by The realm that precedes consciousness
Neptune takes about 165 years to complete its zodiac cycle, spending roughly 14 years in each sign.
The story of Neptune’s discovery is quite complex and begins with Galileo, who, in 1612, viewed the planet through his telescope, mistakenly identifying it as a fixed star. In the 19th century, several astronomers came close to discovering it. However, it was not until 1846 that Neptune was officially sighted at the Berlin Observatory by the astronomer Johann Galle, thanks to the mathematical calculations of Urbain Le Verrier. Le Verrier’s calculations addressed the discrepancies in Uranus’s orbit according to the laws of Kepler and Newton. After several disputes over credit for the discovery, particularly with the Englishman John Couch Adams, who also claimed to have independently calculated Neptune’s position, the Royal Society of London awarded both Le Verrier and Adams separately and at different times for their contributions.
The planet was initially named Leverrier, but Janus and Oceanus were later suggested. When its colour was observed through a telescope, the name Neptune was proposed and eventually accepted internationally. Interestingly, in various languages, the planet is named after sea deities from different cultures. For example, in Greek, it is called Poseidon, the counterpart of Neptune, while in Māori, it is named Tangaroa, the god of the seas. In Hebrew, it is referred to as Rahab, who appears in the Psalms, Isaiah, and Job as Leviathan, the primordial multi-headed sea monster. Additionally, “Rahab” is also one of the Hebrew words for the Deep.
Neptune’s evolutionary stage reflects two opposing tendencies. On the one hand, traditional norms may be rejected, leading to unconventional attitudes as individuals strive to break free from outdated social standards. On the other hand, individuals can serve as catalysts for change, transforming the existing social landscape through the power of new ideas.
A final note addresses the interaction of slow planets within the context of mundane astrology. It is essential to consider the influences of other slow planets when examining the historical and social implications of a slow planet’s transit. That includes their ingress into different signs and the relationships between them. However, for the sake of clarity, we will focus on presenting the most relevant symbolic facts regarding each planet’s position in the zodiac sign.
The complex history of its discovery and the various names it has received illustrate the symbolism attributed to the planet. This “stirring of the waters” makes assigning a single, unambiguous meaning challenging during astrological interpretation. This ambiguity is understandable, considering Neptune’s nature makes “oceanic” vastness its distinctive feature, with the unconscious representing the indeterminate realm before any individuation occurs.
From an evolutionary perspective, Neptune represents the different forms of “permeability” to the unconscious currents influenced by the transiting sign. It also reflects the suggestions that bring to light the dreams and ideals of generations. Neptune does not drive these currents—this role is more closely associated with Uranus. Instead, Neptune clarifies the transformative potentials that reside deep within us, creating new visions that can inspire the fantasies of younger generations and touch the most sensitive individuals.
The social impact of Neptune is reflected in the ideological models that influence the cultural and emotional aspects of a particular period. This creates a delicate balance where the desire to reinterpret history and social dynamics—thus fostering a wave of new ideas that permeate generational narratives—intersects with emotions that often elude rational control or long-term planning. As a result, this interplay can lead to unpredictable outcomes.
Neptune in Aries
From 1861 to 1875 – from 2025 to 2039
The entry of Neptune into Aries marks a generation characterised by passionate dreams, urging individuals to act with an unusual immediacy when unconscious visions suddenly come to life. Much like the rapid growth of shoots in the spring, those influenced by this position do not hesitate; they seek action over mere fantasy. Their destiny is to significantly impact their era, even if rough and hasty, often without considering the consequences. This alignment suits those with the adventurous spirit of a sailor who navigates the waves while maintaining their course. However, it also represents a combative inclination, a combination of war, where individuals fight for their ideas without concern for collateral damage or a clear sense of direction.
This period’s most notable historical events include civil unrest, the rise of new empires, and increased militarism in Europe and Asia. The American Civil War began in 1861 after Abraham Lincoln was elected president; the Union’s victory led to the end of slavery, although the Reconstruction Era continued to grapple with the legacies of racial segregation.
In South America, the Paraguayan War, which started in 1864, saw Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay invade Paraguay, resulting in the deaths of nearly sixty per cent of the Paraguayan population. In Europe, the Austro-Prussian War of 1866 concluded with a Prussian victory, establishing Prussia as a dominant power on the continent. Following this, the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 resulted in the collapse of the French Empire and the subsequent formation of the Third Republic in France and the German Empire.
During this period in Asia, Japan emerged as an imperial power. China suffered defeat at the hands of the British Empire and experienced a decline following the Second Opium War.
Neptune in Taurus
From 1875 to 1889 – from 2038 to 2052
The presence of Neptune in Taurus encourages a form of ethical materialism, fostering a desire to return to a harmonious state reminiscent of Arcadia. This earthly ideal envisions a society where the tensions arising from tangible experiences are transformed into an ideal social structure. While this combination can potentially enrich a barren material reality with the energy of desire, it may also clash with practical needs, which can result in harsh outcomes or generate unstable social formations. These issues often stem from projects that are unrealistic and lack proper funding. However, there are positive aspects to consider, such as the enhancement of artistic expression and the growth of a culture invigorated by imagination, which can lead to the creation of original and inspiring ideas.
Fluctuations in the economic situation and the colonisation of new lands through the imperialist expansion of Western nations primarily characterise this historical period. The emergence and establishment of urban conglomerates led to the development of trade and the rise of corporations and economic power groups, which quickly came to control available material resources for the sole purpose of profit. The colonisation of Asia and Africa by dominant powers fell within this trend.
Later, Europe and the United States faced a severe economic depression triggered by various factors, resulting in job losses and bank failures. In contrast, the latter part of the Victorian Era witnessed a wave of aestheticism, marked by a flourishing of art, culture, music, and education in Great Britain. This cultural blossoming also extended throughout Europe, particularly in France, during the Belle Époque, a period renowned for artistic and scientific innovations.
Neptune in Gemini
From 1889 to 1902 – from 2052 to 2066
This generation has the advantage of being able to express and understand hidden thoughts, the less accepted aspects of current morality, and prejudices that influence social behaviour in their time. This newfound freedom can lead to a broader intellectual perspective, greater freedom of expression, and more open communication that moves beyond rigid linguistic formalities. The ability to combine logic with intuition enhances original discoveries, particularly in the scientific field, including advancements in transportation systems.
However, there are critical challenges as well. Miscommunication can cause poor choices in conveying ideas, a struggle to transform fleeting unconscious suggestions into clear concepts, and, on a practical level, the emergence of uncontrollable events.
The historical events most closely associated with the Neptunian transit at the end of the century relate to the beginning of the recovery from the Great Depression, which started in 1873. This period ultimately led to what is known as the Second Industrial Revolution. It was marked by accelerated scientific discoveries, resulting in advancements in industrial production processes. Notably, this era witnessed the spread of transportation methods due to the introduction of the piston engine and developments in long-distance communications, such as the telegraph.
During this time, significant discoveries were made, including radioactivity by Henry Becquerel and X-rays by Wilhelm Röntgen. In 1889, Sigmund Freud published “The Interpretation of Dreams,” which laid the groundwork for his theoretical model of the mind, dividing it into the conscious, preconscious, and unconscious. His work, “Psychopathology of Everyday Life”, followed it, which examined deviations and stereotypes in everyday behaviour.
Additionally, 1890 marked the outbreak of the Asian flu, also known as the Russian flu, which killed about a million people over a population of 1.5 billion.
Neptune in Cancer
From 1902 to 1916 – from 2065 al 2078
The zodiac sign of Cancer envelops Neptune in a protective layer, sheltering the planet’s dreamy and shapeless spirit from outside intrusions. As a result, this generation tends to experience life through a lens of emotions and heightened sensitivity, which sharpens their intuition. However, this sensitivity can hinder the ability to express intuition in tangible ways, often leading to distorted interpretations that are sometimes original but can also be dangerous.
Suggestibility strengthens, causing individuals to amplify the significance of events and develop a heightened sense of concern about potential outcomes, fostering protective instincts. This alignment may lead to a gestation period, resulting in new realities independent of past experiences. On a collective level, this combination encourages modern artistic expressions, inventions that inspire dreams, and the emergence of the feminine spirit.
The historical circumstances surrounding this Neptunian phase are numerous. The first wave of feminism led to women gaining the right to vote in many countries and to the opening of universities for women. Cuba achieved independence from the United States; Norway declared the dissolution of its union with Sweden; Bulgaria separated from the Ottoman Empire; and the British colonies in Australia formed their federation.
In the scientific field, Albert Einstein published groundbreaking studies that revolutionised modern physics and earned him the Nobel Prize. The Wright brothers accomplished the first powered flight, the Panama Canal was completed, and innovations such as the typewriter, gramophone, and radio transmissions emerged.
Artistically, the avant-garde Cubist movement was born in France, transforming painting styles. The latter part of this Neptunian era took a different turn, marked by an anarchist’s assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne. This event set off a chain reaction that brought Europe to the brink of the First World War, signalling the end of a conservative social order.
Neptune in Leo
From 1916 to 1929 – from 2078 to 2093
Neptune, positioned in the zodiac sign of Leo, is exalted, which offers an opportunity for the unconscious aspects of this generation to showcase the full potential of their intuitions and suggestions, as reflected in the symbolism of this sign. Creative resources are energised due to a vibrant imagination that supports them. This alignment fosters a natural inclination towards style and charm in behaviour, leading to artistic expressions that draw from classicism and dramatic works, as well as visual arts like photography and cinema.
However, a critical aspect emerges in the tendency toward solipsism, which can create a feeling of being unique and unrepeatable, leading to psychological orientations that may result in delusions of grandeur. In terms of social expression, there is a tendency to establish new orders based on high ideals.
This historical period is marked by the abdication of numerous monarchies and the fall of totalitarian regimes, which led to the establishment of republican governments or other forms of totalitarianism. The Treaty of Versailles in 1919 signalled the armistice and the end of the First World War, initiating a prolonged period of conflict between Germany and the Allies, as well as associated governments. The founding of the League of Nations followed that.
In 1917, the Russian Tsarist Empire collapsed, leading to the proclamation of the Soviet Socialist Republic. The Ottoman Sultanate was abolished in Turkey in 1922 after the War of Independence, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire dissolved in 1918. Germany abolished its monarchy and became the Federal Republic of Weimar. This era also saw the emergence of new territorial entities in Europe.
The British government announced its desire to establish a homeland for the Jews in Palestine. In 1922, Ireland achieved independence from the British crown. Additionally, the first far-right political movements emerged in Europe, with Benito Mussolini rising to power in Italy through the fascist party.
Artistically, this period witnessed the birth of jazz in the United States and a flourishing of social and cultural dynamism in Europe. In 1928, the first colour television was invented, and the first film with synchronised sound was produced. Women’s clothing became modernised, and cigarettes were considered socially acceptable for women. This period also saw the emergence of the surrealist movement and the popularity of the Art Deco style.
Neptune in Virgo
From 1929 to 1943
In its position of exile, Neptune struggles to unleash its imagination and unconscious inspirations to the generation of reference due to the need to filter thoughts through the lens of mental analysis and adaptation to reality. As a result, the dreamer who seeks unbounded freedom to express their visions has little time available. Daily circumstances demand constant attention to immediate needs and obligations, meaning that aspirations must withstand the tests of objectivity and practicality. While this can lead to dissatisfaction, it can also yield valuable outcomes when one is inspired to manage small tasks or construct complex mechanisms. From a social perspective, this era is characterised by evolution processes involving challenging transitions.
Historically, this period has nearly been mathematically unfolding: the advent of a global economic crisis that set the stage for the Second World War. In 1929, the collapse of Wall Street, the world’s largest financial market, triggered a significant decline in stock prices, with social repercussions worldwide. The following Great Depression resulted in widespread poverty and unemployment, particularly in the United States and Germany.
In the United States, the New Deal program aimed to rationalise and stabilise the economy through a series of labour and financial reforms. In contrast, Germany adopted an aggressive foreign policy characterised by militarisation and the occupation of neighbouring countries. The rise of the Third Reich and the subsequent invasion of Poland ignited a conflict that drew in nearly all Western nations and Japan. Japan’s expansionist ambitions in Asia directly confronted the Allied forces.
Simultaneously, in Russia, Stalin’s forced collectivisation policy led to a famine that claimed the lives of eight million people. Meanwhile, Mohandas Gandhi’s non-violent movement was instrumental in leading India to declare independence from British rule.
Neptune in Libra
From 1943 to 1956
This generation’s unconscious dreams and desires are being examined through the lens of reason, whether that reason comes from the state or the general need to adhere to societal norms. This examination fosters shared aspirations to address existing tensions and strive for a more equitable distribution of opportunities for development and progress. The goal is to create a social environment that promotes positive human relations and justice application.
In contrast to previous eras, the community’s moral values are shifting significantly, emphasising the adequacy of one’s actions to a purpose. However, there is a risk that this ethical landscape might lead to a policy of transformism, where there is a tendency to alternate between strict enforcement of laws and social orders or, conversely, allowing a state of permissiveness and intolerance toward regulations.
This historical period is characterised by the aftermath of the Second World War and the efforts to establish a new world order. The war officially ended in 1945, dividing Europe into two spheres of influence: the Western world and the Soviet Union. This division gave rise to what is known as the Cold War. In June 1945, the United Nations was established to address these tensions, serving as an intergovernmental organisation to maintain global peace and security.
During this time, various economic agreements and the decision of many countries to adopt a welfare state model led to unprecedented monetary expansion, often referred to as the golden age of capitalism. These conditions contributed to a rapid decolonisation process for nations still overseas territories of dominant Western powers.
In 1948, Israel defeated Arab forces in the Arab-Israeli War. The same year saw the launch of the Marshall Plan, designed to aid in Europe’s reconstruction and mitigate the threat of communism. Additionally, the advent of television, particularly in America, marked the beginning of mass consumption.
Neptune in Scorpio
From 1956 to 1970
The ingress of Neptune into Scorpio characterises a generation driven by idealistic impulses, deeply influenced by unconscious suggestions. This period signals revolutions, particularly in social customs, as well as a push for libertarian ideals and sexual freedom. Neptune’s collective and universal nature aligns with a desire to explore the deep-seated images and impressions within individuals fully. As a result, an almost magical mindset emerges, characterised by a yearning for mystical experiences and creativity inspired by fantasy. That can also lead to a kind of religious intransigence, where individuals are determined to assert their visions. From a social perspective, collectivist tendencies are prominent, often accompanied by struggles, complex situations, upheaval and coups.
During this historical period, the Western world is experiencing what is known as “counterculture.” This cultural and political movement is synonymous with pursuing individual freedom in customs, radical social changes, the fight for civil rights, and opposing racial discrimination. Various subcultures emerge, including the hippie movement and communal living, along with a growing interest in Eastern philosophies. Rock music becomes the emblematic sound of this alternative wave. Fashion, art, and literature evolve in response to this movement. The use of drugs, particularly soft narcotics and hallucinogens, has become widespread. Interest in liberal socialism and new interpretations of communism, which sometimes lean towards anarchist thought, also grows.
At the same time, the politics of the Cold War continue to unfold. The conflict between North and South Vietnam serves as a proxy battle between Russia and China on one side and the United States on the other, intensifying the youth movements’ rejection of war. The Cuban Missile Crisis pushes the world to the brink of nuclear conflict.
Neptune in Sagittarius
From 1970 to 1984
Neptune in Sagittarius signifies a generation characterised by a broader vision of reality. This generation often seeks spiritual elevation and diversifies its experiences through travel and engagement with different cultures. Unconscious ideas and suggestions expand possibilities and boundaries, leading to new thought patterns that involve a larger community.
Lifestyle choices tend to be more libertarian, yet this generation does not overlook the benefits of expanding the material sphere. On a social level, Neptune expresses itself as a drive toward economic and cultural globalisation. That includes the opening of financial markets on a global scale and a tendency to share the Western lifestyle model with traditionally oriented nations. However, this can sometimes lead to conflicts.
The period is marked by a notable thaw and relaxation between the major powers following the intense tensions of the 1950s and 1960s. However, both the United States and Russia continued secretly supporting conflicts and coups in various regions to maintain control over smaller emerging nations. Ethically, there was a growing aspiration within the global community to create more egalitarian societies. Economic interdependencies among nations increased, driven by trade, mechanisation of agricultural practices, and oil production.
In 1975, the Vietnam War concluded with the unification of South and North Vietnam. During this period, we also witnessed significant advancements toward globalisation, fuelled by the rapid growth of personal computers and the development of operating systems like MS-DOS and Macintosh. TCP/IP was also introduced as the first protocol destined to dominate computer communication. Space exploration expanded with the Voyager program and the launch of the first Space Shuttle.
Neptune in Capricorn
From 1984 to 1998
With Neptune in Capricorn, the collective unconscious seeks to create a synthesis between discipline and social or spiritual achievements, especially among individuals inclined towards personal elevation. This generation aims to reconcile traditional values with new ones through a rational framework, laying the groundwork for authentic growth. From a more nuanced perspective, there is a blending of asceticism and mysticism, where reason harmonizes with spiritual and universal feelings, and there is a tendency to engage with significant philosophical models.
However, the critical aspect of Neptune in Capricorn can manifest as religious or doctrinal inflexibility, along with a propensity for extremism, fundamentalism, and social absolutism. Often, in social dynamics, there is an effort to explain everything and propose a single truth to address heterogeneous situations.
The second half of the 1980s was marked by a unique blend of conservative and liberal tendencies in both social and economic spheres, resulting in significant profits as well as numerous challenges. Many multinational companies began decentralising operations to countries with lower labour costs during this time. The debt crises faced by developing countries prompted assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The weakening of the Russian Communist Party due to Gorbachev’s policy of perestroika led to various attempts—some more successful than others—to dismantle totalitarian Communist regimes. Key events during this period included the Tiananmen Square protests in China and the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia. The crucial turning point occurred in 1989 with the fall of the Berlin Wall, the dissolution of the USSR, and the reunification of Germany.
The subsequent decade, leading up to the year 2000, was characterised by the strong influence of the United States, which emerged as the sole global superpower championing the Western world, alongside a rise in economic neoliberalism. The European Union and the World Trade Organization (WTO) were established during this time. However, this period also saw the rise of various nationalistic movements and power struggles. Conflicts included the wars in Yugoslavia, leading to the independence of Chechnya, Slovenia, and Croatia; the war in Kosovo; the Gulf War; and several others.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan was established in 1998, and that same year marked the end of the Troubles in Northern Ireland with the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, which resolved the Irish nationalist conflicts.
Neptune in Aquarius
From 1999 to 2012
The zodiac sign of Aquarius is associated with the Fall of Neptune. This position theoretically indicates a challenging period for expressing and understanding unconscious desires and the ideals that stem from them. In practice, this notion of Neptune’s Fall can be seen as an “expropriation” of unconscious creativity from humans, transforming it into a source of revelation and inspiration. This process encourages individuals to move beyond ego-driven expression in favour of collective living and pursuing new spiritual insights.
A critical aspect of this perspective is the tendency to undermine human mediation and abandon common sense in favour of misleading mysticism. On a practical level, this can manifest as poor control over technological advancements and the social, economic, and environmental consequences arising from such an attitude. As a result, this generation often grapples with an unchecked Promethean impulse.
The first decade of the 2000s marks a significant turning point compared to previous decades. During this time, globalisation processes gained momentum, with emerging economies like China and India becoming more influential globally. Technologically, the explosive growth of the Internet and social networking sites and the shift from traditional paper mail to email significantly contributed to globalisation. Economically, introducing the euro as the common currency for many European nations represented another step in this direction.
However, a negative consequence of this wave of globalisation was the subprime mortgage crisis, which occurred in 2007 and led to widespread worldwide recessionary trends. Environmental issues began to capture public awareness due to the unprecedented exploitation of natural resources. The world population grew by nearly 1 billion people during this period.
The most catastrophic natural disaster was undeniably the tsunami that struck the Indian Ocean in 2004, resulting in over 230,000 deaths. Additionally, the terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers in 2001 initiated a counter-terrorism campaign by the US and NATO countries against Islamist groups and nations, culminating in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the latter resulting in the overthrow and death of Saddam Hussein.
Neptune in Pisces
From 1847 to 1861 – from 2012 to 2025
In the zodiac sign of Pisces, Neptune is in its Domicile, allowing it to express its characteristics fully. That results in a wide range of expressions, from spirituality to artistic creations infused with a visionary spirit. Pisces inspires ideals that lead to new perspectives and social visions.
The generations influenced by this period are drawn to the concept of wholeness and intimate connection, even if they are not fully aware of its manifestation. They tend to prioritise emotional connections with reality, expressing collective feelings and a sense of universal involvement in the world around them.
However, the critical aspects of this configuration reveal a lack of sufficient structure to support and enhance the rich insights derived from one’s inner self. If not managed properly, this can result in negative consequences.
The 19th century was a turbulent historical period marked by significant Neptunian influence, particularly evident in two critical phenomena: the European expansion into Eastern countries and the mass migration of Americans westward—a concept often referred to as the myth of the frontier. Both of these movements can be understood as aspirations toward new horizons. However, the economic motivations behind these events had profound consequences. On one hand, they led to conflicts such as the Second Opium War with China, instigated by Western powers, and the Indian revolt against colonial rule. On the other hand, this expansion resulted in the removal or assimilation of Native Americans.
Amidst these developments, the first Great Exhibition of the Industrial Works of All Nations took place in London at the magnificent Crystal Palace, celebrating the culture and industry of the 19th century.
In the twenty-first century, the turbulence of the nineteenth century resurfaces, causing global confusion. It is exacerbated by attempts to explore renewed freedom of expression through means, tools, and attitudes that are not always effective. We are seeing a rise in consumer products that favour the emergence of new technologies with mass appeal, such as cell phones.
Social networks have expanded globally, while video games and streaming services are increasingly replacing traditional entertainment. Additionally, artificial intelligence is becoming commonplace in computer applications, and advancements in robotics and quantum computing are starting to enter the market. Cryptocurrencies are gaining traction, and electronic transactions have become predominant, driven by online sales growth.
At the same time, wars and conflicts—both military and social—continue to create significant instability. Rather than proposing solutions, these conflicts push the world into a situation where the only perceived sanctuary from uncertainty seems to be individualism and division, which ultimately lack genuine meaning. The latter part of this period has also witnessed the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a reported death toll of 7 million, leading to a global economic recession. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as conflicts in the Middle East, further contribute to this instability.
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