Mars Retrograde: Dates, Meaning and What Slows Down
Mars retrograde happens about every 26 months, when Mars appears to move backwards for around ten weeks. Astrology reads it as a time when energy turns inward, plans stall and old conflicts return, best used for revising strategy rather than charging ahead.
Not happening today. Next: Mars retrograde in Virgo and Leo on 10 January 2027.
Coming up
- Mars retrograde in Virgo and Leo: 10 January 2027 to 1 April 2027
Past dates
- Mars retrograde in Leo and Cancer: 6 December 2024 to 24 February 2025
| How often | About every 26 months |
|---|---|
| How long | About ten weeks |
| Rules | Drive, action, conflict, desire, courage |
What Mars retrograde means
Mars is the planet of action. When it is retrograde, effort can feel like pushing through mud: progress slows, frustration builds and arguments that seemed settled return. Physical energy may also dip.
It is traditionally a poor time to start a fight, launch an aggressive project or have elective surgery. It is a good time to rethink how you go after what you want.
Using a Mars retrograde
Finish what you have started, train rather than compete, and deal with anger before it builds. When Mars turns direct, the plans you revised tend to move faster.
Every date by year
See which house Mars retrograde is crossing for you
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