Some
of you may find the idea of a planet apparently going backwards in the
Heavens somewhat strange, or even ridiculous, so I will attempt to
explain this phenomenon.
Above
is a simplified diagram of Mercury orbiting around the Sun. When the
planet reaches the point marked SR [Stationary Retrograde] it
will appear to be stationary for a while, eventually proceeding and then
appearing to go backwards through the sky until it reaches SD
[Stationary Direct] when it once again appears to stand still for a
while before proceeding in its 'normal' direction. So, the planet only appears
to be retrograding.
From
an Astrological point of view the event is important in that matters
ruled by Mercury will now appear to slow down, creating problems with
communications [not commerce, Jonathan]. Letters tend to be
delayed, communications tend to break down, and even travel can be
disrupted. Agreements are also dogged by problems. We also find that
there is some retrospective thinking - going back over old ground.
Mercury
is not alone in regular retrograde motion, all the planets, with the
exception of the Sun and Moon, will at some point in time turn
retrograde for a while.
