The astronomical definition
A planet is retrograde when its apparent geocentric ecliptic longitude is decreasing. This describes motion as seen from Earth. The planet has not reversed the direction of its orbit around the Sun.
Why it happens
Earth and the other planets travel around the Sun at different speeds and distances. Their changing relative geometry can make a planet appear to reverse direction against the background sky. The visual effect can be compared loosely to overtaking another moving vehicle.
Stations and slow motion
A station occurs near the change between direct and retrograde motion. Near that point, a planet’s apparent longitude changes very slowly. A simple finite-difference calculation may label motion differently close to the exact station depending on the interval used.
The interpretive convention
Astrologers often associate retrograde periods with review, revision, or inward attention. These are symbolic associations. They do not establish that technology will fail, travel will be unsafe, or an agreement must be postponed.
Natal versus transit
A natal retrograde label describes the motion at the birth moment. A current retrograde describes the sky at the selected time. They are not interchangeable, and neither is a character defect. Interpretation depends on the planet and the rest of the chart.
A practical approach
Check facts, allow realistic time, and communicate clearly because these habits are useful throughout the year. If you use retrogrades as reminders, choose a task that genuinely needs review rather than searching for a problem that fits the label.
This guide describes symbolic conventions and traditions. Astrological interpretations are not scientifically established predictions about personality or events. Our sources and editorial approach.