On December 6, 2024, Mars will station retrograde at 6°10’ Leo, beginning its apparent backward motion through the zodiac. By January 6, 2025, Mars will re-enter Cancer and continue retrograding until February 23, 2025, when it stations direct at 17°01’ Cancer. During this period, pay close attention to any natal placements between 17° Cancer and 6° Leo, as they will likely be activated. If you were born during the day time, Mars can be more problematic for you and if you were born at night, Mars can yield more constructive results.

What Does Mars Retrograde Mean?

When Mars stations retrograde, it essentially "stops" before reversing direction. This occurs twice during the retrograde period—at the start and end—and these stationary points are highly potent, as Mars moves very slowly. Pay close attention during these moments to understand how this transit manifests for you.

Mars, the planet of action, aggression, and conflict, takes on a different tone in Leo, a sign associated with leadership, self-expression, and pride. With Mars opposing Pluto during its station retrograde, the energy becomes even more intense, potentially manifesting as power struggles or dramatic events. A striking example is the assassination of the United Health CEO during Mars’ station, illustrating the extreme potential of this energy. While most experiences won’t be as severe, this transit invites careful responses—especially for Leo and Aquarius rising individuals, who may face unexpected challenges. Respond thoughtfully (Pluto in Aquarius) rather than reacting impulsively (Mars in Leo).

Mars in Leo vs. Mars in Cancer

Mars Retrograde in Leo
Mars retrograde in Leo highlights themes of identity, self-expression, and leadership. Challenges may arise around confidence, pride, or seeking validation. Pluto’s opposition intensifies scrutiny of toxic leadership, encouraging positive changes that benefit the collective.

This period may also reveal struggles with inflated egos, dramatic outbursts, or frustration stemming from wounded pride. Leaders might confront burnout as they learn the importance of delegation and rest while pursuing their goals.

Mars Retrograde in Cancer
When Mars retrogrades back into Cancer, themes shift to emotional security, intuition, and caregiving. This placement emphasizes the need to process feelings and resolve past grievances. Without Pluto’s opposition, the intensity of the transit decreases, creating space for emotional healing and reflection. However, Mars in Cancer can manifest as passive aggression or avoidance of confrontation, urging us to address unresolved emotional wounds constructively.

As the retrograde unfolds, you’ll see how Leo’s fiery self-expression and Cancer’s emotional depth interact. Use this period to reflect inwardly and adjust your approach as Mars stations direct.

Timeline of the Transit

• September 4, 2024: Mars enters Cancer.

• October 4, 2024: Pre-shadow begins at 17°01’ Cancer. Themes emerge that will play out during the retrograde.

• December 6, 2024: Mars stations retrograde at 6°10’ Leo.

• January 6, 2025: Mars re-enters Cancer.

• February 23, 2025: Mars stations direct at 17°01’ Cancer.

• April 17, 2025: Mars re-enters Leo.

• May 2, 2025: Post-shadow ends as Mars passes 6°10’ Leo.

• June 17, 2025: Mars exits Leo and enters Virgo.

Mars usually spends 1.5 months in a sign. However, retrograde motion extends its stay in Cancer and Leo to over nine months, amplifying its impact.

How Other Aspects Influence This Transit

Mars retrograde begins with a trine to the North Node, suggesting that this period can align us with our higher purpose. Despite challenges, this configuration encourages meaningful progress and personal growth.

Historical Mars Retrogrades in Leo

Mars retrograde in Leo occurs periodically. Reflect on past and future dates to uncover personal or historical patterns, especially if you have natal placements in Leo near these degrees. Share your insights in the comments!

• Dec 22, 2088 (22° Leo)

• Dec 2, 2071 (0° Leo)

• Dec 14, 2056 (14° Leo)

• Dec 28, 2041 (27° Leo)

• Dec 6, 2024 (6° Leo)

• Dec 20, 2009 (19° Leo)

• Dec 12, 1977 (11° Leo)

• Dec 26, 1962 (24° Leo)

• Dec 4, 1945 (3° Leo)

• Dec 18, 1930 (16° Leo)

• Dec 31, 1915 (29° Leo)

• Dec 9, 1898 (8° Leo)

• Dec 23, 1883 (21° Leo)

• Dec 1, 1866 (0° Leo)

• Dec 15, 1851 (13° Leo)

• Dec 27, 1836 (26° Leo)

• Dec 7, 1819 (5° Leo)

• Dec 20, 1804 (19° Leo)