Heads Up, This Month's New Moon Has Zero Chill

Libra season is in full swing, bringing a push for more balance, beauty, and perfectly curated posts of pumpkin spice everything. But with messenger Mercury retrograde, every attempt to push forward — even in the cardinal air sign's signature diplomatic, personable way — might have you feeling even more stuck in reverse. And in the days around the Scales' annual new moon, any underlying frustration or unresolved anger could reach a fever pitch. One thing's for certain: The lunar event, occurring on October 6 at 7:05 a.m. ET/4:05 a.m. PT, is full of passion and could result in fireworks.

The new moon in Libra supplies a ton of fuel for taking action.

New moons — which happen when the confident sun pairs up with the intuitive moon — always present a monthly opportunity to get clear on which new chapter you want to write over the course of the next two weeks (up until the next full moon) and next six months (when the corresponding full moon occurs). But this particular new moon is super-charged for not just reflection and meditation but for making full-on, balls-to-the-wall moves, thanks to a close conjunction with Mars, the fiery red planet that rules our action, courage, and energy. (Luckily we only have a Mars retrograde every two years.)

But being able to channel all of that fire into a productive, healthy outlet is key to making the most of this intense pairing. Mars is a big fan of plowing ahead, being assertive, getting after whatever drives and thrills you. And yet, while it moves through peace- and balance-loving cardinal air sign Libra, it can struggle to do any of that, because the Scales' M.O. is to weigh both sides of every issue versus diving in and pushing for progress. But around this demanding new moon, ditching wishy-washiness, tuning into your gut, and making a bold, energized decision might be the best way forward.

Mars' difficult aspect to electrifying Uranus could promote rebellious moves.

On its own, Mars shores up passion, enthusiasm, and the ability to be daring and take risks that could ultimately bolster your success. But on the new moon day, it'll be almost exactly quincunx (a difficult angle that can feel equally awkward and challenging) electrifying Uranus. The planet of revolution and rebellion can't stand stagnation and can bring out-of-the-blue, eyebrow-raising change. And when it's clashing with Mars, that change could be interwoven with anger, impulsivity, and aggression.

Because both planets are malefics, or planets that are prone to presenting challenges, any tension between them tends to be cranked up to the nth degree.

In short, this difficult aspect is a case for being especially aware, alert, and cautious — especially when it comes to technology, transportation, and communication, given that we're already dealing with a headache-inducing Mercury retrograde.

Pluto brings even more power and transformation to the equation.

Just a matter of hours after the new moon is exact, Pluto, the planet of destruction and regeneration, ends its retrograde, which started back on April 27. Since the spring, Pluto's backward turn has encouraged us to go inward to reflect on and process deep-rooted power and control issues, look at our shadow sides, and meditate on how to root out toxicity in our relationships and behaviors.

Now, as it begins to inch ahead, in the industrious cardinal earth sign Capricorn, it'll be time to actually start applying those lessons to external life. It's not exactly something you'll need to do — or will feel compelled to do — immediately, as Pluto's incredibly slow-moving. But we do tend to feel retrogrades the most on the days they station, aka move from direct to retrograde or vice-versa, so the new moon day could have you feeling especially called to nip a problematic bond or pattern in the bud — once and for all.

Here, how this Libra new moon will affect you, based on your sign. (Pro-tip: Be sure to read both your sun and your rising sign, if you know it. If you don't, you can find it on your natal chart or via this CafeAstrology calculator.)

Aries (March 21-April 19)

With the new moon falling in your seventh house of partnership, tensions with a S.O., loved one, or dear friend could come to the surface. It'll be tough not to be assertive, even aggressive, now, but doing your best to hold space for their needs, as well as your own, makes for the best result.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

With the new moon falling in your sixth house of wellness, you could be fired up to dive into a new health or fitness routine — possibly so fired up that you're tempted to, uncharacteristically, leap before looking or go too fast or too hard right out the gate. Do your best to take it one step at a time.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

The new moon is in your fifth house of romance and self-expression, stimulating your creative voice and drive to let loose with your S.O. or a new match. Just remember that more of anything — even flirtiness and fun — isn't necessarily better or more fulfilling.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Falling in your fourth house of home life, you could experience a lot of nervous energy related to starting a new chapter with loved ones. Whether you're planning a move or family get-together, tensions could be running high, so try to take a balanced, grounded approach.

Leo (July 23-August 22)

The new moon falls in your third house of communication, and the vibe could feel just plain frenetic. You've probably spread yourself too thin lately, so reprioritizing how you're exerting your energy can preempt burnout.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

The new moon in your second house of income could inspire you to make bold moves to get organized financially. This could look like cutting out a client who's no longer in sync with your long-term goals or redesigning your budget. Just be sure not to get down on yourself if you're feeling a bit behind where you'd prefer to be at the moment.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

The new moon is in your sign, and as much as you want to initiate and push ahead on your big picture plans, the road could be paved with obstacles at the moment. Zeroing in on your fave centering activities can make this a more spiritually fulfilling moment.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

Thanks to the new moon falling in your twelfth house of spirituality, this lunar event is all about finding a healing new way to go inward, rest, and recharge before you can set major sweeping intentions. And any anger that's been simmering beneath the surface will need to be addressed as well.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

The new moon is in your eleventh house of networking, so collaborative efforts with friends and colleagues are highlighted now. And if you find yourself overwhelmed by an abundance of head-butting and failing to see eye-to-eye, give yourself adequate time and space to cool off before returning to the table.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

The new moon in your tenth house of career is an opportunity to pave a new path to hitting your professional goals, but don't be surprised if not everyone (cough, higher-ups) aren't exactly on board. Owning your needs and vision in an empowered versus agitated way is the key to your success.

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

Falling in your ninth house of adventure, to say you're feeling antsy now is an understatement. You're craving new, eye-opening experiences and could even feel willing to turn your life upside down to make that happen, but you'll do best to strike a balance between rationality and listening to your gut.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

The new moon is in your eighth house of sexual intimacy and joint resources, so you'll be determined to kick off a new phase in the bedroom or in terms of assets you share with a significant other or loved one. The best outcome could result from making room for both of your needs, fears, and personal growth.