One of the most anticipated transits of 2024 has finally touched down. On Friday, December 6 at 6:33PM ET, Mars begins its backwards dance at 6° Leo, igniting the rarest retrograde cycle in the cosmos. Mars only goes retrograde once every two-years—the least frequent of all the planets—making it the most intense and transformative of all retrogrades. The warrior planet will retrace its celestial steps for next 11-weeks, until February 23, 2025, working its way backward from 6° Leo to 17° Cancer.
Mars is the planet of action, passion, and will power, so when it performs its infamous reverse motion, we’re forced to slow down and re-evaluate what we’re working towards. Our passions and goals come into question, sparking essential self-reflection around what we’re investing our energy in and why—and what needs to change.
But—spoiler alert—you’ve probably already been feeling its influence. The Mars Retrograde shadow period—a.k.a. the timeframe within which its energy impacts us earthlings—began on October 6 of this year, and will continue through May 2, 2025. In other words, we’re in this for the long-haul—Mars’ retrograde influence lingers in the celestial seas for a good while.
So, how much influence does Mars’ backwards trajectory really have? How can you make the most of this notorious transit? And how will it impact you, personally? Below, everything you need to know about what Mars Retrograde means for you, including horoscopes for each sign.