The four tropical cardinal points of the year are commonly known as the Solstices and Equinoxes, commonly celebrated on the days that the Sun enters the four cardinal signs: Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. For thousands of years these times have been celebrated as gateways from one season to another; from one perspective to another. The astrological chart for these gateways are thought to provide a glimpse of what is in store for the next few months.

The most notable thing in the chart for the 2008 Summer Solstice is the nearly exact opposition of the Sun to Pluto, just 11 minutes of orb (11 minutes from an exact 180 degree angle). The Sun is conjunct Venus and Ceres, so Pluto by relationship also opposes those planets as well. This suggests an intense summer, with Pluto creating the necessity for letting go of anything that is holding back the force of change.

It’s an interesting coincidence that astronomers are still toying with Pluto’s classification. First they tried to demote him to a “dwarf planet,” now they want to mollify him by giving him his own classification of Plutoid. Still, astronomers continue to demonstrate a lack of respect for the power of this planet despite his small size. In an age of nano devices when smaller is better, you would think that astronomers would get with the program. Astrologers understand the power of Pluto, and it can’t be reduced by changing his name.

We are already seeing the power of Pluto that began with the shift into Capricorn earlier this year, getting our attention as it began to undermine the very foundations of the structures (Capricorn) which we build as a society. Pluto will continue to be a powerful influence for at least another six months since Pluto squares the Sun in the chart for the Fall Equinox as well.

There is a message here from the gods, and a recommendation for all who read the stars. Pluto can be ruthless, but it also brings Truth. Whatever we must let go of under Pluto’s influence is for our own ultimate good, and if we remember this and cultivate a deep trust in the process, we will find we are sheltered in the storm.