In astrology, the eclipses of 2023 are times marked with tremendous change. And this year we’re going to be experiencing four eclipses: two solar eclipses and two lunar eclipses. Astronomically, an eclipse occurs whenever there is either total or partial coverage of one celestial body by another—so in this case, that means either the sun or the moon is eclipsing the other.
In astrology, this occurrence is more defined as a new moon or full moon passing within 18 degrees of lunar nodes. The lunar nodes, for context, are celestial points determined by the moon’s path around the earth that cross over the ecliptic belt. The ecliptic is a belt that represents the midpoint of the zodiac. This imaginary line marks the pathway of the earth’s orbit around the sun. So when all of these celestial points align, we experience an eclipse!
The eclipses of 2023 are going to be under the signs of Aries and Libra, which means they will affect people with these planetary placements the most. And if your rising sign is either Aries or Libra, you’ll be most directly affected by the eclipses in your first house of self-image or your seventh house of long-term commitments and relationships as they will be the most illuminated by these powerful transits.
But know this: Because eclipse energy is much more chaotic than regular new and full moons, you will want to refrain from doing any ritualized manifestations (so leave the crystals alone). Instead, take action steps toward your goals during these transits.
When are the eclipses of 2023?
Here are the dates to remember:
- April 20: solar eclipse in Aries
- May 5: lunar eclipse in Scorpio
- October 15: solar eclipse in Libra
- November 28: lunar eclipse in Taurus
What will happen during the eclipses of 2023?
Read on to understand what each of these eclipses will bring—and what we can focus on to make the most of this powerful, heightened energy throughout 2023.
Total Solar (New Moon) Eclipse in Aries
This solar eclipse is going to be in the same sign as the sun, making it a new moon during Aries season. This eclipse will happen at 9:13 p.m. PT on April 19 (12:13 a.m. ET on April 20). The main theme here is to be bold, move things forward, and generally feel empowered to take on the world.
Partial Lunar (Full Moon) Eclipse in Scorpio
This partial (or penumbral) lunar eclipse is going to be in the opposite sign of the sun at the time, making it a full moon in Scorpio during Taurus season. This eclipse still leaves partial illumination, hence being a partial (or penumbral) eclipse and will occur at 10:34 a.m. PT (1:34 p.m. ET). It will conjunct with the south node, which is also in Scorpio at this time. The south node tells us about the energy we need to shift away from, and full moons are all about shedding. The major theme here? Releasing, acknowledgement of what you need to grieve and let go of, mourning, and shadow work. Scorpio is an intense water sign energy that deals with the dark depths of the soul. What inside of you is being asked to be reckoned with, healed, and integrated?
