (hundred-handed giants).

Notable myths:

  • Fathered the twelve Titans with Gaea
  • Imprisoned his monstrous offspring in Tartarus
  • Was overthrown and castrated by his son Kronos (Saturn) at the urging of Gaea
  • From his spilled blood came the Furies, Giants, and Meliae
  • From his severed genitals cast into the sea came Aphrodite (Venus)
  • Unlike the other planets visible to the naked eye, Uranus was not named after a major Olympian deity but after an earlier primordial god. Discovered in 1781, its astrological meaning connects to the Age of Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution occurring at that time. The symbol for Uranus (♅) combines the circle of spirit with the cross of matter topped by an arc.

    Astrological Significance

    In astrology, Uranus rules:

  • Aquarius zodiac sign
  • The 11th house of community, friendships, and future visions
  • Uranus influence covers:

  • Innovation, originality, and invention
  • Revolution, rebellion, and sudden change
  • Freedom, independence, and individuality
  • Technology, science, and progress
  • Humanitarian concerns and group consciousness
  • Eccentricity and unconventionality
  • Disruption and awakening
  • When Uranus is well-aspected in a birth chart, it can indicate originality, innovative thinking, humanitarian values, and progressive ideas. When challenged, it may manifest as rebelliousness without cause, erratic behavior, or detachment.

    Astronomical Data

    Distance from Sun

    2,867 million km

    Orbital Period

    30,687 Earth days

    Rotation Period

    17 hours

    Diameter

    51,118 km

    Moons

    27

    Average Temperature

    -195°C

    Retrograde Status

    Direct Motion

    Retrograde Frequency

    Once per year

    Upcoming Retrogrades

    September 1, 2024 - January 30, 2025

    Duration

    151 days

    Sign

    Virgo

    September 6, 2025 - February 4, 2026

    Duration

    150 days

    Sign

    Gemini to Virgo

    September 10, 2026 - February 8, 2027

    Duration

    150 days

    Sign

    Gemini

    September 10, 2026 - February 8, 2027

    Duration

    150 days

    Sign

    Gemini

    September 15, 2027 - February 12, 2028

    Duration

    150 days

    Sign

    Gemini

    Effects During Retrograde

    Internal rebelliousness

    Technological reassessment

    Delayed innovation

    Freedom limitation feelings

    Unexpected internal insights

    Tips for Uranus Retrograde

    Focus on internal change

    Prepare for future innovation

    Connect with authentic self-expression

    Explore unconventional perspectives

    Be patient with revolutionary impulses

    Softening the Effects

    Uranus retrograde doesn't have to be destabilizing! Here are some ways to work with this energy:

    Focus on internal revolution rather than external rebellion

    Review areas of life that need liberation

    Reflect on authentic self-expression

    Reassess relationship with technology and progress

    Prepare for change rather than forcing it

    Explore unconventional ideas and perspectives

    Connect with like-minded community

    View restrictions as invitations to innovative thinking