Startalk Guide

This guide is meant to give you a heads up on what the sky holds for everyone. Think of the general influences as an astrological weather report, showing you what everyone around you is experiencing. If Full Moon “madness” is sweeping the land, take this into account when interacting with others. Life events are triggered by many different planetary factors. Personal responses and how you feel depend on the unique characteristics shown in your birth horoscope and the impact transiting planets have on these latent natal energy potentials.

Your unique personal factors may or may not override the universal trends. I strongly suggest paying most attention to the lunar cycles and the void of course Moon periods. There is a time and place for everything in creation, whether challenging or harmonious and it is my greatest hope that you make the most of every cosmic influence. I welcome your comments and suggestions. Good luck! — Eric

The Lunar Cycle

The importance of the Moon cannot be overstated. The Moon rules our moods, instincts, the general public and the “flow” of life. Whenever possible, begin projects while the Moon is waxing, the two weeks between the New and Full phases. That way the building crescendo of the approaching Full Moon will better support your efforts.

Quarter Moons occur twice each month at the midpoints between the New and Full, and Full and New Moons. At either Quarter Moon the Sun and Moon are in challenging square aspects to one another. Quarter Moons are stressful but also highly motivational aspects. Strive to maintain your poise at these times. Difficulties encountered at the Quarter Moon phase mirror the divide between our objective, conscious awareness and the emotional needs of our hidden, sub-conscious selves.

A waning Moon favors reflection, consolidation and integration. Do not begin anything of importance the day before the New Moon. Like a boat launched while the tide is out, that project is almost certain to get stuck and fail to reach the intended goal. Instead, concentrate on organizing works already in progress, tying up loose ends, etc. Energy levels are usually low and it may be best to simply rest.

The Void of Course Moon

The Moon takes twenty-eight and one half days to complete an orbit through the twelve signs of the Zodiac, spending about two and a half days in each sign. After the Moon has made its last aspect to another planet while passing through a sign it becomes “void of course” (Moon v/c) until entering the next sign. This may last a matter of minutes or up to two days.

During the void of course period attention spans waver, energy levels sag and the going is usually less productive. Avoid scheduling important meetings and interviews or making major purchases when the Moon is void of course. Instead, if possible, use these same periods for creative introspection, rest and relaxation.

The Aspects — How Planetary Energies Work Together

As planets move through the heavens they sometimes reach positions where they are at sensitive angles or “aspects” to one another. All aspects have both positive and negative possibilities.

Aspects are not static but operate differently at various times, depending on the overall pattern of the planets, one’s natal chart, personal will and intention. For example, an opposition may lead to separation or a closer union.

The impact of a transit and the aspect it forms lasts far longer than the moment at which it is exact. Many people often notice the effects of a transit days before it is exact. While lunar influences are usually short-lived, a matter of minutes or perhaps a few hours, some transits last for weeks, months, and even years in the case of the slower moving outer planets.

• 0° Conjunction — Harmony or discord, depending on the planets and signs.


• 60° Sextile — Potential for ease, harmony and growth.


• 90° Square — Inner tensions, a source of motivation.


• 120° Trine — Harmony, luck, talent, skill, opportunity.


• 180° Opposition — Challenges through others and outer circumstances.

Eric Linter, Astrologer
143 North Street Norfolk, MA 02056 USA
508-541-4115
ericlinter@aol.com