Chipwitch Today!
This is Chipwitch Today, your daily source of reliable data upon which you can base your daily practice.
8 August, 2023
Solar activity reached high levels following an X1.5 flare (R3-Strong) from old Region 3386 (N11, L=092) at 07/2046 UTC. This region also produced an M2.4 flare (R1/Minor) at 07/0441 UTC, along with several C-class flares, as it moved beyond the W limb. Region 3387 (N18W73, Dsi/beta) added a couple more M-class flares (R1/Minor) during the period. The first, an M1/Sf at 07/1626 UTC and the second, an M1.4 (R1/Minor) at 07/1951 UTC. Analysis of the first CME (associated with the M2.4 flare) showed a likely miss, well ahead of the Sun-Earth line. Analysis of the second and third CME, associated with the M1 flares and subsequent X1 flare, will be accomplished as more imagery becomes available. However, with the source region of the X flare being well beyond the west limb, an Earth-directed CME is not anticipated.
The solar kp index is quiet, with no changes to retrograde effects. The solar wind speed is currently above average, making retrograde effects moderately increased.
Solar wind parameters began the period weakly enhanced as a minor perturbation in the IMF was observed. Solar wind speeds initially observed very little increase, ranging from 340 to 460 km/s, total field increased to 10 nT, and Bz saw weak southward deflections to near -9 nT. A more pronounced IMF enhancement, possibly associated with the arrival of a CME from 04 Aug, began at around 07/1100 UTC with wind speeds increasing to eventually reach 500, total field reached 14 nT, and Bz deflecting to near -6 nT. Bz temporarily turned north before dropping back to near -9 nT after 07/2000 UTC. Around 07/2215 UTC, solar wind speed increased to speeds ~600 km/s, however, no additional enhancements were observed in total IMF field strength.
There is a 10% chance of solar activity, with a 35% chance of a minor event, a 40% chance of a moderate event, and a 15% chance of a strong event.
The waning moon is currently in Taurus, at 13 degrees, 22' 10", at a velocity of 13.21 degrees per day.
The Third Quarter moon is currently 22 days old. It is 379527.62 km from the centre of the Earth.
The next new moon is at 9:38:49, 16 Aug, 2023. The next full moon is at 1:37:05, 31 Aug, 2023.
Planetary Information
The Sun is in Leo
The Sun is at 15 Leo 28' 38", and is 151704887km away and approaching.
The Moon is in Taurus
The Moon is at 13 Tau 22' 10", and is 382031km away and receding.
Moon Is In Taurus
Alright, my cosmic comrades, buckle up your moon boots and set your phasers to "amused" because we are going on an interstellar ride with the Moon in Taurus! First off, let's address the cosmic elephant in the room: The Moon is a whopping 381,716.471967556 kilometers away! That's like, round trip to the grocery store and back...a few million times. But don't fret, my celestial savvy friends, you won't need to fill up the gas tank for this journey. Now, the Moon in Taurus is like a cosmic comfort food buffet. It's all about a slower pace, indulgence, and relishing in sensual pleasures. Think of it as the universe's way of telling you to chill out, wear your fluffiest socks and binge-watch that new alien conspiracy theory series...again. On the flip side, Taurus energy can be as stubborn as a mule on a moon mission. So if you find yourself clinging to your favorite chair like a barnacle on a space shuttle, it might be time to turn off the gravity for a bit and float around. Remember, changing your perspective can be as refreshing as a cool breeze on the dark side of the moon! So, while the Moon is in Taurus, take advantage of this cosmic cruise control. Enjoy the journey, appreciate the small things (like that tiny blue dot we call Earth), and indulge in your senses. Just remember to put down the remote and step outside your comfort zone every once in a while. After all, even astronauts have to leave the spaceship sometimes. Stay stardust, my friends, and keep reaching for the cosmos. Until next time, over and out from your friendly neighborhood astro-nerd.Mercury is in Virgo
Mercury is prograde at 12 Vir 46' 22", moving at 1.03 degrees per day, and is 137315693km away and approaching.
Mercury Is In Virgo
Mercury in Virgo: The Cosmic Nerd Alert!
Holy celestial bodies, batman! Mercury has slipped into the snug, intellectual embrace of Virgo. And you know what that means? It's like your brain has suddenly morphed into the Starship Enterprise, ready to boldly cut through the galactic garbage and get straight to the point with Vulcan-like logic. Forget sugar-coating, this transit is all about passing on the sprinkles and serving up the facts with a side of sassy precision.
Virgo is that friend who can digest an entire Wikipedia page in seconds and only remember the important parts. So, like some cosmic software upgrade, our mental processing power hits warp speed as Mercury voyages through Virgo. We'll be communicating so clearly, aliens from Alpha Centauri will pick up our signals.
Now, here comes the not-so-fun part. With this productivity boost, you might feel like you've been thrown into a never-ending episode of "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" The good news is that instead of drowning in a comedic whirlpool of dead-end ideas, we'll be laser-focused on details and useful information. Progress, here we come!
But let's not transform into Hypercritical Hanks or Nitpicking Nancies. With this transit, it's easy to become so engrossed in flaw-finding that we accidentally turn into a roasting session at the Galactic Council. A little refinement in our speech could save us from interstellar incidents. Remember, folks, tact is our universal translator when Mercury orbits this discerning sign.
So grab your telescopes, your Spock ears, and your sense of humor. Mercury in Virgo is a cosmic ride that's both intellectually stimulating and productivity-boosting. Just don't forget to enjoy the journey!
Venus is in Leo
Venus is retrograde at 23 Leo 36' 34", moving backwards at 0.57 degrees per day, and is 43827974km away and approaching.
Venus Is In Leo
Venus in Leo: A Cosmic Comedy
Alright folks, grab your popcorn and prepare for the cosmic soap opera because Venus just moved into Leo and things are about to get melodramatic! This is a bit like if the universe decided to host its own version of "The Bachelor." Expect grand gestures, heart-stopping confessions and, yes, possibly even a sprinkle of tantrum...or two. When Venus, our resident love goddess, prances into Leo, the zodiac’s drama king, we're all encouraged to crank up the volume on our affections. It's time to shout your love from the rooftops or, for my introverted friends out there, maybe just from the comfort of your living room. Either way, subtlety has left the building. Now remember, this isn't about being liked or admired, oh no, we're in the realm of Leo here. We want to be adored! So, go ahead, take that risk, make that grand gesture. Just remember not to leave the safety gear behind, you might need it. But beware, Leo also has a flair for the dramatic, so don't be surprised if you find yourself in a passionate debate over who left the milk out. Make sure to keep things in perspective and remember: It's not always about you (I know, shocking!). And what about money? Well, with Venus in Leo, money becomes less about saving and more about showing off. Think glitz, glamour, and the occasional golden toilet seat. But remember, Leo's also generous to a fault. So, spending on others will make you feel like a million bucks. Or, at least, like you've spent a million bucks. In essence, Venus in Leo is like a cosmic technicolor dreamcoat. It's vibrant, it's fun, and it's definitely not subtle. So go ahead, let your inner drama queen roar. Just remember to keep a sense of humor about it all. After all, the universe certainly is.Mars is in Virgo
Mars is prograde at 17 Vir 46' 17", moving at 0.63 degrees per day, and is 360168559km away and receding.
Mars Is In Virgo
Greetings, fellow celestial voyagers! It's time to talk about Mars in Virgo, or as I like to call it, the "space nerd" of planetary alignments. Picture Mars, that fiery red planet, with a pocket protector and a set of bifocals, meticulously sorting through paperwork and saying, "We can definitely do this more efficiently." With Mars in Virgo, we're in for some serious cosmic housekeeping. This is when we look at our life's clutter and say, "It's time to Marie Kondo this mess!" And by 'mess', I mean your work habits, health routines, and maybe even that pile of laundry you've been ignoring. Now, you might be thinking, "But I love my mess, it's my creative process!" Well, I hate to break it to you, but Mars in Virgo doesn't give two hoots about your 'creative process'. It's here to streamline, optimize, and create order out of chaos. So, it's time to roll up those sleeves (or tie-dye kaftan) and get down to business! In the fitness department, Mars in Virgo is like that super enthusiastic personal trainer who won’t let you quit. You know, the one who says, "One more rep! You love kale smoothies!" If you've been planning to join a gym or start a new diet, now's the perfect time. But remember, Virgo loves routine, so whatever changes you implement, make sure they're sustainable. There's a flipside though, dear stargazers. Mars in Virgo can turn us into nitpicking ninjas. We might find ourselves criticizing everything, from our coworker's report to our cat's less-than-perfect grooming habits. Remember, not everyone (or every feline) has their Mars in Virgo on. So, let's try to dial down the critique and amp up the patience. Instead, use this transit to get productive! Balance your budget, plan for the future, or finally learn how to make that sourdough starter. Because let's face it, there's no better time to start a new project than when Mars in Virgo is blasting "Eye of the Tiger" from its cosmic boombox! So, buckle up, space cadets! Let's get this rocket ship in order and prepare to blast off towards a more efficient, healthier, and organized life. Mars in Virgo, engage!Jupiter is in Taurus
Jupiter is prograde at 14 Tau 22' 44", moving at 0.09 degrees per day, and is 723804899km away and approaching.
Jupiter Is In Taurus
"Alright, cosmic cadets, strap on your space boots because Jupiter is currently sauntering through Taurus like a bull in a china shop, and boy does it have a thing for fine china! Now, Jupiter, our big gassy friend out there, is a real smarty pants. He's all about wisdom, deep thoughts, and philosophical ponderings. Always asking "why" and "how," like a toddler who just discovered the word. Taurus, on the other hand, is as stubborn as they come - the biggest couch potato of the zodiac. It likes to take things slow and steady, with lots of snack breaks. So when these two get together, it’s like the universe is inviting us to a cosmic meditation retreat. We’re asked to slow down, eat some organic kale chips, and ponder the mysteries of life. Like why does toast always land butter side down? And why can't we remember dreams about algebra? When Jupiter enters Taurus, it's like a big cosmic green light on your dream project. Maybe it's that artisanal goat cheese farm you've been imagining, or that app that connects people with local llama therapists. Whatever it is, it's time to start ticking off those to-do lists! Together, Jupiter and Taurus are saying, "Hey, you got this! Trust the process! And maybe get a planner... seriously, your desk is a mess." Now for the good news: Jupiter is the king of luck, while Taurus is all about the bling-bling. So, during this transit, you're more likely to stumble upon a treasure chest than step in dog doo-doo. But remember folks, with great cosmic power comes great cosmic responsibility. Taurus loves the good life a little too much sometimes, and Jupiter is known to overindulge. So, before you go buying that gold-plated espresso machine or booking a ticket to Mars, make sure it's a need and not a want. Remember, folks, patience is a virtue, especially when Jupiter is wearing Taurus' favorite cashmere sweater. It might be a bit snug, but hey, that's how growth happens!"Saturn is in Pisces
Saturn is retrograde at 05 Pis 14' 07", moving backwards at 0.07 degrees per day, and is 1319181383km away and approaching.
Saturn Is In Pisces
Galactic Groove Alert: Saturn in Pisces
Buckle up, cosmic voyagers! Saturn, our favorite celestial taskmaster, has decided to take a swim in the deep, dreamy waters of Pisces. Imagine Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory deciding to take a transcendental meditation retreat - that's what we're dealing with here.
This is the astrological equivalent of Spock finally embracing his human side. So, while you might be used to Saturn laying down the law, now it's doing so while wearing tie-dye and listening to The Grateful Dead. It's the perfect time to flip open that dusty notebook of dreams and start scheming. Feel like opening a unicorn-themed bakery? Go for it! Aiming to write the next great sci-fi novel where cats rule the world? Why not? With Saturn in Pisces, it's time to blend structure with whimsy.
But wait, let's not sugar-coat this cosmic croissant too much. Just because Saturn's swapped its usual business suit for a pair of flared jeans doesn't mean it's all fun and games. This is still the planet that loves rules and discipline. It's like your dad crashing your slumber party - sure, he's wearing a funny onesie, but he's still going to tell you to turn down the music and clean your room.
And speaking of slumber parties, with all this Piscean energy, you might find yourself tossing and turning more than usual. But don't worry, this isn't the universe pulling a prank on you. Instead of counting sheep, use this time to delve deep into your subconscious - you never know what creative gems you'll unearth. Just remember, keep that dream journal handy. You wouldn't want to forget the blueprint for that intergalactic spaceship you dreamed up.
So, whether you're feeling anxious or enlightened, remember to take time to breathe, maybe even try meditating (we know, very 'new-agey') or go for a walk among the trees. After all, a little hippie wisdom never hurt anyone, right? Especially when Saturn's dancing to the tune of Pisces!
Uranus is in Taurus
Uranus is prograde at 22 Tau 53' 40", moving at 0.02 degrees per day, and is 2953284304km away and approaching.
Uranus Is In Taurus
Alright, fellow cosmic voyagers! Get your space spectacles on because we're about to talk about Uranus. Yep, that's right - the seventh planet from the Sun has decided to take a little vacay in Taurus. Now, I know what you're thinking, "Not the bull! Uranus, mate, you do realize Taurus prefers tea parties with the same old people rather than your surprise cosmic raves?" Well, tough cookies, Taurus, because Uranus is the DJ now and it's about to pump up the volume! But here's the twist - Taurus is the Bill Gates of the zodiac world. It knows its dough, and Uranus dropping in like a rogue comet could bring about some revolutionary changes in the financial sector. Imagine this - we could be swapping coins for cosmic credits or trading star-dust shares on the interstellar stock market. On a personal level, Uranus's cosmic shake-up tour in Taurus is your golden ticket to financial freedom. Imagine breaking free from the chains of debt, taxes, and mortgages. It’s like winning the lottery without buying a ticket! It's time to rethink your relationship with money - and let's face it, we all have that one ex we'd like to forget - looking at you, credit card interest! So, buckle up, space cadets, because change is coming, whether you're ready or not. And if you're thinking of resisting, remember, Uranus didn't travel nearly 3 billion kilometers just to be ignored. It's time for us to boldly go where no bank account has gone before. Let's set those wallets free! In the end, this celestial rollercoaster might just take us to a place of greater stability. And who knows? You might even find you like the new cosmic tune Uranus is playing. Dance on, stargazers! Dance on!Neptune is in Pisces
Neptune is retrograde at 27 Pis 18' 33", moving backwards at 0.02 degrees per day, and is 4359908926km away and approaching.
Neptune Is In Pisces
Neptune in Pisces: A Galactic Tale
Alright, star children, buckle up because I'm about to take you on an intergalactic roller coaster. Neptune, that big blue giant, is lounging in the dreamy realm of Pisces and boy, is it causing some cosmic ripples! No need to panic – it's only about a gazillion kilometers away (give or take a few million). It also happens to be retrograde, which in astrology-lingo means it’s taking a celestial nap, but its dreams are leaking into our lives. Spooky, right?
Now, here's the magic part. Neptune in Pisces is like Gandalf from Lord of the Rings waving his staff, whispering "You shall not pass!" to all petty squabbles and shallow differences. Suddenly, we're seeing everyone as part of the same cosmic family, like a bunch of hobbits sharing a pint at the Prancing Pony. We're all in this together, folks!
This astrological mashup is also calling us to channel our inner Dumbledore. Remember how he could see the potential in every witch, wizard, or house-elf? This is our time to dig deep, find our unique gifts and use them to heal our world - whether it's being able to knit faster than a speeding broomstick or having the charisma to unite divided factions like Daenerys Targaryen (minus the dragons, please).
Feeling inspired? Good, because now is the perfect time to dive headfirst into the Hogwarts of spirituality that’s been calling your name. Set up your own Room of Requirement at home for some spiritual exploration. And remember, just like the Force was with Luke Skywalker, Neptune in Pisces is with you.
So, go forth, my star children! Unleash your inner wizard, Jedi, or dragon queen. The universe is waiting for your unique magic!
Pluto is in Capricorn
Pluto is retrograde at 28 Cap 43' 34", moving backwards at 0.02 degrees per day, and is 5064389265km away and receding.
Pluto Is In Capricorn
Oh, dear cosmic explorers, brace yourselves for a wild ride! Our distant frosty friend, Pluto, has decided to bunk up with the ever-practical Capricorn - a pairing as surprising as Gandalf the Grey popping in for tea at the Death Star. Now, don't go into hyperdrive just yet! Remember, Pluto is a cool 5 billion kilometers away, so it's not exactly knocking on your door. But its influence is much like a WiFi signal - the further you are, the weaker it is, but oh boy, when it connects, expect some heavy downloads. Pluto, just like that one friend we all have who insists on deep cleaning your house when they visit, wants us to shed our old habits, to vacuum the dust bunnies of our past. It encourages us to wave goodbye to the cobwebs of negativity and say hello to a sparkling new you. However, let's not forget about our stern taskmaster, Capricorn. Both Capricorn and Pluto share a love for power and success, akin to Frodo's passion for the One Ring. Be cautious, though. Their focus might be so intense that they forget to consider other people's opinions. Suddenly, everyone else is a confused Stormtrooper, and you’re the only one who knows the way. So, during this cosmic ballet, remember to keep an open mind. Don’t become the Darth Vader of ideas, choking out those that don't align with yours. Instead, channel your inner Gandalf, wise and accepting of all perspectives. In this Pluto meets Capricorn episode, it's all about constructive destruction. Imagine yourself as Luke Skywalker, blowing up the Death Star of your negative patterns. But be careful, young Padawans. Make sure you're aiming at the right target. You wouldn't want to accidentally blast away your favorite comfy couch instead now, would you? So, strap in for this cosmic journey, keep your lightsabers handy and may the force of Pluto in Capricorn be with you!Current Planetary Aspects