After the emotional roller-coaster that is Cancer season, you'll want to welcome Leo season with open arms. It’s the brightest and most fun part of the year, for sure, but with Mercury retrograde right now, it can feel like you’re still in for a bumpy ride. And it only gets bumpier: Today’s lunar eclipse is another curveball in this wild astrological forecast, and it’s pretty major. giphy Both solar and lunar eclipses occur only a few times a year, and each one can be viewed as turning a page to the next chapter of your life. Forces that you have no control over enter the stage, shake things up, and leave town before you know what hit you. Secret feelings towards you might be exposed, or shocking news may cause you to readjust your plans. If you've been having confusing, recurring thoughts about a person or problem for some time now, this eclipse may bring clarity. Whatever situation you’re presented with will lead to a choice with permanent consequences—no take-backs. The longer the eclipse, the more powerful it is, and this particular one lasts an hour and 23 minutes—longer than any other eclipse this century. The eclipse is centered on the axis of Aquarius/Leo, which highlights the concept of the self or the ego versus relationships or the collective. How do you operate within relationships, and which relationships hinder or help you express yourself most? Struggles with your friendships or partnerships could occur with this eclipse, so stay level-headed when dealing with others. The Moon and Mars are in conjunction in Aquarius, so you'll feel more impulsive and emotionally-charged today. Meanwhile, Saturn’s supportive angle to the Moon helps bring patience when dealing with the potential relationship crises this transit brings, but Saturn’s awkward angle to the Sun also indicates hurt egos, issues with boundaries with others, and unfortunate truths you might not want to hear. To add even more to the mix: Venus, planet of love, and Pluto, which represents transformation and intensity, are trine, or at their highest point of harmony. This shows that relationships have a high potential to change dramatically today. You could break up with your long-term partner or jumpstart a new relationship. giphy Mars’s and the Moon’s awkward angle to Venus hint that frustrations from your relationships can increase if you aren’t getting what you’re asking for. There's a chance that your dating expectations could be unrealistic, so this eclipse could help renegotiate your desires in your partnerships in order to avoid further problems. This especially potent event will be felt most powerfully at 4:20 p.m. (EST) if you're a Leo born between July 23-30, or an Aquarius born between January 20-27. Taurus and Scorpio will also strongly feel the impact from this eclipse. If you have a copy of your birth chart handy, check any points you have in Leo or Aquarius to see how you might be affected. This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. Those most effected by this upcoming Blood Moon, Lunar Eclipse: Fixed Signs/Fixed Dominants (Taurus, Aquarius, Leo, Scorpio) & Those with their Sun/Moon in Cancer — 🔱 𝐖𝐈𝐋𝐋 𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐒 🔱 (@IAMWILLNICHOLLS) July 25, 2018 With a lunar eclipse, something is likely going to end, be it a relationship, a job, or plans with someone else. Incidents related to the eclipse can be felt for months after today. Even if you don't feel any direct changes, the drama stirred up in others’ lives is sure to make itself known to you! Eclipses are dramatic incidents that aren’t always fun, but regardless of what happens, growth will ultimately occur and whatever exits from your life is going to make room for something bigger and better. Follow Jake on Instagram. Jake Register Jake Register (better known by his Instagram handle, @jakesastrology) is a Libra and the author of Cosmopolitan’s weekly Sexoscopes. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io<doc-sep>Today’s lunar eclipse is tipped to be the longest in the century and planetariums across the country have made elaborate arrangements for enthusiasts, but rains and cloudy skies could dampen the excitement. The eclipse will also coincide with the closest approach of Mars to Earth. The Nehru Planetarium in the national capital is organising a ‘Moon Carnival’. N Ratnashree, the director of the Nehru Planetarium, said besides arranging five telescopes, the centre has also organised lectures pertaining to the eclipse. Amateur astronomers have also volunteered to guide people tomorrow about the eclipse, she said. “But all this is subject to the rains and cloudy sky. There is already a lot of enthusiasm among people,” Ratnashree added. The Astronomical Society of India (ASI) cautioned against creating a hype around this event. “For serious astronomers, this event does offer an extraordinary opportunity to study Mars through their telescopes. However, a layman who might expect to see dramatic details of the surface of Mars would probably be disappointed,” it said in a statement. “Since we are in the middle of the monsoon here in India, the sky is likely to be cloudy,” it said. “People in Jammu and Kashmir, and Tamil Nadu are most likely to be able to witness the event clearly,” Aniket Sule, Chair of the Public Outreach and Education Committee (POEC) of ASI, told PTI. The total lunar eclipse will coincide with another relatively rare celestial phenomenon known as the Mars opposition. Ratnashree said the Moon would enter the penumbral shadow of the Earth at about 10:53 pm IST. Nothing much will be noticeable to the untrained eyes for next 30-40 minutes. After that, one might notice gradual change in the brightness on the lunar disk. By 11:54 pm, the Moon will enter the umbra of the Earth’s shadow. The dark shadow will now be seen progressing on the lunar disk. This will be quite noticeable to the naked eyes. “At 1 am of July 28, the Moon will be completely inside the umbra of the Earth. At this time, the colour of the lunar disk will be red with it’s many hues – crimson, brick red etc. The time of the maximum eclipse is 1:51 am. The total phase of eclipse will end at 2:43 am, it will be out of umbral shadow by 3:49 am and completely out of penumbra at 5 am. The eclipse will last for 103.6 minutes,” Ratnashree said. Mars will rise around the sunset time and will set around the time of sunrise. An opposition happens when Mars is the closest to Earth in its orbit, both on the same side of the Sun. The red planet will appears brighter and bigger than usual. Though the opposition of Mars is on Friday, it comes closest to earth on July 31. This curious fact is because the orbits of all planets around the Sun are not a perfect circle, but an ellipse. Due to this, the closest approach of Mars to us will occur four days later than its opposition. This is also one of the reasons why the distance between Mars and Earth is not the same during every opposition. The distance between Mars and the Earth ranges between about 400-million kilometers (2.7 Astronomical Units, or AU) and 56-million km (0.38AU). The closest approaches occur during opposition. This time, Mars comes the closest to Earth as compared to any time in the last 15 years. As a consequence, it will also appear to be the biggest and brightest in the last 15 years. At this time, Mars will be just 58 million kilometres from the Earth. In technical terms, the angular diameter of Mars as seen from the Earth will be more than 24” and it will be brighter than -2.75 magnitude. For comparison, the brightest star in the night sky, Sirius, will be about 3 times fainter than Mars on that day and the average angular size of the moon is 1,800. Even at the closest approach, Mars will seem small. It would take a telescope equipped with a lens or mirror that is at least six inches in aperture to discern even the major surface features of Mars. Nonetheless, it would be an exciting opportunity to view the bright red planet right next to the red (eclipsed) Moon on that night.<doc-sep>Another day, another eclipse. You know how it goes, right? Although, this isn't just a regular eclipse, considering it's also the longest eclipse of the century. Isn't that crazy? Not to worry, I've got your total lunar eclipse 2018 horoscope right here, and let's just say, new beginnings are in the horizon. The total lunar eclipse will take place on Friday, July 27, at exactly 4:20 p.m. ET. This eclipse is part of the Leo-Aquarius axis, as it will conclude in the beginning of next year. (FYI: Leo and Aquarius are polar opposites, and eclipse families come in pairs that are found exactly opposite each other.) This lunation will be in 4 degrees Aquarius, and the solar eclipse on Aug. 11 will be in 18 degrees Leo. This particular eclipse will be sitting close to the South Node, (karma we bring from previous lifetimes) and Mars Retrograde. Now, when a planet is retrograde, the energy is internalized, so there could be a bit of restlessness in the air. It will also be making a square to electric Uranus, planet of chaos and unexpected change. This, of course, only enhances are need to break free, and trust me when I say, we will be doing just that. No need to overthink it, stargazers! The cosmos want us to let it all go. Here's a closer look at how the total lunar eclipse will affect your zodiac sign: Aries: Your Group Of Friends The lunar eclipse will light up the area of your chart related to your extended community, friendship circles, and teamwork. So, whether you're squashing beef with a close friend or a work colleague, this energy is bringing everything full circle for you, Aries. This area of your chart is also related to social media, so don't be surprised if you move forward with blocking that Instagram stalker. Leave it all in the past. Taurus: Your Professional Life You could be feeling anxious with your current work situation, but this, too, shall pass, Taurus. The lunar eclipse will illuminate your career zone, but this could also come with a bit of frustration. Are you ready to call it quits? You need to do what's best for you, and at this point, it's best to let this eclipse take the wheel. Gemini: Your Personal Philosophy Yes, lunar eclipses represent endings, but there are new beginnings for you in the horizon, Gemini. This lunation will light up your ninth house of travel and expansion, bringing you luck and opportunity. What's missing in your life? What are you going to do to get it? You're constantly evolving, and you've adopted a new mindset in the process. Cancer: Your Thoughts On Transformation Bow chicka wow wow, the lunar eclipse will illuminate your sexy eighth house, bringing you a soulful new beginning. Are you single? This energy could spark a seductive new romance that could potentially bloom into a karmic relationship. Are you ready to put your guard down? Leo: Your Relationships One word: karma. The lunar eclipse will light up the area of your chart related to partnerships and relationships. Are you ready for that much-needed closure? You and I both know it has nothing to do with your current situation. On the contrary, exes come and go, but we still feel that internal resentment. Let it go, Leo. Virgo: Your Daily Routine Your health is top of mind these days, Virgo. The lunar eclipse will illuminate the area of your chart related to your overall wellness and day-to-day routine. There's something brewing within you, and it's bound to affect your current routine. Time to live your best life! Libra: Your Self-Expression Have you been speaking from the heart, Libra? The lunar eclipse will touch your authentic fifth house of love, lust, and creative expression. Time to let your freak flag fly, and I mean that in the best way possible. You deserve your happiness, too. Scorpio: Your Personal Security The lunar eclipse will illuminate your domestic fourth house of emotional foundation, home, and family. Are you planning on moving? This energy could spark an unexpected move, or an important resolution related to a significant female in your family. Sagittarius: Your Mind And Perspective This eclipse will bring focus to your third house of siblings and immediate community. Are you in the midst of making amends with a close relative or coworker? Beware of restlessness and hidden frustrations. Try to communicate your message without being hostile. Capricorn: Your Resources Lunar eclipses are notorious for bringing endings, and this particular eclipse will illuminate the part of your chart related to your income, resources, and self worth. Are you ready to take that leap of faith? You and I both know you deserve better. Aquarius: Your Personality There's a new you in the horizon, Aquarius. However, while Mars is on your side, you must also be mindful of this retrograde period, as it could spark some internal restlessness and frustrations. This is your moment to rid yourself of what no longer serves you. Pisces: Your Spirituality This eclipse will light up your 12th house of closure, healing, and spirituality. Interestingly enough, the twelfth house is your home in the zodiac wheel, and a reminder that you are not responsible for other people's pain. You are selfless and compassionate AF, but you need to also start looking out for yourself in the process. This is the end of a karmic phase, and the beginning of a new spiritual journey.<doc-sep>On July 27, 2018, there will be a total lunar eclipse in India and many parts of other countries. Absolutely it is influenced by Mars making this an emotionally challenging eclipse. It is the longest lunar eclipse of this century lasting for one hour 23 minutes. Mars is a fiery planet, symbol of anger, passion, energy, expansion and quick temperament. It could easily turn to reckless action because of the harsh aspect of eclipse. The Moon represents material things; it is cold, moist, chargeable and famine control. It also represents hidden mysteries, restlessness and disposition. It must be often taken as representing the mother, wife or beloved. Moon conjuncting Mars is the strongest influence on the lunar eclipse and will make you feel strong, sexy and brave. It will be difficult to control strong emotions. You are likely to lose your temper or act irrationally if you stay in an agitated state. However, lunar eclipse will have different influences on every Moon sign. It is believed that a specific donation on this day benefits one in life and career. ARIES Donation: Gur, sweets, red flowers and red cloth.Advantage: Gets rid of Manglik-Dosha, improves love life and general obstacles in marriage. TAURUS Donations: Rice, sugar, milk and white flowers.Advantages: Improves self-confidence and sex life. Prosperity in relationships, a sense of harmony. GEMINI Donation: Green cloth, vegetables, grains and sandalwood.Advantages: Improves studies, education, communication skills and concentration power. CANCER Donations: Rice, silver utensils and milk products.Advantages: Overcoming mental stress, gains in business and foreign land. LEO Donations: Red clothes, sindoor and candles.Advantages: Name, fame and recognition. VIRGO Donations: Vegetables, books, copper, flowers, moong dal and foodgrains.Advantage: Higher studies. It’s good for script writers, authors, directors, singers and commission agents. LIBRA Donation: Rice, sugar and sandalwood.Advantage: Improves love, desire to resolve conflicts peacefully, name, fame and glamour. SCORPIO Donations: Sweets, red flowers and woolen garments.Advantage: Overcomes Manglik Dosha, aids family bliss, self-confidence and discipline in life. SAGITTARIUS Donations: Chana dal, besan, yellow flowers, chandan, haldi and utensilsAdvantage: Promotion in career and competitive exams, optimism and courage. CAPRICORN Donation: Oil, black clothes, iron and black dal.Advantage: Improves health, upliftment of spiritualism and success. AQUARIUS Donations: Foodgrains, flowers, rice, dal and blanket.Advantages: Success in long journeys. Victory over enemies and court cases. PISCES Donations: Yellow flowers, haldi, clothes and towel.Advantages: General prosperity in life, education, competitive exams, elevation in rank. PRAYERS ON LUNAR ECLIPSE Recite the following mantra, Om Cham Chandraye Nameh, 2,500 times. Rosary: PearlsDirection: EastBenefit: The malefic effect of Moon will be rectified. It will help to improve the Raj Yoga and Gaj Kesari Yoga in horoscope. You will get rid of depression and lunatic disposition. The unmarried will fulfill the desire to have a beautiful spouse. VAASTU TIP On lunar eclipse, take seven very small squares of silver. Fold in a blue cloth and keep it in the North direction. The process will dispel the darkness it surrounds. You will get rid of fears and phobias in house. (The columnist is author of 32 books on Astrology, Numerology, Vaastu, Mantrism, Dreams and Moles. He features regularly on various TV channels. You can email your queries at: pkhurrana@astroindia.com)<doc-sep>
Huge freaking news in the astrology world: There’s a lunar eclipse happening on Friday that’s going to be the longest lunar eclipse of the century. Just take a second to let that sink in. The eclipse is supposed to last for an hour and 43 minutes, and it will start as the moon rises on Friday night, NASA says. In case you are like me and slept through science class in fifth grade: A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth lines up precisely between the sun and the moon, creating a shadow on the moon, according to NASA. When the Earth completely blocks out the sun in a total lunar eclipse (which is going down on Friday), the moon can look red or orange (hence the "blood moon" name). Here’s the thing: This eclipse actually won’t be visible from North America (womp, womp) but it will impact your horoscope regardless, says Donna Page, a professional astrologer with a graduate degree in counseling psychology. How will the solar eclipse affect me? "Eclipses create drama and in so doing, they get our attention," says astrologer and life coach Linda Joyce. "Often the event is unexpected; it seems to rise up from nowhere, even though we’ve been confronting it in our minds." In general, eclipses help shed light on certain areas of your life, Page explains. This one will give you clarity about knowing what your heart wants, especially when it comes to friendships, Page says. Why? The sun is in Leo, which is all about being able to connect with people who line up with your beliefs and philosophies, and the moon is in Aquarius, which has a friendship energy, she explains. So here, the eclipse will make you re-evaluate your feelings about different relationships in your life, and whether you can accept people for who they really are, she says. You may also find during the eclipse that you’re pretty adamant that your way of thinking is the only right way. “The eclipse can be very divisive in that way,” Page says. You may also feel very defensive and protect people that you’re loyal to. So...be warned! Does the eclipse affect everyone? Everyone will feel the effects of the lunar eclipse, but Page says a few signs will be impacted by this more than others. Specifically, she calls out Leos and Aquariuses (since the eclipse is happening in their signs), as well as Tauruses and Scorpios, the so-called “fixed signs.” People who have fixed signs tend to really want life to be a certain way, and may feel that even stronger around the eclipse, Page says. Kay. Anything else I should know? Mercury is in retrograde at the same time, which “definitely” affects the eclipse, Page says. Overall, it can prompt a major re-think of whether you want your pride to get in the way of your life and the decisions you make, she says. A retrograde usually brings up old issues you need to deal with, Joyce adds, and an eclipse is trying to get your attention. Put those together and you're going to be dealing with some sh*t you were maybe hoping to avoid. "Whatever you need to face, find the courage to do it," Joyce says. "If you don’t, it will only raise its ugly head again and the next time the consequences will be greater." So, Friday is going to be interesting… . Korin Miller Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more.