2025 Mercury Retrograde Periods
July 17– August 11
(15°35′ Leo to 4°15′ Leo)
Pre-shadow period occurs June 30 – July 17
turns retrograde on July 17 at 9:45 p.m. (15°35′ Leo)
stations direct on August 11 at 12:30 a.m. (4°15′ Leo)
Post-shadow occurs from August 11–25
November 9 – November 29
(6°52′ Sagittarius to 20°42′ Scorpio)
Pre-shadow period occurs October 21 – November 9
turns retrograde on November 9 at 11:02 a.m. (6°52′ Sagittarius)
stations direct on November 29 at 9:38 a.m. (20°42′ Scorpio)
Post-shadow occurs from November 29 – December 16
Note: Times are approximate 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.
Previous 2025 Mercury Retrogrades
March 14 – April 7
(9°35′ Aries to 24°23′ Pisces)
pre-shadow period occurs March 1–14
turns retrograde on March 14 at 11:46 p.m. (9°35′ Aries)
stations direct on April 7 at 4:08 a.m. (24°23′ Pisces)
post-shadow occurs from April 7–26
Copyright 2025 by Linda Kaye
