About Astrological Transits and Progressions

This material is copyrighted by M. Kirby Moore. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Please leave a comment as this particular subject is quite subjective I think.

In this post, I will elaborate on whether or not Transits in aspect to Progressed Planets are really that significant. This post assumes the reader has basic to intermediate understanding of Western astrology.

What is a transiting planet? Transits consist of the current location of the planets (in our solar system) and then to see if they reflect changes / energetic shifts in an individual, we compare the Transit location of the planets to that individual’s Natal planets.

What is a progressed planet? According to “Parkers’ Astrology” by Julia and Derek Parker, progressing the chart allows astrologers to see trends in the life of that individual. To see which trends will be active at what time, we generally use what are known as secondary progressions, which basically take a day (after the birth date) for a year. What this means is that to look at the trends in the life of someone when they are between 5 and 6 years old, we would look at the 5th day after their birth day. If you try to think about this too hard, it is a bit mind boggling. How could this seemingly arbitrary system work so well? Some things might be worth accepting. Or, if you know a lot about astrology and progressed charts, please leave a comment. I suspect I might hear someone mention harmonics, indicating that amplifying a day gives us a year. But anyway, back to the subject at hand.

So basically, a progressed planet is not a “real” body in the sky. Unlike the Natal chart, which shows the real positions of the planets at birth (and their aspects among / with each other). Transiting planets are real, just in the present moment.

When Transiting planets make close hard aspects to Natal planets, generally that is a reflection of inner changes or “Ah ha!!” moments or moaning and groaning, etc. So we know Transits are significant when compared to Natal planets.

When Progressed planets are compared and contrasted with the Natal chart, the influences are generally more subtle, but they are still very noticeable. The Progressed Moon for instance, moves about one degree per month, so we can see its influence rising for about a month, being very strong for the middle month and then fading for another month. And the Progressed Moon is basically where our heart is in that particular month (kinda important I’d say). As an example, when the Progressed Moon enters the 6th house (hard work, discipline, organization, service, detail-orientation), generally, if we need to get to work with regard to improving our lot in life, this is where we do it. The 6th house is preparation for the 7th house, of intimate relationships, marriage and compromise. Hence, if we need to improve our income, or house, or job, the 6th house Progressed Moon will indicate a good time to get to work doing so!

But, I’m not convinced that Transiting planets make an enormous difference when they aspect merely a Progressed Planet. What I am trying to say, is that there are numerous aspects and layers of Western astrological interpretation which merit more time and dedication with regard to significant insights being learned. For instance, I would say this is one overly simplified list of Timing Systems to look at, listed in order of significance: Transits, Secondary Progressions, Solar Arc Directions, Transits to Mid Points, the Solar Return, Tertiary Progressions, then I might mention Transits to Progressed planets.

One thing we should look at however is when these above mentioned Timing systems stack. What I mean is when multiple planets from differing systems aspect the same Natal planet or planetary dynamic. For instance, if we have Mars opposite Pluto in our Natal Chart (or any other powerful, potentially challenging Natal aspect), then it is worth paying close attention to this. If we have Transiting Mars conjunct our Natal Mars, plus our Progressed Sun squaring this opposition (T-Square formed), plus the Solar Arc Saturn conjunct Pluto? Then that is a powerful stacking of energy going on. It would be worth speaking with a qualified astrologer at this point because you should strongly consider all the house placements, the house rulers and any other Timing aspects that are happening at the same time.

Not to put the fear of the Lord in anyone… if ever we see a potentially “frightening” (to use an antiquated term) series of aspects lining up. Take a deep breath. There are always guardian angels at work – what I mean is that if we have the above configuration happening, but if Progressed Venus is conjunct our Sun, or if Progressed Sun is conjunct Jupiter (or Venus) or if Transiting Jupiter is making a pleasant aspect to the Sun, or chart ruler; then we might pass through that potentially explosive stacking of aspects with just a little bit of added stress. This is because the benefics work for us and they must be considered before allowing any worry to arise. 🙂

So take a deep breath. Know it is going to be okay. And then, if you can look at your chart and its dynamic shifting without grasping or gripping, then do so. But if your tendency is to grip and cling to fatalistic information, then be careful who you talk to and which web sites you use. Find a qualified astrologer who practices frequency-based, choice-centered astrology! And make sure they walk their talk.

Okay… I’ve been on my soap box for way too long now. Thanks for reading as I step down off of it.

Published by Kirby Moore


4 thoughts on “About Astrological Transits and Progressions

  1. Very helpful overview. I’ve been studying for a number of years and only now getting curious about progressions and solar arc direction.

    1. Hi Maggie, Glad to hear your studying is going well! secondary progressions are cool, and I find solar arc directions to be even more compelling (and poignant) in my interpretations! I am going to be teaching some classes in 2021, let me know if you are interested!

  2. This was a very interesting read. your prospective was a very enlighten one. you have provided lots of food for thought.

    1. Thanks Lillie! I try to think outside the box and to share a few insights here and there. Be well!

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