What Is Mars Retrograde Mean

May 24, 2022

Comparable to race vehicles on an oval circuit are the two planets. Earth is in the inside lane and travels more quickly than Mars; in fact, it completes two laps of the track in roughly the same amount of time as Mars does one.

Earth catches up to Mars and passes it once every 26 months. This year, as we pass by the red planet, it will appear to us as though Mars is rising and falling. The illusion will eventually vanish as we continue along our curved orbit and view the planet from a different angle, allowing us to once more see Mars moving straight ahead.

Retrograde motion is the term for this seemingly irregular motion. Jupiter and the other planets that orbit the sun further away also experience the illusion.

The orbits that Earth and Mars follow don’t precisely lay on the same plane, which just adds to the strangeness of the situation. It appears as though the two planets are traveling down distinct tracks that are just slightly off-center from one another. This results in yet another odd illusion.

Imagine you could mark the location of Mars on a sky map every night as it moves forward, goes into retrograde, and then resumes its forward motion. You can either draw an open zigzag or a loop by connecting the dots. Depending on where Earth and Mars are in their skewed racetrack orbits, a certain pattern will emerge.

How does the retrograde of Mars effect me?

The fact that Mars does not always function well in polite society is a topic that Mars retrograde also touches on in a much more sophisticated way. We learn to repress our basic, individual wants for the benefit of the group from a very young age. We are taught to keep our mouths shut if we have nothing nice to say, so harsh words often replace silent smiles. So it should come as no surprise when we subsequently discover that we have suppressed our martial tendencies and struggle to exert ourselves when necessary. It’s possible that our professors succeeded in passing down this perverted aspect of contemporary culture too well: we inherit the capacity to witness wrong and say nothing, and even farther, to be wronged and do nothing.

We are likely to confront this aspect of ourselves during Mars’ retrograde, letting off rogue fury units that appear out of nowhere. We are given the chance to rethink these aspects of our lives when we delve deeply into areas of unresolved conflict, allowing new and better impulses to take control. Mars retrogrades are the best opportunities to reevaluate our goals and motivations, allowing for any necessary rewrites. After Mars retrograde, we gain a fresh perspective on our path and learn new strategies for fusing motivation with meaning.

Why is my Mars retrograde, and what does that mean?

According to some astrologers, Mars’ retrograde motion is a good opportunity to face your suppressed self. Dig deep and examine your unresolved conflicts right now. Rewrite the script. “Retrogrades disclose things, and over the next two months, so much is about to change,” Francesca said in her conclusion.

What affects humans does retrograde have?

What effect it’s having on your energy levels Expect to have either more or less energy than usual, especially worried energy. will either drain you of your typical vigor, leaving you feeling tired, or fill you with chaotic, scattered energy, possibly leaving you feeling restless, distracted, and agitated.

Where is Mars currently retrograde?

Mars in Aries retrograde:

We are currently re-discovering and evaluating our capacities for independence, bravery, individuality, and self-assertion.

Aries is the planetary ruler of initiative, personality, self-employment, bravery in speaking our truths, and independence. We might need to reconsider how we tackle these issues during Mars’ retrograde cycle. We could have some irritation or worry about our capacity to take the lead, leave our mark, and do it on our own. When starting or moving on with various endeavors, particularly independent ones, there may be hesitance, prudence, and a fear of taking risks.

We may encounter decreased vigor and/or health problems, especially in locations where Aries is the governing sign (the face and head, most notably). Accidents are more likely to happen during Mars’ retrograde motion. We should exercise particular caution when using machines, driving, and other activities. We could think we can achieve more than we actually can.

  • Mars started its retrograde cycle on September 6, 1941, at 23 Aries 44, and concluded it on November 10, 1941, still in Aries, at 11 Aries 05.
  • Mars began its retrograde phase on September 19th at 9 Taurus 16, moved back into Aries on October 29th, and concluded its retrograde phase on November 25th at 25 Aries 18.
  • Mars started its retrograde cycle at 11 Aries 28 on August 26, 1988, but it withdrew into Pisces on October 23, 1988, and it ended its cycle on October 28 at 29 Pisces 53.
  • From September 9, 2020, at 28 Aries 09, until November 13, 2020, at 15 Aries 14, Mars will be in Aries for the entirety of its retrograde cycle.

Mars in Taurus is retrograde.

We are currently developing new and more effective strategies for expressing our wants and demands. We can be more reflective and deliberate in Taurus, the bull’s sign, and take our time to accomplish our objectives. In any case, if we move forward rashly, we encounter issues, roadblocks, and difficulties. The sign emphasizes the arrogance it represents. Taurus is the sign of money, thus we should reevaluate how we make and spend money. We may feel pressured to do so because of the circumstances. Spending on the spur of the moment could have negative effects. With regard to the creation and acquisition of our assets, we are likely to experience some frustration. Throughout the Mars retrograde period, health concerns (particularly in Taurus-ruled areas, such as the neck), as well as accidents, are possible. Avoid rushing things or diving headfirst into a new endeavor.

  • Mars began its retrograde phase on September 29, 1926, at 19 Taurus 28, and it concluded it on December 6, 1926, remaining in Taurus, at 4 Taurus 32.
  • Mars began its retrograde motion on October 10, 1958, at 2 Gemini 32, moved back into Taurus on October 28, 1958, and finally came to a finish on December 20, 1958, at 16 Taurus 35.
  • Mars began its retrograde phase on September 19, 1973, at 9 Taurus 16, exited Taurus on October 29, 1973, and ended it on November 25, 1973, at 25 Aries 18.
  • Mars began its retrograde motion on October 20, 1990, at 14 Gemini 34, moved back to Taurus on December 14, 1990, and concluded the motion, remaining in Taurus, on January 1, 1991, at 27 Taurus 45.
  • From October 1st, 2005, at 23 Taurus 22, to December 9th, 2005, at 8 Taurus 14, Mars was retrograde in Taurus.
  • Mars begins its retrograde cycle on October 12, 2037, at 6 Gemini 16. It moves back into Taurus on November 12, 2037, and stays there until December 23, 2037, at 20 Taurus 08.

Retrograde Mars in Gemini:

Initiatives related to the mind and intelligence may lag a little while Mars is retrograde in Gemini. Throughout the Mars retrograde period, health concerns (particularly in Gemini-ruled areas, such as the lungs), as well as accidents, are possible.

  • Mars started its retrograde cycle in the sign of Cancer on November 11, 1928, moved back into the sign of Gemini on December 20, and concluded it in the sign of Gemini on January 27, 1929, at 20 Gemini 59.
  • Mars started its retrograde phase at 22 Gemini 14 on October 28, 1943, and concluded it at 4 Gemini 51 on January 10, 1944, while it was still in the sign of Gemini.
  • Mars started its retrograde motion in the sign of Cancer on November 20, 1960, moved into the sign of Gemini on February 2, 1961, and concluded the retrograde very late in the sign of Gemini on February 5, 1961, at 29 Gemini 59.
  • On November 6, 1975, Mars began its retrograde motion in Cancer at 2 Cancer 40. On November 25, it moved back to Gemini, where it remained until January 20, 1976, when it was at 14 Gemini 44.
  • Mars started its retrograde cycle in Cancer on November 15, 2007, at 12 Cancer 27, became direct in Gemini on December 31, 2007, and remained in Gemini for the duration of the retrograde cycle until January 30, 2008, when it turned direct at 24 Gemini 05.
  • From Oct. 30, 2022, when it was at 25 Gemini 37, until Jan. 12, 2023, when it was at 8 Gemini 08, Mars went fully retrograde in the sign of Gemini.

Retrograde Mars in Cancer:

Mars is retrograde in the already reflective sign of Cancer during this time, so we may experience simmering resentment and find it challenging to find constructive ways to vent our grievances. We can be more thoughtful and methodical, taking our time to accomplish our objectives. In any case, if we move forward rashly, we encounter issues, roadblocks, and difficulties. Both our inner and outer foundationsour homes, domestic affairs, and family relationshipsare ruled by Cancer. As a result, we might need to rethink how we handle our personal lives at home. We often experience some frustration or worry about our roots, our fundamental sense of security, and the state of our domestic affairs.

Throughout the Mars retrograde period, health difficulties (particularly in areas ruled by Cancer, such as the stomach), as well as accidents, may be a concern.

  • Mars began its retrograde cycle on December 18th, 1930, at 16 Leo 49, moved back into Cancer on February 16th, 1930, and remained in Cancer until its retrograde cycle was completed on March 8th, 1931, at 27 Cancer 26.
  • Mars started its retrograde motion on December 4, 1945, at 3 Leo 14, went into Cancer on December 26, and remained there until Mars concluded its retrograde motion, turning direct on February 21, 1946, at 14 Cancer 07.
  • Mars started its retrograde journey in the sign of Leo on December 12, 1977, at 11 Leo 34. On January 25, 1978, it returned to the sign of Cancer in retrograde motion, where it remained until Mars turned direct on March 2, 1978, at 22 Cancer 16.
  • From Nov. 28, 1992, when it was at 27 Cancer 38, to Feb. 15, 1993, when it was at 8 Cancer 40, Mars went completely retrograde in the sign of Cancer.
  • On December 6, 2024, at 6 Leo 11, Mars begins its retrograde motion. On January 6, 2025, it returns to the sign of Cancer, where it stays until February 23, 2025, when it goes direct at 17 Cancer 01.
  • From November 23, 2039, at 21 Cancer 45, through February 9, 2040, at 3 Cancer 02, Mars will be retrograding completely in the sign of Cancer.

Mars in Leo retrograde:

While pride might inspire us to achieve more, it can also prevent us from communicating our actual emotions or truly learning from our experiences and those of others. Mars is retrograde in Leo, so there may be more moping around or withdrawing to make a point. Children, imagination, fun, amusement, and romance are all ruled by Leo. As a result, we might need to reevaluate how we handle certain situations. We could experience some annoyance or worry over these issues. Projects might not get off the ground as expected for a variety of reasons, including reluctance, prudence, and a fear of taking chances. Throughout the Mars retrograde period, health difficulties (particularly in areas controlled by Leothe heart and back) could be a factor, and accidents could happen.

  • Mars began its retrograde cycle on January 8, 1948, at 7 Virgo 37. On February 12, 1948, it moved back into the sign of Leo, where it remained until its retrograde phase was over on March 29, 1948, at 18 Leo 06.
  • From December 26, 1962, at 24 Leo 48, until March 16, 1963, at 5 Leo 20, Mars was fully retrograde in the sign of Leo.
  • Mars started its retrograde phase on January 16th, 1980, at 15 Virgo 21. It moved into Leo on March 11th, 1980, and stayed there until it finished its retrograde cycle on April 6th, 1980, at 25 Leo 52.
  • At 2 Virgo 40 on January 2, 1995, Mars began its retrograde cycle. On January 22, 1995, it moved back into Leo, where it remained until Mars became direct on March 24, 1995, at 13 Leo 10.
  • From Dec. 20, 2009, when it was at 19 Leo 42, to Mar. 10, 2010, when it was at 0 Leo 18, Mars went completely retrograde in the sign of Leo.
  • Mars begins its retrograde motion in Virgo on January 10, 2027, at 10 Virgo 26. On February 21, 2027, it moves back to Leo, where it remains until April 1, 2027, at 20 Leo 55, when it goes direct.
  • From December 28, 2041, at 27 Leo 40, until March 18, 2042, at 8 Leo 11, Mars is completely retrograde in Leo.

Mars in Virgo Retrograde:

Detail-oriented and meticulous, Virgo energy can manifest both positively and negatively depending on the situation. Mars is retrograde in Virgo, which may make compulsive behaviors more pronounced. We could become fixated on small details that don’t really matter. It could be unhealthy to become fixated on who is right and who is wrong. Work, health, self-care regimens, pets, and daily routines are all ruled by Virgo, therefore we might need to reevaluate how we approach these issues at the moment. We might experience some annoyance or worry over these things. Throughout the Mars retrograde period, accidents are a possibility as well as health difficulties (particularly in Virgo-ruled areas such as the digestion, intestines, bowels, and spleen). Current project revision and redefinition may be really fulfilling.

  • From January 20, 1933, at 20 Virgo 17, to April 11, 1933, at 0 Virgo 51, Mars was fully retrograde in the sign of Virgo.
  • Mars began its retrograde motion in Libra on February 12, 1950, at degree 11 Libra 03. Mars made its way back into the sign of Virgo on March 28, 1950, and remained there until it turned direct on May 3, 1950, at 22 Virgo 01.
  • From January 28, 1965, when it was at 28 Virgo 03, to April 19, 1965, when it was at 8 Virgo 44, Mars was fully retrograde in the sign of Virgo.
  • Mars began its retrograde cycle in Libra on February 5, 1997, at degree 55 of the sign. On March 8, 1997, Mars made its way back into Virgo in retrograde motion. It stayed in Virgo until it turned direct on April 27, 1997, bringing its retrograde phase to a conclusion at 16 Virgo 44.
  • From January 23, 2012, at 23 Virgo 05, until April 13, 2012, at 3 Virgo 41, Mars was completely retrograde in the sign of Virgo.
  • On February 14, 2029, at 13 Libra 55, Mars begins its retrograde phase. On April 7, 2029, it moves back into Virgo, where it stays until May 5, 2029, at 24 Virgo 56, when it goes direct.
  • Mars starts its retrograde cycle early in the sign of Libra on January 31, 2044, at 0 Libra 53. On February 12, 2044, it moves back into Virgo, where it stays until April 21, 2044, at 11 Virgo 35.

Mars in Libra, retrograde:

The conciliatory nature of Libra energy can manifest both positively and negatively. We could feel resentful of all we do for others or like we’ve been taken advantage of when Mars is retrograde in Libra. With Libra, there is a big emphasis on what is and isn’t fair. It could be unhealthy to become fixated on who is right and who is wrong. As it can be difficult to feel as though making direct declarations can help us attain what we desire, there can be pronounced passive-aggressive conduct during this cycle. In trying to strike a balance, we may start issues or disputes. We may stew in our rage. It’s time to properly confront what we’ve been putting up with on the outside but has been growing inside as emotional slush.

Negotiations and one-on-one interactions are ruled by Libra. We might need to reevaluate our strategy for dealing with these issues during Mars’ retrograde cycle in Libra. We can have some anger or worry about our relationships. When it comes to starting or continuing relationships, formal discussions, or closing deals, there may be reluctance, caution, or a fear of taking chances. Conflicts about reciprocity might be sparked in an already-existing partnership. While it’s a great time to pinpoint marital flaws, Mars retrograde might lead to a strong tendency to become fixated on these problems.

During the Mars retrograde period, we may feel less energetic, have health problems, particularly those involving the organs ruled by Libra (the kidneys, the adrenal glands, the lower back; we may also need to check our sugar consumption), and accidents may happen. When it comes to gratifying our sexual wants, we could be less forthright.

  • On March 14, 1920, at 9 Scorpio 06, Mars entered its retrograde phase. On April 23, 1920, Mars made its way back into the sign of Libra in retrograde motion. It remained there until May 31, 1920, when it turned direct at degree 21 of Libra 15.
  • Mars is in the sign of Libra from February 27, 1935, when it is at 24 Libra 37, until May 17, 1935, when it is at 6 Libra 03.
  • Mars started its retrograde motion on March 8, 1967, at 3 Scorpio 12. On March 31, 1967, it returned to Libra, where it spent the remainder of the cycle until May 26, 1967, when it went direct at 14 Libra 59.
  • Between February 20, 1982, when it was at 19 Libra 11, and May 11, 1982, when it was at 0 Libra 23, Mars spent its full retrograde cycle in the sign of Libra.
  • Mars started its retrograde cycle on March 18, 1999, at 12 Scorpio 12. On May 5, 1999, it returned to Libra, where it spent the remainder of the retrograde cycle until June 4, 1999, at 24 Libra 27.
  • From March 1 at 27 Libra 32 to May 19 at 9 Libra 01, Mars spent its whole retrograde cycle in the sign of Libra.
  • Mars resumes its cycle of retrograde motion on March 10, 2046, at 6 Scorpio 14. On April 11, 2046, Mars returns to Libra in retrograde motion. It stays there until May 28, 2046, when it becomes direct at 18 Libra 06.

Mars is backward in Scorpio.

In trying to strike a balance, we may start issues or disputes. We may stew in our rage. It’s time to properly confront what we’ve been putting up with on the outside but has been growing inside as emotional slush. Scorpio is in charge of shared resources, intimacy, self-awareness, and fears (including debts). We might need to reconsider how we tackle these issues during Mars’ retrograde cycle. Concerning our close relationships, we could experience some irritation or uneasiness. When starting or moving relationships forward, there may be hesitance, caution, and a fear of taking risks. Conflicts about reciprocity might be sparked in an already-existing partnership.

Old partners may reappear when Mars is retrograde in Scorpio, and we may review or relive previous intimate situations or relationships. We may also be rethinking or considering the past. Nevertheless, now is a great time to explore our motivations, dark side, and instincts. While it’s a great time to pinpoint marital flaws, Mars retrograde might lead to a strong tendency to become fixated on these problems. Reduced vigor and/or health problems may occur, especially in locations where Scorpio is the governing sign (bladder, genitals, prostate). Accidents are more likely to happen during Mars’ retrograde motion. When it comes to gratifying our sexual wants, we could be less forthright.

  • On April 14, 1937, at 5 Sagittarius 32, Mars started its retrograde cycle. On May 14, 1937, it moved back into the sign of Scorpio, where it remained for the duration of the retrograde cycle until June 27, 1937, at 19 Scorpio 32.
  • From March 25, 1952, when it is in the sign of Scorpio at 18 Scorpio 28, until June 9, 1952, when it is in the sign of Scorpio at 1 Scorpio 10.
  • From April 5, 1984, when it was at 28 Scorpio 21, to June 19, 1984, when it was at 11 Scorpio 42, Mars spent its entire retrograde phase in the sign of Scorpio.
  • Mars began its retrograde motion on April 17, 2016, at 8 Sagittarius 54. On May 27, 2016, it moved back to Scorpio, where it remained until June 29, 2016, at 23 Scorpio 03.
  • Beginning on March 28, 2031, at 21 Scorpio 38, and ending on June 13, 2031, at 4 Scorpio 26, Mars spends its whole retrograde period in Scorpio.

Retrograde Mars in Sagittarius

When Mars is retrograde in Sagittarius, it’s possible to become fixated on moral dilemmas, contrasting worldviews, and religious beliefs. We ought to aim for humility since it promotes candor both with oneself and with others. Publishing, travel, and belief systems are among the things governed by the sign of Sagittarius. We might need to reconsider how we tackle these issues during Mars’ retrograde cycle. When it comes to starting or moving forward with vacation plans, publishing, adventurous endeavors, and education, there might be hesitance, prudence, and a fear of taking chances. We may encounter diminished vigor and/or health problems, especially in regions where Sagittarius rules (hips, thighs, pelvis, and liver; we may need to watch for excess).

  • From May 8, 1922, at 25 Sagittarius 16, to July 16, 1922, at 11 Sagittarius 06, Mars was in the sign of Sagittarius during its retrograde phase.
  • On May 23, 1954, at 8 Capricorn 32, Mars started its retrograde cycle in the sign of Capricorn. On July 3, 1954, it moved back into the sign of Sagittarius, where it remained until turning direct on July 29, 1954, at 25 Sagittarius 36.
  • From April 27, 1969, when it is at 16 Sagittarius 45, to July 8, 1969, when it is at 1 Sagittarius 42, Mars spends its whole retrograde phase in Sagittarius.
  • From May 11, 2001, when it is at 29 Sagittarius 03, until July 19, 2001, when it is at 15 Sagittarius 07, Mars spends its whole retrograde cycle in Sagittarius.
  • Mars enters Capricorn on May 26, 2033, at 12 Capricorn 30, comes back into the sign of Sagittarius on July 26, 2033, and remains in the sign of Sagittarius until August 1, 2033, at 29 Sagittarius 47, when Mars turns direct.
  • From April 30, 2048, at 20 Sagittarius 22, to July 10, 2048, at 5 Sagittarius 31, Mars spends its whole retrograde period in the sign of Sagittarius.

Mars in Capricorn, retrograde:

Mars is retrograde in Capricorn, which can cause strong passive-aggressive behavior because it might be difficult to believe that making clear demands will result in what we want. In trying to strike a balance, we may start issues or disputes. We may stew in our rage. It’s time to properly confront what we’ve been putting up with on the outside but has been growing inside as emotional slush. Mars’s retrograde motion in Capricorn may cause us to revisit past responsibilities, undertakings, rituals, and societal systems.

Community, career, reputation, governance, rules, and business are among the things ruled by Capricorn. We might need to reconsider how we tackle these issues during Mars’ retrograde cycle. Concerns about our reputations, performances, employment, or life goals may cause us to feel frustrated or anxious. When starting or moving on with work plans, for instance, there may be reluctance, caution, and a fear of taking chances.

Our health and/or energy may be affected, especially in areas controlled by Capricorn, such as the bones (including the teeth) and skin. Accidents are more likely to happen during Mars’ retrograde motion. When it comes to gratifying our sexual wants, we could be less forthright. There may be issues with resentment or humiliation when we are unable to express our needs and rage. The flow of energy appears to be interrupted, unnatural, and stop-and-go.

  • Mars started its retrograde motion on June 22, 1939, at 4 Aquarius 42. On July 21, 1939, it returned to Capricorn, where it remained until August 23, 1939, when it turned direct at 23 Capricorn 55.
  • From June 8, 1986, at 23 Capricorn 07, through August 12, 1986, at 11 Capricorn 25, Mars spent its whole retrograde period in Capricorn.
  • Mars started its retrograde motion in the sign of Aquarius on June 26, 2018, at 9 Aquarius 13. It then moved back to Capricorn on August 12, 2018, and stayed there until August 27, 2018, when it went direct at 28 Capricorn 36, late in the sign.

Mars in Aquarius retrograde:

If things are not going our way, there may be a lot of pushback when Mars is retrograde in Aquarius. Ironically, we can get very stuck when we push back against circumstances that are getting in the way of our goals or we might get very fixated on concepts and ideals. We can be reconnecting with old friendships or fixating on former relationships that we thought were perfect.

Among other things, Aquarius is the lord of friendships, networking, electronics, and community. We might need to reconsider how we tackle these issues during Mars’ retrograde cycle. In certain instances, we could experience some dissatisfaction or anxiety. When it comes to starting or moving forward with friendships or happy objectives and projects, for instance, there may be hesitancy, caution, and a fear of taking chances.

We can be talking about old friendship issues again or revisiting them, or we might be reflecting on the past. This is a great time to look at old issues from a fresh perspective. While it’s a great time to pinpoint marital flaws, Mars retrograde might lead to a strong tendency to become fixated on these problems.

We may suffer decreased vigor and/or health problems, especially in locations where Aquarius is the ruling planet (nervous system and legs, most notably). Accidents are more likely to happen during Mars’ retrograde motion.

  • Mars began its retrograde phase on July 24, 1924, at 5 Pisces 18, moved back into Aquarius on August 24, 1924, remained in Aquarius for the remainder of its retrograde period, and concluded it on September 22, 1924, at 25 Aquarius 20.
  • From July 11, 1971, at 21 Aquarius 57, to September 9, 1971, at 11 Aquarius 53, Mars spent its whole retrograde cycle in the sign of Aquarius.

Pisces: Mars retrograde in

Particularly in places where Pisces rules, we may suffer decreased vigor and/or health difficulties (ankles and feet, most notably). Accidents are more likely to happen during Mars’ retrograde motion.

  • From August 10, 1956, when it was at 23 Pisces 40, until October 10, 1956, when it was at 13 Pisces 09, Mars spent its whole retrograde cycle in the sign of Pisces.
  • On August 26, 1988, at 11 Aries 28, Mars started its retrograde phase in Aries. On October 23, 1988, it moved back to Pisces, where it remained until the retrograde phase’s finish on October 28, 1988, at 29 Pisces 53.
  • From July 29, 2003, at 10 Pisces 08, to September 27, 2003, at 0 Pisces 07, Mars spent its complete retrograde cycle in Pisces.
  • From August 15, 2035, when it is at 28 Pisces 26, to October 15, 2035, when it is at 17 Pisces 45, Mars spends its whole retrograde period in Pisces.

Mars is the planet of self-expression, rage, sexual drive, rivalry, vigor, motivation, adventure, and initiative. It is lively, direct, audacious, and daring in its expression.

Our passion for several aspects of our lives wanes while Mars is retrograde. We can simmer and dwell much more on pent-up resentment or dissatisfaction than we can be direct, spontaneous, or fearless.

If we don’t overdo it, the procedure can be quite beneficial. Being patient and going slowly are the keys to “winning Mars retrograde cycles.”

For information on past, present, and forthcoming Mars retrograde periods, visit Mars Retrograde.