Out Astrology: Pluto Stirs the Pot in Aquarius

Get ready for major breakthroughs and transformations.

Pluto is one of the most transformative and intense planets in astrology, associated with themes of power, control, death, rebirth, and transformation. When Pluto transits through a particular zodiac sign, it can bring about significant changes and shifts in the areas of life that the sign governs.

Pluto has been in Capricorn since 2008 and will mostly be there until 2024. However, Pluto will make a brief visit to Aquarius from March 2023 to June 2023, before retrograding back into Capricorn.

On a global scale, Pluto’s presence in Capricorn saw the breakdown of old systems and structures, such as governments, banks, and corporations, and the emergence of new ones — think the 2008 global financial crisis, the rise of cryptocurrency, and COVID-19 to name but a few. As the old — see: boomer — order crumbles, a new one is starting to emerge from the ashes, despite major efforts by conservative factions around the world to stymy progress.

Individually, this transit challenged us to examine our relationship with authority, power, and tradition. Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, is the epitome of dad energy. Those who had been clinging to old ways of thinking and being were forced to confront their limitations and embrace new ways of living and working. We saw huge leaps forward in climate and communications technologies, significant milestones for the LGBTQ+ community, and even a potential cure for HIV/AIDS.

While Capricorn is the mud we try not to be stuck in, Aquarius is known for its forward-thinking, progressive, and innovative nature. With Pluto here, we may see even more groundbreaking advancements in technology, science, and society as a whole. Pluto's transformative energy in Aquarius could also inspire a global awakening and a stronger focus on social justice, activism, and humanitarianism.

We may even see a dismantling of oppressive systems and a greater emphasis on individual freedom and autonomy. Barriers? Borders? No thanks.

While breaking down barriers can be a good thing, it can also lead to chaos and unrest. Pluto's intense energy could exacerbate tensions between those who resist change and those who push for it, leading to conflict and upheaval. Far-right factions are already threatening civil war if they can’t reset society to its 1950s version, complete with roast beef dinners and segregation.

Pluto's influence could also bring about a darker side of technology. Increased surveillance, loss of privacy, and the rise of AI and automation could potentially lead to a dystopian future.

Aquarius is also not the most emotional or intimate sign, and the power of Pluto could exacerbate this tendency, leading to a greater sense of detachment and disconnection in relationships and society as a whole.

How do we ride the wave without getting swept under? Build stronger communities, to start. Groups are harder to break down than individuals. We should also stay vigilant about who has the power over technology and what their intentions are. Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter and the cited abuses at Tesla are indicative of this already. If you haven’t seen the entire suite of Terminator films, now’s the time.

The impact of Pluto's journey through Aquarius will be felt by all zodiac signs, each in their unique way. This year is just a teaser before Pluto settles into Aquarius for the long haul in 2024.

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

Aries, you might feel driven to pursue lofty goals with relentless focus and determination. This might mean a change of scenery and society. Try to be more of a leader than a boss.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

You might find yourself facing challenges and upheavals in your work life and social networks, which forces you to confront your deepest fears and insecurities. Leverage your successes to boost your reputation.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Break free from your old ways of thinking and embrace new ideas and perspectives. This transit will be a time of intellectual growth and exploration, as you expand your horizons and push the boundaries of what you thought was possible.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Cancer, you will be pushed out of your comfort zone, as you navigate the unpredictable waters of change and transformation. Trust your intuition when it comes to sharing resources and sharing your body.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

You might find yourself struggling with power dynamics across the board, Leo. Learn to balance your need for intimacy with deep listening. It can’t all be about you, even if you are right.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Embrace new ways of working and living while shedding your need to control. You’re the consummate perfectionist. With the right attitude, however, you can emerge more adaptable than ever before.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

It’s time to let go of old patterns and embrace new ways of relating to others. This transit will be a time of growth and transformation in the ways in which you express yourself. Be as authentic as possible if you want your pudding to prove your worth.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Expect a shift in your home life, which could mean your family or just your emotional foundations. You will be forced to navigate your need for control and learn to share power instead.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Sag, you will be inspired to broaden your horizons and explore new paths of learning and growth. This transit will be a time of intellectual and spiritual expansion, so embrace your role as a lifelong student of the universe.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

You’ve always valued your work ethic as as defining characteristic, but Pluto in Aquarius is asking you to dig even deeper. Money and power can be synonymous, but nothing is a substitute for self-worth.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Aquarius, you will feel Pluto's transit the most. Break free from conformity and embrace your eccentricity. This transit will inspire you to revolutionize the way you approach life and to pursue you wildest dreams with unwavering passion.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

You might find yourself in a period of introspection and soul-searching, as you delve into their deepest fears and desires. This transit will be a time of inner growth and self-discovery. Shed your old skin and emerge stronger and more resilient than ever.

Pluto's transit through Aquarius will be a time of dynamic change and growth, as each zodiac sign is challenged to tap into their inner strength and embrace the limitless potential of the universe. This is a time to embrace innovation, to let go of the past, and to create a brighter future for everyone.