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This season in the sky

Mercury retrograde dates →

Mercury retrograde · Eastern Time

Next up: October 24 – November 13, 2026

Mercury appears to move backwards three or four times a year. Traditionally it is a time for double-checking messages, backing up your tech and finishing old projects rather than starting big new ones.

Starts	Ends
Oct 24, 2026	Nov 13, 2026
Feb 9, 2027	Mar 3, 2027
Jun 10, 2027	Jul 4, 2027
Oct 7, 2027	Oct 28, 2027

What to do during Mercury retrograde →

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Common questions

When is the next Mercury retrograde?+

The next Mercury retrograde runs from October 24 to November 13, 2026 (Eastern Time). After that, Mercury goes retrograde from February 9 to March 3, 2027, June 10 to July 4, 2027, and October 7 to 28, 2027. It is traditionally linked to communication mix-ups and tech problems, and seen as a time to review decisions rather than start new ones.

How many cards are in a tarot deck?+

A standard tarot deck has 78 cards: 22 Major Arcana cards that mark big life themes, and 56 Minor Arcana cards in four suits (Wands, Cups, Swords and Pentacles) that cover everyday events.

What is the best tarot deck for a beginner?+

Most beginners start with the Rider-Waite-Smith deck or a deck based on it. Each card has a clear picture, and almost every tarot book and guide uses the same imagery, so what you read matches what you see.

Do you have to be given your first tarot deck?+

No. This is a popular superstition, not a rule. You can buy your own deck, and many readers do. What matters is that you like the artwork and can read the cards easily.

What is a destiny matrix?+

A destiny matrix (or matrix of destiny) is a chart built from your birth date. It places numbers, often linked to the 22 Major Arcana cards, in an eight-point diagram that people use for reflection on themes like purpose, relationships and money. It is a modern, popular system for self-reflection, not a scientific method.

What is astrocartography?+

Astrocartography maps your birth chart onto the world. It draws lines showing where each planet was angular (rising, setting, overhead or below) when you were born. Astrologers read those lines to say how different cities or countries may feel to you. Like all astrology, it is for reflection, not proof.

How do I find out my rising sign?+

Your rising sign (ascendant) is the zodiac sign on the eastern horizon at the exact time and place you were born. You need your birth date, birth time and birth place. A free birth chart or sun, moon and rising calculator will work it out for you.

What is the difference between sun, moon and rising signs?+

Your sun sign (from your birth date) is your core identity. Your moon sign is your emotional life and instincts. Your rising sign is how others first see you. Together they are your big three and say far more than the sun sign alone.

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