There’s a lot of excitement and publicity around the upcoming total solar eclipse on August 21 that will be visible across much of the US. As a professional astrologer, I have a different take on the significance of this celestial event, but of course, I’m really anxious to see it too!

Eclipses come in pairs: solar eclipses at a new moon and lunar eclipses at a full moon. There was a partial lunar eclipse on August 7 that was not visible in the US, but occurred nonetheless. Generally there are two sets of eclipses each year, in the spring and fall – more or less. While we may not be able to see them, their effects on us and on the planet are still there.

At this upcoming eclipse there will be five planets in the astrological fire signs (Aries, Leo and Sagittarius). The Sun, Moon and Mars will be in Leo; Saturn will be in Sagittarius and Uranus will be in Aries. There is an easy flow of energy between all these planets, so we tend not to pay attention to it. But all that fire can be quite volatile, as well as inspirational. Fire is an interesting element. It can warm and provide light, and it can also destroy. I believe this eclipse can be used both ways: to burn away that which blocks our path to expressing who we truly are and to illuminate a way to fulfill our goals. This eclipse promises an influx of new energy and inspiration. Enjoy!

For information about other planetary doings in August, please visit my website. It promises to be quite a busy month!