A planet is "retrograde" when, seen from Earth, it appears to move backward through the zodiac for a while. It's an apparent motion, not a reversal — but it marks the periods astrologers watch. Here's the full schedule.
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Retrograde periods are computed with astronomy-engine from each planet's apparent geocentric motion; times are UTC. "X → Y" means the planet stationed retrograde in one sign and backed into the previous one before turning direct. Looking for the bigger picture of a planet's sign journey? See the Planetarium, or where everything sits now on Current Sky.
Common questions
What is a planetary retrograde?
A planet is retrograde when, seen from Earth, it appears to move backward through the zodiac for a while. It is an optical effect of the two orbits, not a real reversal in space.
Is Mercury retrograde right now?
This page highlights any planet that is retrograde today and lists the exact dates each retrograde begins and ends, so you can see the current one and when the next starts.
Which planets go retrograde?
Every planet from Mercury out to Pluto goes retrograde periodically; only the Sun and Moon never do. Mercury does so most often, about three times a year.
When is the next Mercury retrograde?
The calendar lists every Mercury retrograde with its start and end dates and the sign it falls in, so the next one is always a scroll away.