What was going on in your life from 2015 through 2017? Because on Tuesday, September 17, a lunar eclipse in Pisces, the first in a brand-new eclipse series, will have you feeling like you’ve, uh, just stepped out of a time machine. You know, time is a flat circle, etc., etc. Anyway, here’s everything you need to know about this week’s lunar eclipse and what this eclipse series will mean for you.
Wait, an eclipse! What’s that again?
Eclipses occur when the sun, the moon, and Earth align perfectly, casting a shadow that changes the visual appearance of the sun or moon. Solar eclipses (like the one that crossed over the United States last spring) take place when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, temporarily darkening the sky and turning day into night. Lunar eclipses, on the other hand, occur when the Earth wedges itself between the sun and the moon, transforming the moon’s bright silver surface into an eerie, dark-red veneer (hence why lunar eclipses are often referred to as “blood moons”).
Although solar eclipses take place during new moons and lunar eclipses during full moons, these are not your typical lunations. Unlike a regular new moon or full moon, eclipses occur when the moon reaches the upper or lower boundary of its orbit, activating celestial points known as the north and south nodes that are associated, in astrology, with destiny, fate, karma, and legacy. The moon touches these points about four to six times a year — always in pairs or clusters — generating eclipses that amplify energy, catalyze unexpected events, and reshape the trajectory of our lives. Casual.
To recap: Eclipses are a really, really big deal. One may even argue the most important plotlines of our lives are those that emerge during eclipse season. (It’s me, I would argue that.) Eclipses reveal deep truths, push us into new phases, and open doors by aggressively slamming others shut. And guess what — you are here. Welcome to eclipse season.
What should I know about the fall 2024 eclipse season?
We have two eclipses coming up fast: a lunar eclipse on Tuesday, September 17, at 10:34 p.m. ET (adjust for your time zone) and a solar eclipse on Wednesday, October 2, at 2:49 p.m. ET (adjust for your time zone). What’s notable about this particular eclipse season, however, is that we’ll be navigating two totally different story lines with each lunation. While October’s solar eclipse continues the narrative that began back in 2023, the lunar eclipse in Pisces kicks off a brand-new story line.
Indeed, the lunar eclipse in Pisces is the very first installment in a whopping seven-part series that will continue through 2027. Future dates will be March 14, 2025; September 7, 2025; September 21, 2025; March 3, 2026; August 28, 2026; and February 20, 2027. Interestingly, the last time we had eclipses on the Virgo-Pisces axis was between 2015 and 2017, so looking back at what was going on in your life in that era (I recommend looking through your photos or pulling up some old emails), you may be able to gauge what themes will be resurfacing this time around. Keep in mind, however, that these eclipses will be reversing the story from nine years ago (back then, the north node was in Virgo; this time, the north node is in Pisces), so even if the situations feel similar, their outcomes will be markedly different.
What should I know about this lunar eclipse in Pisces?
This particular lunar eclipse falls along the Virgo-Pisces axis, highlighting the relationship between practicality and spirituality. Structure and chaos. Control and surrender. Virgo urges us to focus on the details, to organize, and to refine our routines, while Pisces reminds us of the importance of compassion, intuition, and alchemical fluidity. The balance between these two energies invites us to establish structure without losing our connection to the bigger picture. How can we honor our day-to-day responsibilities while also giving ourselves permission to dream, feel, and — yes — get a little witchy? Fundamentally, both Virgo and Pisces are healers, so this upcoming lunar eclipse is going to shine a bright light on what true, authentic wellness means for you.
While the transformative energy of eclipses can feel overwhelming, especially since they catalyze big changes (e.g., makeups, breakups, power-structure overhauls), lunar eclipses offer profound opportunities for breakthroughs, reflection, and integration. During these lunations, we often experience radical shifts in perspective that change our perception of reality. With this newfound awareness, we can realign ourselves with our soul-led purpose, making necessary adjustments and embracing fresh possibilities that emerge under the electric skies of eclipses.
What can I do to prepare for the lunar eclipse?
Nothing, babe. Do absolutely nothing. When eclipse season rolls around, just throw up your hands and let the universe do its thing. I know some of you manifestation heads may be tempted to set intentions under this sky, but this is highly discouraged. The energy of an eclipse is far too unpredictable, too volatile, and too erratic for magic-making — manifestations often get distorted or (worse) backfire during this time, so it’s best to just lie low and let the chips fall when they may. And instead of trying to shove things into place that are clearly not fitting, use this period to pause and reflect.
Eclipses mark major turning points, and since this lunar eclipse in Pisces is commencing a brand-new series, this is an excellent time to take inventory of what’s going on in your life right now. Are you happy with your current circumstances? What’s working? What isn’t? Observe what gets highlighted during this moment, because — even if it feels uncomfortable — trust that this eclipse is showing you exactly what you need to see. The key is to remain open, receptive, and adaptable. By the time this series wraps up in 2027, you’ll look back and realize how far you’ve come. Giddyup.
