Understanding Mercury Retrograde and Its Perceived Impact

Mercury retrograde, a phenomenon often cited by astrologers and parts of the media, is once again the topic of discussion. Many believe it to be responsible for mishaps, miscommunications, and misunderstandings in relationships and travel arrangements. This belief has ancient roots; people observed Mercury’s apparent backward motion and attributed it to negative influences.

Award-winning reporter Jamie Carter highlights the misconceptions surrounding this astronomical event. «Thankfully, it’s all complete nonsense,» Carter writes. «Mercury in retrograde is an optical illusion without consequences for us and our planet. It’s a perfectly natural, normal and regular occurrence that cannot possibly affect your mood or anything else.»

The term «Mercury retrograde» refers to the illusion of Mercury moving in reverse in its orbit around the sun, from our perspective on Earth. This occurs because of the relative positions of Mercury and Earth in their respective orbits. Mercury orbits the sun in just 88 days, much faster than Earth’s 365 days, maintaining a speed of approximately 29 miles (47 kilometers) per second compared to Earth’s 18 miles (30 kilometers) per second.

Misinterpretations often arise around this time, with various articles, like one cited by Jamie Carter, incorrectly claiming that «Mercury retrograde refers to the period of time where Mercury moves slower than the Earth around the sun.» However, as Carter clarifies, Mercury never moves slower than Earth.

As for the frequency of these events, Mercury retrograde happens three or four times annually. In 2024, it has already occurred twice between April 1-25 and August 5-28. The final Mercury retrograde for the year is set to begin on November 25 and continue until December 15, aligning visually with the constellation Sagittarius.

The shift in planetary alignments from our perspective changes how planets appear to move across the sky. This retrograde motion is a result of the Earth’s orbit intersecting with Mercury’s orbit in a manner that makes it appear to move east-to-west against the backdrop of stars, which is otherwise known as prograde motion.

Aliza Kelly, an astrologist, offers a different perspective on this astronomical event, viewing it as an opportunity to «deepen our emotional awareness.» According to Kelly, «this retrograde isn’t about diving into feelings—it’s about reevaluating our ideas, beliefs, and aspirations.» She suggests that people use the time to pause, reflect, and recalibrate.

As the final Mercury retrograde of 2024 concludes, it coincides with significant celestial events that are believed to heighten emotional intensity, such as a supermoon on November 15. Kelly notes, «The foundation you lay now is setting the tone for the entire next year.»