Retrograde planets 2026 and 2027

Seen from Earth, every planet now and then seems to stop and move backwards through the zodiac. It is an optical effect of the different orbital speeds, but in astrology a retrograde is a time to review, slow down and revisit old themes. The dates below are calculated from the planets' real positions.

Mercury

Mercury turns retrograde: for about three weeks, double-check contracts, devices and messages. Good for reviewing and finishing, less so for new starts.

• 26 February 2026 – 20 March 2026, in Pisces
• 29 June 2026 – 24 July 2026, in Cancer
• 24 October 2026 – 13 November 2026, in Scorpio
• 9 February 2027 – 3 March 2027, in Pisces → Aquarius
• 10 June 2027 – 4 July 2027, in Cancer → Gemini
• 7 October 2027 – 28 October 2027, in Scorpio → Libra

Venus

Venus turns retrograde: old feelings and connections resurface. Don't rush into new commitments or big purchases.

• 3 October 2026 – 14 November 2026, in Scorpio → Libra

Mars

Mars turns retrograde: energy turns inward. Finish what you started instead of opening new fronts.

• 10 January 2027 – 1 April 2027, in Virgo → Leo

Jupiter

Jupiter turns retrograde: growth goes inward. Review your goals and beliefs.

• 11 November 2025 – 11 March 2026, in Cancer
• 13 December 2026 – 13 April 2027, in Leo

Saturn

Saturn turns retrograde: a time to review the responsibilities and structures in your life.

• 26 July 2026 – 11 December 2026, in Aries
• 9 August 2027 – 24 December 2027, in Aries

Uranus

Uranus turns retrograde: change ripens inside before it shows outside.

• 6 September 2025 – 4 February 2026, in Gemini → Taurus
• 10 September 2026 – 8 February 2027, in Gemini
• 15 September 2027 – 12 February 2028, in Gemini

Neptune

Neptune turns retrograde: illusions fade and you see more clearly.

• 7 July 2026 – 12 December 2026, in Aries
• 9 July 2027 – 15 December 2027, in Aries

Pluto

Pluto turns retrograde: deep themes ask for inner work.

• 6 May 2026 – 16 October 2026, in Aquarius
• 8 May 2027 – 18 October 2027, in Aquarius

Frequently asked questions

What does Mercury retrograde mean?

For about three weeks Mercury appears to move backwards through the zodiac. In astrology this time is linked with delays, misunderstandings, tech trouble and old conversations and people coming back.

How many times a year is Mercury retrograde?

Usually three times, about three weeks each. The exact dates for 2026 and 2027 are in the table above.

What should I avoid during Mercury retrograde?

Don't rush important contracts, double-check messages and bookings and keep backups. It is a good time to review, finish and repair — less so to start new things.

How does a retrograde affect me personally?

It depends on which house of your natal chart the retrograde sign falls in. Calculate your chart for free to see which area of life it touches.