ASTRONOMY
Meteor showers are perhaps the most popular astronomical events, inspiring wonder in children and adults alike who seek to wish upon a falling star. For us wishful watchers, meteor showers present the greatest chance of catching sight of what we call a “shooting star,” and late July into early August is prime time. This is because we have two overlapping annual meteor showers at this time. Both the Southern Delta Aquariids and the Perseids occur from mid-July to late August. While the Southern Delta Aquariids is no slouch, it is the fainter of the two. The Perseids is the star of the show, boasting both a high frequency and brilliant display of meteors. However, this year the Perseid shower’s peak, from Aug. 11 to 13, will be hampered by the coinciding full moon. Although many meteors will be bright enough to be visible despite the moon’s competing light, this shower will not be as spectacular as in years past. Yet it is still worth taking the time to head outside during the peak, as the planet Saturn will be opposite the sun on Aug. 14, shining brightly all night long — rising as the sun sets and culminating around midnight. Those with a telescope will have a decent view of its signature rings.
ASTROLOGY
One of the most electrifying and energizing transits of 2022 occurs on Aug. 1, when Mars, Uranus, and the North Node meet in the sign of Taurus. Since 2018, Uranus in Taurus has been redefining our understanding of value, from the core of our self-worth to the currency of our economic exchanges. When the North Node (being one pole of the eclipse axis) shifted into this sign at the turn of the year, we began to see how these redefinitions serve to shape our destiny. Mars is the most recent entry into the slow and steady sign, having left its gung-ho home sign of Aries in late June. The combination of Mars and Uranus is when hot fire meets cold electricity, both illuminating in their own right. New information may come in at lightning speed, triggering defensive reactions when we feel challenged on what we hold dear. A square to Saturn reminds us to pause and evaluate our instinctive response. Test the soil in which you’ve rooted your identity. What may first appear as the seed of conflict could instead prove to be the catalyst for change into a new and healthier you.
