This month's planetary diary has two extra special treats - the solar and lunar eclipses.

Saturn in Leo opposite Neptune in Aquarius - partile August 31

Ideas about the world are being changed; this may lead to extreme inner conflict that can severely undermine effectiveness. Depression and self-doubt are all characteristic of this transit. Illusion is indistinguishable from reality. Deal with everything on a very mundane level until the transit separates and a sense of equilibrium is returned.

Pluto Direct September 4 (Retrograde since March 29 2006)

The lord of the underworld moves direct taking us inexorably once again into the deeper cycles of life. Death in order to rebirth a new reality is the key to the lock. Transformative and compulsive energies are integral to self-expression.

Venus enters Virgo - Ingress September 6 at 08:16

The goddess is in her detriment in Virgo. Petty criticisms can interfere with emotional give and take in the expression of passion. Take care not to pluck all the petals of the 'red rose' that could be left alone.

Lunar Eclipse September 7 at 15 deg Pisces - Partial

Personal demons can wreak havoc in life with an eclipse in Pisces. Imaginative Neptune, modern ruler of Pisces, lures us into the foggy mists where reality becomes so hazy that we may lose our way. With this highly spiritual energy, the magic of Neptune encourages artistic vision, intuitive insight, and most importantly a merging with the divine.

Mars enters Libra - Ingress September 8 at 06:19

Libra lends grace and refinement to the aggressive and selfish tendencies of Mars. With Mars placed in its detriment, pursuit of desires can be hindered by indecisiveness while you weigh up your options. Harmonize all polarities.

Mercury enters Libra - Ingress September 12

There is an urge to express perceptions harmoniously in a fair-minded objective mode. In order to establish a connection with another, an impartial and tactful approach is necessary. Seek balance and objectivity.

Solar Eclipse September 22 - 29 deg Virgo - Annular

Occurring on the last degree of Virgo, there is a ripeness to this annular eclipse. Take note that it occurs one day before the Sun enters Libra on the Autumnal Equinox. There is a tense square to Pluto that indicates that something must die so that something new can live. The transition may be difficult but keep the higher message in mind, that being, that some things are beyond repair, and though they have served well in the past the time has come to build anew.