In a stimulating wander this morning round our thoughts on the current turbulent state of a world in transition, my colleague Christina Rodenbeck of The Oxford Astrologer and I were immersed in reflecting on the upcoming shift of Pluto into Aquarius in 2023/4.
Suddenly I remembered I had written about this momentous astro-event in a 2017 post: my words seem highly relevant now, beginning with a description of The European Extremely Large Telescope…:

“…It will …perform ”stellar archaeology” in nearby galaxies, as well as make fundamental contributions to cosmology by measuring the properties of the first stars and galaxies and probing the nature of dark matter and dark energy. On top of this astronomers are also planning for the unexpected — new and unforeseeable questions will surely arise (my emphases) from the new discoveries made with the ELT. The ELT may, eventually, revolutionise our perception of the Universe, much as Galileo’s telescope did, 400 years ago…’ (1)…
Now – here is the bit that made me sit bolt upright, almost spilling my tea:
…First light, ie the first use of a telescope (or, in general, a new instrument) to take an astronomical image after it has been constructed, is currently planned for – 2024…(2)…”
To read the whole post including my thoughts in 2017 re what the 2023/4 Pluto into Aquarius shift might bring, click HERE…

243 words copyright Anne Whitaker 2022
Licensed under Creative Commons – for conditions see Home Page
Anne,
I clicked on the link but canât seem to view or read your article?
Charlie
Sent from Mail for Windows
I am currently being tortured by technology, Charles! Have had to shift to Draft and will try to re-post later…
For anyone else seeing this, I cannot get WordPress to do a manoeuvre I have done hundreds of times before, ie reduce the size of images!!! AAArgh…
It might also amuse anyone who sees this to know that I currently have Uranus transiting 9th House, exactly square Venus ( MC Ruler) …
Anne, I had no trouble accessing the previously posted article when I clicked on the underlined “here”. I enjoyed reading it and am choosing to remain positive about what may yet unfold in my lifetime. I am not unrealistic in my view, as I know there are potent forces in play, who wish to remain gripped to and in the past. The tug, back and forth may seem equal in measure for some time to come. However, isn’t that what evolution is, two steps forward and one step back? You were right about reading what you penned in 2017 and it’s stark relevance today!
Thanks, Carrie – ‘…The tug, back and forth may seem equal in measure for some time to come…’ I’m currently reflecting on a new essay which ponders on this very issue, amongst other things…thanks for you – as ever – pertinent comment.
Via Facebook:
1.7.22:
Leah Whitehorse:
Ooooh, I had completely forgotten about the EELT with all the excitement of James Webb! And wow yes, the astrology resonates doesn’t it! I just keep hoping that I get my wish, which is for ET to be confirmed before I leave this mortal coil!
The air focus as we move forward is going to feel very different and I can’t wait to get away from Pluto in Capricorn! I just hope that we don’t have the worst manifestations – the destruction of the internet (although a transformation to tackle the dark web might be good!). Or AI that decided we are all expendable. I’m fascinated by how far we will get in a brave new world, and terrified of things to come.
Great stuff, Leah! Thanks for adding to the discussion as we move into territory not charted for around 1000 years. I think things have changed somewhat since then…
Via Facebook:
1.7.22:
Christina Rodenbeck:
Yes. Excellent post — and great conversation Anne.
I am looking forward to your piece on Saturn and Uranus!
Thanks, Christina, the brain cell is now ticking over…
Via Facebook:
1.7.22:
Jane Wheelock:
I’ve read your blog Anne. Turbulent times continue by the looks of things – I hope I’m prepared for no let up; it won’t be the first difficult period of history to live through after all.
Yes, indeed…but change though threatening, also brings great new opportunities as history also teaches us.
Via Facebook:
2.7.22:
Linda S Papreck:
What’s expected when Pluto crossing your AC Aquarius ♒
Linda, I would only discuss the details of a person’s horoscope in the privacy and confidentiality of my consulting room. I don’t see clients myself directly any more, since I now mentor students’ work who are studying with reputable courses, as well as getting on with my own writing. If you p/m me,I will recommend a reputable astrologer for you to consult. Thanks for dropping by.
Via Facebook:
2.7.22:
Leah Floyeurs:
We might get a taster when Pluto enters Aquarius on 23 March 2023 before retrograding back into Capricorn in June….
We certainly will, Leah.Those momentous shifts are so slow that they offer plenty of clues at the very beginning regarding what is likely to unfold
Via Facebook:
2.7.22:
Kathleen Burt:
My first thought on Pluto was about mining as an incentive to explore “nearby” planets like Mars. And corporate investors would replace NASA funding in return for mineral rights. Also, the “settlers” or workers would live underground–a Pluto/Scorpio theme. A new set of regulations would be worked out internationally on sharing resources. (Aquarius.)
Thanks for these interesting speculations, Kathleen…we shall all just have to wait and see what personal and collective branches grow from the Pluto in Aquarius core…what you say makes sense as possible manifestations of the symbolism…
Via Facebook:
2.7.22:
Daleth Hall:
Does anyone know the dates (or years at least) that the 800-year cycle last was in air? I mean more specifically than “12th century AD.”
I’m curious what social developments occurred then.
Tables of Planetary Phenomena by Neil F Michelson will provide you with this information precisely, Daleth… In my opinion, it’s an essential reference book for anyone interested in the bigger planetary cycles. I could not have done any of my own research without it…Also the French astrologer Andre Barbault is an acknowledged world expert on the larger planetary cycles and how they manifest in society and culture.