Eclipse season is closing out with a partial lunar eclipse in Pisces on Aug. 28, occurring at exactly 12:18 a.m. ET via six degrees of this mutable water sign.

Contrary to the total solar eclipse we had earlier this month, this lunation is far more emotional, introspective and deeply personal, ultimately shedding light on what’s been brewing beneath the surface. To say we’re intuitive under this potent lunation would be an understatement. In fact, chances are we will be able to sense messages before our logical mind has time to process, and make sense of it.

However, what surfaces now could still be surprising and perhaps even destabilizing, considering the influence of change-maker Uranus, also in a mutable sign, and deeply intertwined in the astrology of this eclipse. Whether it be liberating or simultaneously bittersweet, the intensity surrounding this lunar eclipse presents the opportunity for us to take a closer look at what is ready to shift, or finally be released, once and for all. Again, unlike the solar eclipse — which could’ve arrived with a brand-new chapter — this lunation could feel more like a profound clearing of sorts. 

Granted, the lunar nodes have already completed their journey through Virgo-Pisces, but with this eclipse revisiting this mutable territory, unfinished business is likely to come with it, whether that’s a profound revelation or spiritual lesson. It’s also important to note that the effects of this eclipse may continue to unfold for months, perhaps up to a year, which means that what becomes clear now could be the beginning of a much larger transition. 

Your dreams are especially potent right now. Decode them like a pro with Luminous Dreams, a beginner-friendly guide to dream interpretation. Learn foundational exercises for harnessing your intuition, tips to improve sleep and dream recall, and a Dream Recording Template and thought-provoking prompts to deepen your interpretations. Get it here now. 

On that note, depending on where the early degrees of Pisces fall in your birth chart, this eclipse could feel especially personal, potentially revealing what you’ve been emotionally carrying in that specific area of life. These could be feelings, attachments or subconscious patterns that have been slowly accumulating beneath the surface. Remember, Pisces rules our emotional depths and dream state, so our sensitivity could be heightened at this time.

There is a deeply undeniable quality to this eclipse, as though something within you already knows the truth before you can explain it. The energy can also feel purifying because what was once hazy suddenly becomes more vivid. Certain dynamics are illuminated now, and with that kind of clarity comes a deeper understanding of where your life is headed next. Moreover, this lunar eclipse could break you out of a pattern you’ve followed or committed to for quite some time.

With the sun and Mercury in Virgo opposing the full moon in Pisces — all while the sun sits alongside the South Node in Leo — revelations surrounding routines, habits, responsibilities and familiar ways of going about your day can rise to the surface. Virgo naturally wants to understand the problem, make the list and create a plan; it’s thoughtful, discerning and exceptionally good at improving what already exists. However, this eclipse could interrupt that plan entirely.

This earth sign teaches us how to manage what is directly in front of us; it helps us edit, simplify, prioritize and remove unnecessary excess. But the Pisces lunar eclipse asks for an even deeper form of surrender. You may begin clearing away responsibilities, commitments, routines or energetic investments that no longer bring meaningful results. Adding to the unpredictability of this lunation is Uranus in Gemini — creating a powerful mutable T-square with the Virgo-Pisces eclipse axis — which introduces an element of shock and rapid movement.



A peek inside Luminous Dreams. Through soothing bedtime rituals, crystal practices, affirmations, and guided reflections, this beautifully illustrated book teaches you how to connect with your inner knowing, enhance dream recall, and find personal meaning in what you see while you sleep. Order a copy today.

Maybe the familiar route is no longer available? Being adaptable is key and more importantly, paying attention to what the disruption is showing you, as new perspectives, solutions and possibilities can emerge. Virgo naturally loves the details, but this Pisces lunar eclipse reminds us that there are moments when obsessing over every detail can keep us from seeing the bigger picture.

There could even be questions surrounding where your talents belong now. What deserves your energy? What are you willing to continue investing in? What happens when the area of life you assumed would remain stable begins evolving before your eyes? This eclipse is a catalyst for growth, but the growth we seek isn’t always as graceful as we would like. For instance, you could suddenly have more to manage than expected, leaving you wondering whether you actually want to take all of it on. 

This is where the wisdom of Virgo, Gemini and Pisces becomes especially useful: The sun and Mercury remind us to stay practical, grounded and discerning, while Uranus in Gemini encourages curiosity, experimentation and a willingness to learn something new. As for the Pisces moon? Sometimes our body, intuition and emotional responses understand what’s changing before the mind does. Trust what you’re experiencing deep down. As a result, this eclipse can also encourage new routines, different priorities and an entirely new relationship with your time and energy.

However, what begins shifting now could become increasingly obvious over the next year, especially if you’ve already sensed that a particular chapter is reaching its natural conclusion. Remember, at the heart of this lunar eclipse is an ending. Something might be dissolving because, on a deeper level, you’re done or finally at peace with what this experience provided. Still, there can be emotional exhaustion here, especially when it comes to situations you’ve repeatedly dealt with or carried on for others.

Keep in mind, the Virgo-Pisces axis often speaks to service, sacrifice and contributing to something larger than ourselves, which can be deeply meaningful. But those acts of service become unsustainable when they consistently result in the abandoning of your own well-being. Having said that, be sure to consider what you’ve been working toward, maintaining or contributing to that may no longer be good for you. Maybe the passion is gone, or perhaps your body is asking for something different. 

Given that Virgo and Pisces are also associated with the relationship between the mind, body and spirit, this lunar eclipse can also bring light to the way your daily life is actually affecting you. Your energy levels matter just as much as your emotional well being, and the way your body responds to your routines.

All in all, this eclipse asks us to trust the process. Sure, what is closing out could initially create disruption, but it is also creating room for the future.

In the meantime, read on for your lunar eclipse in Pisces horoscope and reflection.

Aries
Give yourself permission to close the door on what’s exhausting and draining you, Aries. You might realize that a personal burden, unresolved grief or situation behind-the-scenes has been taking up more emotional space than you feel comfortable admitting. Maybe you’ve been replaying the same scenario over and over or perhaps carrying someone else’s crisis like it’s your responsibility. This eclipse is about recognizing what you’re no longer willing to hold onto. Lunar eclipse reflection: What are you still emotionally processing in secret that needs to be released? How can you show yourself more compassion?

Taurus
Take a closer look at who (and what) still belongs in your future, Taurus. A friendship, collaboration or community affair could come full-circle, potentially even revealing whether it genuinely supports your goals and dreams. Maybe your work slack channel is starting to take a toll or perhaps a friendship feels increasingly one-sided. You don’t need to cause a scene or have a dramatic breakup to acknowledge what’s naturally reached its expiration date. Lunar eclipse reflection: Which friendships make you feel seen, supported and inspired? What goals have you outgrown?

Gemini
The time has come, Gemini. You’re being called to create room for a professional identity that feels true to you, and unapologetically yours. A career venture, public persona or long-term goal could be reaching an emotional turning point. Maybe you’ve gotten comfortable at a job that no longer fulfills you, or the recognition you once chased suddenly feels strangely underwhelming. Your idea of success is a reflection of your personal fulfillment. Lunar eclipse reflection: What are you still trying to prove in your professional life or in regards to your reputation? What would genuinely satisfy you?

Cancer
Your philosophy is personal, but that doesn’t make it completely accurate, Cancer. On that note, this lunar eclipse encourages you to question the beliefs and ideologies you’ve been aspiring toward, or basing your life around. Your perspective is shifting in significant ways, perhaps when it comes to matters of education, spirituality, travel or a future plan you were once certain about. Maybe a course, mentor or dream destination no longer holds the same meaning it once did. You’re not lost; this is growth. Lunar eclipse reflection: What future plans no longer feel true to you? Where are you being called to trust in the unknown?

Leo
Stop pretending that something isn’t bothering you, Leo. A shared financial agreement, intimate bond or deeply entangled commitment might need your full attention right now. Maybe you’ve been splitting expenses in a way that breeds resentment, because it isn’t fair, or perhaps you’ve allowed emotional access to someone who hasn’t earned that level of intimacy. In any event, this lunar eclipse asks you to get clear about what you’re willing to share and where you need to take matters in your own hands. Lunar eclipse reflection: Where are you overextending yourself emotionally and financially? What do you need in order to trust someone fully?

Virgo
Let someone’s actions speak for itself, and allow the relationship to show you exactly what it is, Virgo. A romantic, business or close one-on-one connection could reveal its true colors, especially if you’ve been trying to overcompensate, and work around a recurring issue. Maybe you’ve gotten used to someone’s inconsistency, and perhaps mastered the art of covering up their flaws and inconsistencies. Either way, you’re realizing that problem-solving and being needed means nothing when you’re not being cherished, or when someone doesn’t see your value. Lunar eclipse reflection: What have you learned about the balance of giving and receiving? What relationship dynamic are you ready to stop rationalizing?

Libra
Time for a routine makeover, Libra. Something could feel off when it comes to your day-to-day lifestyle, whether it’s your workload, schedule or habits. In any event, these areas of life are showing you exactly where your energy is going, for better or worse. Maybe your calendar is “mangeable,” and yet you’re too tired to go cook a decent meal when you get home. All in all, this eclipse encourages you to discern between your perception of being productive, and what genuinely supports your lifestyle. Lunar eclipse reflection: What daily obligations consistently leave you feeling depleted? What would you routine look like otherwise?

Scorpio
Protect your heart, Scorpio. What makes you feel loved and most alive? Be it a creative venture, romantic situation or personal passion project, something could reach a significant turning point, where you can no longer fake enthusiasm. Maybe a hobby that was once delicious and your all-time favorite now feels like work, or a romantic interest stopped texting, leaving you with no choice but to do the emotional heavy lifting. If it feels off, it probably is — pleasure shouldn’t feel like a headache. Lunar eclipse reflection: What are you creating or pursuing from a heart-centered place? Where has genuine interest started to feel like an obligation?

Sagittarius
Make peace with the fact that your home base may need to change with you, Sagittarius. A family dynamic, living situation or past emotional pattern could unexpectedly surface, making you feel some type of way in the process. Maybe you’re done dealing with a family matter, or have been feeling overwhelmed in hopes of keeping a personal matter under wraps. If your sacred space no longer feels peaceful, comforting and true to you, this is your cue to call the shots, and do what you need to do. Lunar eclipse reflection: What familial role are you ready to let go of? What do you need to feel safe and secure in your personal life?

Capricorn
Address the issue once and for all, instead of continuously sweeping it under the rug, Capricorn. A conversation, decision or piece of information might need a more honest, candid response, as opposed to the polished, put-together version you usually pride yourself on. Maybe you’ve rewritten the email several times in hopes of sounding unbothered, or maybe you keep undermining what you actually need from someone, and choosing not to ask for help. Clear communication goes a long way under this lunar eclipse, and being emotional doesn’t make you come across less composed, or professional. Lunar eclipse reflection: What have you been downplaying as a way to remain in control? Where in your life would clear communication benefit your situation?

Aquarius
Remember who you are, Aquarius. Be specific about what you value and desire. With Pluto in your sign, it's no holds barred, and it shows. Money, self-worth and practical resources could be top of mind, and the emotional center of this lunar eclipse.Maybe you’re realizing you’ve been undercharging, overspending to keep up appearances or saying yes to work that drains you more than it pays. At what cost? Your value is not up for negotiation. Lunar eclipse reflection: Where are you accepting less than what is deserved? What investments no longer contribute to your personal fulfillment? 

Pisces
Be honest with yourself, and don’t hold back from showing up the way you really want to be seen, Pisces. This lunar eclipse will touch down on your sign, which means it’s very close to home, literally. Everything from your identity to your physical body and personal needs is coming into focus at this time. As a result, you could realize that a role, personal brand or relationship dynamic no longer feels like an accurate reflection of who you are. Your challenge? Admitting what is no longer true to you. Lunar eclipse reflection: What version of yourself are you ready to release? What feels more authentic to you, even if it surprises others?

Valerie is an astrologer, writer & visual storyteller. She currently writes horoscopes for PEOPLE, formerly for PopSugar, StyleCaster, Elite Daily, among others. For more of her work, check out valeriemesa.com or follow her on Instagram @valeriemesa.