2026 Mercury Retrograde Periods
February 25 to March 20, 2026
(22°33′ Pisces to 8°29′ Pisces)
Pre-shadow period occurs February 11 to February 25, 2026
Mercury turns Retrograde on February 25 at 10:48 p.m. (22°33′ Pisces)
Stations Direct on March 20 at 12:33 p.m. (8°29′ Pisces)
Post-shadow occurs from March 20 – April 9
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June 29 to July 23, 2026
(26°15′ Cancer to 16°18′ Cancer)
Pre-shadow period occurs June 12 – 29
Mercury Retrogrades on June 29 at 10:36 a.m. (26°15′ Cancer)
Mercury Stations Direct on July 23 at 3:57 p.m. (16°18′ Cancer)
Post-shadow occurs from July 23 – August 6
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October 24 – November 13
(20°58′ to 5°02′ Scorpio)
Pre-shadow period occurs October 4 – 24
Mercury turns retrograde on October 24 at 12:13 a.m. (20°58′ Scorpio)
Stations direct on November 13 at 7:54 a.m. (5°02′ Scorpio)
Post-shadow occurs from November 13 – 29, 2026
Note: Times are based on pacific time.
In general, Mercury is the planet that astrologically represents travel, communication, and our thought processes. Known as the Messenger of the Gods, Mercury’s role is to speedily deliver clear and precise information. Retrograding 3–4 times a year, when the planetary trickster strikes, many of our daily activities go haywire.
Mercury rules electronics and is often blamed for all types of technical mishaps with cell phones, electric devices, and computers — warranting an important time to back up your computer files. In general terms, machines of all kinds tend to act strangely and take on a Murphy’s Law theme.
Remain flexible and prepare for delays and miscommunications of all kinds. It is best to avoid signing any contractual agreements as matters begun during Mercury retrograde periods tend to take unexpected twists and turns in the future. During Mercury retrograde periods we often find ourselves revisiting past projects or situations that, once again, need our attention. It is also a time period, however, when we often hear from, or feel compelled to reach out to old friends or lovers whom we haven’t spoken to in some time.
Although Mercury retrograde periods can seem frustrating, they often provide opportunities to review or finish up old projects, contact old friends, or clean out the closet and garage. Mercury retrograde periods are an opportune time for introspection and deep thought, especially a couple of days directly before and after the exact retrograde day occurs.
Note: A planet doesn’t actually move backwards (retrograde) but rather appears so as
the result of an optical illusion per its orbital relative speed from our point of view on Earth.
Copyright 2026 by Linda Kaye
