What can we expect in 2024?

On 21 January 2024 Pluto moves into Aquarius, only a few hours after the Sun has done the same; apart from a brief dip back into the last degree of Capricorn during the autumn, it will remain in Aquarius for the next twenty years. Much has already been written by various astrologers about how this may work out; meanwhile, since I wrote my ‘sky now’ headline piece for 2023 (see paragraph below, which remains valid), much has already happened in the world to illustrate the profound and drastic influence of Pluto at this time of sign-change. 

At heart, Pluto is symbolic of Divine Power, and as such is inevitable in its effects, i.e. it symbolizes conditions or happenings which we simply cannot avoid, over which we have no control and which, willingly or reluctantly, we find we have to accept. However difficult that may be, change is also built into Pluto’s ‘remit’. Above all, it is a transforming power. As this is a time of change of age, albeit a period that will be quite long in human terms, the term is appropriate. It is almost as if the change of age which has been gradually happening is now being greatly speeded up, so things that might once have taken many years to occur are taking place almost before our eyes. 

This calls for some very rapid adjustments to be made, in order to adapt to the new conditions.

While Pluto in Capricorn has had so many far-reaching effects on economic, corporate and institutional affairs, the major emphasis will shift to matters of mind and attitude and the ways in which we work together (or not) and develop a proper sense of brotherhood at all levels of life. A period of great striving for truth in all areas of life seems indicated, a period of much interrogation of power too: this, of course, is already occurring, but will become much more crucial. 

Pluto in Aquarius is also likely to be evident in major scientific developments which have been worked on quietly for a long time and then emerge into practical fruition. Above all, Pluto in Aquarius will help us to understand better the power of thought – and test us to see if we can truly use it for good rather than self!

Neptune continues to move through the late degrees of Pisces; it will not enter Aries until 2025; meanwhile it remains very strong, being in its own sign. This can bring muddle and deception or wonderful enlightenment, depending on how we react to its influence.

Uranus is still moving through Taurus, shaking up well-established institutions and disturbing financial norms, but there is more of a sense of urgency with this now: the economic issues besetting the world need addressing more than ever. Like Aquarius, the new age sign, Uranus, the new age planet emphasises the need to face the truth – in this case, the planet being in Taurus, with regard to any and every economic issue that we face. Jupiter is also in Taurus through the spring and in late April is conjunct Uranus, magnifying its effects.

Simon Bentley, Head of Astrology