Direct motion

Definition

Direct motion is the normal forward movement of a planet through the zodiac, the opposite of retrograde. A planet in direct motion moves from one sign to the next in order, increasing its ecliptic longitude over time. Direct is the default state of every planet; retrograde is the interruption. The transition from retrograde back to direct happens at a station, when the planet appears motionless before resuming forward travel.

In context

If transiting Mercury has been retrograde for three weeks and finally turns direct, the chart enters a phase where the symbolic function of Mercury (communication, planning, decisions) moves outward again without revisiting old ground. Direct motion is the longest stretch of any planet's cycle, and it usually carries the chart's main story; the retrograde stretches are interludes inside it. Direct also lets aspects apply or separate at expected speeds.

To go deeper

Direct motion belongs to the motion family of glossary terms:

• Retrograde: the reversed apparent motion.
• Stationary: the turning point between motions.
• Retrograde shadow: zodiac arc revisited.